2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Transmission & Power Train Problems
NHTSA component category: POWER TRAIN · data through 07/12/2026
Source: U.S. NHTSA complaint data. Complaints are unverified reports from vehicle owners — a complaint is not a confirmed defect.
How power train ranks on this vehicle
Share of the 513 complaints citing each category; one complaint can cite several. Full breakdown on the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 overview page.
What owners report
“After having simple oil and filter, and engine and cabin filter replaced at Alpine Buick GMC in Colorado Springs, CO, I received my vehicle back…”NHTSA complaint 11537689 — filed 08/10/2023
“Transmission shifting is at times confused causing the vehicle to jump forward shifting to first gear. It pushes your vehicle 2-5 miles an hr faster…”NHTSA complaint 11536829 — filed 08/07/2023
“1 June 2022, while driving, started hearing a clicking noise from front end, under hood. Took to local GM dealer, Mechanic drove with me, and…”NHTSA complaint 11467195 — filed 06/02/2022
Excerpts are shortened and scrubbed of personal details; they are individual, unverified reports.
Power Train complaints by year filed
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 have transmission & power train problems?
Power Train is the #2 most-reported problem area on the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500: 126 of 513 complaints on file (24.6%). Complaints are unverified owner reports, not confirmed defects.
How many complaints does the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 have in total?
513 complaints were on file with NHTSA as of 07/12/2026. Across all categories, 5 involved a crash, 6 involved a fire, 2 reported injuries, and none reported deaths.
What does NHTSA's power train category include?
NHTSA groups complaints about the transmission (automatic or manual), driveline, axles, transfer case and related parts under a single component category called POWER TRAIN. This page reports that category as NHTSA defines it.
