2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Transmission Problems
From NHTSA owner complaints and recalls. Updated Oct 17, 2026.
How common are transmission problems on the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500?
142 owners have reported transmission problems on the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500, 24% of all complaints for this year and the 2nd most reported problem area. Most reported problems happened at about 36,000–100,000 miles. 2 recalls cover this area.
142 complaints 24% of all 2021 complaints 64,000 miles typical
Which parts fail
The specific part named in each complaint.
Mileage when it failed
Each dot is a complaint that gave a mileage (22 of 142). The amber line is the middle value.
When problems were reported
Transmission complaints by the year the problem happened.
Transmission complaints by Sierra 1500 year
Related recalls
Transmission valve can lock rear wheels
Crash riskThe transmission control valve may fail, causing the rear wheels to lock up while driving. Sudden rear wheel lock-up raises the risk of losing control and crashing.
Fix: The dealer will inspect your vehicle and update the transmission control software at no cost to you.
Recall 26V083000 · Feb 2026Valves / valve body, Software
The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock-up. Rear wheel lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.
Fix: Dealers will install new transmission control module software, free of charge. GM will provide a special coverage program to cover the repair of transmissions that are identified by the remedy software as containing a defective control valve.
Recall 24V797000 · Oct 2024Get an email when your 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 gets a new recall
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Other 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 problems
Common questions
What are common 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 transmission problems?
Complaints most often name the output.
At what mileage do 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 transmission problems happen?
Most complaints that gave a mileage fell between about 36,000–100,000 miles. The middle value is about 64,000 miles.
Is there a recall for 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 transmission problems?
Yes: 26V083000, 24V797000. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to see if the work was done.
Which Sierra 1500 year has the most transmission complaints?
The 2021 Sierra 1500, with 142 complaints.
Source: NHTSA complaints and recalls databases. Complaints are unverified owner reports.