Is There an Open Recall on This GMC? Check the VIN at VinNumber.net

About GMC VINs

How GMC VINs are built

GMC vehicles share assembly plants and platforms with Chevrolet but carry distinct VIN prefixes: 1GT/2GT for many trucks and 1GK/2GK for many SUVs. The Sierra and Yukon are the most common subjects of VIN checks in the GMC lineup. Fleet and commercial use is common among Sierra trucks, making odometer history and prior use verification particularly relevant for used GMC buyers.

The first three characters identify the maker and plant region. In NHTSA's vPIC, 1GT covers many US-built Sierra and Canyon pickups (Fort Wayne, Indiana; Wentzville, Missouri). 1GK marks US SUVs such as Yukon (Arlington, Texas) and Acadia. Canadian builds often use 2GT/2GK (for example Terrain at CAMI). Because GMC shares platforms with Chevrolet, plants overlap — but each VIN stays brand-specific. The 11th character and the full decode confirm the plant.

GMC vehicles manufactured for the US market carry VIN prefixes of 1GT (trucks – Sierra/Canyon US); 1GK (SUVs – Acadia/Yukon US); 2GT, 2GK (Canada). The VIN number encodes the country of manufacture (USA), production plant, vehicle line, body style, engine type, model year, and a unique production sequence number.

HQDetroit, Michigan (GM)

ParentGeneral Motors

TrucksSierra · Canyon

SUVsYukon · Acadia · Terrain

US truck plantFort Wayne, IN

Yukon plantArlington, TX

Sources: Brand: General Motors · Plants/WMIs: NHTSA vPIC

NHTSA campaign data

Which model years each recall covers

Drag the year line to your car’s model year. Bars it crosses are the campaigns to confirm on the VIN.

Include known issues & CVT extensions

2 campaigns cross 2018

20102014201820222026

SAFETY RECALL · 19V-645

Vacuum brake-booster pump assist may decrease over time

2014–2018 Sierra, 2015–2018 Yukon. About 3.5 million GM trucks/SUVs including Sierra and Yukon. Longer stopping distances as vacuum assist fades.

What to askConfirm 19V-645 is closed on this VIN.

Coverage depends on build dates, drivetrain (4WD/AWD, gas/diesel, 6.2L) and options. A listed year doesn't mean every truck from that year is included; the VIN lookup decides. Many campaigns are shared with Chevrolet/Cadillac twins but issued per VIN. "Takata" marks EA15-001. "Do not drive" and "Park outside" follow NHTSA's recall record.

GMC Recalls: How to Check a Specific VIN

Enter the full 17-character VIN in the NHTSA recall lookup.
Then use GMC recall support / a GMC dealer recall lookup.
On a 2007–2014 Sierra/Yukon, check every Takata campaign before a test drive.
On a 6.2L 2021–2024 truck/SUV, confirm 25V-274 is closed. Recall repairs are free at GMC dealers.

Full list: every campaign in this timeline

Selected GMC recalls worth confirming on a used-car VIN (NHTSA campaign data)
Campaign	Issue	Models & years
16V-256	Do Not Drive Front upper control arms may fracture	2016 Sierra, 2016 Yukon. Small-population 2016 campaign (shared with Chevy/Cadillac). Do-not-drive advisory in NHTSA's record. NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired.
26V-289	Do Not Drive Transfer case may fail (4WD/AWD)	2026 Sierra, 2019–2026 Yukon. Very small population (2026 filing). Loss of drive / unintended movement risk. Do-not-drive advisory. NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired.
21V-758	Park outside EBCM brake-pressure modulator bolts may be loose	2021–2022 Sierra. 2021–2022 HD pickups with EBCM replaced during assembly. Park-outside advisory. NHTSA's record tells owners to park outside, away from structures, until it is repaired.
21V-189	Park outside Positive battery cable may short at the fuse block	2021 Savana. 2021 Savana with 6.6L gasoline. Electrical short / fire risk. Park-outside advisory. NHTSA's record tells owners to park outside, away from structures, until it is repaired.
21V-050 · 21V-052 · 21V-053 · 21V-054	Takata passenger air bag inflator may rupture	2007–2014 Sierra, 2007–2014 Yukon. GM Takata passenger-inflator campaigns covering Sierra/Yukon (and HD years by campaign). Zone-based populations. Filed under EA15-001. Filed under NHTSA's Takata inflator investigation (EA15-001).
19V-645	Vacuum brake-booster pump assist may decrease over time	2014–2018 Sierra, 2015–2018 Yukon. About 3.5 million GM trucks/SUVs including Sierra and Yukon. Longer stopping distances as vacuum assist fades.
16V-651	Frontal air bag may not deploy properly (sensing/deployment)	2014–2017 Sierra, 2015–2017 Yukon. Large 2014–2017 population across Sierra/Yukon (shared with Chevy/Cadillac HD and SUV lines).
17V-414 · 18V-586	Electric power steering assist may drop then return suddenly	2014–2015 Sierra, 2015 Yukon. 2014 Sierra (17V-414) and 2015 Sierra/Yukon (18V-586). Momentary loss then sudden return of assist.
25V-274	6.2L V8 connecting rod and/or crankshaft may fail	2021–2024 Sierra, 2021–2024 Yukon. 2021–2024 light-duty trucks and SUVs with 6.2L gas V8. Engine damage / loss of drive.
24V-060	Power tailgate latch switch may short (unintended open / fire risk)	2020–2024 Sierra. 2020–2024 HD pickups with power-unlatching tailgates. Water intrusion into the switch. Fire risk.
23V-334	Acadia driver air bag inflator may explode	2014–2017 Acadia. 2014–2017 Acadia (shared with Enclave/Traverse). Manufacturing defect.
14V-118 · 14V-266 · 15V-415	Acadia side air bag / seat belt / liftgate campaigns	2007–2014 Acadia. 14V-118: side air bag resistance (2008–2013). 14V-266: second-row seat belts (2009–2014). 15V-415: power liftgate (2007–2012).
22V-137	Terrain headlamp reflection may dazzle (FMVSS)	2010–2017 Terrain. 2010–2017 Terrain. Excessively bright light above/outside the driver's view.
24V-797	Diesel transmission control software may cause a stall	2020–2022 Sierra, 2021 Yukon. 2020–2022 Sierra (incl. HD) and 2021 Yukon with diesel engines.
19V-814 · 20V-792	Seat belt pretensioner / bracket campaigns	2019–2021 Sierra, 2021 Yukon. Late-model Sierra/Yukon seat-belt hardware campaigns.

Sierra / Yukon brakes & steering

Vacuum booster, EPS and related truck campaigns

Several high-volume Sierra/Yukon campaigns affect stopping distance and steering feel. Confirm these before you buy a used 2014–2018 example.

Vacuum booster pump

19V-645: 2014–2018 Sierra and 2015–2018 Yukon — vacuum assist can fade, lengthening stops.

Electric power steering

17V-414 (2014 Sierra) and 18V-586 (2015 Sierra/Yukon) — momentary EPS loss then sudden return.

Frontal air bag

16V-651: large 2014–2017 Sierra/Yukon population for frontal air bag performance.

What to do

Ask for booster-pump and EPS repair records. Re-run the VIN even if a prior owner said it was fixed.

Sources: NHTSA recall records · GMC recall support

GMC models

GMC Models

Open a model for its VIN check, generations, recalls and owner complaints.

Sierra Terrain Acadia Canyon Yukon Envoy Savana Jimmy

About GMC

🎙️ Listen to this article

What Separates GMC from Chevrolet?

At first glance, GMC and Chevrolet might seem like two sides of the same coin. Both produce trucks, SUVs, and vans under the larger General Motors umbrella. Yet, each brand holds its unique place in the automotive landscape. The key difference lies in their focus. Chevrolet targets the broad consumer market with a wide array of vehicles at varied price points. GMC, on the other hand, zeroes in on the professional and premium market, offering robust trucks and SUVs with an upscale touch.

Professional Trucks from Day One

GMC traces its roots back to the early 20th century. Founded as the Rapid Motor Vehicle Company in 1901, it quickly established itself in the burgeoning automotive industry. The company took an early lead in the truck market by focusing on professional-grade vehicles. In 1909, Rapid joined General Motors, marking the beginning of GMC as we know it today. This acquisition solidified GMC's reputation as a maker of durable and reliable trucks, a legacy that continues over a century later.

Unlike Chevrolet, which offers a lineup that appeals across the board, GMC has long been the brand where General Motors channels its professional and commercial vehicle efforts. This includes the production of heavy-duty trucks and vans equipped to handle demanding jobs. These vehicles are typically outfitted with features that cater to businesses and professionals, providing the tools needed for heavy lifting and towing.

The Denali Effect

GMC's dedication to a premium experience is epitomized in the Denali trim. Introduced in 1999, Denali represents the pinnacle of GMC's offerings. Vehicles with the Denali badge come packed with luxurious features and enhanced styling, setting them apart in the crowded SUV and truck markets. From leather interiors and high-tech infotainment systems to advanced safety features and a distinct exterior design, Denali vehicles are aimed at buyers who desire luxury without sacrificing utility.

The Denali trim commands a significant premium over the standard models, reflecting its upscale positioning. This trim is available across GMC's lineup, from the Sierra pickup trucks to the Yukon SUVs. It highlights GMC's strategy to blend rugged functionality with a touch of luxury, attracting both personal buyers and professional users looking for comfort and style.

GMC vs Chevrolet: Same but Different

The GMC Sierra and the Chevrolet Silverado are perhaps the clearest examples of the brands' shared but distinct paths. While both trucks are built on the same platform and share many components, the Sierra is positioned as the more upscale truck. It often features more premium materials, unique styling, and additional tech options compared to its Chevrolet counterpart.

GMC's Yukon and Yukon XL serve as flagship SUVs, paralleling Chevrolet's Tahoe and Suburban. Again, the difference lies in the details. The Yukon focuses on delivering a more refined experience, with options that cater to those who might use these larger vehicles for both family and professional needs.

Then there's the GMC Canyon, a midsize pickup that caters to those needing a versatile yet manageable truck. The Canyon is offered in a variety of trims, including the rugged AT4X, which enhances off-road capability. The AT4X is designed for adventure, boasting features like advanced suspension, skid plates, and all-terrain tires. This aligns with GMC's commitment to providing vehicles that not only perform well on the road but also off the beaten path.

The Hummer Returns, Electric

One of the most exciting developments for GMC in recent years has been the revival of the Hummer, this time as an all-electric vehicle. Launched under the GMC brand in 2021, the Hummer EV marks a bold step into the future. It retains the off-road prowess for which the Hummer was known while incorporating cutting-edge electric technology.

The Hummer EV is more than just a statement piece. It showcases GMC's ability to innovate while staying true to its rugged roots. The vehicle boasts impressive features such as a massive battery range, rapid acceleration, and off-road capabilities that include features like "CrabWalk" mode, which allows the truck to move diagonally. This underscores GMC's goal of offering performance and capability in an environmentally friendly package.

Understanding the lineage and unique facets of GMC helps clarify its standing in the automotive world. From its inception as a professional vehicle brand over a century ago to its modern-day focus on luxury and capability, GMC remains a prominent player for those who require robust performance wrapped in a premium package. Whether it's a business looking for a dependable fleet workhorse or an individual seeking luxury with muscle, GMC delivers with style and substance.

GMC U.S. annual vehicle sales 2018-2023 — GMC U.S. annual sales

Top U.S. states for GMC vehicle ownership — Top states for GMC ownership

Used-car checklist

What to Verify on a Used GMC

Six checks specific to used GMCs.

Takata (older trucks/SUVs)

2007–2014 Sierra/Yukon: passenger Takata 21V-050/21V-052/21V-053/21V-054.

Brakes & EPS

See the Sierra/Yukon section.

6.2L engine (2021–2024)

Connecting rod/crankshaft 25V-274 on Sierra 1500 and Yukon with 6.2L V8.

Acadia

Driver inflator 23V-334 (2014–2017). Side air bag 14V-118, seat belts 14V-266, liftgate 15V-415.

Terrain headlights

Glare/FMVSS campaign 22V-137 on 2010–2017.

HD / Savana advisories

EBCM bolts 21V-758 (park outside). Savana battery cable 21V-189 (park outside). HD tailgate 24V-060.

World Manufacturer Identifier

GMC VIN prefixes (WMI)

Prefix registrations and example decodes come from NHTSA's vPIC database.

1GT

GM · US trucks

A 2020 Sierra decodes to Fort Wayne, Indiana under 1GT.

1GK

GM · US SUVs

A 2019 Yukon decodes to Arlington, Texas under 1GK.

2GK

GM Canada · CAMI / Canadian SUVs

A 2016 Terrain decodes to CAMI (Ingersoll, Ontario) under 2GK.

Worked example

Worked example: reading a GMC VIN

Example VIN (demo only): 1GTU9CED0LZ000000

1GTU9CED0LZ000000

1GT

1–3 · WMI

GM truck, US-built.

U9CED

4–8 · VDS

GMC codes for model, series, body, restraint and engine (Sierra pattern).

0

9 · Check digit

Federal check digit.

L

10 · Model year

L = 2020

Z

11 · Plant

Fort Wayne plant code.

000000

12–17 · Serial

Zeroed demo serial.

Buyer check: a 2020 Sierra can be covered by seat-belt campaigns 19V-814/20V-792, diesel TCM 24V-797 (if diesel) and later 6.2L 25V-274 (if that engine); the VIN decides. Confirm Fort Wayne matches the title.

Buyer notes by model

Top GMC Models: What to Check

Open a model for the checks that matter most.

GMC Sierra

Takata 2007–2014. Vacuum booster 19V-645 (2014–2018). EPS 17V-414/18V-586. Frontal air bag 16V-651. 6.2L 25V-274 (2021–2024). HD tailgate 24V-060.

GMC Sierra VIN check →

GMC Yukon

Same Takata/booster/EPS/6.2L pattern as Sierra twins. Arlington 1GK.

GMC Yukon VIN check →

GMC Acadia

Driver inflator 23V-334. Side air bag 14V-118, seat belts 14V-266, liftgate 15V-415.

GMC Acadia VIN check →

GMC Terrain

Headlamp glare 22V-137 (2010–2017). CAMI/San Luis Potosí builds.

GMC Terrain VIN check →

FAQ

Common questions about GMC VINs

What VIN prefix do GMC vehicles use?

GMC trucks and SUVs built in the United States carry VINs starting with 1GT, 1GK, or 2GT depending on the model line and assembly location. Sierra pickups use 1GT prefixes. Yukon and Yukon XL SUVs assembled in Arlington, Texas carry 1GKS prefixes. Canadian-assembled GMC vehicles use 2G prefixes. Terrain crossovers assembled in Canada begin with 2GK. Because GMC shares many platforms and assembly plants with Chevrolet, the VIN structure is nearly identical between the two brands.

What does a free GMC VIN check on VinNumber.net show?

The free decoder reads the VIN in NHTSA's vPIC database and returns the model, model year, body, engine, drive type and assembly plant. GMC VINs in vPIC start with prefixes such as 1GT, 1GK and 2GK. The same lookup lists NHTSA safety recalls for that make, model and model year. Each of our 8 GMC model pages adds what NHTSA and the EPA have published: owner complaints, technical service bulletins, defect investigations, fuel economy and, where NHTSA has tested the car, NCAP crash ratings. It is not a vehicle history report: it doesn't show accidents, title brands, odometer readings or theft records.

Where is the VIN on a GMC vehicle?

GMC places the VIN plate at the base of the driver side windshield, visible from the exterior. A matching sticker is located inside the driver door jamb on the B-pillar. Sierra trucks carry an additional VIN stamp on the frame rail, typically driver side, near the front crossmember. Yukon SUVs have the VIN stamped on the firewall in the engine compartment. All locations should display the same 17 characters, and any discrepancy between the plate and the stamp is a significant red flag.

Which GMC models have the most documented recalls?

The Sierra and Yukon lead GMC campaign volume. High-population items include Takata passenger-inflator recalls 21V-050/21V-052/21V-053/21V-054 (2007–2014), vacuum brake-booster pump 19V-645 (2014–2018 Sierra / 2015–2018 Yukon), frontal air bag 16V-651, and EPS assist 17V-414/18V-586. Newer 6.2L trucks/SUVs have connecting-rod/crankshaft recall 25V-274 (2021–2024). Acadia has driver-inflator 23V-334 plus earlier side-air-bag, seat-belt and liftgate campaigns. Campaigns are often shared with Chevrolet twins but completion is tracked per GMC VIN.

Is GMC a separate brand from Chevrolet for VIN and recall purposes?

Yes. GMC and Chevrolet are separate brands with distinct VIN sequences and separate titles, even when the underlying truck or SUV platform is shared. A GMC Sierra and a Chevrolet Silverado built on the same day in the same factory will have completely different VINs. Recall campaigns that affect both brands are listed separately by NHTSA, and completion status must be checked individually for each VIN.

Which GMCs are under a do-not-drive or park-outside warning?

Do-not-drive: front upper control-arm recall 16V-256 on certain 2016 Sierra/Yukon trucks, and transfer-case recall 26V-289 on a very small 4WD/AWD population. Park-outside: HD EBCM bolt recall 21V-758 on certain 2021–2022 Sierra 2500/3500 trucks, and Savana battery-cable recall 21V-189 on certain 2021 vans with the 6.6L gas engine. If the VIN shows one open, follow the advisory until a GMC dealer closes it.

What is the GMC vacuum brake-booster recall?

Recall 19V-645 covers about 3.5 million GM vehicles including 2014–2018 GMC Sierra and 2015–2018 Yukon (shared with Silverado/Tahoe/Suburban/Escalade). The vacuum pump's assist can decrease over time, which may increase stopping distance. Confirm the campaign is closed on the VIN before you buy.

Is the GMC 6.2L engine recall real?

Yes. NHTSA recall 25V-274 covers certain 2021–2024 Sierra 1500 and Yukon/Yukon XL trucks with the 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft may fail, causing engine damage or loss of drive. Check the VIN and ask for engine-repair records on any 6.2L example.

Do GMC and Chevrolet share the same recall history?

They often share platforms and campaign hardware, but NHTSA issues recalls per make and VIN. A Sierra and a Silverado built the same day have different VINs and separate completion status. Always look up the specific GMC VIN — do not assume a Chevy campaign printout applies.

GMC VIN Number Check