2011 GMC Sierra 1500 transmission problems

Filed Mar 13, 2026 · Brakes, Steering · TX

Vehicle experienced a catastrophic mechanical failure characterized by a percussive "shotgun blast" noise from the rear chassis, followed by an immediate, total loss of braking power (pedal to the floor) and a violent loss of directional stability. This incident represents an aggravated safety failure of known GMT900 platform defects. The technical chain of causality began with the factory exhaust manifold fasteners suffering a metallurgical shear, a universal defect documented under GM Bulletins 19-NA-218, PIP5075, and PIP4701. This shear created a high-velocity, high-heat exhaust leak directed at the brake master cylinder and vacuum assembly. This "heat soak" event compromised the engine-mounted mechanical Brake Vacuum Pump (Recall N192268490 / the federal safety agency 19V645) and destroyed the internal seals of the Master Cylinder (Special Coverage 15143 / the federal safety agency 11V599), resulting in total depletion of vacuum assist and hydraulic pressure. Simultaneously, the "shotgun blast" and violent swerve were caused by structural failure consistent with Rear Brake Caliper Bolt Fracture (GM 13247 / the federal safety agency 13V342) and Rear Axle Shaft/Pin Fracture (GM 14892 / the federal safety agency 14V819). This mechanical collapse caused the caliper to strike the wheel, resulting in a catastrophic rim blowout and immediate loss of tire pressure. Despite the vehicle having aftermarket long-tube headers installed, the root cause of the heat-related brake failure was the failure of the OEM GM manifold fasteners which snapped off in the cylinder head, as documented in the aforementioned bulletins. Under the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, the manufacturer remains liable for these pre-existing safety-critical defects. The vehicle is at Glenn Polk Chevrolet for a 901-series Product Allegation Investigation (Case #90199492). This report is filed to demand federal oversight into these life-threatening defects. The combo of failed fasteners, rim blowout, and compromised braking created a vehicle that was both unable to be steered or stopped

Filed Jul 22, 2024 · Transmission · CO

Transmission won’t shift

Filed Dec 20, 2022 · Transmission · MO

11/2022 shift cable separated from shift lever; preventing ability to put vehicle Into park. Retaining clip deteriorated allowing separation. Fortunately it happened when leaving parking garage and not moving fast. Was able to refasten using zip-tie until new retaining clip arrived at auto parts store.

Filed Sep 21, 2021 · Fuel system, Suspension · MO

this vehicle was sold by a dealership with these issues the frame has a half inch wide six inch long gap needs a fuel pump control module and the engine needs lifters replaced.

Filed Nov 23, 2020 · Airbags, Transmission · 114,000 miles · MO

I purchased this truck in 2017. Found out about the airbag recall and over the last 3 years I have went to several gmc dealerships to replace the airbags to fix the recall issue and they tell me that they cant fix it without the proper airbags which they dont have. How is it that there is recalls, and even deaths but I have to fear driving this truck hoping my airbag wont deploy? And no one cares to fix the issue. I spent 2 thousand dollars throwing parts into my engine to find out. Two lifters in the engine doesn't like cold weather. When the temp drops below 40 degrees, the check engine light comes on. When the temperature raises above 40 degrees the check engine light goes off. I chased this problem for years. There is some mechanical issue here.

Filed Sep 18, 2020 · Airbags, Seats · TX

Differential makes cracking noise, lum bar on drivers seat doesn't inflate,

Filed Jul 13, 2020 · Engine, Transmission · 103,000 miles · PA

Tl* the contact called on behalf of her customer who owns a 2011 gmc sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving, the vehicle jerked and shuddered while downshifting. The stability trac and traction control warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to fiore toyota (1000 s logan blvd, hollidaysburg, pa 16648) to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the throttle body sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired by the dealer. The vehicle was repaired by the contact. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and provided a case number. The failure mileage was approximately 103,000. *ln*dt*jb consumer stated warranty is good until may 2021 or 120,291 miles.

Filed Feb 3, 2020 · Transmission · 163,000 miles · WV

I was driving on a main route where the speed limit it 45 MPH. It was on a straight stretch and my rear end exploded leaving me and my young son stuck. I finally realized that I use 4x4 to get us off the road which thankfully worked.

Filed Jun 7, 2019 · Driver assistance, Engine · 106,000 miles · CA

Stabilitrak off/reduced engine power came on again after 3 unsuccessful 'fixes' at gmc dealer. I was driving 30mph over a hill when my engine completely stopped responding. Couldn't accelerate and the steering wheel locked. Went into oncoming lane but fortunately I wasn't hit. I was able to pull truck to shoulder and wait a few minutes before being able to turn on again and get it home. I have taken the truck to my local dealer every time this has happened and they only replace the throttle body sensor. It's the second time the truck has stopped responding while driving. The first time was on a highway 99 when all lights came on and truck started slowing down due to lack of engine power. I was left stranded once and had to get truck towed for a total of $430. I'm feeling unsafe in my vehicle and gm has ignored my concerns about this issue.

Filed Sep 24, 2018 · Driver assistance, Engine · 60,000 miles · NJ

While driving on highway check engine light came on and lost power. Also started to hear tapping coming from engine. Had it checked by mechanic. Found code p0306 cylinder 6 misfire. Checked gm truck web site and noted service bulletin noting valve lifter failure, but no recall. Bulletin states that lifter can fail causing misfire and taping in motor. Also states during repair to check cam shaft for scoring & damage. Also checked several gm & chevy car form websites, and noted multiple complaints about same issues as well as several near accidents because of loss of power while driving. There are also several youtube videos of issues with this motor and valve lifter failure. This happens because cylinders shut down during cruising. Lifters that fail have a spring attached that fails causing the misfire and scoring to cam shaft. Gm is aware of issue but fails to issues a recall for repairs to this motor. This is a hazard and could cause an accident. Repairs should also be covered by gm as this is a common problem with this motor and they are aware of it with their in house service bulletin to service managers. This issues can happen and be covered by service warranty, but not covered when out of warranty. Bulletin also goes on to state how to write it up if covered by powertrain warranty.