Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
General Motors (GM) has announced a recall that affects a substantial number of its heavy-duty trucks. The recall pertains to GM’s Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickups, covering over 300,000 2020 through 2024 vehicles.
In response to the issue, GM has imposed a sales halt on current trucks in dealerships until necessary repairs can be carried out.
| Manufacturer | General Motors (GM) |
| Affected Models | Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 (2020-2024), GMC Sierra 2500/3500 (2020-2024) |
| Issue | Unexpected tailgate openings due to water intrusion at the electronic gate-release switch |
| Remedy | Dealers to upgrade the exterior touchpad switch assemblies |
| Recall Initiated | February 1, 2024 |
| Recall Number | N232426400 |
| Chevrolet Customer Contact Number | 1-(800)-222-1020 |
| GMC Customer Contact Number | 1-(800)-462-8782 |
Upon further investigation, the recall potentially impacts 128,966 Chevy Silverados and 194,266 GMC Sierras, specifically those in HD 2500 or 3500 HD configurations. The recall documents cite 136 complaints related to unexpected tailgate openings, which have resulted in one minor injury claim and three property damage claims. Here is a rundown of the make, model, and years of the vehicles implicated:
- Chevrolet Silverado 2500 (2020-2024)
- Chevrolet Silverado 3500 (2020-2024)
- GMC Sierra 2500 (2020-2024)
- GMC Sierra 3500 (2020-2024)
Chevy and GMC Tailgate Recall Issue Overview
The recall issued for Chevy and GMC trucks is rooted in the power lock and release function present in trucks equipped with manual tailgates. It’s important to note that trucks with different tailgate types are not part of this recall. As per the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall report, the problem arises when water interacts with the electronic gate-release switch inside the tailgate. This interaction can cause a short circuit, leading to the tailgate unlatching unexpectedly when the vehicle is parked. This could potentially allow the contents of the truck bed to spill out, posing a road hazard.
GM initiated an investigation into this matter on November 21, 2023, following complaints about unwanted tailgate openings in vehicles featuring the same unsealed tailgate-release switch. GM’s subsequent analysis and testing revealed that the tailgate design in the affected vehicles was prone to water intrusion at the switch location.
A review of related field incidents, concluded on January 5, 2024, identified 136 complaints alleging an unwanted tailgate opening “while driving.” However, the body control module’s (BCM) control logic would prevent the tailgate latch from releasing when the vehicle is in gear, even if the BCM receives a release signal from the exterior touchpad switch.
GMC Sierra and Chevy Silverado Tailgate Fix
The solution proposed by GM involves dealers upgrading the exterior touchpad switch assemblies with a new material that is more resistant to water intrusion.
This upgrade was implemented in production from August 1, 2023. GM has informed dealers of the recall as of February 1, and owners are expected to start receiving notification letters beginning March 18, 2024. To see if your vehicle is included in any recalls, you can input your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA recalls website or the GM Owner Center.
For further assistance or any queries related to the recall, Chevrolet customers can reach out to customer support at 1-(800)-222-1020, and GMC customers at 1-(800)-462-8782.
The recall number designated by General Motors for this specific issue is N232426400. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety can also be contacted at 1-(888)-327-4236 for more comprehensive information about vehicle safety and recalls.
Need Help with a Recalled Truck? Contact the GM Lemon Law Experts
If you are dealing with issues related to the recent GM tailgate recall and haven’t found a resolution with the dealership or manufacturer, it might be beneficial to consider legal assistance.
A lemon law firm could be your next step. You could qualify for cash compensation, a vehicle replacement, or a refund for all monies spent on the defective truck (minus a usage fee) under the lemon law. If you are a California resident or if you leased or purchased your vehicle in California, our team at the Lemon Law Experts is ready to assist you in exploring your options.
When you enlist the help of the Lemon Law Experts, you’re not just getting a legal team; you’re gaining partners who are committed to your cause. Our goal is to construct the most compelling case possible against the manufacturer. With the Lemon Law Experts by your side, you can rest assured that you are in capable and caring hands.
We recognize that every case is unique, and as such our experts will work tirelessly to find the best legal strategy for your specific situation. Our free consultation can provide you with a comprehensive assessment of your case, helping you make an informed decision about your legal options.
With our assistance, you can be confident that you will receive the compensation and justice you deserve. To get started with a free, no-obligation review of your case, contact us at (877) 885-5366 today.
