NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV Safety Ratings
The 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV scores 94 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Exceptional), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 2 recalls, and 4 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV attains an Exceptional safety rating, with a NHTSA Safety Index of 94 out of 100. Federal data shows this electric pickup provides robust occupant protection, evidenced by its five-star overall NHTSA crash protection and perfect scores in all avoidance technology assessments. However, two active recall campaigns temper this otherwise strong safety profile; buyers must ensure these issues are addressed prior to operation.
The 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV received a five-star overall crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 94/100 based on NHTSA data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 72 Sedans from 2026 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV ranks 23 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 94 / 100 (Exceptional) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 5 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 11.1% |
| Recalls on file | 2 |
| Owner complaints | 4 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 23 of 72 Sedans tested for 2026 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV?
The 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV debuts with an impressive Safety Index of 94 out of 100, placing it firmly in the Exceptional band. Its crash-protection sub-score reached 66 out of a possible 70 points, complemented by a perfect 10 out of 10 for avoidance technology. The vehicle's defect record reflects two active recalls, resulting in a sub-score of 18 out of 20. Of particular note is the recall concerning the electronic stability control (ESC) control-module software. This recall was initiated well into the model year, and a potential ESC fault on a heavy all-wheel drive electric pickup presents significant safety implications. Federal testing awarded a four-star rollover rating, accompanied by an 11 percent risk figure. The dynamic No Tip result confirms stability in this test, though this result prevents a perfect crash score. Standard safety features include forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control, contributing to its full avoidance-technology credit.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV perform in crash tests?
The 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV attained a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, matching this top score in both frontal and side impact tests. Its rollover resistance, however, earned four stars. This result stems from an 11 percent rollover risk, though the dynamic tip test indicated no tip. Every federal crash-test category has been rated for this model year.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 21850
Index breakdown
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV have any recalls?
Two recall campaigns are on file for this model year. The first involves an owner and service manual deficiency spanning several GM models including this Sierra EV. The second, and more safety-critical, targets the electronic stability control module software: GM is recalling certain 2026 Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV units after an electro-related ESC fault was identified. No park-outside or do-not-drive directive appears in the data provided, but buyers should verify current remedy status by VIN.
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL26V114000
Risk: Without an owner's manual to consult, owners may not know how to safely use and operate the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
Remedy: Dealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-467-9700, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. The manufacturer's number for this recall is N252540430. Vehicle
Reported 2026-02-26
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC):CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE25V594000
Risk: An indicator light that does not illuminate may fail to warn the driver of an ESC system issue, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: The EBCM software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) software update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 15, 2025. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N252515340.
Reported 2025-09-11
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV?
Four owner complaints have been submitted to NHTSA for this model year. The most frequently alleged component is Suspension, cited in two reports, followed by single unverified allegations involving Vehicle Speed Control, Forward Collision Avoidance, Service Brakes, and Electronic Stability Control. All are unverified consumer allegations, not established findings.
4 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV?
Because this is a current-model-year vehicle with two open recall campaigns, including one targeting ESC software, shoppers should run the VIN through NHTSA's recall lookup tool and confirm the remedy has been completed at a GM dealer before taking delivery or continuing to drive the vehicle.
- An active 2026-specific recall targets the electronic stability control module software on Chevrolet Silverado EV and GMC Sierra EV units, making VIN-level recall verification a required step for this model year.
- The rollover sub-rating of four out of five stars, with an 11 percent risk figure, is the only NHTSA crash category that does not reach five stars on this year's Sierra EV BEV.
- The defect-record sub-score of 18/20 in the Safety Index directly reflects the two recall campaigns filed against this model year, distinguishing it from a hypothetical zero-recall debut.
- All four owner complaints on file, including allegations touching ESC and Forward Collision Avoidance, are unverified reports to NHTSA and have not been confirmed as defects, but the ESC complaint category overlaps with the active ESC recall campaign.
RANKINGSWhere the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV places
The 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV safety questions
Was the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 94 out of 100, placing it in the Exceptional band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 5 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 11.1%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 2 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 4 owner complaints are on file for the 2026 GMC Sierra EV BEV. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Rivals in Sedan (2026)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Acura Integra | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2026 Acura Integra Type-S | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2026 Honda Accord | 100/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2026 Lexus IS 350 | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2026 Subaru Crosstrek Wilderness | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
| 2026 Subaru Impreza | 100/100 | not rated | 0 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 21850), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the GMC Sierra EV BEV 2026.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 23 of 72 in the Sedan class for 2026.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.