2021 Gmc Sierra Safety Report
2021 GMC Sierra plagued by widespread engine and powertrain failures with no NHTSA safety ratings or recalls.
AI Safety Analysis for the 2021 Gmc Sierra
Reliability Score
The 2021 Gmc Sierra receives a reliability score of 35 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates below-average reliability. Significant issues have been reported by owners and should be carefully evaluated before purchase.
Known Issues for the 2021 Gmc Sierra
The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2021 Gmc Sierra:
| Issue | Severity | Frequency | Typical Mileage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Failure (E.G., Connecting Rod, Lifter Failure) Numerous reports of catastrophic engine failure, including thrown connecting rods, lifter failures, and complete engine shutdowns, often without prior warning. Some instances occurred shortly after recall tests or repairs. |
High | Common | 5000-126000 miles |
| Transmission Shuddering And Hard Shifts Drivers report violent jerking, shuddering, and hard shifts, particularly under light acceleration or when shifting gears. Some complaints mention rear wheels locking up or complete transmission failure requiring replacement. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Sudden Loss Of Acceleration/Power Vehicle suddenly loses ability to accelerate, feels like it shifts into neutral, or enters limp mode while driving at various speeds, including highway speeds. This can lead to the vehicle shutting off completely. |
High | Common | unknown miles |
| Defective Def Tank/Engine Coolant Control Valve Reports of defective DEF tanks and engine coolant control valves, particularly on 3.0L Diesel engines. These issues can lead to reduced power, engine damage, and are often on backorder, leaving owners without a vehicle. |
Medium | Occasional | unknown miles |
| Tailgate Opening Unexpectedly Rear tailgate opens or drops unexpectedly, especially when wet (heavy rain or after a car wash), with no warning other than a clicking sound. |
Low | Rare | unknown miles |
Common Problems Reported by Owners
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2021 Gmc Sierra:
70 complaints relate to the power train, encompassing transmission shuddering, hard shifts, and complete transmission failures, often leading to the vehicle being inoperable.
36 complaints specifically mention engine and engine cooling issues, including defective engine coolant control valves and related problems leading to reduced power.
30 complaints regarding the electrical system, including intermittent warning lights, infotainment system malfunctions (e.g., Android Auto disabling the system), and issues after engine repairs.
16 complaints related to service brakes, though specific patterns are less clear from the provided samples, some mention 'check brake system' warnings.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2021 Gmc Sierra
Is the 2021 GMC Sierra safe?
Based on NHTSA data, the 2021 GMC Sierra has a concerning safety record due to 514 total complaints, including 9 crashes, 7 fires, and 3 injuries. A significant portion of these complaints points to critical engine and powertrain failures that can lead to sudden loss of power or vehicle shutdown while driving. The absence of official NHTSA crash test ratings makes a comprehensive safety assessment difficult, but the operational reliability issues are a major concern.
What are common problems with the 2021 GMC Sierra?
The most reported issues for the 2021 GMC Sierra are related to the ENGINE (147 complaints), POWER TRAIN (70 complaints), and ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (36 complaints). Common problems include catastrophic engine failures (e.g., connecting rod, lifter issues), transmission shuddering, hard shifts, sudden loss of acceleration, and defective DEF tanks or engine coolant control valves.
Are there any recalls for the 2021 GMC Sierra?
As of the provided data, there are no recalls issued for the 2021 GMC Sierra, despite a high volume of severe complaints regarding engine and powertrain failures.
How does the 2021 GMC Sierra perform in crash tests?
The 2021 GMC Sierra currently has no official NHTSA safety ratings for Overall, Frontal, Side, or Rollover crash tests. Therefore, its performance in crash scenarios cannot be assessed based on this data.
What should I do if my 2021 GMC Sierra experiences engine or transmission issues?
If your 2021 GMC Sierra experiences engine or transmission issues, especially sudden loss of power or unusual noises, it is critical to safely pull over and have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately. Given the numerous reports of catastrophic failures, do not ignore warning signs. Document all issues and repairs, and consider filing a complaint with NHTSA.
Buyer Advice
Our recommendation: Given the high volume of severe engine and powertrain complaints and the lack of NHTSA safety ratings or recalls, potential buyers should exercise extreme caution and thoroughly investigate the vehicle's service history, especially for engine and transmission repairs, before purchasing a 2021 GMC Sierra.
NHTSA Data Summary for 2021 Gmc Sierra
This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2021 Gmc Sierra. The data includes 514 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 0 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 9 reported crashes, 7 fire incidents, 3 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.
All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.
Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.