A GMC Sierra with a leaky rear sliding window, showing water damage to the interior trim and electronics.

A Leaky Window Cost a GMC Sierra Owner $1,000, Now He’s Suing GM

Stephen M 3 min read

A California class action lawsuit alleges that rear sliding windows in certain Chevrolet and GMC pickups allow water to enter the cab, potentially damaging electronics and interior trim.

Key Takeaways

  • A California class action lawsuit targets 2019-2020 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra trucks with allegedly leaky rear sliding windows.
  • A GMC Sierra owner is suing GM after being left with a $1,000 bill for repairs.
  • A long-running GM service bulletin may bolster owners’ claims.
  • The lawsuit claims GM concealed a defect involving substandard materials and continued selling affected trucks despite knowing about the issue.
  • The proposed class includes owners and lessees in California of certain 2019 and 2020 Silverado and Sierra models.

What’s the Issue with the Rear Sliding Windows?

The lawsuit alleges that the rear sliding windows in certain Chevrolet and GMC pickups allow water to enter the cab, potentially damaging electronics, interior trim, and creating conditions for mold growth.

This issue is not isolated, as several GMC and Chevrolet owners have reported the same problem on forums and social media.

One owner on GM-Trucks.com reported that GM will try to put a bandage on the window cracks in the form of sealant instead of actually replacing the defective window.

How Did GM Respond to the Issue?

GM appeared to know about the problem and continually updated a technical service bulletin in an effort to remedy the issue.

The bulletin, which has gone through numerous revisions since 2019, instructs technicians to inspect for cracking in the rear sliding window’s plastic upper rail guide, a condition that could allow water to bypass the urethane seal and enter the vehicle.

GM’s prescribed repair involved removing the rear roof spoiler and applying seam sealer across the top of the window assembly.

What Does the Lawsuit Claim?

The lawsuit claims that GM concealed a defect involving substandard materials and continued selling affected trucks despite knowing about the issue.

The fact that the bulletin has gone through numerous revisions over the years may become a point of contention.

Who is Affected by the Lawsuit?

The proposed class includes owners and lessees in California of certain 2019 and 2020 Silverado and Sierra 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD models.

What’s Next for the Lawsuit?

The allegations remain unproven, and GM has not been found liable.

However, plenty of affected owners might want to pay close attention to what happens from here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the issue with the rear sliding windows in certain Chevrolet and GMC pickups?

A: The lawsuit alleges that the rear sliding windows allow water to enter the cab, potentially damaging electronics, interior trim, and creating conditions for mold growth.

Q: How did GM respond to the issue?

A: GM updated a technical service bulletin to instruct technicians to inspect for cracking in the rear sliding window’s plastic upper rail guide and apply seam sealer across the top of the window assembly.

Q: Who is affected by the lawsuit?

A: The proposed class includes owners and lessees in California of certain 2019 and 2020 Silverado and Sierra models.

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