NHTSA Complaint #11454422 — 2014 GMC SIERRA 1500

The contact owns a 2014 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving approximately 10 - 15 MPH with the rear defroster activated on the rear powered sliding window, there was a sizzling sound, and started smelling smoke inside the vehicle. The contact pulled over, stopped, exited the vehicle, started inspecting inside the rear of the vehicle; and saw smoke on the driver’s side rear of the vehicle, between the window and the seatback. While the contact was bent over trying to ascertain where the smoke was coming from, the driver’s side rear window exploded. The contact poured water on the window to put out the smoke. During the explosion the contact sustained a mild concussion and severe earache that lasted for two days; however, medical attention was not needed. The Fire Department and Police Department were contacted and notified of the failure. The contact was informed by the Fire Department that the cause was an electrical system fire. The vehicle was driven to the local dealer to be diagnosed however, the cause for the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was contacted regarding the failure but no assistance was offered. The VIN was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 150,000.