NHTSA Complaint #11658334 — 2021 GMC SIERRA 1500

My vehicle suddenly stopped working in the middle of an intersection. A screen notification prompted me to restart it, so I pulled over safely, as there were no other vehicles nearby. However, I worry about the potential danger if this had happened on a freeway. After waiting, I tried restarting the vehicle, but it still wouldn’t work. The next day, I received an email from Carfax about an open recall for my vehicle due to engine issues, matching the symptoms I was experiencing. I scheduled an appointment for 4/28, and had the vehicle towed to Elk Grove Buick GMC. At GMC, they couldn’t offer immediate solutions, needing to diagnose the vehicle first. This process took about four days. During this time, I was advised to contact GM, as the vehicle was affected by the recall. I submitted a case to GM on April 28th, requesting compensation for a rental or loaner vehicle, a truck for my business needs. Without it, my business operations would suffer, leading to revenue loss. The dealership’s diagnosis found the engine seized due to a failed bearing. GM contacted me about the recall, initially mentioning the lemon law and a potential buyback, which I hadn’t considered. After I expressed a desire to repair the vehicle, they contacted the dealership for more information. GM later clarified that the vehicle wasn’t covered under the recall, citing the cause and symptoms as not meeting the recall’s criteria. This seems contradictory, as a failed engine doesn’t necessarily contradict the recall. GM stated they couldn’t provide a remedy, leaving me responsible for repair costs, and noted my vehicle’s 70,000 miles exceeded the power train warranty. Recall claims dealerships will inspect and, if necessary, repair or replace the engine. It’s confusing why my vehicle isn’t covered for repairs or assistance under this recall despite the engine failure. What is the law in terms of warranty as I was under the impression that warranty status is irrelevant in an active recall vehicle.