TireKick

Model-year record

2012 GMC Sierra 1500
Image: Own work · CC0

2012 GMC Sierra 1500

See the complaints, recalls, crash rating, and fuel economy in the public record. Then check the mileage and history of the car you found.

This page shows records, not a buy or avoid call.

The same model year can include a well-kept car and a neglected one. Use these records to plan what to check. Use the specific-car check when you know the mileage.

Complaints filed

145

Reports to NHTSA, 2012

Safety recalls

3

NHTSA campaigns on record

NHTSA crash test

Overall NCAP rating

Combined MPG

No data

EPA estimate

Known issues

Air Bags issues lead owner complaints (31% of 145 reports), followed by unknown or other (19%).

Air Bags31% · 45 reports
Unknown Or Other19% · 28 reports
Structure13% · 19 reports
Electrical System9% · 13 reports
Steering7% · 10 reports
Power Train3% · 5 reports
Suspension3% · 5 reports
Engine3% · 4 reports

+ 9 more component categories with fewer reports.

Share of all 145 NHTSA complaints for this model year, grouped by the component owners named. Bars are scaled to the largest category. Examples: ODI 10502079, ODI 11592379, ODI 11454287, ODI 10966134, ODI 11419608.

Individual complaint reports(145)

Showing the 50 most recent reports
SuspensionMay 2026 · ODI 11739589Details +

They should be responsible for repairs or replacement of the cheap made frames that rust away so fast so u ain’t gotta worry about your truck fallling apart going down the rd and the lower control arms made of cast that rust from inside out and you don’t know until breaks while driving along with camber adjustments where they can throw alignment out with a single bump. Mostly the frame replacement is major always having to plate frame or check to make sure it will be able travel long trips or haul stuff in bed or a trailer with breaking or falling off truck causing wreck frame repair is major and time consuming if you don’t have proper stuff and definitely expensive and lower control arms that’ll make a wheel come real fast and it’s time consuming and expensive too but very dangerous and breaks and causes damage right then and there at high or low speed on highways or interstates

Reported
May 2026
Incident date
May 2026
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11739589 at NHTSA →
Power TrainJan 2026 · ODI 11711216Details +

The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, especially between second and third gears. The check engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the engine felt as though the engine mounts were inoperable. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and turned off the vehicle. The vehicle was restarted, and the vehicle resumed normal driving. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, no cause for the failure was found. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the failure persisted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure, but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was approximately 20,000.

Reported
Jan 2026
Incident date
Jul 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11711216 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemAug 2025 · ODI 11682085Details +

Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that it was discovered that there was a mileage discrepancy. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the mileage was 111,000, and at the time of registration, it was discovered that the mileage was 243,000. The Carfax Report indicated that the vehicle was serviced at 149,000 and 179,000 miles, then registered at 149,000 and 179,000 miles on August 8, 2024. The contact had filed a police report with the Dillon Police Department -Special Ops Police Department.

Reported
Aug 2025
Incident date
Aug 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11682085 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemApr 2025 · ODI 11652682Details +

P0521 has been addressed/replaced almost nine (9) times. “Low Oil Pressure-Stop Engine” is another one that is not completely functional. The truck is using oil but we cant find evidence of leakage. Services performed at dealership or certified shop. Troubleshooting was performed, Im told. I cant vouch for the quality of the workmanship. This should not be an issue at this mileage 100,100 ohe hundred thousand miles and oil components going bad is not good. GMC has sold me a truck that needs a new engine component. Please help. Thanks [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Reported
Apr 2025
Incident date
Apr 2025
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11652682 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2024 · ODI 11592379 · crash · 1 injuriesDetails +

The contact owns a 2013 GMC Sierra. The contact stated that while driving at 70 MPH, she lost consciousness. After regaining consciousness, the contact discovered that the vehicle had crashed into two vehicles and that the driver's side air bag had deployed. The police and paramedics arrived at the scene; however, no one involved in the accident needed immediate medical assistance. A police report was filed. About a week after the accident, the contact stated that they began to develop open sores on both arms as black metal fragments began to leak out of these sores. The contact went to the doctor and was treated for the injuries and was referred to a dermatologist for further assistance. Upon investigation, the contact linked her injuries to the Takata air bag recall. The vehicle was towed to the contact's home and an independent mechanic was able to repair certain parts of the vehicle to make it drivable. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and a claim was filed. The contact was also informed that an inspector would be sent to inspect the vehicle. The vehicle had been repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 312,000.

Reported
Jun 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash 1 injuries
Open ODI 11592379 at NHTSA →
Vehicle Speed ControlMay 2024 · ODI 11590951Details +

Faulty Tire Pressure Management system. Looking for recalls or service bulletins.

Reported
May 2024
Incident date
May 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11590951 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2024 · ODI 11578132Details +

Manufacturer interior defect - Crack on dash w/potential to crumble all the way in Diminishes vehicle

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11578132 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherMar 2024 · ODI 11576679Details +

Frame rot behind gas tank truck doesn't even have 90000 Miles on it unsave to drive poor frame quality

Reported
Mar 2024
Incident date
Mar 2024
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11576679 at NHTSA →
StructureDec 2023 · ODI 11560212Details +

Major major frame and wheel well rust , ever one I see is exactly the same , I live in upstate ny and yes we use salt but I've done a lot of research and the problem is country wide , please do some things this isn't right , I'm not trying to get a new free truck , just not get screwed out of the one I have cause it will fail inspection soon

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11560212 at NHTSA →
SuspensionDec 2023 · ODI 11559780Details +

I went to get the vehicle inspected today and was told it failed due to the chassis frame in the rear being rusted thru. This could cause the suspension to collapse any time. I see on the internet that multiple others have and are experiencing the same with the Sierra and Silverado. My vehicle has unlimited washes and has been washed 40 times a year and looks new from the outside.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
Dec 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11559780 at NHTSA →
EngineDec 2023 · ODI 11558123Details +

Lifter Failure: I was traveling to a State Park in Northern Michigan when my engine starting running very rough with major power loss. My check engine light activated, and I pulled over as soon as I could. It was dangerous because I was pulling a camper and I had to drive well under the speed limit. The Certified Chevy Dealership discovered a collapsed lifter and Cam damage. They considered this as catastrophic engine failure, and I was completely shocked as the vehicle had roughly 129k miles on it. There was no indication of failure prior to this incident as the vehicle ran perfect. I am very disappointed in GM as I have a co-worker with the same year truck that had the exact same issue shortly after I did. A friend of mine also had this happen with a 2014 vehicle of same make and model. It appears that this is a common issue with GM's newer 5.3 engines which used to be extremely reliable (99-07). GM needs to fix these lifter issues because a newer technology engine should last much longer.

Reported
Dec 2023
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11558123 at NHTSA →
StructureNov 2023 · ODI 11555714Details +

The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that during a vehicle inspection, the contact was informed that the sub frame was severely corroded with holes. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, who determined that the sub frame needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Reported
Nov 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11555714 at NHTSA →
StructureJun 2023 · ODI 11526416Details +

I took My 2012 GMC Sierra with 112,410 miles in for annual safety inspection and was told that my frame has a hole in it and is cracked, hence un-inspectable in the state of Vermont. I then took it to a welding shop to get an estimate on repair and the tech told me he sees this all the time on this era GM/Chevy trucks. This is clearly a widespread incident and GM should be held accountable like Toyota was years ago with its bad frames.O

Reported
Jun 2023
Incident date
Jan 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11526416 at NHTSA →
StructureApr 2023 · ODI 11518357Details +

Vehicle has just over 113,000 miles and the frame is already severely compromised due to rust. Nearly all factory coating is gone. I believe the sub par wax like coating that GM used from the factory was never intended to last anywhere near or over 100,000 miles. I have personally inspected numerous 2007-2013 GMT900 trucks in or around ohio and have found similar severe rust issues. All vehicles inspected were between 60,000 and 120,000 miles. The rust issues are the worst in the areas directly in front of the rear axle where the frame drops. Nearly every vehicle inspected has structure compromising rust in this area. GMT900 platform vehicles with rust issues in this area are unsafe to be on the road, yet they remain popular in multiple service industries and are frequently seen pulling trailers. GM has done a great disservice to their customers by using a sub par coating on the most important structural component in a vehicle. These trucks should easily last well over 250,000 miles but due to poor coatings they have a hard time breaking 100,000 miles.

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Mar 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11518357 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2023 · ODI 11518000Details +

Cracked interior plastic dash, multiple places, potential safety hazard if airbag deploys and shatters it even more, also will be exposed wires once the cracks breaks all the way

Reported
Apr 2023
Incident date
Apr 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11518000 at NHTSA →
StructureFeb 2023 · ODI 11506403Details +

The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that after the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for unrelated repairs, it was diagnosed that the frame needed to be replaced due to rust. The vehicle remained with the independent mechanic while awaiting the repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and informed the contact that the warranty had expired. The failure mileage was 129,181.

Reported
Feb 2023
Incident date
Feb 2023
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11506403 at NHTSA →
Air BagsOct 2022 · ODI 11488532Details +

manufacturer has failed or is unable to remedy this safety recall for your vehicle in a timely manner and recall could cause great bodily injury or death to driver and passenger .

Reported
Oct 2022
Incident date
Jul 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11488532 at NHTSA →
SuspensionSep 2022 · ODI 11485562Details +

The frame is so rotted it will not pass state inspection.

Reported
Sep 2022
Incident date
Sep 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11485562 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJul 2022 · ODI 11472449Details +

Dash is cracked in multiple locations, vehicle taken to the dealer and dealer states that manufacturer is not liable and will not cover costs. Started with one crack near the passenger airbag and several cracks have appeared over the years.

Reported
Jul 2022
Incident date
Jul 2017
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11472449 at NHTSA →
EngineMay 2022 · ODI 11466505Details +

Lags when accelerating. Does not happen every time. Causes safety issues when in heavy traffic. The below date is when it started. It happens very regularly.

Reported
May 2022
Incident date
Apr 2022
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11466505 at NHTSA →
Air BagsMar 2022 · ODI 11455596Details +

DASHBOARD CRACKING AT THE AIR BAG AREA ON PASSANGER SIDE.

Reported
Mar 2022
Incident date
Mar 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11455596 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2022 · ODI 11454287 · crashDetails +

My passenger air bag deployed or went off as i was driving home from work and made such a loud noise that i crashed my 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. I was startled and scared and disoriented and others around me that i crashed my truck. it has not been reproduced or confirmed by a dealer. It has not been inspected by anyone. there was was no warning or lights or anything it just went off as i was driving

Reported
Feb 2022
Incident date
Dec 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11454287 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2022 · ODI 11453484Details +

Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V054000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and it was confirmed that parts were not yet available. The dealer informed the contact that they were not responsible for any damages while replacing the air bags. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.

Reported
Feb 2022
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11453484 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJan 2022 · ODI 11446718Details +

Spare tire fell off while parked. The bracket holding the tire in place failed. Significant corrosion present.

Reported
Jan 2022
Incident date
Dec 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11446718 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemDec 2021 · ODI 11444442Details +

The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at 70-75 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently lost electrical power for 30 seconds. The traction warning light and other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while driving. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 60,000.

Reported
Dec 2021
Incident date
Apr 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11444442 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherNov 2021 · ODI 11439633Details +

Dash is totally falling apart. There is large cracking above the gauge cluster and around the passenger airbag, and every day I am removing more small pieces that fall off. These pieces are small, sharp, hard plastic and even metal in some places that will cause serious damage to any occupants if I were to get in an accident. I treat my vehicle very well and have done my best to keep cracking under control but it is getting worse and worse every day now.

Reported
Nov 2021
Incident date
Nov 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11439633 at NHTSA →
Visibility/WiperNov 2021 · ODI 11439240Details +

The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while attempting to activate the windshield wipers, the windshield wipers only went up a couple of inches before they stopped working and became inoperable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the windshield wiper transmission was faulty. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 110,000.

Reported
Nov 2021
Incident date
Oct 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11439240 at NHTSA →
Air BagsOct 2021 · ODI 11438562Details +

Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V054000 (Air Bags) in August of 2021 however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the dealer was contacted and stated that the parts were not available. The contact stated that the dealer was contacted several times. The contact stated that the manufacturer exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact stated he attempted to call the manufacturer several times by leaving a voice mail however, the contact has received no call back from the manufacturer. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts are not available.

Reported
Oct 2021
Incident date
Oct 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11438562 at NHTSA →
Air BagsOct 2021 · ODI 11437392Details +

Takata recall. The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V054000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The local dealer and manufacturer were made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts are not available.

Reported
Oct 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11437392 at NHTSA →
Air BagsAug 2021 · ODI 11431215Details +

Takata recall. The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V054000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The dealer was made aware of the recall but informed the contact that parts were not available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. VIN tool confirms parts are not available.

Reported
Aug 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11431215 at NHTSA →
StructureAug 2021 · ODI 11427938Details +

The cracks in my dash will be a safety issue when the air bags deploy. I can't believe that gmc hasn't done a recall on these dashes yet. During the airbag recall they will crack the dash even worse making this problem extremely dangerous. It has the potential to cause loss of life. Also on the other hand this devalues the resale price of the car.

Reported
Aug 2021
Incident date
Aug 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11427938 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherJul 2021 · ODI 11425101Details +

The dash cover panel over the instrument cluster and passenger side airbag has cracked and has begun to come apart in pieces. I have contacted a local dealer and they have informed me the recall on the passenger side airbag replacement does not cover replacement of the cracked dash cover. The dash cover has begun to produce large jagged pieces where it has cracked that in my view pose a safety threat should an accident occur. The failing dash could produce shrapnel in an accident that could cause serious face lacerations or eye trauma. GM needs to provide a replacement recall on the dash panel.

Reported
Jul 2021
Incident date
May 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11425101 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2021 · ODI 11420984Details +

Takata recall. The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that the air bag warning light was illuminated. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with needing the passenger’s side air bag to be replaced. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The contact stated she later received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V051000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. VIN tool confirms part not available. The failure mileage was approximately 220,000.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11420984 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2021 · ODI 11420062Details +

Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V054000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer and it was confirmed that the part was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Vin tool confirms parts not available.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11420062 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2021 · ODI 11419608Details +

2012 GMC SIERRA. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG SAFETY RECALL. THE CONSUMER STATED THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME COMPLETING THE RECALL REPAIR.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Jun 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11419608 at NHTSA →
Air BagsJun 2021 · ODI 11419358Details +

Takata Recall. The contact owns a 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V054000 (Air Bags) however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the air bag warning light had been illuminated for two years. The contact contacted the dealer before receiving the recall notification but was informed by the dealer that there was no air bag recall associated with the VIN. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 320,000. VIN tool confirms parts not available.

Reported
Jun 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11419358 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2021 · ODI 11414559Details +

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 GMC SIERRA 1500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V054000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. MARK ALLEN BUICK GMC (6363 E OKLAHOMA PL # 66, TULSA, OK 74115(918) 770-4339) WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT THE PART WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Apr 2021
Incident date
Feb 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11414559 at NHTSA →
Air BagsApr 2021 · ODI 11407957Details +

TL* TAKATA RECALL. THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 GMC SIERRA 1500. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V054000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS UNAVAILABLE. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER HAD EXCEEDED A REASONABLE AMOUNT OF TIME FOR THE RECALL REPAIR. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED A FAILURE. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE.

Reported
Apr 2021
Incident date
Apr 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11407957 at NHTSA →
Seat BeltsMar 2021 · ODI 11398783Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 GMC SIERRA 1500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SIDE FRONT SEAT BELTS WEBBING WERE SHREDDED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SHREDDING STARTED ON WAIST BAND PORTION OF BOTH SEAT BELTS AND PROGRESSIVELY WORSENED OVER TIME. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.

Reported
Mar 2021
Incident date
Nov 2016
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11398783 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2021 · ODI 11397890Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 GMC SIERRA 1500. THE CONTACT WAS STARTING UP THE VEHICLE WHEN THE AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO ABERNETHY CHEVROLET BUICK GMC (1445 E MAIN ST, LINCOLNTON, NC 28092) HOWEVER, THE DEALER COULD NOT REPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT RECEIVED NOTIFICATION OF NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 21V051000 (AIR BAGS) HOWEVER, THE PART TO DO THE RECALL REPAIR WAS NOT YET AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000. VIN TOOL CONFIRMS PARTS NOT AVAILABLE. ## VIN PASSED ## GMC 2012 SIERRA ##

Reported
Feb 2021
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11397890 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJan 2021 · ODI 11388294Details +

LEFT SIDE IMPACT SENSOR LOSES CONNECTIVITY FROM WIRES SHORTING OUT IN DRIVERS HINGE AREA. SERVICE AIR BAG LIGHT COMES ON.

Reported
Jan 2021
Incident date
Jan 2021
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11388294 at NHTSA →
StructureNov 2020 · ODI 11376854Details +

THE DASHBOARD IS CRACKING. THESE CRACKS HAVE HAPPENED WHEN THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN PARKED. ONE IS BY THE AIRBAG COVER, THE OTHER IS ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL HOOD.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Oct 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11376854 at NHTSA →
Air BagsNov 2020 · ODI 11376022Details +

SERVICE AIRBAG LIGHT WILL NOT TURN OFF. WHILE DRIVING.

Reported
Nov 2020
Incident date
Nov 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11376022 at NHTSA →
SteeringOct 2020 · ODI 11362317 · crashDetails +

WHILE DRIVING THE TRUCK ON A COUNTRY ROAD, IT STARTED TO PULL TOWARDS THE RIGHT. I TRIED TO CORRECT BY STEERING TO THE LEFT. MY STEERING WHEEL JUST SPUN AND HAD NO CONTROL OF THE FRONT WHEELS. ITHE STEERING SHAFT BECAME DISENGAGE FROM THE AXEL. I CRASHED INTO TREES AND MY TRUCK WAS DECLARED A TOTAL LOSS. THIS HAPPENED ON 9/27/2020. I AM WAITING FOR THE POLICE REPORT AND THE INSPECTION RESULTS FROM THE INSURANCE COMPANY.

Reported
Oct 2020
Incident date
Sep 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
Crash
Open ODI 11362317 at NHTSA →
StructureAug 2020 · ODI 11349714Details +

FENDER WELLS RUSTING OUT.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Jul 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11349714 at NHTSA →
Power TrainAug 2020 · ODI 11349066Details +

TRANSMISSION SURGES WHEN GAS PEDAL IS PUSHED HARD AS IN TRYING TO ENGAGE KICKDOWN OR "PASSING GEAR". SPEED IS NOT A FACTOR, IT HAPPENS AT LOW SPEED AND HIGHER SPEEDS. DEPENDING ON SPEED, TRUCK JERKS SUDDENLY AND ALMOST STALLS OUT. SOMETIMES REAR TIRES CHIRP.SEEMS SIMILAR TO THE 8 SPEED TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS LATER YEARS HAVE EXPERIENCED.

Reported
Aug 2020
Incident date
Mar 2014
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11349066 at NHTSA →
Electrical SystemJun 2020 · ODI 11329525Details +

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2012 GMC SIERRA 1500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE RPM INCREASED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO DEPRESS THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS FIRM. THE GEAR SHIFTER WAS SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL TO SLOW THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROADWAY, TURNED OFF AND RESTARTED THE VEHICLE AND THE VEHICLE OPERATED AS INTENDED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SEVERAL WARNING LIGHTS WERE ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, FRONT AND REAR BRAKES INDEPENDENTLY ACTIVATED. ADDITIONALLY, THE DOOR LATCHES LOCKED AND UNLOCKED INDEPENDENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO PAYNE CHEVROLET BUICK GMC (2229 E EXPRESSWAY 83, WESLACO, TX 78599), WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE ABS SPEED SENSOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 141,000.

Reported
Jun 2020
Incident date
Feb 2018
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11329525 at NHTSA →
Unknown Or OtherApr 2020 · ODI 11322307Details +

CRACKED DASHBOARD ON PASSENGER SIDE AT LEFT BACK CORNER OF AIRBAG COVER. THE VEHICLE HA 56K MILES ON IT. GARAGE KEPT.

Reported
Apr 2020
Incident date
Apr 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11322307 at NHTSA →
Air BagsFeb 2020 · ODI 11308531Details +

DASHBOARD IS CRACKING AROUND PASSENGER-SIDE AIRBAG. THE PLASTIC IS SHARP AND BRITTLE, AND I'M CONCERNED THAT SHARP SHARDS OF PLASTIC WOULD GO EVERYWHERE IF THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED. THIS IS AN EXTREMELY WELL-CARED FOR VEHICLE THAT COULD PASS FOR 'NEW CONDITION' OTHER THAN THIS DASHBOARD ISSUE.

Reported
Feb 2020
Incident date
Feb 2020
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11308531 at NHTSA →
Fuel/Propulsion SystemJan 2020 · ODI 11296896Details +

I WAS DRIVING MY TRUCK UP A 6% PERCENT GRADE WHEN THE CHANGE FUEL FILTER SOON WARNING POPPED UP, ABOUT A MINUTE LATER THE VEHICLE STARTED TO LOSE POWER, I KEPT DRIVING TO TRY AND GET OVER THE HILL SO I COULD MAKE IT TO A REPAIR SHOP TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT. I WAS ONLY ABLE TO MAKE IT ABOUT 2 MILES AFTER THE WARNING SHOWED UP BEFORE THE VEHICLE COMPLETELY SHUT DOWN AND WOULD NOT RESTART. (THERE WAS NOT ENOUGH ROOM ON THE SHOULDER TO PULL OVER ON MY SIDE THE ROAD SO I TRIED TO TURN ACROSS THE HIGHWAY WHERE THERE WAS AN EMERGENCY PULL OUT AND AS I DID THE TRUCK DIED SIDEWAYS RIGHT IN THE MIDDLE OF THE HIGHWAY, TAKING UP SEVERAL LANES OF TRAFFIC, FORTUNATELY THERE WAS ENOUGH INCLINE THAT I WAS ABLE TO ROLL BACKWARDS AND PULL OVER UP AGAINST THE GUARDRAIL) OF COURSE I HAD NO POWER STEERING OR POWER BRAKES SINCE THE TRUCK WAS NOT RUNNING. IT WAS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION! I WAS ABLE TO GET MY TRUCK TOWED TO THE LOCAL GM REPAIR SHOP WHERE THEY DETERMINED THAT THE FUEL PUMP HAD A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE AND HAD SENT ALUMINUM SHAVINGS THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE FUEL SYSTEM. THEY SAID THE REPAIRS WOULD BE APPROXIMATELY $10,000 SO I CONTACTED GM AND DESCRIBED WHAT HAPPENED, AND THEY BASICALLY TOLD ME TO GO FLY A KITE. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH ONLINE IT LOOKS LIKE THERE HAS BEEN A MAJOR PROBLEM WITH GM TRUCKS WITH THE DURAMAX MOTOR FROM 2011-2016 AFTER THEY CHANGED THERE FUEL PUMP FROM THE CP3 HIGH VOLUME LOW PRESSURE PUMP TO THE CP4 HIGH PRESSURE LOW VOLUME PUMP. WHICH MEANS THE PUMP RUNS WITH LESS LUBRICATION WHICH RESULTS IN PUMP FAILURE, AND NOT JUST FAILURE BUT CATASTROPHIC FAILURE WHICH CAUSES MAJOR DAMAGE TO THE ENTIRE FUEL SYSTEM. I HAVE BEEN A LOYAL GM OWNER FOR OVER TWENTY YEARS, AND I AM EXTREMELY DISAPPOINTED THAT GM IS NOT WILLING TO MAKE IT RIGHT.

Reported
Jan 2020
Incident date
Sep 2019
Mileage
Not provided
Outcome flags
None reported
Open ODI 11296896 at NHTSA →

This page shows the latest 50 reports to keep it usable. The count above includes every complaint NHTSA has returned for this model year.

Recalls(3)

Open a recall to read what NHTSA says is wrong, what can happen, and how it gets fixed. Check the VIN and remedy eligibility with a dealer; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though a manufacturer may offer more coverage.

Air BagsMay 2021 · 21V051000Details +

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2012 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 22, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 11, 2021. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328770.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Air BagsMay 2021 · 21V054000Details +

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, the MP, and VI or "Zone A." Additionally GM is recalling certain 2011-2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL and 2011-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "Zone B." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2010-2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL and 2010-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.

Risk: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 25, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed to 40 VIN owners on May 11, 2021. A second owner notification letter was mailed to all other owners on January 24, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328800.

Open full NHTSA recall record →
Equipment · 18V267000Details +

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD, 2009 GMC Topkick 5000, 6000, 7000 and 8000 Series and Isuzu F Series, and 2009-2018 Chevrolet Express, and GMC Savana vehicles, equipped with certain Plastic-Handle Fire Extinguishers or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf

Risk: In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.

Remedy: GM will notify owners, instructing them to contact Kidde to get a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began June 11, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Isuzu customer service at 1-866-441-9638. GM's number for this recall is 18146.

Open full NHTSA recall record →

A campaign can apply to this model year without being incomplete on a specific vehicle. Check the VIN with NHTSA or a dealer to confirm whether a particular car needs repair.

Investigations

2 NHTSA investigations on record

Investigations are agency reviews, not findings that a vehicle is defective.

Pedestrian alert sounds

NHTSA received a petition on or about July 18, 2022, requesting that Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) 141 be applied to all electric and hybrid vehicles operating in the United States. The petition can be reviewed at NHTSA.gov under ODI Number 11486072. FMVSS 141 establishes performance requirements for pedestrian alert sounds for motor vehicles. The standard applies to hybrid and electric vehicles that have a gross vehicle weight rating of 4,536 KG or less or are defined as low-speed vehicles. The standard became fully applicable to all such vehicles manufactured on or after March 1, 2021.On January 27, 2023, NHTSA opened Defect Petition (DP) 22-005 to evaluate the subject matter described in the petition. On June 24, 2023 and as supplemented on June 25, 2023, the petitioner notified NHTSA he was withdrawing his petition. The petitioner indicated that, based on his review of data, there is no justification for asserting potential benefits that could be derived from actions sought by my petition. Based on the petitioner's withdrawal, DP22-005 is closed. Closure of this DP does not represent a determination by NHTSA regarding the subject matter of the petition.

Desiccated Air Bag Inflator Rupture

From 2000 through 2017, Takata produced millions of air bag inflators using two types of phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate ("PSAN") propellant -- propellant 2004 and propellant 2004L. After prolonged exposure to high temperature cycles and humidity, inflators using propellant 2004 can degrade, causing the propellant to burn too quickly when ignited. The rapid burning can cause the inflator to rupture during deployment, potentially causing serious or even fatal injury to vehicle occupants. See 2016 Blomquist Report at www.nhtsa.gov/sites/nhtsa.gov/files/documents/expert_report-hrblomquist.pdf.Consequently, all frontal inflators using propellant 2004 that do not contain a "desiccant" (a substance that traps and holds moisture) in US vehicles are under recall. These "non-desiccated" inflators either have been or are required to be replaced.In some cases, the remedy part for these recalled inflators was, or will be, an inflator using either propellant 2004 or 2004L that does contain a desiccant. None of these "desiccated" remedy parts (which were installed in older model year vehicles) are currently under recall for a degradation concern. Certain subsets of desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004 for use as original equipment, however, have been recalled for a degradation concern. All Takata inflators produced with propellant 2004L contain desiccant, and none of these desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L are under recall for a degradation concern. There have been no reported field ruptures in any non-recalled desiccated PSAN inflators.It is understood that desiccants fully saturate at some threshold, at which point any additional moisture will not be captured. This means the degradation process observed in non-desiccated inflators using propellant 2004 may also occur in non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004, assuming additional moisture enters the inflator and high temperature cycling occurs. Based on available information, desiccant saturation can occur within the first five years in the worst environments, and the time required for full saturation is affected by multiple factors. While no present safety risk has been identified, further work is needed to evaluate the future risk of non-recalled desiccated inflators using propellant 2004.Three entities -- Takata (now known as TK Global), the Independent Testing Coalition, and Exponent -- have been studying the long-term behavior of Takata desiccated PSAN inflators using propellant 2004L (as well as 2004) in the presence of moisture and temperature cycling. The research efforts, which include development of predictive modeling techniques and field sample analysis, are ongoing. To date, none of the researchers have identified field evidence showing that propellant 2004L is undergoing a degradation process that leads to aggressive deployment and potential rupture. However, the time in service of such inflators remains short compared to that of the inflators using propellant 2004. Further study is needed to assess the long-term safety of desiccated inflators using propellant 2004L.The Office of Defects Investigation is opening this investigation to examine whether a safety defect related to propellant degradation exists in non-recalled desiccated PSAN frontal inflators manufactured by Takata. This investigation will require extensive information on Takata production processes and surveys of inflators in the field. Lists of recall actions that may have used desiccated PSAN inflators as remedy parts, as well as the makes and models originally manufactured with them, is available with the downloadable version of this document (see nhtsa.gov/recalls?nhtsaId=EA21002 -- note this information is subject to change/revision as the investigation proceeds). This investigation does not supersede EA15-001, which remains open.

Crash-test ratings

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/RC RWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/EC RWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/CC RWD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/RC 4WD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/EC 4WD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

2012 GMC Sierra 1500 PU/CC 4WD NHTSA source

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover

Source: NHTSA New Car Assessment Program (NCAP).

Fuel economy by trim

No EPA fuel-economy record is available for this model year. Some trims and older vehicles were not tested or are not in the current EPA feed.

Before you buy

Useful next checks

Federal records tell you about patterns. These checks can tell you more about the specific car in front of you.

These are affiliate links. TireKick may earn a fee if you use one.

Compare the year-by-year record

Open another year for its own evidence-gated decision. TireKick does not crown a best year from raw complaint totals.

2012 GMC Sierra 1500: frequently asked

What does the complaint record show for the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500?

Owners filed 145 NHTSA complaints about the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500. This is raw owner-reported complaint volume with no production or exposure normalization, so it is not a reliability score or a best/worst-year ranking.

What are the most common problems on the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500?

The most-reported problem areas are Air Bags (31% of complaints) and unknown or other (19%).

How many recalls does the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 have?

3 recalls have been issued that affect the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500, covering components such as air bags. Check the VIN with NHTSA and ask a dealer to confirm remedy eligibility; federal no-charge requirements have an age limit, though manufacturers may offer more coverage.

What gas mileage does the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 get?

EPA fuel-economy figures for the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 aren't available yet.