GMC Recalls Over 70,000 Sierra 1500s for Grille Deflector That May Detach

Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz

3% or 2,123 GMC Sierra 1500 trucks are estimated to be affected by a defect that could cause the front grille deflector to detach while driving.

General Motors has issued a recall for 70,768 of these trucks due to faulty attachment clips securing the chrome grille deflector.

According to documents posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall applies only to certain 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 models equipped with chrome grille deflectors.

The Grille Deflector Recall issue stems from eight defective clips that secure the grille deflector in place. Over time, these clips may fracture and break.

If all eight fail, the deflector can detach while the vehicle is in motion, potentially becoming a road hazard or striking other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash.

Reports indicate that some grille deflectors have already come loose and fallen off while drivers were on the road.

General Motors (GM) says it is currently developing a solution for the issue. The company will notify dealers and registered owners once a fix is available.

What Causes the GMC Sierra 1500 Grille Deflector Issue?

GM identified a potential safety defect in certain 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 trucks equipped with chrome front grille deflectors.

Over time, the attachment points securing the deflector may weaken and fracture. If all eight attachment points fail, the deflector could detach while the vehicle is in motion, posing a potential hazard to other drivers.

The recall affects 70,768 GMC Sierra 1500 trucks from the 2022 model year. GM initially became aware of the issue on January 19, 2024, when a customer reported a grille deflector detaching while driving.

This prompted an internal report through GM’s Speak Up for Safety (SUFS) program. An investigation was launched on February 27, 2024, but was closed on May 23, 2024, after no clear defect trend was identified.

However, as additional complaints surfaced, GM reopened the investigation on December 11, 2024, after identifying an increase in claim rates related to grille deflector detachments.

Further analysis revealed that vehicles manufactured after GM’s mid-cycle enhancement for the 2022 Sierra 1500 were more likely to experience this issue.

The investigation determined that grille deflectors produced during a specific timeframe may have attachment points that are not strong enough to withstand expected loads.

Between April 29, 2022, and December 27, 2024, GM received 1,225 complaints potentially related to this condition, including four reports of accidents.

No injuries have been reported. After reviewing the findings, GM’s Safety Field Action Decision Authority (SFADA) issued a recall on January 30, 2025.

How Do I Know if My Sierra 1500 Is Affected?

This recall applies to certain 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 trucks equipped with chrome front grille deflectors.

Only vehicles produced after GM’s mid-cycle enhancement for the 2022 model year (RPO J22) are included.

Trucks built before this enhancement (RPO J21) are not affected, nor are models with non-chrome grille deflectors.

Additionally, Sierra 2500 and 3500 models have a different grille design and are not included in this recall.

To find out if your Sierra 1500 is affected, you can visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall check website and enter your 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This will allow you to check for any open recalls associated with your vehicle.

What Solution Will GM Provide for My Vehicle?

GM is currently working on a solution for this recall, with owner notification letters expected to be mailed by March 24, 2025.

Until the remedy is fully developed, GM has issued a stop-sale order for all affected trucks, both new and used, to prevent further sales of vehicles with this defect.

The car manufacturer says it has received 1,225 field reports potentially linked to this issue and at least four reports of accidents related to the defect.

For now, GM has not provided a direct fix but has advised owners to contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782 for more information. The recall reference number is N242490120.

Although parts diagrams show the grille deflector as a standalone part available for purchase from some retailers, several owners on platforms like Reddit or Pickup Truck Forums have reported that the only current option from GM is to replace the entire grille.

One owner, who encountered this issue before the recall was announced, had to purchase a new grille at their own expense.

Now that the recall is live, they can submit the receipt for reimbursement. If you’re unsure whether your vehicle is part of this recall, you can contact your local dealer or check the status using your VIN on the NHTSA website.

Repeat Vehicle Problems? Get in Touch with Our Team Today

General Motors has acknowledged the issue with certain 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 trucks, where the front grille deflector may detach due to defective clips.

GM is in the process of developing a solution, and owner notification letters are expected to be sent by March 24, 2025. Affected vehicle owners will be instructed to visit an authorized dealership once a fix is available.

If your GMC Sierra 1500 has experienced repeat warranty repairs related to the grille deflector or other repeated defects, it’s important to consult with a Lemon Law attorney to explore your options.

Depending on your case, you may be eligible for a vehicle replacement, refund, or cash compensation for the ongoing issue.

The Lemon Law Experts have been assisting consumers with automotive defect cases since 2009. Our team is skilled in navigating Lemon Law claims, ensuring manufacturers take responsibility for defects.

If your vehicle continues to have problems related to the grille deflector or any other defect, contact us today to discuss your legal options.