There are no safety recalls for the 2006 GMC Sierra 3500, but owners have filed 11 complaints with NHTSA.
2006 GMC Sierra 3500 problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|
| Power Train | 4 | |
| Steering | 3 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 2 | |
| Service Brakes | 2 | |
| Air Bags | 2 | |
| Tires | 1 | |
Most reported parts
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission › Cooling Unit and Lines — 2
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 1
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Exhaust System — 1
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 1
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 54,000 miles (median of owner reports).
Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.
Recent 2006 GMC Sierra 3500 complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Air Bags · reported Jan 30, 2026
The front impact sensor, also known as a crash sensor (part # 10370150), is no longer functional. It detects rapid vehicle deceleration during a frontal collision and sends an immediate signal to the Airbag Control Unit (ACU) to deploy airbags. Located behind the front bumper or on the radiator support, these sensors measure impact severity to ensure airbags deploy only when necessary. This part is no longer available from GM or any other aftermarket distributor. It is a critical part for any occupants in a crash. I am just one of many people who cannot make safety corrections.
Service Brakes · at 161,108 miles · reported May 11, 2017
The contact owns a 2006 gmc sierra 3500. While the vehicle was stationary, the power steering fluid leaked into the braking system and caused the brakes to seize. The vehicle was repaired and all of the hoses affected by the brake fluid were replaced. The contact stated that this was the third time the vehicle was repaired for the same failure. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 161,108.
Air Bags · at 69,000 miles · reported Oct 7, 2015
Involved in accident, vehicle driven into rear of pick-up and u-haul trailer on highway 50 canyon city,co ,left front side of gmc 3500 destroyed along with hood area and the airbags did not deploy. Driver had to be cut out of gmc3500. Gmc totaled driver suffered broken neck. Photos obtained but not able to upload.
Service Brakes · at 79,000 miles · reported Sep 18, 2014
I went out to my truck in the morning and my dash board indicator told me to get my brakes checked; everything was fine the night before. I brought the truck into mymechanic and found out that my brake line is corroded and broken. Also found out that this a recurring and consistent problem with the gmc sierras. I have my truck serviced by an authorized service center on a regular basis and this has never been mentioned to me. This needs to be a recall item! Serious safety threat. Cannot imagine what could have happened if this occurred 2 days later when I was pulling our 40 foot rv. Shouldn't…
Steering · at 54,000 miles · reported Oct 26, 2012
I was driving down the road when the steering wheel locked into place. I had to jerk it hard in order to get it to released from the locked position. This has happened twice already. Can easily cause a crash. Needs to be fixed by manufacturer.
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2006 GMC Sierra 3500 have any recalls?
No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2006 GMC Sierra 3500 as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.
What is the most common problem with the 2006 GMC Sierra 3500?
Owners report power train problems most often (4 reports), followed by steering (3). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 54,000 miles.
Are GMC recall repairs free?
Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized GMC dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.