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GMC Sierra 1500 spongy pedal problems

59 of the 9,082 owner complaints about the GMC Sierra 1500 describe soft or spongy brake pedal, most of them for the 2015 model year.

owner complaints
59
worst model year
2015
typical mileage
53,000
Is there a fix? There are 8 recalls for this area of the car. See below

By model year

Often reported together

Brake failure 7ABS 5Engine failure 2Check engine light 2Power steering loss 1Fuel smell 1Fuel pump 1Airbag light 1

Trouble codes mentioned

P0617 2U0623 1U0284 1P26E6 1P26E4 1P0615 1C0021 1

What owners say

Filed Jul 19, 2026 · Brakes · CT

Truck did not stop when applying brakes. Message displayed brake system failure and the breaks were spongy. The truck was towed to the dealer and required the master cylinder, gasket, and reservoir to be replaced with 23,403 miles. This appears to be an ongoing issue with GMC Sierra trucks and needs further investigation as this potential could be catastrophic. Also, as this appears to be an ongoing issue, owners should not be responsible for the cost associated with any repairs and should require an immediate recall.

Filed Jul 14, 2026 · Electrical, Engine · IN

I am submitting supplemental evidence regarding my 2021 GMC Sierra (VIN [XXX]) for Recall Query RQ26001, Campaign 25V‑274. Despite multiple repair attempts, my vehicle remains unsafe and non-compliant with GM Service Bulletin N252494002. The recall remedy was performed deficiently. [XXX] Northeast Buick GMC installed a remanufactured short block instead of the required complete engine, reused the original seized-engine oil pan (which continues to leak), and failed to address critical electrical damage. Documentation proves they deleted Labor Operation 14BUZ (Engine Electrical) after their technician noted a blown mega fuse. A second dealer, Penske Chevrolet, subsequently deleted Labor Operation 77CVZ01 from my repair order, demonstrating a systemic pattern of ignoring recall-required repairs. Electrical damage has cascaded, resulting in a burnt fuse block and active faults P0615, P0617, P26E4, P26E6, U0623, and U0284. More critically, within 24 miles of my last service, the vehicle developed a new, severe safety failure: the "Service Brake Pad Monitor" system failed, accompanied by a red "Service System" dashboard alert and a noticeably spongy brake pedal. These brakes were recently serviced, yet this failure introduces a new risk of crash not present prior to the recall "remedy." GM Executive Resolution Case XXX has provided no resolution, reimbursement, or safety assurance, ignoring all deadlines since XXX. I possess extensive documentation, including service orders showing deleted labor operations and diagnostic logs. I request this update be integrated into the investigation of RQ26001, as the current remedy is demonstrably ineffective and has exacerbated safety hazards. The manufacturer’s refusal to remediate these issues, despite my compliance, leaves me with an unsafe vehicle and significant financial loss. I am prepared to provide all supporting records to substantiate this complaint. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed May 19, 2026 · Driver assistance, Electrical · IN

2021 GMC Sierra AT4, VIN [XXX] , the federal safety agency Campaign 25V‑274, GM Case XXX. Brake pad monitor failed at 128,923 miles -- 24 miles after leaving Penske Chevrolet (released at 128,899, RO XXX, 04/17/2026). Brakes became spongy immediately following service. Monitor disabled entirely to stop recurring red Service System alert. Root cause is a burnt fuse block ground fault confirmed in writing by two GM-authorized dealers. Ray Skillman (RO XXX, 06/05/2025) documented the fault then deleted Labor Operation 14BUZ ENGINE ELECTRICAL from the recall repair work order. Penske documented verbatim: "all of these other faults share this same ground circuit." The recall repair at Ray Skillman used a remanufactured short block instead of a complete engine per N252494002. The original seized-engine oil pan has never been replaced across three dealerships and 128,000 miles. GM's own Part 573 filing states this defect "increases the risk of a crash." I drove 300 miles on an interstate on 04/22/2026 with active brake warning and no loaner because GM Executive Resolution refused to authorize one. Three GM dealers have inspected this vehicle. GM Executive Resolution Team [XXX] ) has not returned calls or emails and has not confirmed in writing this vehicle is safe to operate. OnStar issued a Critical Alert for P0617 on 04/15/2026. Zero brake faults existed in the 13 months prior to the Penske visit. This is a direct continuation of unresolved electrical damage from a botched federal safety recall repair at 384 days and counting. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Filed Jan 12, 2026 · Brakes · ME

While traveling at low speeds in parking lots and in the operation of parking, my 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 gets a hard brake pedal that goes to the floor but I have no brakes. I almost hit a person in a local grocery store parking lot, at the bank driving up to the ATM, and I almost lost my truck over a bank because the brakes failed. This has happened multiple times at low speeds but it is getting more consistent recently. It has endangered myself and others. It is only a matter of time until damage occurs or someone gets hurt.

Filed May 23, 2025 · Brakes · IN

I am experiencing an issue with a hard brake pedal on my 2014 GMC Sierra 1500. This same issue was previously addressed through a recall and special coverage program by GM, which I had performed. However, the hard brake pedal condition has returned, significantly impairing stopping power at low speeds. This poses a serious safety risk, especially when towing or parking. I can no longer park my trailer safely. The vehicle is difficult to stop, and braking distance has increased substantially. This is a known issue with this model and year. It appears the prior recall may not have adequately resolved the root cause. I am requesting that the federal safety agency investigate whether additional action or recall extensions are warranted.

Filed Nov 18, 2024 · Brakes · WV

Intermittently with slow driving such as parking maneuvers or creeping slow traffic at stop lights the brake pedal becomes very soft and depresses much more than normal and the brake action is decreased. Sometimes with this soft pedal it sounds like ABS is engaging. Pumping pedal sometimes restores brake performance.

Filed Feb 20, 2024 · Brakes, Electrical · AL

Have experience increased brake pedal effort, hard brake pedal, and/or potentially increased. stopping distance. The condition is more prevalent at low speed when softly applying the brakes. The Driver’s Information Center, (DIC) “Service brake assist” alert will activate. Extreme safety risk to myself and my children. Bulletin N182202780 & NT192268490 needs to be tied to this specific VIN Number as well.

Filed Dec 2, 2023 · Brakes · UT

Braking system is malfunctioning while driving at slower speeds. It has malfunctioned while backing up and almost hit another vehicle. It also malfunctioned while coming to a stop light. Brake system is not working as it should and is feeling spongy upon braking. It feels like the brake pedal is all the way to the floor before it will eventually stop the truck. In researching this problem, there was a recall on the secondary brake system back in Feb of 2020. I bought the truck in June of 2020. I never got any information that there was a recall from the dealership I bought it from. I am unable to drive my truck due to this problem. I have not taken the truck to a GMC dealer as of yet but planning to.

Filed Nov 19, 2023 · Brakes · TX

Electrical short on brake booster performance error code c0021 while operating vehicle . Brake pedal became stiff and higher than where I had it . Vehicle making hissing noises and will no longer start due to this error. Safety concern this is not part of a recall list. I nearly crashed. I had to utilize emergency brake.

Filed Nov 16, 2023 · Brakes · MN

It takes quite the amount of force to stop the vehicle brake pedal started feeling spongy and seems like it doesn’t have enough pressure constantly I have no brake fluid leaks or air in my lines it all comes down to the brake booster it seems like and I know a few vehicles had this problem but mine says it wasn’t but I believe it has been affected.

Related recalls

Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: electric: control module: softwareReported September 12, 2024 · 449,671 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Escalade ESV vehicles. The electronic brake control module software may fail to display a warning light when a loss of brake fluid occurs. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Risk
Without a warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, which can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The Electronic Brake Control Module (eBCM) software will be updated through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2024. Owners can contact GMC customer service at 1‑800‑462‑8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1‑800‑458‑8006. GM's number for this recall is N242447990.

Recall number 24V674000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: vacuumReported October 1, 2020 · 14,620 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500 and Yukon vehicles equipped with either a 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engine. The output of the mechanical vacuum pump can decrease over time, decreasing the amount of vacuum/power brake assist.
Risk
A decrease in brake assist can increase the brake pedal effort and distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2020. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1‑866‑522‑9559, Cadillac customer service at 1‑800‑458‑8006 or Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑630‑2438. GM's number for this recall is N202300860.

Recall number 20V603000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: disc: caliperReported February 27, 2020 · 20,352 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. The bolts used to attach the front and/or rear brake calipers may have not been heat treated and may break under load.
Risk
Broken caliper bolts can reduce brake performance or interfere with wheel rotation and increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake caliper bolts, free of charge. The recall began March 23, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020 or GMC customer service at 1‑866‑522‑9559. GM's number for this recall is N202294420.

Recall number 20V116000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: power assistReported January 30, 2020 · 148,055 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. These vehicles received updated software for the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM). This software has an error, and as a result, the vehicle's electronic brake assist may be disabled. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Risk
A loss of electronic brake assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began February 24, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020 or GMC customer service at 1‑888‑988‑7267. GM's number for this recall is N192268091.

Recall number 20V055000 · Recall details

Service brakesReported December 12, 2019 · 463,995 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Cadillac CT6, and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. Due to an Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) software error, the vehicle's Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Antilock Brake System (ABS) may become disabled. Furthermore, if this specific error occurs, the vehicle's diagnostics will not illuminate the instrument cluster ESC and ABS malfunction warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
Risk
If the driver operates the vehicle unaware that ESC and ABS are not functioning, there is an increased risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began February 4, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑222‑1020, Cadillac customer service at 1‑800‑333‑4223, or GMC customer service at 1‑888‑988‑7267. GM's number for this recall is N192268090.

Recall number 19V889000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: vacuumReported September 6, 2019 · 3,456,719 vehicles affected
What is wrong
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Cadillac Escalade, 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, 2015-2018 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon vehicles. The amount of vacuum created by the vacuum pump may decrease over time.
Risk
As the vacuum level drops, the brake assist decreases, increasing braking effort, extending the distance required to stop the vehicle, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module, free of charge. The recall began October 8, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1‑800‑630‑2438, Cadillac customer service at 1‑800‑458‑8006 or GMC customer service at 1‑800‑462‑8782. GM's number for this recall is N192268490.

Recall number 19V645000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: vacuumReported August 8, 2000 · 3,758 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles equipped with vacuum power, 4-wheel disc brakes. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 105, "hydraulic brake systems." these vehicles were built with a kinked brake booster vacuum supply hose.
Risk
These vehicles do not comply with requirements of fmvss no. 105.
Remedy
Dealers will re-route the brake booster vacuum supply hose.

Recall number 00V222000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: disc: rotorReported February 17, 1998 · 1,137 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks and multi-purpose passenger vehicles. One or both front brake rotor/hubs were built with an out-of-specification gray iron that can fail during the life of the vehicle.
Risk
If a driver continues to drive with a cracked rotor, the cracks could continue around the wheel mounting bolt circle and ultimately result in a wheel separation.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the rotors for a core date of "287" and, if found, replace the rotor.

Recall number 98V033000 · Recall details

Questions about the GMC Sierra 1500 spongy pedal

Which GMC Sierra 1500 years have soft or spongy brake pedal problems?

The model years with the most reports are 2015 (19 complaints), 2014 (11 complaints) and 2017 (10 complaints).

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