Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra Tailgate Recall: Is Your HD Truck Included?

In December 2024, General Motors (GM) issued a massive recall affecting its heavy-duty trucks- HD Silverado and Sierra models from 2024 including both 2500 and 3500 variants, irrespective of cab configuration or drive type.

The recall issue centers around the power-locking manual tailgate. Water intrusion can compromise the power switch, potentially causing the tailgate to unlock and open unexpectedly, which poses a safety hazard.

The 2024 Chevy Tailgate Recall, which impacts over 500,000 vehicles, includes 2020 through 2024 model-year trucks.

In February 2024, GM initiated one of its largest recalls of the year, addressing a safety issue in 323,232 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD trucks, which were at risk of their tailgates opening unexpectedly.

This recall has now been expanded to include an additional 132,037 vehicles for the 2024 model year.

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

The Chevy and GM Truck Recall potentially impacts 311,368 Chevy Silverados and 259,066 GMC Sierras in the US, 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 1500 (2020-2023) *Canada only
• Chevrolet Silverado 2500 (2020-2024)
• Chevrolet Silverado 3500 (2020-2024)
• GMC Sierra 1500 (2020-2023) *Canada only
• GMC Sierra 2500HD (2020-2024)
• GMC Sierra 3500HD (2020-2024)

Chevy and GMC Tailgate Recall Issue Overview

The recall affecting Chevy and GMC trucks centers on a power lock and release issue in vehicles equipped with manual tailgates.

It’s important to note that trucks with other tailgate types are not affected by this recall. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 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 while the vehicle is parked, which could result in the contents of the truck bed spilling out and creating a road hazard.

The Chevy tailgate recall issue is particularly concerning when towing a trailer. The catalyst for GM’s expanded investigation occurred when a 2024 GMC Sierra HD 3500’s tailgate unexpectedly dropped, striking the trailer tongue and causing some damage.

As of the investigation, GM has received 237 complaints regarding tailgates opening unexpectedly, though fortunately, there have been no known crashes or injuries related to the issue.

In July 2024, GM issued a new safety bulletin, which has been updated to include a new service procedure that mandates inspection of the service part before installation. All prior versions of bulletin N232426400 are to be discarded.

The 2024 safety bulletin from GM states that affected vehicles were placed on stop delivery starting February 1, 2024.

Once the service procedure outlined in this bulletin is completed on a vehicle, it is cleared for delivery to the customer.

Vehicles in which the liftgate exterior release switch assembly was disabled under this Safety Recall are now part of GM’s Customer Satisfaction Program N232426401, where the disabled assemblies will be replaced.

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

GM has expanded its recall to include over 132,000 additional 2024 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 heavy-duty pickups.

This action addresses concerns that water intrusion into the electronic tailgate release switches can cause the tailgates to unlatch unexpectedly, posing a road hazard.

The affected vehicles are equipped with manual tailgates featuring power lock and release functions. Water entering the electronic gate-release switch can lead to a short circuit, resulting in unintended unlatching when the vehicle is parked.

This issue has been linked to 237 field complaints, though no crashes or injuries have been reported.

To address this problem, GM will replace the faulty switch assemblies with upgraded, water-resistant parts.

Dealer notifications are underway, and owner notifications are scheduled to begin on January 13, 2025.

Owners can check if their vehicle is affected by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recalls website or the GM Owner Center.

Need Help with a Recalled Truck? Contact the GM Lemon Law Experts

If you’re dealing with issues related to the recent GM tailgate recall and haven’t found a satisfactory resolution through your dealership or directly with the manufacturer, seeking legal assistance may be the best next step.

Under California’s lemon law, you may be entitled to compensation, a vehicle replacement, or a refund for the defective truck, minus a usage fee. This applies if you’re a California resident or if you leased or purchased your vehicle in California.

Our goal at the Lemon Law Experts is to build the strongest case possible against the manufacturer, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the process. With our experienced professionals guiding you, you can trust that your case is in capable and compassionate hands.

Every case is different, which is why we take the time to develop a personalized legal strategy that addresses your specific circumstances. Our free consultation provides a thorough assessment of your situation, helping you make an informed decision about your legal options.

With the Lemon Law Experts on your side, you can be confident in securing the compensation and justice you deserve. Reach out today for a free, no-obligation review of your case at (877) 897-6105, and take the first step toward resolving your lemon law issue today.