Electrical system, engine, and powertrain issues among the top complaints received by the NHTSA from vehicle owners
When it comes time to accomplish tough jobs, drivers opt for a 2019 GMC Sierra 2500 because it’s supposed to be capable. In fact, the automaker claims it can “move mountains,” which might actually prove to be difficult with the faulty electrical system, engine and powertrain.
Click on other model year to view more problems: 2018
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The electrical system might not always seem important, but without everything running as it should, a drive can become extremely tedious.
Take this example from a Cars.com review. “Multiple sensor issues most of which were caused by [dealer] working on it.”
The problems go even deeper, with Service Bulletin #PIT5311F discussing issues with the “Check Trailer Wiring” and “Service Trailer Brake” messaging on the Driver Information Center. Technicians are advised to clean the ground wire and inspect the system for damage, but are also told they might need to replace the connector completely. This wouldn’t be the first time that the 2019 Sierra models were found with faulty equipment. In fact, there have been class-action lawsuits because of the malfunctioning seven-inch infotainment systems that these trucks are equipped with. Just try and get this truck to “move mountains” while it is sitting at the service center yet again for more repairs.
| Complaint Category | Number of Complaints |
|---|---|
| Engine | |
| Service Brakes | |
| Electrical System | |
| Equipment | |
| Exterior Lighting | |
| Tires | |
| Electronic Stability Control | |
| Fuel System, Diesel | |
| Fuel/propulsion System | |
| Power Train |
Arguably the most important part on any heavy-duty truck would be the engine, but this motor is nothing but a failure.
One NHTSA complaint states, “The contact owns a 2019 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact stated while driving 5 mph uphill, the low coolant and DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that the vehicle shifted into Limp Mode. The contact reversed to level ground and decided to drive to another route to his destination. The vehicle was taken to [dealer] and the dealer was made aware of the failure.”
It turns out that the defects with the engine are far worse than many would think. In fact, NHTSA Campaign Number 19V328000 states that there could be a short circuit in the engine block heater. If left unchecked, it could create a fire. So, what are dealerships doing to correct the problem? Instead of replacing the engine block heater or fixing the short circuit, they are merely disconnecting it so the owners who paid good money for the equipment can’t use it. This isn’t even a small issue – it affects more than 300,000 vehicles. Basically, the truck would “move mountains,” but the engine can’t get warm enough to perform.
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A final look at the powertrain on the 2019 GMC Sierra 2500 reveals just as many problems.
Here’s one last NHTSA complaint. “4×4 Low Range has no power. I have never seen such a weak pulling truck when in low range.”
To show just how incompetent the entire GMC team is, Service Bulletin #150089004C goes on to teach technicians the difference between a fluid leak and fluid seepage. It seems odd that this should have been something required to learn when becoming a mechanic and does it even really matter how the fluid is coming out of the truck? Clearly, if there is fluid seeping or leaking, there is a problem. Aside from that, this truck is facing massive class-action lawsuits because of “Chevy Shake” performance issues. When a problem is named after the company, that should be a big red flag that customers should choose another brand. Maybe the Blue Oval can help truck owners move those mountains instead.
Think you have a lemon? Sit back and let the experts work out your lemon case at no cost to you. The law makes GMC pay legal fees. You may be able to get your lemon out of your life. Every year, auto manufacturers buy back, replace or pay cash settlements to thousands of ‘lemon’ owners like you.
Brian Jones spent more than 30 years working as an ASE Certified Master Tech and Parts Specialist at multiple dealerships. Brian has become an authority in the industry, traveling across the country to consult for car dealerships and contributing his expertise as a writer for several major automotive publications. In his spare time, Brian enjoys working on pickup trucks, muscle cars, Jeeps and anything related to motorsports.
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