Chevrolet Express And GMC Savana Recall Warns Vans Could Move Unexpectedly
When a vehicle has been in production for three decades, one can generally assume that any issues have been ironed out. But such is the complex nature of vehicle production that even one of the most trusted models around can end up with a defect. That's the case for the 2026 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans, which have been recalled for a transmission gear selection defect. Still surprisingly popular thanks to proven powertrains, impressive towing capabilities, and ease of maintenance, these vans are relied upon by thousands of commercial fleet managers, tradespeople, and shuttle operators, so it's a concern when anything goes wrong.
Chevy Express and GMC Savana Recall
In production since 1996, the GM vans have been incrementally improved through the years, but are still two of the oldest designs you can still buy new. According to the NHTSA's recall report, the gear shift may provide inaccurate gear selection feedback to the driver because of an incorrectly manufactured steering column assembly.
"If a driver relies only on tactile indication of the vehicle's gear position, unintended vehicle motion may occur, increasing the risk of a crash," states the recall report. "Until the vehicle is remedied, drivers should visually verify the shift position indicator each time a gear is selected and apply the parking brake whenever the vehicle is placed in Park."
Nobody wants a vehicle with a curb weight of way over 5,000 pounds moving unintentionally, which is why owners of these vehicles should take the necessary precautions. Fortunately, only 2026 model-year derivatives of both vans are affected, and only 232 models in total have been recalled. 199 of these are Chevy Express vans, with the remaining 33 being GMC Savanas.
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What Owners Should Do Now
Until affected models can be checked, drivers are advised to visually verify the shift position indicator each time a gear is selected. The parking brake should also be used whenever the van is placed in Park. Vans involved in the recall will have to be taken to a dealership to replace the transmission control component on the steering column. Reimbursement is not offered since these 2026 vans will all still be covered by their warranties.
Owner notification letters are due to start going out on July 13, 2026. If you drive a 2026 Chevy Express or 2026 GMC Savana, you can use your Vehicle Identification Number on the NHTSA's website to confirm if your model is involved in the recall. The following customer service numbers can also be reached for more information.
Customer Service Numbers
- GMC: 1-888-988-7267
- Chevrolet: 1-800-222-1020
Despite reports a few years ago that the Express and Savana vans wouldn't last beyond 2025, they're still on sale, as their ability to simply get the job done at an appealing price negates their outdated tech and comfort levels. Still, we would not be surprised if these archaic vans went out of production soon, especially if Chevy's electric BrightDrop van eventually becomes available at a lower price point.
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This story was originally published June 4, 2026 at 9:28 AM.