General Motors has issued a recall for 132,037 heavy-duty pickups because their tailgates can open while driving.
Recalled trucks include some, but not all, examples of the:
- 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500
- 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500
- 2024 GMC Sierra 2500
- 2024 GMC Sierra 3500
The issue in the recall sounds identical to one the company issued in February. At that time, GM said tailgates could fall open only when trucks were parked. Now, it acknowledges the problem can occur while driving and has expanded the recall to cover more trucks.
The recall applies only to pickups with a manual tailgate with power lock and release, which have an exterior touchpad switch.
Water can get into the gate release switch, causing it to fail, the company tells federal safety officials. “If the driver does not manually close the gate before beginning a drive, cargo in the bed of the truck may exit the vehicle and become a road hazard.”
GM says it knows of no injuries or accidents related to the problem, but at least 237 failed tailgates in the field.
Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad with one better sealed against water to fix the problem. In the meantime, the company asks owners of unrepaired trucks to close their tailgates manually and ensure they are latched before driving.
As with all recalls, the repair is free.
Drivers sometimes miss recall notices, so check our recall center to see if your car has been subject to any urgent repair orders.
