GM recalls older Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks as part of a safety alert surrounding roof-rail airbag inflators that could malfunction. General Motors has announced a recall for 2018-2019 Silverado and Sierra models due to a reduction in handling capacity that could pose a risk to passengers.
What triggered the GM recalls older Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks
General Motors issued this recall after discovering that roof-rail airbag modules, specifically supplied by Joyson Safety Systems (formerly part of Takata), could have inflators with end caps that detach or sidewalls that rupture during deployment. The issue was first flagged when a customer’s 2018 Silverado experienced separation of the inflator end cap from the left-side roof-rail airbag module, without even deploying the airbag. While no injuries have been reported, the risk of fragments projecting into the cabin if the inflator separates under pressure prompted prompt action by GM and the supplier.
Affected Models and Scope of the Recall
The recall encompasses specific GM trucks from these model years and trims:
- 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab.
- 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab.
- 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 Crew Cab.
- 2019 GMC Sierra 2500/3500 Crew Cab.
These fourth-generation T1XX-platform vans – universal workhorses in each light-obligation and heavy-obligation configurations – are a few of the most famous pickups bought during that era. In general, the don’t forget influences about 1,658 automobiles in the U.S.
Risks: Why is this recall important?
Airbag carelessness isn’t something to ignore. A detached end cap or ruptured inflator sidewall could violently eject fragments or allow compressed gas to force components into the cabin, posing a serious risk of injury during a crash. GM emphasizes that even if the vehicle isn’t in an accident, a defective inflator could deploy without warning, making the recall crucial.
For context, this defect differs from past Takata-related inflator failures, but the underlying concern—airbag safety—remains the same. In both cases, loose internal parts can become dangerous projectiles. This recall, though limited compared to earlier mega-recalls, reflects GM’s commitment to occupant safety. The affected parts come from a suspect production batch of Joyson Safety Systems under part numbers 84487867 and 84487868.
How GM and dealerships are addressing the issue
General Motors has asked its dealers to replace both left and right roof‑rail airbag modules in affected trucks with new units sourced from unaffected production lots. Owner notifications will officially begin on August 11, 2025.
Affected owners can contact Chevrolet at 1‑800‑222‑1020 or GMC at 1‑888‑988‑7267, referencing recall number 25V432 or GM’s internal code N252513060. The service is free; GM will install replacement modules without charge. Owners can also call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1‑888‑327‑4236 for assistance.
A brief history of airbag recalls in GM trucks
Though this sunroof sidebar airbag don’t forget is relatively small, GM has handled some large airbag problems in the past. Between 2007 and 2014, millions of cars — including the Chevy Silverado, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra, Yukon, Cadillac Escalade, and others — were recalled because of a risk of Takata frontal-passenger and motor airbag inflators bursting. That massive bear in mind affected upwards of one hundred million inflators worldwide and was related to tragic injuries and fatalities.
What should Silverado/Sierra owners do next?
If you own a 2018–2019 Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra Crew Cab:
Check your VIN – Use GM’s VIN lookup tool or call the mentioned customer-care lines to confirm if your vehicle is recalled.
Schedule service – Once confirmed, book an appointment with any Chevrolet or GMC dealer. The modules will be replaced free of charge.
Follow instructions carefully – You’ll receive a letter by mail starting August 11, 2025. Dealers may also reach out.
Stay alert for further safety updates – Airbag systems evolve, and manufacturers sometimes expand recall scopes or issue additional notices.
How does this affect your peace of mind?
Beyond the inconvenience, airbag defects erode safety confidence, especially in trucks like the Silverado and Sierra, often used for family travel and heavy-duty work. While GM notes that no injuries have been reported, the action taken today reaffirms that even less-known airbag systems, like the roof-rail curtain modules, are taken seriously and GM isn’t waiting for tragedy to strike.
Final thoughts
Don’t forget—focusing on roof-rail airbag inflators in precise 2018–2019 Silverado and Sierra trucks—might also appear restricted compared to GM’s beyond mega-recalls. Yet, it’s an important step. Airbags are supposed to save lives, no longer create new dangers. By addressing a defective cease cap or potential rupture hastily, GM is actively defensive drivers and passengers.
If you’re an owner of a probably affected version, act directly after you receive the do not forget note on or after August 11, 2025. Visit your nearest dealership, get the substitute modules set up, and ensure that your car’s safety structures are dependable once they are functioning at maximum.
