Introduction
General Motors has issued an important GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall affecting over 132,000 pickup trucks in 2025. This safety issue involves a faulty tailgate release switch in certain 2024 Silverado and Sierra HD models.
If you own a 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD or GMC Sierra HD truck, you need to read this guide. The problem can cause your tailgate to open unexpectedly, which creates serious safety risks on the road. The good news? The repair is completely free and only takes about an hour at your dealership.
What’s Wrong with the Tailgate?
The GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall involves the electric tailgate release switch that controls when your tailgate opens and closes.
The Problem: When moisture like rain or snow gets inside the switch, it causes an electrical short. This short can make your tailgate open by itself, even when parked or driving.
Why This Happened: The original switch design didn’t seal out water well enough. Over time, moisture worked its way into the electrical components and caused failures.
GM first noticed this issue in February 2024 and recalled over 570,000 trucks from 2020-2024 models. Recently, they discovered more trucks have the same problem, adding 132,000 vehicles to the recall list. This expansion follows other significant GM recalls for engine failure issues across their vehicle lineup.
Which Trucks Are Affected?
The tailgate recall affects these specific trucks:
Chevrolet Models:
- 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500
- 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 3500
GMC Models:
- 2024 GMC Sierra HD 3500
- 2024 GMC Sierra HD 2500
These heavy-duty trucks use advanced transmission systems and sophisticated electronic controls. The tailgate release mechanism connects to your truck’s wiring harness, which under specific moisture exposure becomes vulnerable to electrical shorts. Understanding how transmission systems work helps you appreciate how complex modern truck electrical systems can be.
Does Your Truck Qualify? Check your truck’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). Not every 2024 HD truck is affected—only those built during certain time periods with the faulty switch.
Why This Recall Matters
An unexpected tailgate opening creates several dangerous situations:
1. Cargo Can Fall Out: If you’re carrying tools, equipment, or materials, they can fall onto the road. This creates hazards for cars behind you and could cause serious accidents.
2. Risk to Other Drivers: Objects falling from your truck can hit other vehicles, break windshields, or force drivers to swerve suddenly.
3. Your Legal Responsibility: Even though this is a manufacturing defect, you’re responsible for securing your cargo. If items fall and cause damage or injuries, you could face legal problems.
4. Heavy Loads Are More Dangerous: These HD trucks carry construction materials, equipment, and heavy items. When these fall out, consequences are much more serious. The used engines or transmission parts many contractors transport could become deadly projectiles on the highway.
How to Check If Your Truck Is Affected
Step 1: Find Your VIN Your 17-digit VIN is on your driver’s side dashboard (visible through windshield), driver’s side door jamb sticker, or vehicle registration documents.
Step 2: Use Free Online Tools Visit MotorSafety.org and enter your VIN. This free tool shows all active recalls for your specific truck.
Step 3: Check Your Mail GM is sending notification letters to all affected owners by January 13, 2025. The letter includes confirmation, repair instructions, and dealer contact information.
Step 4: Call Your Dealer Contact your local Chevrolet or GMC dealer with your VIN, and they’ll confirm if your truck needs repair.
The Repair Process Explained
What Gets Fixed: The dealer replaces your old tailgate release switch with a new, improved version. The new switch has better seals to keep moisture out and connects properly to your truck’s electrical system. Similar to how alternators are replaced, this involves disconnecting and reconnecting electrical components safely.
How Long It Takes: The repair typically takes 30-60 minutes. Most people wait at the dealership while it’s done.
What It Costs: Nothing. GM pays for everything—parts, labor, and diagnostic testing.
What Happens During Repair:
- Technician removes your old switch
- Installs the new moisture-resistant switch
- Tests the tailgate multiple times
- Verifies electrical system works properly with diagnostic equipment
Where to Get It Fixed: You must use an authorized Chevrolet or GMC dealership. Only authorized dealers can access correct parts, complete warranty paperwork, and properly document your recall completion.
Safety Tips Until You Get the Repair
Before Every Drive:
- Physically check that your tailgate is fully closed
- Don’t rely only on dashboard indicator lights
- Look at the tailgate itself to ensure it’s secure
Use Extra Security:
- Engage the manual backup latch if available
- This provides a second layer of protection
Reduce Your Cargo:
- Avoid carrying heavy or dangerous items until repaired
- If transporting cargo, secure it with straps even with tailgate closed
Park Carefully:
- Park on level ground when possible
- Avoid steep inclines where gravity could encourage tailgate opening
Schedule Immediately: Call your dealer now to schedule your free repair. The sooner you fix it, the sooner you eliminate the risk.
What Else You Should Know
Previous GM Recalls: GM’s 2024 safety initiatives included other recalls:
- July 2024 Corvette seat belt issues
- January 2024 Chevy Bolt fire risk concerns
- Various transmission software updates across truck and SUV lines
- CP4 fuel pump failures in Silverado and Sierra trucks
- GM’s defective shifter settlement affecting multiple models
These recalls show even modern vehicles experience occasional defects. What matters is manufacturer response—and GM’s willingness to expand the tailgate recall reflects their commitment to safety.
Related Maintenance: While getting your recall repair, consider having your dealer inspect other critical systems like your cylinder head and fuel pump to ensure overall truck health. Regular maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations keeps your truck running smoothly alongside recall repairs.
Take Action Now
The GMC Chevrolet trucks tailgate recall is a serious but manageable safety issue. If you own a 2024 Silverado HD or Sierra HD truck:
- Check your VIN immediately through MotorSafety.org or your dealer
- Schedule your free repair for the earliest available date
- Follow safety precautions until your truck is repaired
- Keep your recall documentation for future reference
Don’t wait for your notification letter. Take action today to protect yourself and other drivers on the road. Understanding recalls is part of responsible vehicle ownership, just like knowing when to replace your timing belt or checking your car battery voltage.For quality replacement parts and truck maintenance needs, visit All American Motors Hub for comprehensive automotive solutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to get this fixed?
While not legally required, it’s strongly recommended. This is a real safety issue that could cause accidents.
What if I have an older model?
The February 2024 recall covered 2020-2023 models. Check your VIN to see if you were included in that earlier repair campaign.
Will this affect my truck’s performance?
No. The repair only improves the tailgate switch reliability. Your transmission, engine performance, payload capacity, and towing ability remain unchanged.
What if the defect already damaged my truck?
Contact your GM dealer and insurance provider immediately. Document all damage with photographs. Manufacturers sometimes address damage claims case-by-case.
Are 2025 models affected?
Currently, no recall includes 2025 models. However, check your VIN if concerned about inherited defects from 2024 design.
