Is There a Silverado Frame Rust Recall in 2024?

Short answer: There is no Silverado Frame Rust Recall, however, as of late March 2024, General Motors (GM) has issued an updated TSB (No. 19-NA-255) for multiple GM truck models, including the 2011 to 2024 Chevy Silverado.

The bulletin addresses the peeling wax coating and subsequent rust and corrosion on the exposed metal. GM has identified a manufacturing error by the third-party frame supplier as the cause, where the metal was not properly prepped before the wax application.

What causes the Silverado frame rust problem?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), some customers have reported that the wax coating on the frame of their Chevy Silverado may peel off, revealing rust or corrosion. The hot wax may also drip off the frame during shipping, leaving drips visible on the back of the frame.

The Chevy Silverado frame rust issue is primarily caused by the degradation of the protective wax coating applied to the frame. This coating is intended to shield the metal from moisture and other corrosive elements. Additional factors can contribute to the problem:

• Inadequate Application: If the wax coating is not applied thoroughly or evenly during the manufacturing process, it can lead to unprotected areas that are more susceptible to rust.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snow, and road salt, can accelerate the wear and tear of the wax coating.
• Physical Damage: The wax coating can be compromised by physical impacts, scratches, or abrasions that occur during normal vehicle use or shipping.
• Heat Exposure: In hot climates, the wax may become too fluid and drip off the frame, reducing its effectiveness as a protective layer.

Which GM vehicles are affected?

The frame rust issues potentially affect 2011 to 2024 model year Chevy Silverado vehicles. Various SUVs and vans might also experience issues with peeling wax and rust. These models include the 2011 to 2024 Chevy Express, the 2011 to 2024 Chevy Suburban, and the 2011 to 2024 Chevy Tahoe.

GM has not issued a recall specifically for frame rust, but they have initiated various safety recalls for the Chevrolet Silverado, you can read more about specific recalls associated with the Chevy Silverado here.

Is this repair covered under the GM Frame Rust Warranty?

For Chevrolet and GMC vehicles, warranties generally cover rust-through corrosion of body and sheet metal components for specific durations:

• Chevrolet: Typically 6 years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first.
• GMC: Typically 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Some warranties may only apply to “rust perforation,” requiring the metal to rust through completely for coverage. Many automakers also include coverage for “surface corrosion,” addressing visible rust. GM corrosion warranties usually exclude perforation caused by environmental factors such as acid rain.

How will GM remedy the issue?

GM dealerships are offering a possible remedy for this issue. Service teams will first eliminate any remaining wax and surface rust, followed by applying a new coating to the affected areas of the frame where peeling and rusting have been observed. This process aims to restore the frame to its original factory condition.

If the inspection determines that the rust has sufficiently compromised the structural integrity of the frame, the affected component will need complete replacement.

Next steps for affected GM owners

Here are some steps we recommend for GM customers experiencing frame rust issues:

1. Inspection: If you own a Chevy Silverado, especially models from 2011 to 2024, it is recommended to have your vehicle inspected for this issue.
2. Service Bulletin: Refer to GM’s TSB No. 19-NA-255 for detailed information on the corrective procedure.
3. Safety Recall: Check if your vehicle is involved in any recalls related to this, or any other issue, moving forward.
4. Repair Work: GM dealerships may attempt repairs such as removing remaining wax and surface rust, applying a new coating to affected areas, or replacing compromised frame components if necessary.

For the most current information and any further updates, consumers should contact their local dealership or visit the NHTSA website.

Think your GM vehicle is a lemon? Call the Lemon Law Experts!

If you are facing issues with your Chevy’s frame and haven’t found a resolution with the dealership or manufacturer, seeking legal help from a lemon law firm might be your next best step.

If you live in California, or if you purchased or leased your vehicle in California, you could potentially qualify for cash compensation, a vehicle replacement, or a lemon law refund. For GM drivers in California, the Lemon Law Experts are prepared to help you explore your best options.

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