2020 GMC Sierra 1500: engine stalls while driving

Filed Aug 6, 2026 · Engine, Transmission · IN

"While driving, the vehicle suddenly experienced a flashing check engine light, an Electronic Stability Control (ESC) warning light, and violent steering wheel vibrations. The vehicle suffered a severe loss of power and misfired, creating an immediate traffic hazard. The dealership diagnosed the issue as a catastrophic mechanical lifter failure on the 5.3L V8 Ecotec engine with Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM). Despite the dealer replacing an entire bank of lifters, the engine continues to misfire and vibrate. This premature valvetrain failure at only 36,000 miles is a known design defect that causes sudden engine stalling and disables critical safety features like stability control while the vehicle is in motion, presenting a severe crash risk."

Filed Jul 8, 2026 · Engine · 75,127 miles · AL

The contact owns a 2020 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while accelerating from a complete stop on several occasions, an abnormal clicking sound was heard from the engine compartment. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed with a failed fan belt pulley. The vehicle was not repaired. Additionally, while parked on one occasion, an abnormal clicking sound and a loud bang were heard from the engine compartment, and the vehicle stalled. The contact attempted to restart the vehicle, but it failed to turn over. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where a failed valve spring was diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,127.

Filed Apr 22, 2026 · Engine · 167,570 miles · IA

The contact owns a 2020 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed 60 miles away from home, the vehicle lost automotive power and stalled. The contact stated that the vehicle started smoking. Several unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer, where it was diagnosed and it was determined that the failure was due to an internal failure with the camshaft and the engine. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and referred the contact to the local dealer for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 167,570.

Filed Feb 7, 2026 · Transmission · AL

My 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 experienced a premature transmission failure consistent with GM’s known 8-speed transmission defect. My safety and the safety of others were put at risk if/when the transmission occurs a temporary lockup which can/will cause the vehicle to stall on the highway, and potentially create a minor/major automobile incident if vehicle stalls. The vehicle was taken to dealership Capital Chevrolet Montgomery, AL where dealership technician diagnosed/confirmed the issue along with pictures of internal transmission failed components as well as recommended resolution for fix. The vehicle has been inspected by my out-of-pocket expense extended warranty company Endurance Warranty Services sub-contracted repair claims adjuster. No warning lamps, vehicle messages, or other symptoms of the problem prior to the failure were noticeable; the vehicle had multiple diagnostic scans prior to original sale and after sale to present no issues or trouble scans. the first issue appeared or was noticeable 12/08/2025. GM has refused action by asserting warranty expiration despite widespread knowledge of this defect. The vehicle has been out of service since December 8, 2025.

Filed Dec 4, 2025 · Engine, Transmission · CT

My 2020 5.3 l gmc at4 is experiencing loss of power with bucking & stalling. Cylinders are not activating when called check engine light is flashing, it starts rough and makes numerous noises at various speeds, as well as at idle. So I brought my vehicle to my local auto repair shop. Our mechanic found two failed fuel injectors and a failed throttle body. Then the loud knocks in my block failed an acoustic test. He also determined the lifters, push rods and camshaft are experiencing excessive wear. The afm system has failed! He warned me that further use of my motor (with only 42k miles on it) will cause a catastrophic failure. My research shows that these issues are becoming common of 5.3 gmc motors. We searched the country for a rebuilt motor and found that none are available for the next several months. However, I was able to find a new motor at much greater cost. Gmc has declined assistance at this time. My vehicle has no value as is, so I ordered the new gm engine. Without the dod system, these engines were designed to go well over 100,000 miles. I am a faithful gmc owner and none of my previous gmc trucks (2003, 2013, 2015, 2019) had such a major problem. Now the 2020's fuel saving system has failed and requires repairs that amount to half the value of my truck. When a full size truck stalls on the highway it's certainly life threatening.

Filed Dec 1, 2025 · Engine · CA

Driving on the Highway, the engine shuttered, but kept going. When I had to slow down, the engine stalled and would not restart. It left me in the center lane of a three lane highway. I was able to push the vehicle off to the side of the road. Very dangerous. No warning lights came on, no alerts. I had the truck towed to Folsom Buick & GMC in Folsom CA where the diagnosed a complete engine failure. The have now had my truck for a full month. They are trying to get GMC to share the cost of the replacement motor. In the meantime, I'm renting a pickup truck so I can continue to work.

Filed Nov 12, 2025 · Engine · IN

This is a report on an incident that happened a year ago. Vehicle was taken to GMC dealer who replaced the engine at our expense. Seems to be consistent with the problem on newer GMC's that have been covered by a recall. This 2020 is one of three GMC's owned by our company. This expense was in the $12,000 range. (The 2019 experienced similar issues in 2022 and the expense was $2800 ish, and in 2024 another $1200 ish. ) Dash lit up like a Christmas tree, all warning lights on. Stalled, barely moved.

Filed Oct 20, 2025 · Engine · TN

I noticed a ticking sound in my 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3 Liter on 10/15/2025 after it was serviced at an Authorize Buick GMC Dealership on 10/13/2025. I made an appointment and returned the vehicle to the dealership for further inspection on 10/17/2025. I was informed later that day that my truck has lifters and camshaft failure. If my truck had stalled or stopped on the express way, myself and others safety could have been at risk. My truck has only been looked at by the dealership at this time, and it is available for inspection upon request. There were no warning lights, check engine lights, messages or symptoms prior to the failure. I did get a low oil level message in April 2024 when the dealership stated they must not have put the correct amount of oil in my truck during an oil change on 1/29/2024. They inspected my truck and assured me there was no damage done to my Engine from this issue. I have recently learned there is a recall for GM Vehicles manufactured between 2021 and 2024 with the 6.2L engine installed. I am not sure why this recall does not include 2020 trucks with the 5.3L engines installed. Apparently, the same problems exist with these engines also. I received an estimate for repair approximately $13,000 which can increase once the engine is town down and inspected further. Any assistance you can provide would be greatly appreciated.

Filed Sep 3, 2025 · Engine · MA

Vehicle: 2020 GMC Sierra Denali 1500 (VIN: [XXX] ) Description of the Problem: My 2020 GMC Sierra Denali has developed serious engine problems that create unsafe driving conditions. On [XXX], I documented loud knocking and clicking noises coming from the engine. The vehicle also shows warning lights and unpredictable performance. Because of these defects: •I cannot safely drive the truck without risk of engine failure while on the road. •The noises and mechanical issues raise concerns about potential loss of power, stalling, or catastrophic engine damage at highway speeds. •No independent mechanic will touch the vehicle because of the complexity and risk of the defect, leaving me stranded. General Motors has refused to take responsibility, and the BBB AUTO LINE denied my case due to mileage, but the defect itself is unrelated to mileage or normal wear. This is a manufacturer defect that creates a safety hazard for me, my family, and other drivers on the road. What I’m Requesting: I am asking the federal safety agency to investigate this issue with GMC Sierra models, as these engine defects make the vehicle unsafe to operate and could lead to accidents if the engine fails while driving. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Aug 7, 2025 · Engine, Fuel system · PA

For approximately the last year (2024-2025) my 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 with the 6.2L engine has had noticeable ticking, knocking, and unprovoked shaking upon start up and idle. The pickup has stalled out at stop lights and intersections in the past, posing risk. In June (2025) the pickup was taken to a certified mechanic for inspection who suggested possible lifter or valve failure. The vehicle exhibits a persistent ticking sound from the engine, which I believe may be related to lifter or valve issues, similar to those reported in lawsuits against GM for 2019-2024 models and the recall for 2021-2024 models (the federal safety agency Recall ID: 24V‑676). This ticking occurs regularly, including at approximately 54,500 miles, and raises concerns about potential engine failure or sudden loss of propulsion, which could be hazardous, especially at highway speeds. I have noticed approximately 2 quarts of engine oil usage per my last 2 oil changes (roughly every 6,000 miles). I recently had taken the pickup to a local GM dealership where they informed me that I am not longer covered under warranty and the recent recall is not applicable. I was advised to “keep and eye on it, and get a AAA membership”. I am aware of at least 10 class action lawsuits against GM for similar engine issues in vehicles like mine, suggesting a widespread defect. These issues, combined with the potential for engine failure or impaired vehicle control, warrant investigation to ensure driver safety. I have records of the ticking sound and can provide further details if needed. I am willing to cooperate with the federal safety agency for inspections or further documentation.

Filed Jun 1, 2025 · Transmission · NJ

I am reporting an ongoing safety issue with my 2020 GMC Sierra 2.7L related to the transmission. On two separate occasions within the same month, my truck broke down in the middle of the street, requiring it to be towed to the dealership for service. The first time, the dealer informed me they repaired a part inside the transmission and stated the truck was fixed. However, after picking up the vehicle, the issue persisted, though not as frequently. When I called them, they advised me to drive it for another 100 miles so the valve could fill with oil and the transmission could properly recalibrate. After a few days of driving, the same issue occurred again — the truck stalled in the middle of the street, and I had to have it towed once more to the dealership. This time, the truck remained at the dealer for about a week. They replaced another part inside the transmission and returned the truck to me, noting that it only had about 40 miles of warranty remaining. I asked the dealership to extend the warranty or give me at least two months to test the truck and confirm the issue was resolved, as I am genuinely concerned for my safety and my family’s safety if the vehicle breaks down again on the road. They told me they would respond within two days, but it has now been over 10 days with no response. I am currently afraid to drive the vehicle because of the risk of it breaking down again, especially with my family inside. I am requesting that the federal safety agency review this issue for potential safety concerns with the transmission system in this vehicle model.

Filed May 4, 2025 · Engine · AZ

I was driving on the frontage road that enters the freeway when then engine suddenly failed and stalled. It lost power and seemed like it was misfiring. All the warning lights on the dashboard came on as this happened but there were no warnings lights, messages, or symptoms before this happened. The sudden loss of power posed a risk to my safety because it could have caused a crash or left me stranded. I had my vehicle towed to the Freeway Chevrolet dealer in Chandler, AZ where they inspected the vehicle and confirmed the engine had a camshaft and lifter failure.