For Four Straight Months Now I Have Had My GMC Sierra EV Into The Dealership For The Dreaded “Service High Voltage System” So I’ve Initiated The Buyback From GM

Lagacy automakers like GM are increasingly navigating buybacks, repairs, and lemon law claims as they expand their electric vehicle lineups. When EV owners experience repeated issues like battery faults or high-voltage system failures, they may qualify for a buyback under state lemon laws, particularly if repairs have been unsuccessful after multiple attempts. GM has processed buybacks for EVs like the Chevrolet Bolt and GMC Sierra EV in cases involving serious defects. In some cases, automakers provide loaner vehicles or extended warranties while repairs are completed. OEMs are updating software remotely and dealerships are enhancing service technician training to reduce repeat issues.

On a recent Facebook post by Ron Pivo posted about his GMC Sierra EV incident, many other owners shared their experiences. 

“For four straight months now, I have had my car in the dealership for the dreaded “Service High Voltage System”, so I’ve initiated the buyback from GM.

The dealership gave me a loaner GMC Sierra EV with 500 miles on it, and immediately it had several alerts on the dash. Different than the one I get.

What in the world is wrong with this truck”

Rob Clarke responded with:

“No issues with mine 2025 max range I got 5,000 miles so far”

Richard Lynn added: 

“They had mine for 15 days. Turned out to be and AC relief valve failure.”

Reflecting the mostly positive comments in the thread, James Clemmons added: 

“Nine months and 9,000 miles problem free.”

Looking at the responses, the GMC Sierra EV seems to be a solid truck along with its siblings, the Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Hummer EV.

Early adopters of electric pickups from legacy automakers like GM are encountering a range of challenges that affect confidence and resale value. Common issues include warning alerts, software glitches, and service delays tied to the high-voltage systems and battery management. While many owners report positive experiences, others have dealt with repeated trips to dealerships and extended repair times due to limited parts or technician expertise. These problems have led to recalls in some cases and buyback requests in others. As these trucks are still new to the market, unresolved reliability concerns may influence public perception and future resale potential.

The GMC Sierra EV

The GMC Sierra EV is an all-electric full-size pickup truck that launched in 2024. It features a dual-motor setup with up to 754 horsepower and an estimated 400 miles of range, using GM’s Ultium battery platform. The Sierra EV includes advanced features such as four-wheel steering, Super Cruise hands-free driving, and a MultiPro midgate that expands cargo space. Positioned as a premium electric alternative to the GMC Hummer EV and Chevrolet Silverado EV, it targets buyers seeking a blend of luxury, utility, and cutting-edge technology. Outside of GM, the Silverado EV competes against the Ford F-150 Lightning and the Rivian R1T. Customers appreciate the high-end interior, smooth power delivery, and innovative cargo flexibility, but some criticize the high price and limited availability of lower trims. The Ultium platform it rides on also supports the Hummer EV, Chevrolet Silverado EV, Cadillac Lyriq, and BrightDrop vans, showcasing GM’s modular EV strategy across multiple brands.

The Sierra EV has seen modest sales in the U.S., with around 1,800 units sold to date in 2025, trailing behind the Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Hummer EV. While it contributes to GM’s growing electric portfolio, it remains a niche option compared to higher-volume models. Overall, GM sold over 62,000 EVs through May 2025, nearly doubling its performance from the previous year and securing its position as the second-largest EV maker in the U.S. after Tesla, which sold about 128,000 EVs in the first quarter alone.

The Sierra EV has three trim levels including the Elevation, AT4, and Denali. The Elevation is the entry-level trim of the GMC Sierra EV, launched in 2025 and positioned to attract budget-conscious buyers who want a capable electric truck without luxury frills. It starts at $64,495 with the standard-range battery and $72,695 with the extended-range option. Key features include a 16.8-inch infotainment screen with Google built-in, an eTrunk for front storage, 18-inch wheels, and the versatile MultiPro tailgate with available MidGate functionality. It offers up to 7.2 kilowatts of vehicle-to-load power, with options for Super Cruise hands-free driving and 800-volt DC fast charging up to 300 kilowatts. The Elevation trim balances affordability with advanced EV utility.

The AT4 trim is designed for off-road and adventure enthusiasts, sitting above the Elevation and below the premium Denali trim. Pricing begins at $81,395 with the extended-range battery and $91,695 for the Max-Range configuration. It features a 2-inch factory lift, 35-inch all-terrain tires, rugged Terrain Mode, and standard four-wheel steering with CrabWalk functionality. Super Cruise comes standard with a 3-year plan, and the Energy Transfer Pro system delivers up to 10.2 kilowatts of exportable power via bed-mounted outlets. The AT4 combines electric performance with trail-capable enhancements for a more rugged driving experience.

The Denali trim represents the luxury flagship of the Sierra EV lineup, emphasizing comfort, technology, and premium materials. It is available in multiple configurations, starting at $71,795 for the standard-range, $79,995 for the extended-range, and reaching $100,695 for the Max-Range model with the highest driving range of up to 460 miles. Signature features include 24-inch machined wheels with Denali branding, a panoramic fixed-glass roof, premium seating, and an Air-Ride adaptive suspension system. It also includes Super Cruise with a head-up display and an advanced digital cockpit experience. The Denali trim is aimed at buyers seeking top-tier refinement and innovation in an electric pickup.

Please Drop Your Thoughts in the Comments Below

Do you own a GM EV? If so, what experiences have you had with it?

What’s the biggest problem that you’ve had with your EV?

Chris Johnston is the author of SAE’s comprehensive book on electric vehicles, "The Arrival of The Electric Car." His coverage on Torque News focuses on electric vehicles. Chris has decades of product management experience in telematics, mobile computing, and wireless communications. Chris has a B.S. in electrical engineering from Purdue University and an MBA. He lives in Seattle. When not working, Chris enjoys restoring classic wooden boats, open water swimming, cycling and flying (as a private pilot). You can connect with Chris on LinkedIn and follow his work on X at ChrisJohnstonEV.

Image sources: GMC media kit.