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2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Engine Problems

From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.

How common are engine problems on the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?

361 owners have reported engine problems on the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500, 62% of all complaints for this year and the most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 33,000–83,000 miles. 1 recall covers this area.

361 complaints 62% of all 2021 complaints 59,000 miles typical

Which parts fail

The specific part named in each complaint.

Hoses / lines / piping / fittings 1
Crank / camshaft position sensor 1

Mileage when it failed

Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (69 of 361). The amber line is the middle value.

When problems were reported

Engine complaints by the year the problem happened.

Engine complaints by Sierra 1500 year

2008 Sierra 1500 20
2009 Sierra 1500 17
2010 Sierra 1500 15
2011 Sierra 1500 18
2012 Sierra 1500 7
2013 Sierra 1500 8
2014 Sierra 1500 72
2015 Sierra 1500 85
2016 Sierra 1500 41
2017 Sierra 1500 59
2018 Sierra 1500 72
2021 Sierra 1500 361
2025 Sierra 1500 57
2026 Sierra 1500 96

Related recalls

Hard parts internal / mechanical

2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure. Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual.

Recall 25V274000 · Apr 2025
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Other 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 problems

Common questions

What are common 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 engine problems?

Complaints most often name the hoses / lines / piping / fittings and crank / camshaft position sensor.

At what mileage do 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 engine problems happen?

Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 33,000–83,000 miles. The middle value is about 59,000 miles.

Is there a recall for 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 engine problems?

Yes: 25V274000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.

Which Sierra 1500 year has the most engine complaints?

The 2021 Sierra 1500, with 361 complaints.

Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports.