2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 other reported problems

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

When I put the pickup in park, I get a message that states "Shift to Park". The pickup is completely stopped, the gear shift indicator is in "P". When I get out of the vehicle I get two loud two-horn alerts indicating that the pickup in not in Park, when in fact it is. Doing some research, I have seen that this is a common problem for GM vehicles. The console shift vehicles are actually involved in a class action lawsuit, while the steering column shift vehicles are not.

NHTSA complaint #11758467 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Check engine for cam shaft sensor wiring harness burnt up and damaged in numerous places shows bulletin board for this issue online but no recall has been made for this safety issue

NHTSA complaint #11758295 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

My Chevy Silverado has a transmission defect that is under recall shift to park and my vin number is not included. I am disappointed because it’s exactly the same problem as the other ones.

NHTSA complaint #11750886 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I was on the highway doing 70 MPH with my family driving down I-40 through western NC (mountainous terrain) when my brakes went out and the vehicle went into limp mode. I was able to safely pull over thank God and then had my vehicle towed to the dealer. The dealer just informed me that a software update is needed, and not covered under warranty. There are multiple safety bulletins coming out for related years and issues related to the braking system of this make/model and I would like this documented as well as Chevy to cover the cost of repairing this defect.

NHTSA complaint #11747665 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Rear power sliding window. Leaking when it rains or going through the car wash. On 6/4/25 I had a leak from my rear window checked out by the dealership were I bought the truck. Morrie's Onalaska Chevrolet. They found a water leak from cracks in the rear glass molding. I have water lines on the roof lining from the leak.

NHTSA complaint #11747256 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

After putting our Silverado in park it will not turn to the off position or release the key from the ignition immediately. We have to wait 1-3 minutes without attempting to turn it in the off position and then the key will release from ignition. No warning lamps. No error codes on reader. Repeatable by auto technician who suggested a battery change- our current battery was fine and did not fix the issue. If you forget and try to remove the key in under a minute after parking you have to restart the truck, go back to park and then start the 1-3 minute countdown all over before it will release the key. The truck is in park, the parking brake is engaged (although we tried without using the brake and still won’t release key) This means the trucks battery has to run until it will release the key. Or chance leaving the key in the ignition (still draining battery) since it won’t turn to the off position.

NHTSA complaint #11742500 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The special coverage program on the coolant valve for My 2021 Chevy Silverado (70,000mi) is not covered due to my vin not being on the list. Something they say and know is an issue, but not covering it for the vehicles they say they’re covering it for.

NHTSA complaint #11734999 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I brought my vehicle to the dealership on March 7, 2026, to address the outstanding safety recall. However, I was informed that the recall repair cannot be completed until I first pay $1,100 to replace the idler pulley. Unfortunately, an unexpected $1,100 expense is not currently in my budget. It is quite concerning to continue driving a vehicle with a known risk of losing propulsion, as the increased risk of a crash is a significant safety worry for me. I would appreciate any assistance or alternative solutions you can provide to ensure this safety recall is resolved. Please find the message from the dealership: Additional Diagnostic recommendations: we are going to want to get the Idler pulley replaced 1st as it can cause unwanted noise and vibration during the testing with the Pico scope. after the repair take the vehicle on a good test drive get it good and warm Then retest the engine with the Pico scope and proceed with those test results. we still want to make sure it is tested correctly If the engine passes just note under Special Coverage N252494003 This special coverage covers if an engine failure occurs in the vehicle as a result of the condition described above for a period of 10 years or 150,000 miles (240,000 km), whichever occurs first, from the date the vehicle was originally placed in service, regardless of ownership."

NHTSA complaint #11723293 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The tailgate release switch is randomly operating, allowing the tailgate to drop. This has happened at highway speeds (from 55 to 75) and also while in park. I've had to pull over on multiple occasions to close the tailgate. This could allow items to fall out the back of my truck and possible strike other vehicles and their passengers at speed. The dealership has reported it can also drain the battery, which can jeopardize my safety as I am often in the backcountry in very cold temperatures and could be stranded. (Has not happened to me as of yet) This is a known issue that other Chevrolet 1500 trucks have been recalled for (in Canada) and other models of the Silverado in the US. My dealership (Fox Negaunee) stated that they have received numerous complaints on this issue but no recall has been issued for my vehicle yet. I have spoken with the dealership over the phone, but I have not brought it in until further information on a recall may become available. There are no warning lights that appear. This started happening about a month ago, and has continued since then.

NHTSA complaint #11723020 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Warranty issue the p1098 code

NHTSA complaint #11720772 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

P1098 engine coolant control valve Engine light comes on and truck says reduced power. Then went off. Back on again

NHTSA complaint #11718662 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Noticed when pressing tailgate release button manually it would not open but would if fob used. However tailgate opens continuously on its own.

NHTSA complaint #11714668 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The tailgate randomly opens and closes during driving causing contents to fall out of the tailgate and creating a hazard for other motorists and damaging personal property. The tailgate now will not open and there is no manual override to open the tailgate. Certainly a design flaw and now not allowing access to the tailgate. I've contacted 5 local gm/chevrolet dealer service departments and they cannot offer any guidance on how to manually or power open the tailgate. I have a tonneau cover on the tailgate which makes it pretty much unable to access. I'm a firefighter and put my gear in the tailgate and need access asap. Please advise on how I can get GM/Chevy to assist with this issue. A police officer was behind me when the contents fell out of the tailgate on 6/9/25. This has happened several times since and most recently on 1/17/26. This needs addressed asap. Thanks!

NHTSA complaint #11713846 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Vehicle: 2021 Chevrolet Silverado Issue: Infotainment system failure after GM‑pushed OTA update Description of Problem: On 10/31/2025, my vehicle’s infotainment system attempted an over‑the‑air software update. The update failed and the screen has been locked ever since, displaying only the message: “Update Failed – Return to Dealer.” As a result: - I cannot access any settings (clock, preferences, system menus). - All warning chimes and signal sounds (turn signal click, seatbelt reminder, back seat reminder, etc.) are disabled. - The backup camera still functions, but no other infotainment features are usable. - The system is completely unresponsive to reset attempts. I brought the vehicle to a Chevrolet dealer, who verified that it was the OTA update that caused the failure, they attempted a reflash but was unsuccessful. They now claim the entire infotainment unit must be replaced at my expense, even though the failure was caused by GM’s own update which I neither approved, initiated, or requested. My vehicle is out of warranty, but this was not a wear‑and‑tear issue — it was introduced by GM’s software. Safety Concern: The loss of audible warnings and chimes poses a safety risk. Drivers rely on these alerts for seatbelt reminders, turn signal confirmation, and other critical notifications. A manufacturer‑pushed update disabled these among other functions including radio, navigation, and all vehicle settings. Resolution Attempts: - Dealer attempted reprogramming on 11/6 (charged $295) but failed and state I need a new infotainment system. - GM Customer Assistance refused to provide goodwill coverage. - Vehicle remains stuck in failed update state as pictured. Request: I am submitting this complaint because GM’s OTA update disabled core safety features of my vehicle along with other basic features such as radio. I believe this is a manufacturer defect that should be investigated and addressed, regardless of warranty status.

NHTSA complaint #11712786 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Transmission shudders and slipping gears at only 100k miles.

NHTSA complaint #11701916 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The track on the back glass is cracked and leaking water into the interior back cab light.

NHTSA complaint #11701829 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Rear power window has been replaced multiple times, each time it develops cracks and leaks water causing possible mold in the truck cabin.

NHTSA complaint #11698924 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The air conditioning only blows HOT air. The vehicle was inspected by my mechanic and states that the compressor and belt have failed and needs to be replaced. I realize that my 2020 Silverado is out of warranty, but after looking into this situation, I have found that GM has had known air conditioning issues with certain Silverado models, especially 2019-2021. I believe this is a widespread defect and should be covered and repaired through a goodwill program. I am bringing the Silverado for repairs to my mechanic on 10/31/25 as I live in South Florida and cannot continue driving this vehicle without air conditioning.

NHTSA complaint #11696310 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

The following is a list of persistent electrical failures in my vehicle, several of which present a significant safety risk. I have attempted to resolve the issues: •Emergency OnStar Button Failure: My vehicle's emergency OnStar buttons consistently fail to function when the ignition is off. This is a critical safety defect, as the system is designed to work on a backup battery during an emergency, such as a crash. The system only operates when the ignition is on. • Excessive and Dangerous Floor Hump Heat: Following a service visit on October 2, 2025, the front floor hump became excessively hot, melting personal items and posing a fire and burn risk. •Fabricated Safety Warnings: The vehicle's computer system repeatedly displays false and misleading messages. Examples include an incorrect "new brake pads detected" prompt and a "taking your eyes off the road" warning that does not apply to this vehicle. These phantom messages are distracting and can cause driver confusion. •Persistent Connectivity Failures: The vehicle experiences frequent and consistent failures with its Wi-Fi and GPS systems, indicating a potential electrical or software malfunction. Numerous resets attempted by the manufacturer's technical support have not resolved the issue. • Computer Display Anomaly: the Chevrolet symbol appeared in red on the computer screen when the truck was started. The vehicle has repeatedly experienced spontaneous changes to the radio station and the air conditioning switching from cold to hot without driver input. •Unusual Decompressing Sound: When the vehicle has been sitting for an extended period, an unusual decompressing sound can be heard coming from the rear underside whenever a door is opened. Date: Software updates on January 27, 2025 and October 2, 2025. Diagnostic Test performed on October 2, 2025 that failed to resolve the issues. The OnStar buttons only works when the vehicle is turned on. I do have photos and videos available to support your claim.

NHTSA complaint #11692640 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I am filing a formal complaint regarding a serious safety concern with my 2021 CHEVROLET SILVERADO, following the completion of recall N252494001 performed by Galleria Chevrolet in Dallas, TX. Prior to this recall work and related inspections, my vehicle operated without any abnormal engine noise. After the recall inspection and a subsequent fuel injector repair performed by the dealer, my vehicle began producing a bottom-end engine noise that had never been present before, and ultimately we have catastrophic engine failure. What is highly concerning is that the dealership staff previously documented the situation in writing as follows: “We performed the recall inspection and the truck passed. After performing an injector repair now there is a bottom-end noise when it's running. Did the failed injector possibly affect the validity of the test? That may be the case. We know that the truck did not experience the noise before the inspection; is it possible that the steps we took affected the truck in a way that got the noise to show itself? That’s what we need to determine.” Despite this acknowledgment, the dealership is now denying any responsibility, classifying the damage as unrelated “wear and tear”. This reversal appears highly suspicious, as it contradicts their own observations and written notes. It suggests that the dealership and GM may be refusing to fulfill their obligations under the recall and repair warranty, leaving me with a vehicle that has a blown engine and a significant safety risk. Given the timing of the noise, occurring directly after recall work and injector repair, and the internal documentation from the dealership itself, I request NHTSA investigate whether: This issue is part of a broader trend affecting other vehicles under the same recall. GM and its dealers are properly honoring their obligations to fully repair vehicles impacted by recalls. Consequential damage resulting from recall work is being systematically denied coverage.

NHTSA complaint #11686305 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

A knocking noise coming from the left side drivers wheel

NHTSA complaint #11660241 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I purchased this truck 3/20/2025. I have since realized it wasn't me doing something wrong. The truck hesitates and shakes during shifting upon acceleration from a stop and when putting it in park and attempting to turn the truck off it has a message on the display saying "shift to park" and it will not turn off until you repeatedly restart it and play woth the gear shift to get it to register that it's in park. I have made an appointment to take it to the dealership to be looked at. The truck has 75,000 miles on it.

NHTSA complaint #11659639 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Around May 20th, 2022, I was driving the pickup when it suddenly the engine turned off on me. I was travelling at approximately 40 mph on city streets and was able to control the vehicle and park the vehicle and restart it. That same week, I took the vehicle to Chevrolet on the city of Orange, where it was inspected. According to the mechanic, no issues were located. Nothing else was done to the vehicle and as a result, I fear the same issue will happen again in the future.

NHTSA complaint #11658032 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

while driving, the emergency brake engages and locks the car up coming to a complete stop mid driving (on highway!). this has happened 3 times now, took it into dealer, they did a computer update and released. It has since happened again, with my child in the car!

NHTSA complaint #11655155 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

I get A shift to park message on my dash behind steering wheel whenever I put the vehicle in park and turn it off. It want let the vehicle completely shutdown.

NHTSA complaint #11654229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Rain is coming in through the back window. Dealer is stating that the rain is coming from the sliding window but satellite is stating it’s the brake light on the top of the truck.

NHTSA complaint #11653548 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Transmission isssues hard shifting and no shifting at times. I informed the dealership about the recall on this issue and they are saying it doesn’t fall under the recall which isn’t true because my vehicles is showing all of the symptoms under the recall #N242454440.

NHTSA complaint #11653145 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

When I am driving my vehicle and I pull in to park, I put the gear shift into park and shut the vehichle off and a light comes on in the dash and says shift to park. And the vehichle will not shut down for several minutes after this light comes on. It also feels like there is a hesitation in the transmission at times after I start the vehicle and start driving.

NHTSA complaint #11652693 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

Diesel engine continues to overheat, even after the oil temperature sensor failure dealership repair. Truck is very well maintained. However, common and trending issue amongst 1500 Silverado diesel owners is overheating which causes engine to loose power while driving and even get so hot it can catch fire. Warning lights appear only when problem is at engine failure point. Also, we lost power or reduced power on freeway which almost caused an accident and engine was smoking. We had it towed to Epic Chevrolet in Sacramento, CA. Within one week of dealership repair covered under powertrain warranty, dealership said overheating engine is due to a “new” code for coolant pump. In short, fire and driving safety hazard that can cost lives if not addressed by NHTSA.

NHTSA complaint #11651543 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.