I Bought a 2025 GMC Sierra and With Only 100 Miles I Had It Towed To the Dealer, The Engine Is Making A Horrible Death Rattle

Does GMC have a problem with its new 2025 Sierra trucks? As we'll see in Alex's story, some potential issues could be related to the 2.7-liter TurboMax engine.  

Alex (@adjokic), who is 21 years old, just purchased a 2025 GMC Sierra with a 2.7-liter TurboMax engine, and it's already been towed to the dealer. He takes his story to his TikTok video, revealing a short clip of a horrible sound coming from the new truck's engine.

Alex says, "I just had my brand new 2025 GMC Sierra pickup with only 100 miles towed to the GMC dealer. It sounds like a death rattle," I can hear him saying. 

Picture Alex, who is 21 and just bought his first new vehicle. It's a 2025 GMC Sierra TurboMax pickup. He's been working hard, saving up, and he drives away in his shiny new truck. Life is good.

Then, something unexpected happens.  

Imagine the shock when, just after a trip to the store, the engine of his brand new truck emits a terrifying noise. The sound is so alarming, he feels compelled to capture it on his phone. The truck, a mere 100 miles old, now sits, a source of fear rather than joy. 

He's so amazed that his truck, which is only 100 miles on, is already broken that he's ready to return the truck to the dealer. He calls the salesman who sold him the truck immediately. 

He's unavailable because he's with a customer. 

Next, Alex sends the salesman a text. Let's pick up Alex's story.  

He says, "So, I texted the salesman who sold me the truck. This is basically the entire conversation. This thing is so messed up."

"I told the salesman who sold me my new 2025 GMC Sierra I wanted something else. I don't want to keep this truck."

Alex bought the truck 3 days ago with only 2 miles on it. It has a 2.7-liter Turbo Max engine. 

Alex says, "So, he told me to call the 800 number for GMC he sent me in the first text and explain to them what's happening. He says they will tow it to the nearest GMC dealer. He doesn't even try to help me." 

The text reads, "They will tow it to the closest GM dealership for free. They may even be able to fix it. You can't just give it back. The truck is already titled in your name on the registration and has your temporary license plate." 

Alex can't believe his truck, with only 100 miles on the odometer, is already being towed to the dealer. 

"I told him what the problem was and why would I want this truck if it broke down with only 100 miles? I'm sending it to your dealership where I just bought it. The tow truck driver just left, and it's coming to you."

The salesman's response is not what Alex was hoping for. 

He acknowledges Alex's frustration but points out that they are yet to determine the cause of the problem. He also explains the limitations of their options, given that the truck is already registered in Alex's name.

The salesman says, "Okay, I will check on it tomorrow morning. I understand what you are saying, but we don't even know what's happening with it yet. It could be something as simple as a loose cable not being connected or something."

"The truck is already registered to you," he continues, "So we won't be able to exchange it for another vehicle. The only option is if you open a case with GMC for them to buy it back." 

"They won't do that for a simple service fix, though, so we must first see the technician's diagnosis." 

Alex watches the tow truck pull away with his new truck on the back. He shakes his head in disbelief. 

Alex sent another text to the salesman. "Okay, do I have to come to the dealer tomorrow? I gave the tow truck driver my key. He said he'll give it to you when he drops it off. It's on its way now." 

There's a Significant Problem With Alex's new 2025 Sierra. 

The GMC dealer knows there's a serious issue with Alex's new Sierra pickup because they give him a vehicle to drive. The truck will be in the shop for a significant amount of time. 

The GMC Dealer Gives Alex a Loaner Vehicle

Alex says, "A little update. They gave me a Buick Enclave ST. It's a nice car. I like it a lot." 

What's Wrong With Alex's GMC Sierra?

The ominous 'death rattle' from Alex's 2025 GMC Sierra could be a sign of several potential issues. The GMC dealer, however, is aware that this is not a problem that can be fixed quickly, as the salesman who sold Alex the truck confirms. 

Is There a Recall for GM's 2.7-liter TurboMax Engine?

Lemon Law Experts says, "Yes, there have been recalls and issues associated with Chevy's 2.7-liter Turbo engine. For the 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500, GM launched a Customer Satisfaction Program to address engines manufactured with cracks in the engine block. This problem also extended to some units of the 2023 Chevy Colorado."

The report also says a recall was issued for certain 2023 Chevy Silverado 1500 and 2023 Chevy Colorado models due to fuel injectors with incorrect fuel flow rates. Affected vehicles may fail to meet emissions standards.

What Should GMC Sierra owners do if they experience these problems?

General Motors will typically handle the repair costs if your Chevy 2.7L Turbo engine is experiencing issues covered by a recall or a Customer Satisfaction Program. Alex's truck is under warranty and will cover all costs of repairs for free. 

Can Alex return the truck?

GM has implemented programs to replace engines with manufacturing defects, such as cracks in the engine block. GM will have to fix Alex's truck, but they will not buy the truck back. 

However, suppose GM is unable to fix it. In that case, the Lemon Law where Alex lives in Michigan, is a consumer protection law that provides a remedy for purchasers of cars that repeatedly fail to meet standards of quality and performance. 

Key Aspects of the Michigan Lemon Law:

• Coverage: The law covers new passenger vehicles, SUVs, pickup trucks, and vans purchased or leased in Michigan, or if the vehicle was purchased or leased by a Michigan resident. 
• Defects: The law addresses defects that substantially impair the vehicle's use, value, or safety, and must be reported to the manufacturer while the vehicle is under warranty. 
• Repair Attempts: The defects must persist after a reasonable number of repair attempts, typically four attempts for the same problem or 30 days out of service for repairs. 

Conclusion:

Understandably, Alex isn't happy that his brand new 2025 GMC Sierra pickup with only 100 miles is in the shop getting fixed. Who would be in his situation? However, the dealer gave him a Buick Enclave ST loaner to drive while his truck is in the shop. 

Check out my 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2.7-liter TurboMax story with only 5,000 miles. Phil's truck has already had multiple problems. He says, "I've Owned Toyotas For 30 Years With No Issues, I Took A Chance On a 2024 Chevrolet Silverado, and 5K Miles In, the Problems Begin."

It's Your Turn

Have you had problems with a GMC Sierra or a Chevrolet Silverado with the 2.7-liter TurboMax engine? If so, click the red Add New Comment link below and let us know.

I am Denis Flierl, a Senior Torque News Reporter since 2012. My 30+ year tenure in the automotive industry, initially in a consulting role with every major car brand and later as a freelance journalist test-driving new vehicles, has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge. I specialize in reporting the latest automotive news and providing expert analysis on Subaru, which you'll find here, ensuring that you, as a reader, are always well-informed and up-to-date. Follow me on my X SubaruReport, All Subaru, WRXSTI, @DenisFlierl, Facebook, and Instagram.

Photo credit: Denis Flierl via Alex