NHTSA Complaint #11624358 — 2021 CHEVROLET SILVERADO 3500

#N232426400-04: Safety Recall - Tailgate May Open Unexpectedly lists RPO code QT5 as the only applicable RPO code for the issue of tailgate opening unexpectedly. QT5 is for manual gate function with EZ lift, power lock release. The recall blames water intrusion into these vehicles’ tailgates that can come into contact with the electronic gate-release switch, potentially causing a short circuit, which may inadvertently unlatch and open the tailgate when in park. The correction is to replace the exterior touchpad switch assembly with part number 85734717. My vehicle has RPO code QT6, which is for power up/down gate function with power lock and release. That option uses the same exterior touchpad switch assembly with part number 85734717. My vehicle did exhibit the same problem of opening unexpectedly while in park. That exterior touchpad switch eventually stopped opening or closing the tailgate altogether, and occasionally the tailgate would get stuck in the closed position while a dash message would say it is open. When it was immobilized in the closed position neither the exterior switch, the interior switch, or the key fob would make the tailgate open. It's my opinion that my vehicle experienced the same root problem as is described in the recall with the exterior switch assembly short circuiting, and that RPO code QT6 units should be included in the recall.