The GMC Sierra is a reliable and powerful truck choice for drivers looking for utility and comfort. In this article, we look at the best and worst GMC Sierra years. Each year has its own advantages and drawbacks, from the rugged look to towing capabilities.
Knowing the standout features and potential issues of different model years can help you find the right match. Let’s explore what makes some GMC Sierra years better than others.
GMC Sierra Generations
The GMC Sierra is a top choice in the full-size pickup truck category. It is known for being tough, reliable, and versatile. It was first introduced in the late 1990s and set new standards for truck performance and luxury.
| Generations | Years |
|---|---|
| 2nd generation (GMT800) | 1999-2006 |
| 3rd generation (GMT900) | 2007-2013 |
| 4th generation (GMTK2XX) | 2014-2018 |
| 5th generation (GMTT1XX) | 2019-Present |
The Sierra is loved by truck fans for its strong build and many features for work and fun. It’s important to consider the differences between the various versions when choosing a truck, as each one shows advancements in technology, looks, and user experience.
Worst Neutral And Best Years For GMC Sierra 1500
When assessing the best, unbiased, and poorest GMC Sierra models, we carefully analyze a range of factors that influence our evaluation.
- Owner-reported reliability (surveys)
- Annual maintenance costs
- Safety ratings
- Consumer Reports reliability scores
- Consumer Reports owner satisfaction scores
- NHTSA recalls, investigations, and complaints
- Edmunds owner ratings
- J.D. Power owner ratings
- Kelley Blue Book (KBB) owner ratings
- Vehicle history owner ratings
- Cars.com owner ratings
During the neutral years, the GMC Sierra exhibited average performance without excelling in reliability or encountering major issues.
| Generations | Best Years | Neutral Years | Worst Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2nd generation (GMT800) | 2006 | NA | 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 |
| 3rd generation (GMT900) | 2009 2010 2012 2013 | 2011 | 2007 2008 |
| 4th generation (GMTK2XX) | 2017 2018 | 2016 | 2014 2015 |
| 5th generation (GMTT1XX) | 2021 2022 2023 2024 | NA | 2019 2020 |
It is worth mentioning that our categorization is influenced negatively by factors like NHTSA recalls. A greater number of complaints and recalls typically indicate lower vehicle reliability.
Best And Worst Years For GMC Sierra 1500 2nd Generation (1999–2006)
In 1999, GMC unveiled the second generation of the Sierra, highlighting their dedication to blending practical performance with enhanced comfort and technology.
Among the years of this generation, 2006 stands out as one of the finest for the GMC Sierra, while it’s advisable to steer clear of models from 1999 to 2005.
The Best Years: 2006
The 2006 GMC Sierra was known for being reliable and having better features than before. It had different engine options, like a 4.3L V6, a 4.8L V8, and a 5.3L V8. These engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, giving the truck decent fuel efficiency.
Inside, the Sierra was more comfortable, especially in higher trims like the SLT model, which had leather seats, good sound systems, and dual-zone climate control. Safety features were improved with standard ABS and optional stability control.
they’re were some issues with the early models of the 2006 Sierra, they were not as bad as in previous years.
The Worst Years: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005
Between 1999 and 2005, GMC Sierra trucks had a lot of problems and recalls. The worst years were 1999–2001. Many owners complained about brake issues, like brake lines getting rusty and leaking.
The trucks also had transmission problems, causing shaking and delays when changing gears. In 2001 and 2002, there were engine troubles, like stalling because of sensor failures and leaks.
During these years, there were recalls for safety issues like brakes turning on by mistake, brake lines rubbing, front brake hoses breaking, fuel filters leaking, and power steering pumps not working right.
GMC Sierra Best And Worst Years For 3rd Generation (2007–2013)
Between 2007 and 2013, the third iteration of the GMC Sierra saw notable enhancements in performance, fuel efficiency, and upscale features, solidifying its position as a formidable contender in the full-size pickup truck segment.
For optimal quality and value, consider purchasing a GMC Sierra from model years 2009 to 2013, while it’s advisable to steer clear of the 2007 and 2008 models.
The Best Years: 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013
The GMC Sierra models released in 2009, 2010, 2012, and 2013 were reliable and had advanced features. They had different engine options, like the 4.3L V6, 4.8L V8, and 5.3L V8, with up to 315 hp. A 6-speed automatic transmission was added for better fuel efficiency and smoother gear shifts.
These models had good fuel economy, with V8 versions getting around 14 city and 19 highway MPG. The higher trim levels, like the SLT, had luxury features such as leather seats, premium audio systems, stability control, and curtain airbags. The 2012 and 2013 models had touchscreen navigation and infotainment systems.
The Neutral Years: 2011
The 2011 GMC Sierra is considered a reliable truck with the same engine and transmission options as previous years. It has some new features but is not very different from older models. The safety features and trim levels are similar to the previous year, with a few small improvements.
Some owners had issues like cracked dashboards, transmission problems, and rust on the frame. There was a recall for ignition lock actuators and rear axle fractures.
The Worst Years: 2007, 2008
The years 2007 and 2008 were not good for the third-generation GMC Sierra. These early models had problems like corroded brake lines, faulty instrument clusters, dashboard cracks, and power door lock issues.
Recalls were also made for concerns like short circuits in the heated windshield washer module and electrical malfunctions in the heated wiper washer system.
These problems and recalls made these model years less reliable and satisfying compared to later versions of the GMC Sierra. To learn more about recalls and complaints for 2007 and 2008 GMC Sierra models, check NHTSA records.
The Best And Worst GMC Sierra Years For 4th Generation (2014–2018)
The GMC Sierra’s fourth generation introduced groundbreaking advancements in technology, design, and performance, raising the bar for full-size pickup trucks.
Among the standout years of this generation are 2017 and 2018, while it’s advisable to steer clear of the models from 2014 and 2015.
The Best Years: 2017, 2018
Which GMC Sierra model is the most dependable in terms of performance? The 2017 and 2018 versions of the GMC Sierra mark the pinnacle of the fourth generation.
These particular years boasted cutting-edge engine choices, such as a 4.3L V6 generating 285 hp, a 5.3L V8 delivering 355 hp, and a premium 6.2L V8 producing an impressive 420 hp.
These engines were coupled with an exceptionally efficient 8-speed automatic transmission, improving both driving experience and fuel economy. On average, these models achieved approximately 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway.
Luxury features such as leather seats, Bose audio systems, and advanced safety technology like lane departure warnings and forward collision alerts were available on the premium trim levels, like the Denali.
During this time period, GMC introduced the IntelliLink infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, offering top-notch connectivity and entertainment choices.
The Neutral Years: 2016
The 2016 GMC Sierra falls in the middle ground of its generation, offering a stable engine selection for reliable performance. Despite this, certain owners reported issues like transmission vibrations during gear shifts and torque converter malfunctions.
The truck maintained its diverse range of trim options, from the basic model to the upscale Denali, meeting a wide array of tastes and requirements.
The Worst Years: 2014, 2015
Avoid the 2014 and 2015 GMC Sierra models because they have had many recalls, especially in the electrical system, engine, and brakes. These years had problems like power steering loss, brake failures at low speeds, trailer brake malfunctions, and dim headlights.
Radiator leaks and transmission issues such as grinding, jerking, and hard shifting were also common. Concerns about frontal airbags, ignition lock actuators, chassis electronic module contamination, unintended braking due to software errors, exhaust component overheating, transmission oil leaks, rollaway risks, decreased power brake vacuum pump performance, loss of power steering assist, and power steering fluid leaks were reported in these vehicles.
Best And Worst Years For GMC Sierra 5th Generation (2019–Present)
The latest GMC Sierra model, belonging to the fifth generation, showcases remarkable advancements in technology, luxury, and performance.
Opt for models from 2021 onwards for the most superior experience, steering clear of 2019 and 2020 versions for subpar performance.
The Best Years: 2021, 2022, 2023, and 2024
The GMC Sierra models from 2021 to 2024 were the best in this generation. They had different engine options, including a 2.7L turbocharged I4, a 5.3L V8, and a 6.2L V8 with up to 420 hp. These engines, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, were fuel-efficient, getting around 17 to 23 mpg in the city and up to 30 mpg on the highway for the diesel version.
The new Sierra lineup has safety features like automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection. The fancy trims like Denali and AT4 make driving more luxurious with things like leather seats, Bose sound systems, and a big touchscreen infotainment system. These models also have cool features like the MultiPro tailgate and CarbonPro bed, making them more functional and attractive.
The Worst Years: 2019, 2020
In 2019 and 2020, new models had recalls in different areas like brakes, electrical parts, powertrain, and engine. Owners had problems with brakes failing, trail brake issues, and leaks in coolant and oil.
The transmission had issues with slipping and vibrating. Recalls were also made for faulty alternator connections that could cause fires and software errors that could turn off ABS and ESC systems. These problems affected how people saw and felt about the fifth generation of the GMC Sierra, making them the least reliable choices.
GMC Sierra Resale Values
The chart displays the average resale prices of GMC Sierra vehicles over various years of production.
By analyzing this data, prospective buyers can gain insight into the vehicle’s depreciation rate and make informed decisions when purchasing a pre-owned model.
Conclusion
The GMC Sierra has had good and bad years. The best years are usually from 2014 to 2018, known for their reliable performance and advanced features. Early models, like those from 1999 to 2002, have had mechanical problems and lack modern features.
Potential buyers should research and consider all the best and worst GMC Sierra years before buying. Test drive and inspect the vehicle before deciding to make sure it fits your needs. Choose wisely and enjoy your GMC Sierra experience.
FAQs
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