General Motors (GM) has announced a recall affecting over 820,000 trucks, raising concerns among truck owners regarding a significant fault in the tailgate mechanism. This recall affects Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500s, as well as GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500s, from model years 2020 to 2025.
General Motors recalled over 132,000 heavy-duty 2024 Chevrolet Silverado HD 2500/3500 and GMC Sierra HD 2500/3500 pickup trucks. The issue stems from the electronic tailgate release switch short-circuiting due to water intrusion, which can cause the tailgate to unlatch unexpectedly while the vehicle is parked.
What Happened
Water gets into the tailgate’s electronic release switch assembly. This can cause a short circuit, leading to unintended tailgate opening even when the truck is in park.
What GM Is Doing
Dealerships will replace the faulty exterior touchpad switch assemblies—free of charge. Notification letters to owners began going out on January 13, 2025.
Next Steps for Owners
- Contact GM or NHTSA: Use VIN to confirm if your truck is part of the recall.
- Check your tailgate: Always ensure it’s closed and fully latched before driving.
The Safety Risks of Faulty Tailgate Latches in 2025
Faulty tailgate latches continue to be a serious concern for truck owners and road safety in 2025. A malfunctioning latch doesn’t just put the driver at risk—it endangers everyone sharing the road. Below are the primary hazards you should be aware of, along with guidance on how to address them.
1. Loss of Cargo
When a latch fails, the tailgate can swing open unexpectedly. This often leads to cargo spilling onto the road. In 2025, data from highway safety reports indicate that cargo-related debris remains a significant factor in roadway accidents, particularly for trucks carrying heavy or hazardous materials.
2. Increased Accident Risk
Loose cargo creates unpredictable hazards. On highways, where vehicles travel at high speeds, fallen objects can trigger multi-vehicle collisions. A single piece of equipment bouncing into traffic may cause drivers behind you to swerve or brake suddenly.
3. Damage to Following Vehicles
Falling cargo can directly strike vehicles behind you, cracking windshields, damaging bodywork, and in severe cases, injuring passengers. Insurance claims for this type of incident have risen, adding financial strain for both truck owners and victims.
4. Pedestrian and Cyclist Hazards
In 2025, urban areas are experiencing an increase in pedestrian and cyclist traffic. Any object tumbling from an open tailgate poses an immediate danger to people outside vehicles—especially in congested streets or intersections.
5. Reduced Vehicle Control
A tailgate swinging open can cause your truck to become unstable. If cargo shifts suddenly, the change in weight distribution may cause swerving, especially in poor weather or on uneven roads. For long-haul drivers, this risk is magnified by fatigue and extended hours on highways.
6. Legal and Financial Consequences
Faulty latches carry legal implications. Accidents resulting from cargo loss can lead to lawsuits, fines, and liability claims. In 2025, insurance companies are also tightening policies regarding negligence, meaning that ignoring a faulty latch could result in higher premiums.
7. Compromised Security
A broken latch doesn’t just risk accidents—it exposes your cargo to theft. Thieves in parking lots or rest stops target trucks with unsecured tailgates. Fleet managers and individual owners alike should treat latch repair as part of their anti-theft strategy.
8. Structural Integrity in Collisions
A locked tailgate provides additional structural support in rear-end collisions by absorbing and redistributing crash forces. A faulty latch weakens this protection, making both the truck and passengers more vulnerable during an impact.
Safety Recommendations for 2025
- Utilize digital fleet monitoring systems to identify latch issues before they escalate into accidents.
- Inspect latches regularly during routine maintenance.
- Avoid overloading the tailgate area.
- Secure all cargo with nets or straps.
- Repair or replace faulty latches immediately.
What to Do If Your GM Truck Is Affected in 2025
GM truck owners in 2025 continue to face issues tied to recalls and mechanical faults. If your truck is affected, you need clear steps to protect your safety, your rights, and your investment. Below is a structured guide on how to handle persistent GM truck problems, updated with current recall data.
1. Report the Issue Immediately
- Document every incident: Keep written notes of the problem, including dates, mileage, and the exact symptoms.
- Contact GM directly: Call your local GM dealership or the GM customer service hotline. Ensure you obtain a written record of your complaint.
2. Know Your Lemon Law Rights
- Each U.S. state has lemon laws protecting drivers when vehicles fail to meet quality standards.
- If your GM truck qualifies as a “lemon,” you may be eligible for a replacement vehicle or a full refund.
- State rules vary, so review your state’s Department of Motor Vehicles website for specifics.
3. Seek Legal Advice
- Contact a lemon law attorney for expert help. They can:
- Verify if your truck qualifies under your state’s lemon law.
- File claims and negotiate with GM on your behalf.
- Help maximize compensation or settlement options.
4. Take Recalls Seriously
GM’s recalls—over 820,000 trucks in 2024–2025 alone—make one thing clear: delaying repairs risks your safety. Even if your car appears to be drivable, ignoring recall notices can expose you to accidents, liability, and a reduced resale value.
Quick Q&A
Q: What costs will I pay for recall repairs?
A: Recall repairs are free of charge at authorized GM dealerships.
Q: How long does a lemon law case usually take?
A: Many cases resolve in 3–6 months, but timing depends on your state’s process and GM’s response.
