GM Silverado and Sierra Airbag Recall: What You Need to Know
The automotive industry is no stranger to recalls, but when safety features like airbags are involved, the concern becomes more immediate and widespread. General Motors (GM) recently announced a major recall affecting hundreds of thousands of Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickup trucks due to a faulty airbag inflator. This blog post outlines everything you need to know: the cause, models affected, risks, GM’s response, and what you should do if your vehicle is involved.
The Reason Behind the Recall
The primary issue lies in the airbag inflators manufactured by ARC Automotive Inc., a Tennessee-based supplier. These inflators can rupture during deployment, sending sharp metal fragments into the vehicle’s cabin. This serious defect poses a significant risk of injury or death to both drivers and passengers.
The issue isn’t entirely new. ARC inflators have been under scrutiny for several years, with multiple automakers issuing recalls. However, GM had initially resisted recalling some of its vehicles. After continued pressure from U.S. regulators and further investigation, GM has now expanded the recall to include 2024 Silverado and Sierra pickups, among others.
Models Affected by the GM Airbag Recall
Below is a breakdown of the vehicles involved in this recall as of July 2025:
GM Vehicles Affected by the Airbag Recall
| Make | Model | Year(s) | Estimated Units Affected |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chevrolet | Silverado 1500 | 2022–2024 | 250,000+ |
| Chevrolet | Silverado 2500/3500 | 2022–2024 | 100,000+ |
| GMC | Sierra 1500 | 2022–2024 | 200,000+ |
| GMC | Sierra 2500/3500 | 2022–2024 | 100,000+ |
The total number of affected units is estimated to exceed 750,000 trucks in North America alone. Additional models may be added as investigations continue.
Understanding the Risks
Airbags are designed to protect you during a crash. However, in these GM trucks, the ARC inflators could explode with excessive force, potentially turning metal shrapnel into deadly projectiles. This is not a hypothetical risk—at least one fatality and multiple injuries have already been linked to ARC inflators globally.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been advocating for a nationwide recall of all ARC inflators, not just in GM vehicles. GM’s latest recall is a major step in that direction.
GM’s Response and Recall Procedure
GM has taken several steps to manage the situation:
Steps Taken by GM:
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Public Announcement: GM publicly acknowledged the issue in June 2025.
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VIN Lookup Tool: Owners can now check their VIN on GM’s or NHTSA’s recall website.
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Free Repairs: GM will replace the faulty airbag inflators at no cost to vehicle owners.
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Dealership Notification: Authorized GM dealers have been informed and equipped to handle the repairs.
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Owner Communication: GM has started sending notification letters to affected customers.
GM emphasizes that owners should schedule a repair appointment as soon as possible if their vehicle is included.
What to Do if Your Vehicle Is Affected
If you drive a Silverado or Sierra manufactured between 2022 and 2024, take these steps:
Checklist for Vehicle Owners:
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Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls or GM's official website.
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Schedule an appointment with a certified GM dealership.
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Avoid driving aggressively, as airbag deployment is more likely in collisions.
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Contact GM customer service if you have questions or concerns.
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Stay updated, as new models may be added to the recall list.
Repairs typically take under two hours, but scheduling may vary based on dealership availability.
The Bigger Picture: Airbag Safety and Industry Impact
This recall isn't just about GM—it highlights a broader issue in the auto industry. ARC inflators have been installed in millions of vehicles across brands including Ford, Chrysler, Hyundai, and Volkswagen. While Takata’s airbag scandal of the 2010s led to the largest auto recall in U.S. history, ARC’s case is shaping up to be another major chapter in airbag safety concerns.
Regulatory agencies like the NHTSA are pushing for mandatory recalls across all ARC-equipped vehicles, but legal battles and investigations are still ongoing.
Conclusion
The GM Silverado and Sierra airbag recall is a serious safety matter that affects hundreds of thousands of trucks across North America. If you own a 2022–2024 model, don’t delay—verify your vehicle’s status immediately and take advantage of the free repair service offered by GM. Safety should always come first, and acting now could prevent tragedy later.
