FaultScore

2019 GMC Sierra 1500 engine problems

313 of the 892 complaints about the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 are about the engine — 35% of everything reported for this model year. Half of the failures with a mileage on record happened before 83,500 miles.

D

313

Complaints

2

Crashes

4

Fires

1

Injuries

Exactly what failed

Engine 290 92.7%
Engine AND Engine Cooling 21 6.7%
Exhaust System 1 0.3%
Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe 1 0.3%

Engine & Cooling across every GMC Sierra 1500 year

2004 13 0.6%
2005 15 0.7%
2007 26 1.3%
2008 19 0.9%
2009 17 0.8%
2010 15 0.7%
2011 19 0.9%
2014 74 3.6%
2015 84 4.1%
2016 41 2.0%
2017 58 2.8%
2018 70 3.4%
2019 313 15.3%
2020 233 11.4%
2021 322 15.7%
2022 243 11.9%
2023 205 10.0%
2024 188 9.2%
2025 43 2.1%
2026 52 2.5%

What owners said

Filed with NHTSA, in their own words.

Bailey, CO

ENGINE

On XXX at approximately 3:00 p.m., I was driving on the highway in [XXX], at approximately 65 mph when my truck suddenly displayed a warning stating that all oil pressure had been lost and that the engine needed to be shut off immediately. Within roughly seven seconds of seeing and comprehending the warning, I attempted to safely shut down the engine. Before I could do so, the engine seized while the truck was still traveling at highway speed.The engine failure caused an immediate loss of power steering and power-assisted braking, leaving me with limited control as the truck coasted at highway speed. This was an extremely dangerous situation that could have resulted in a serious accident, injury, or loss of life. The truck was towed to a repair facility, where technicians confirmed that the engine had seized and recommended replacing the long block. A new GM Genuine Parts engine was installed, and the repairs were completed on XXX. Today, XXX, the replacement engine has approximately 40,000 miles on it. I recently began hearing a ticking noise followed by knocking, and the engine nearly stalled while idling. I immediately checked the oil and confirmed that oil was present on the dipstick. I have consistently maintained the vehicle and completed every oil change at intervals of 5,000 miles or fewer. I returned the truck to the same repair facility that installed the replacement engine and was immediately informed that the truck requires yet another engine replacement. This is now the second 6.2L L87 engine that has failed in this vehicle. Two catastrophic engine failures—one involving a replacement GM Genuine Parts engine after only approximately 40,000 miles—are completely unacceptable. The first failure created a severe highway safety hazard, and the failure of the replacement engine raises serious concerns about the reliability and safety of these engines. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11758114 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Pittsboro, NC

ENGINE

Engine seized on June29th while driving on I 64 . (6.2 L87) due to oil line failure. Engine replaced on July 18th, 2026. New engine started leaking oil from camshaft and gasket on August 10th 2026, back in GMC Shop on August12th 2026 for repairs, still waiting parts today. Sudden failure on road in traffic Inspected by GMC Southpoint. No indication prior to failure and shut down completely. Could not do anything to move vehicle out the road.

NHTSA complaint #11757364 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Parrish, FL

ENGINE

My 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 equipped with the 6.2L engine experienced an internal engine/lifter failure. The vehicle was inspected by an authorized GMC dealership. The dealership documented damaged lifters, including rough edges and visible signs of friction, and advised that the camshafts on these vehicles can also have issues. I was provided estimates for both a lifter repair and complete engine replacement. Due to the possibility of additional internal engine/camshaft damage and the risk of having to repeat the lifter repair, complete engine replacement was recommended. The dealership is replacing the engine with a GM remanufactured engine, part #19420611, carrying a 3-year/100,000-mile warranty. The customer-paid repair is approximately $9,400 plus applicable taxes and shop charges because my 2019 vehicle/VIN is not currently included in the existing L87 engine recall. I am submitting this complaint because NHTSA is currently investigating failures involving 6.2L L87-equipped vehicles outside the existing recall population. I believe this failure should be documented and considered as part of the investigation into whether the affected vehicle population should be expanded. I have requested the dealership provide the technician's complete diagnosis and documented cause of failure and can provide additional information when received.

NHTSA complaint #11757455 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Evanville, MN

ENGINE

There was a catastrophic internal engine failure, due to cam/lifter/bearing issues. This caused the timing chain and tensioner to jump and the engine to be out of alignment. This caused the valves to all be bent as a result. I believe that this has been an issue for longer than what GM has originally recalled for, and I am submitting this complaint because I read that there is an active investigation into this.

NHTSA complaint #11756910 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Dana Point, CA

ENGINE

At approximately 85,000 miles, the engine in my 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 seized. The vehicle was parked when it occurred. This created a safety risk because an engine seizure can cause sudden loss of propulsion in traffic. Before the failure, I didn't notice anything that would raise any alarms. The problem was inspected and confirmed by a GMC dealer, which diagnosed the condition as an engine seizure. The failed engine is not available for inspection. I am not aware of the precise internal cause beyond the dealer’s diagnosis.

NHTSA complaint #11756621 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Dana Point, CA

ENGINE

At approximately 85,000 miles, the engine in my 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 seized. The vehicle was parked when it occurred. Inability to start. This created a safety risk because an engine seizure can cause sudden loss of propulsion in traffic. Before the failure, I did not notice any red flags. The problem was inspected and confirmed by a GMC dealer, which diagnosed the condition as an engine seizure. The failed engine is not available for inspection. I am not aware of the precise internal cause beyond the dealer’s diagnosis.

NHTSA complaint #11756622 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Washington, MI

ENGINE

The lifters collapsed on cylinder 3 causing the camshaft to shed metal into the oil leading to bearing failure. Leaving us stranded 210 miles away from home. Motor has 85,909 miles. This is the same problem that the 2021 model year trucks have that has a recall. The 2019 model years have the exact same problems. I personally know 6 people who have had this happen. Check out the Facebook page. GM 6.2 Lifter and bearing failure.

NHTSA complaint #11755634 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Crosslake, MN

ENGINE

Complete failure on Cylinder 3 after AFM system caused lifter collapse in 5.3L V8. Lifter fell into cam shaft and scored the shaft at 55mph. Truck started surging and shaking violently. Truck shaking had me swerve to the side of the road as I was coming up on a crosswalk with golf cart about to cross the road. Vehicle was inspected at Atwater GM in Aitkin, MN and component failure was identified. Two weeks later I paid $14,149 to have a complete engine replacement. There was absolutely no indication that this event would take place. Just months before I took this truck from [XXX] to [XXX] and back without an issue. GM should be held responsible for a complete lack of safety due to faulty AFM engines. Not only did this endanger my safety, but I also had to withdraw from my 401k to pay for the outrageous cost of a new engine replacement because of a single point of failure. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11754328 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Tuscumbia, AL

ENGINE

I haven’t even owned my truck for2years

NHTSA complaint #11753823 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Memphis, TN

ENGINE

ENGINE DIED!!,Had it towed to local dealer and was told I have L87 engine failure ,but the recall dosen't cover 2019 models. Service tech says it only covers 2021-2024 6.2 engines. Is there any action I can follow to be added to the recall. Thanks for your swift attention.

NHTSA complaint #11753440 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Meridian, ID

ENGINE

The Lifter on my GM Sierra AT4 truck with a 6.2L (L87) engine collapsed and damaged the engine shafts and cylinders in the block. While driving, the engine started to lose power, and a ticking noise started to occur. I pulled the car over to the side of the road and called the dealer, which told me to have the truck towed into the dealership. Metal was found in the Oil. The entire engine has to be replaced for $12K. I have a life time oil change service with the dealer an also an extended warranty, but my mileage was over the warranty by 6K miles. The warranty ended at 106K miles and actual milage was 113K. I reached out to my dealer and also to GM to discuss goodwill assistance and GM pushed back indicating they cannot do anymore. I asked the rep to esalate the ticket

NHTSA complaint #11753323 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Garrison, NY

ENGINE

Subject: Event of engine failure • While driving on a level paved road at 15 miles per hour in a busy area my 2019 GMC Sierra Denali pickup truck stalled in the middle of a busy street. • Truck stalled in a heavy traffic area at an intersection putting myself and passengers in a dangerous area and situation. This obstructed the normal flow of traffic causing a danger to pedestrians and normal vehicle traffic pattern. Each had to go around my disabled truck into oncoming traffic putting them and normal traffic flow at risk. •Upon securing a towing service the truck was transported to the nearest GM dealership. This happened on a Friday afternoon and the truck got to the dealership after hours. I returned to the dealership the next morning and was told that they may not be able to check the truck until probably Tuesday. On Monday afternoon I called and they hadn't been able to get to it. I received a call the next day and was informed that the technician at the dealership had put a breaker bar to the crankcase and the engine would not move and therefore the engine is seized. • There were no warning lights that came on prior to the truck stalling in the street. There was no noise prior or any other symptom to give any indication that the truck was not operating in a normal fashion.

NHTSA complaint #11753006 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 115,000 miles Scio, NY

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the engine seized. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer to be diagnosed. The contact stated was informed that the engine failure was caused by rod bearing failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 115,000.

NHTSA complaint #11752417 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 96,182 miles Reno, NV

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the low oil pressure message was displayed. The engine oil cooler line had detached, and oil was leaking from the vehicle, causing the engine to seize. The contact associated the failure with General Motors Customer Satisfaction Program: N212326940. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a claim. The failure mileage was approximately 96,182.

NHTSA complaint #11750776 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 96,182 miles Reno, NV

ENGINE

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH, the low oil pressure message was displayed. The engine oil cooler line had detached, and oil was leaking from the vehicle, causing the engine to seize. The contact associated the failure with General Motors Customer Satisfaction Program: N212326940. The vehicle was towed to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and opened a claim. The failure mileage was approximately 96,182.

NHTSA complaint #11750776 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Benton, KY

ENGINE

Engine failure at random while operating. Dealership stated vehicle blew engine block fuse and crankshaft is now seized.

NHTSA complaint #11750614 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Bristol, PA

ENGINE

Total engine power loss while driving 70mph on the highway in steady moving traffic causing a safety hazard, with 3 young children in the vehicle. No prior warning lamps, messages or symptoms to indicate a problem. Engine completely shut down while driving and will not turn back on. Had vehicle towed to the dealership. Certified GMC dealership did a full inspection and indicated that the engine assembly needs to be fully replaced. NHTSA Campaign 25V274 for vehicles 2021 and newer is for the same exact engine failure issue with the same engine size. I would appreciate you exploring the possibility of covering this catastrophic malfunction as an exception to the aforementioned recall campaign. Many other drivers have noted the same failure with the 2019 as was included in the recall for 21-24. Thank you for your consideration, please feel free to reach out to me directly to discuss further. I look forward to hearing from you!

NHTSA complaint #11750369 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 83,000 miles Sebastian, FL

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 25 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated, and the engine started knocking. The contact pulled over immediately and contacted an independent mechanic, who recommended continuing to continue driving at a slow speed. The contact resumed driving to the residence. The contact's son, who was a highly skilled mechanic, diagnosed that the left bank lifters had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was contacted several times and informed that the VIN was not included in a recall and referred the contact to the manufacturer for assistance. The manufacturer was contacted, but no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.

NHTSA complaint #11750020 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Tuscumbia, AL

ENGINE

The engine went into limp mode as I made turn leaving the damn I was is in town and it was a lot of traffic could’ve been bad if I didn’t pull into the median left me devastated and no crank no start I’ve only had the truck a year it went down a month from when I purchased it

NHTSA complaint #11750178 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Ramsey, MN

ENGINE

I am writing to formally log a safety concern regarding my vehicle’s 6.2L L87 engine, specifically in relation to the known defects under NHTSA’s ongoing Engineering Analysis EA25007 (previously Preliminary Evaluation PE24004).While my vehicle is currently running and has 52,000 miles on the odometer, it falls squarely within the manufacturing window being investigated for premature engine failures due to defective connecting rod bearings and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) lifters.My primary concern is the severe safety hazard presented by a sudden, catastrophic engine failure. A sudden seizure or loss of motive power at highway speeds puts myself, my passengers, and other drivers at an immediate risk of a high-speed collision, especially if it occurs without prior warning lights or symptoms.Because GM’s previous engine recalls (such as 24V-418) excluded the 2019 model year despite utilizing the same vulnerable engine family, I am filing this report to urge the NHTSA to expand the recall to include 2019 models. I want my vehicle's VIN documented as part of this vulnerable population so that a proactive, permanent remedy can be mandated before a dangerous highway failure occurs.

NHTSA complaint #11749489 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Crestwood, KY

ENGINE

I believe I had a lifter failure as I was traveling up SR 393. Safety issue as vehicle lost power. Vehicle is at dealership now and confirmed possible lifter collapse. No dashboard lights were on or any power issues prior.

NHTSA complaint #11748834 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 98,003 miles Shiremanstown, PA

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated while driving at 55 MPH, the vehicle made an abnormal rumbling sound and stalled. All the warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a nearby independent mechanic, who determined that the engine lifter and cylinder had failed. The vehicle was not repaired. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that there was no recall coverage. The manufacturer referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 98,003.

NHTSA complaint #11748492 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Brockport, NY

ENGINE

Lifters (the part that opens and closes engine valves) fail prematurely. There was a loud ticking noises, rough idling. Took to dealership and they advise that yes the lifters are failing and not drivable at this time.

NHTSA complaint #11747528 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Clio, MI

ENGINE

I am retired and have always bought GM vehicles which are taken care of with required oil changes etc. This one I have only owned 25,000 mi each year (I have owned two years). So, when purchased it has high 50,000 miles not sure of exact, and it has only been driven 2 years. When calling escalation at GM, they act as though it doesn't matter and too bad. 110,000 miles and the truck needs a new motor. This is what we are told and 10,000 more than the initial 1500 to tear it down. This truck is not broken due to us, this is a problem with the manufacturer and the responsibility needs to be addressed. My husband has a heart issue and he almost didn't make it home. I'm not accepting that nothing be done, since next we need a lawyer and a media appointment. This isn't right when you see thousands of people with the same GMC Sierra trucks online with complaints of the same valve and motor issues. This needs completely replaced and not by a customer, by the manufacturer. How can 1500 people new wrong on one sight stating the same as we have had. This person who is responsble for reporting and making sure we are safe needs to be fired. I am writing my representatives, senators etc to let them know this is going on. No one should pay for the mistakes of bad engineering. PERIOD.

NHTSA complaint #11746005 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Phoenix, AZ

ENGINE

No warning lights, engine stalled in the middle of the freeway almost got killed by a semi truck was behind me, engine lost power and found that needed new engine because of the camshaft and internal damage.confirmed by certified mechanic

NHTSA complaint #11746054 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

at 95,000 miles Gorham, ME

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

The contact owns a 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving 75 MPH, the message "Engine Power Reduced" was displayed and the vehicle decelerated and stalled. The vehicle was pulled over onto the shoulder and failed to restart. Roadside Assistance was called to the scene, and the vehicle was towed to the local service center, diagnosed, and it was determined that the engine Cam Actuator screws had failed causing metal shavings to enter the engine and turbo. The contact was informed that the engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 95,000.

NHTSA complaint #11745543 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Grand Island, FL

ENGINE

On [XXX], my 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali equipped with the 6.2L engine suffered a sudden loss of power while driving. The vehicle lost propulsion and could not continue operating normally. The vehicle was taken to Orange Buick GMC in Orlando, Florida. The dealership advised that the engine is locked and unable to rotate manually, and that the engine requires replacement. The vehicle has approximately 126,000 miles. This failure occurred while the vehicle was being driven and created a safety concern due to sudden loss of propulsion. A sudden engine lockup or loss of power could increase the risk of a crash, especially if it occurs in traffic, at highway speed, while turning, or while crossing an intersection. There was no crash, fire, injury, or death. The vehicle remains at the dealership awaiting repair. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA complaint #11744883 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Baytown, TX

ENGINE

Engine fail due to lifters collapsing, had a really bad lifter on #3 and #2 and cause to chew out camshaft . Needed a new engine and gm didnt wanna honor it warranty only partial .

NHTSA complaint #11744534 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Wimauma, FL

ENGINE

On May 27, 2026, I was on my way home from work when I went to accelerate the vehicle and all the sudden it started shaking and the check engine light came on with the EBS. I was able to get the vehicle to a repair shop local the next day, who took the car apart. What was thought to be an easy fix of spark plugs and fuel injector, became even more after they put back together and the cylinder was still misfiring. After several hours of taking apart the engine, the mechanic determined that the hydraulic valve lifters had failed. This has been an ongoing issue with with the 5.8L V8. Due to a recall not being under the vin yet, i have now incured a $16k expense to add an engine to it after i purchased it in Nov of 25 at $97,000. This is a saftey issue and luckily no one was hurt when the car started shaking and couldn't go over a certain speed. I want this reviewed and looked at for possible reimbursement as there have been several other vehicles with the same known issue.

NHTSA complaint #11743480 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Lowell, MA

ENGINE

I was driving, suddenly my truck is dead. I got it tow to GM dealership for weeks. The technician diagnose and said I need a new engine replacement. My truck is only 148K.

NHTSA complaint #11743324 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.

Other 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 problems

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