2017 GMC SIERRA 3500 — Problems, Recalls & Safety Data

My truck is affected by GM’s engine block‑heater safety recall (NHTSA 21V‑496 / GM N212329840) addressing a risk of short circuit and potential engine‑compartment fire at the heater cord/terminal connection. GM’s interim action has been to remove/disable the block‑heater cord, which my dealer did, and then marked the recall “completed.” As a result, the NHTSA VIN tool shows 0 unrepaired recalls, even though no actual repair/restored functionality exists and GM continues to advise owners not to use the block heater until parts are available. Safety concern / impact: I live in a cold‑weather area and purchased this diesel expecting a functioning block heater for reliable cold starts. Disabling the heater has removed an intended cold‑weather safety/starting aid for multiple winters without a final fix. GM’s bulletin explicitly allowed dealers to disable the cord to close the recall, rather than provide a repair, leaving owners without the feature indefinitely. Suspiciously, I have also had to replace glow plugs on this truck sooner than traditional wear / failure rates would demand - including one glow plug that has been replaced twice in short span of time (should have lasted years). I continue to monitor GM’s recall portal; still no parts/remedy schedule. Please review whether GM’s chosen remedy—disabling a safety‑related feature and closing the recall—is adequate and within a reasonable time under the Safety Act. If not, I request NHTSA open a Recall Query into remedy adequacy and timeliness so owners receive a real repair (replacement heater/cord/connector) or appropriate alternative remedies.

My truck is affected by GM’s engine block‑heater safety recall (NHTSA 21V‑496 / GM N212329840) addressing a risk of short circuit and potential engine‑compartment fire at the heater cord/terminal connection. GM’s interim action has been to remove/disable the block‑heater cord, which my dealer did, and then marked the recall “completed.” As a result, the NHTSA VIN tool shows 0 unrepaired recalls, even though no actual repair/restored functionality exists and GM continues to advise owners not to use the block heater until parts are available. Safety concern / impact: I live in a cold‑weather area and purchased this diesel expecting a functioning block heater for reliable cold starts. Disabling the heater has removed an intended cold‑weather safety/starting aid for multiple winters without a final fix. GM’s bulletin explicitly allowed dealers to disable the cord to close the recall, rather than provide a repair, leaving owners without the feature indefinitely. Suspiciously, I have also had to replace glow plugs on this truck sooner than traditional wear / failure rates would demand - including one glow plug that has been replaced twice in short span of time (should have lasted years). I continue to monitor GM’s recall portal; still no parts/remedy schedule. Please review whether GM’s chosen remedy—disabling a safety‑related feature and closing the recall—is adequate and within a reasonable time under the Safety Act. If not, I request NHTSA open a Recall Query into remedy adequacy and timeliness so owners receive a real repair (replacement heater/cord/connector) or appropriate alternative remedies.

The contact owns a 2017 GMC Sierra 3500. The contact stated that while shifting from park(P) to drive(D), the engine revved, but the vehicle failed to move forward. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to a certified mechanic, who determined that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed by a dealer. The mechanic was able to shift the transmission into manual drive mode, allowing the contact to drive the vehicle to the residence. The dealer was contacted and informed the contact that the VIN was not under recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was informed of the failure and referred the contact back to the dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 120,000.

The contact owns a 2017 GMC Sierra 3500. The contact stated while driving 30 MPH, there was smoke and a squealing sound coming from the passenger’s side rear wheel. The vehicle was taken to the residence and the contact observed fluid on the axle tube. The contact stated that the axle as taken apart and the wheel bearings were in pieces. The contact stated that the axle nut had unintendedly backed off. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 25,000.

Trailer brake system connection warning Intermittent when towing it will say trailer not connected, while still having a secure 7 pin connection. This causes me to loose trailer brakes. My camper is nearly 14,000 lbs. Very dangerous situation. Happened since new. Was into / complained to GM service dept over 6 times.