Blog · Recall alert · 2026-10-05
[CRITICAL] RECALL ALERT: 2016–2017 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra: Roof-rail airbag inflator may rupture
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Severity: CRITICAL (red) — Source risk: “If the end cap separates from the RRAB inflator or a sidewall rupture occurs, the compressed gas will escape from the inflator and the end cap or other components can be propelled into the vehicle, potentially causing an occupant injury if the vehicle is occupied.” (GM Part 573 report for 26V611)
At a glance
Severity: CRITICAL
| Severity | CRITICAL |
| NHTSA campaign | 26V611000 |
| Manufacturer recall | N262569920 |
| Vehicles | 2016 Chevrolet Silverado 2500/3500 and GMC Sierra 2500/3500; 2016–2017 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 (Crew Cab only) |
| Units affected | 1,559 |
| Risk | Inflator end-cap separation or sidewall rupture can project fragments into the cabin, increasing injury risk |
| Remedy | Dealers replace both left- and right-side roof-rail airbag modules, free of charge |
| Dealer notification | September 24, 2026 |
| Owner notification | Expected to mail November 9, 2026 |
| Do-not-drive / park-outside | No (not flagged in NHTSA filing) |
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Only some Crew Cab trucks in the production windows above are included. Confirm before assuming you are clear or affected.
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What happened
On September 24, 2026, General Motors, LLC notified NHTSA of safety recall 26V611 (campaign 26V611000; GM number N262569920). Per GM’s Part 573 report and NHTSA’s recall record, certain left- and right-side roof-rail airbag (RRAB) inflators above the headliner may contain a manufacturing defect that can cause inflator end-cap separation or an inflator sidewall split.
NHTSA states the consequence: a detached end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape and project the end cap or fragments of the inflator into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury. GM links the root cause to supplier manufacturing issues (Joyson Safety Systems) that can allow stress corrosion cracking of the pressurized canister over time.
GM’s filing describes one field incident on a 2016 Silverado 1500 with an inflator sidewall split and headliner/roof damage; occupants reported ringing in their ears, with no other injuries reported. About 1,559 vehicles are potentially involved. VINs became searchable on NHTSA.gov on September 24, 2026.
What owners should do now
- Check your VIN at assemblyalert.com/recalls or nhtsa.gov/recalls for campaign 26V611000.
- Contact a Chevrolet or GMC dealer to schedule free replacement of both RRAB modules if your VIN is listed.
- Call the maker’s recall line if needed: Chevrolet 1-800-222-1020 or GMC 1-888-988-7267.
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-888-275-9171).
Owner letters for the available remedy are expected to mail November 9, 2026. Dealers were notified September 24, 2026.
FAQ
Is my truck included?
Only certain Crew Cab 2016 Silverado 2500/3500 and Sierra 2500/3500, and 2016–2017 Silverado 1500 and Sierra 1500 trucks in narrow April–May 2016 production windows. Regular and Double (Extended) Cab trucks are not involved. Use a VIN check.
Is there a do-not-drive warning?
No. NHTSA lists `parkIt` and `parkOutSide` as false, and GM’s Part 573 does not mark Do Not Drive or Park Outside advisories.
What is the free fix?
Dealers replace both left- and right-side roof-rail airbag modules with parts outside the suspect supplier window.
When will I hear from GM?
Owner notification is estimated to mail November 9, 2026. You can check your VIN or call a dealer before the letter arrives.
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Disclaimer
Recall facts here come from NHTSA’s recall API, GM’s Part 573 Safety Recall Report for campaign 26V611, and NHTSA’s acknowledgment of that filing. Assembly Alert (assemblyalert.com) is operated by Record of Sale, LLC and is not affiliated with NHTSA, General Motors, Chevrolet, or GMC. This page is public safety information only and is not legal advice. Verify your vehicle’s status with NHTSA or the manufacturer.
Sources
Calculators · Facts · Homepage VIN checker · Commercials (18+)