My right headlamp/ turn signal assembly began flashing at random intervals. The high beam would come on and off randomly. The entire assembly would randomly flash along with the turn signal. The headlamp would go on and off randomly. This included switching between setting. High beam, low beam, daytime running light, and completely off with no warning. This causes blinding conditions for oncoming drivers, loss of visibility for driver, and loss of visibility during inclement weather due to high beam coming on and off, then entire unit turning off. As of right now, the vehicle is undrivable due to incorrect lighting, and flashing lights.
2021 GMC Sierra 2500: headlights failing or too dim
10 of the 53 complaints about the 2021 GMC Sierra 2500 describe headlights failing or too dim.
- owner complaints
- 10
- of this car's complaints
- 19%
- recalls
- 0
Headlights failing or too dim by model year
- 20242
- 20222
- 202110
- 20202
- 20191
- 20183
- 20162
- 201523
- 20141
- 20121
- 20011
- 20001
- 19991
What owners say
The contact owns a 2021 GMC Sierra 2500. The contact received Manufacturer's Recall Number: N232426400, for water intrusion into the electronic gate-release switch. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that six months after the vehicle was repaired, the tailgate failed to operate as intended. While at the residence, the taillights and headlights were flashing. The contact also became aware that the tailgate had unlatched independently while the vehicle was parked. The message "Integrated Tailgate Open or Integrated Tailgate not Latched" was displayed. The contact stated that there was an abnormal clicking sound coming from the actuator when the tailgate opened independently. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed that there was water in the switch. The dealer informed the contact that the repairs were already made and, due to the water intrusion into the switch, the dealer refused to redo the repair under the previous recall. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and denied assistance since the recall repair was already performed. The failure mileage was approximately 53,000.
Known issue and has been attributed to a manufacturing defct, but no recall- Leaking headlight caused damage to headlight- now turn signal and headlight do not work. Entire assembly needs to be replaced, GM / Extended Warranty Company will not cover, this safety part. Head light and turn signal were working on the way to the dealer, 1 month later when we picked it up - Right turn signal malfuction reading appeared on dash, headlight blinking and will not work. Picked up on Friday 1/30/25, and made an appointment for the following Wednesday to take it back in. Was told by dealer today that the replacement will not be covered and will cost $2100.00 to replace. This is a safety part and the truck can not be driven legally or safely without both headlights working.
Headlight vent failed. Hid control board filled up with moisture. Headlight is flashing like emergency vehicle if it turns on at all.
The front left headlamp assembly low beam light unexpectedly began to flicker repetitively until the vehicle was turned off. In addition, the left front turn signal was failed, but an indication of the failed turn signal was not always present. The headlamp assembly was taken in for replacement at a local GMC dealership promptly due to safety concerns of operating the vehicle on public roadways with this condition. The safety of others was at risk due to the strobing effect of the flickering lights and not being able to drive the vehicle during conditions where headlights are necessary. The flickering/strobing condition of the headlamp was highly distractive and puts other drivers are risk. In addition, due to the natural height of the vehicle the cast of the beam is closer to the rear view mirror height of the majority of vehicles. The problem was confirmed by a local GMC dealership and was identified as a faulty headlamp assembly. The vehicle was not inspected by any other party besides the dealer who performed the diagnosis and repair. There were no symptoms of warning messages prior to the failure.
Headlights and turn signals failed. Flickering of various lights (Daytime running lamp, low beam, high beam, turn signals) followed by total failure. 3700 dollar repair at dealer to replace both headlamp assemblies. Barely over miles of warranty, but still in the 3 year warranty time period. Not having forward lighting is of course a major safety issue. Vehicle should be recalled. Many others are having the issue.
On 11/21/24 noticed passenger headlight day light running light flickering. On 11/22/24 right turn indicator intermittent fast blink, dash message stated turn indicator failure. Once home, inspected passenger headlight assembly. Found DRL, turn signal, and low and high beam head lights were inoperative. On 11/25/24 went to GMC dealer/service. Staff seemed aware of issues and stated they are common, that they carry the $1,400 sealed assebly in stock. Vehicle is 4 months over warranty, but only has 29,000 miles. There is no visible damage to the assembly, but there is visible condensation inside the lens. GM has a published service bulletin, 01-08-42-001P, that specifically addresses this issue for my vehicle. The earliest date the issue could be diagnosed/service date is 12/10/24. A complete failure of this non-servicable headlight assembly is an absolute safety issue. Decreased daytime visability with the loss of one of two Daytime Running Lights, the lose of the front turn indicator to alert other drivers of my intentions, the lose of a set of low and high beam headlights. As mentioned, there assembies are a sealed LED light assembly. If any one of these lights fail, the only remedy is the replacement of the entire unit with a $1,400 part. GM has had multiple recalls of this same issue among their vehicle, but continues to produce the same failing pieces.
3 year old truck. The left headlight enclosure gained water and caused the whole headlight system to have issues. Water caused the Headlights to Flash high beams (both), turn off and blinkers not to work. This defect the whole side that is effective. This can cause other drivers or the owner to have an accident. 6 months later, Now the right side headlight is doing the same. I’m out of warranty with only 40k miles. The seal is not strong enough to keep water out the enclosure. This can also cause the whole light system to shut down while driving. Very dangerous especially at night.
The driver side headlamp stopped working, Condensate buildup may be a contributing factor. No accident and vehicle is meticulously maintained. No reason for lamp seals to be damaged or wear. Barely three years old and requires a replacement at $1400 for the part and another $1000 in labor. Outside of 36000 mile warranty.
Passenger headlight light fills up with moisture resulting in the HID module filling up with water and shorting out. The high beam starts flashing when you try to use your turn signal and eventually the headlights completely stop working. Is a known problem, but GM won’t do anything to help if you’re outside of the 3year/36,000 mile warranty. Currently unable to get a new headlight because of the on going strike.
Service bulletins that may apply
- This service bulletin provides information about GM Accessories
- This service bulletin provides technicians with information on available BCM calibrations to restore bulb...
- This service bulletin provides information on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leak Information and...
- Exterior lighting
- This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License...
- Exterior lighting
- This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water...
- This informational bulletin provides information on Information on Common Customer Trailer Side Faults.
Related recalls
No recalls on record for this model year.
Questions about the 2021 GMC Sierra 2500 headlights
Is headlights failing or too dim a common problem on the 2021 GMC Sierra 2500?
10 of 53 owner complaints about the 2021 GMC Sierra 2500 (19%) mention headlights failing or too dim. The model year with the most reports is 2015.
Is there a recall or service bulletin for this on the 2021 GMC Sierra 2500?
There are 0 recalls and 16 service bulletins for the same area of the car. Check them below with your VIN.
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