WORST Gmc Sierra Years To Avoid, as per Real Owner Complaints

Did you know that almost 20% of 2014 GMC Sierra owners had problems with their truck’s transmission?

If you’re thinking about buying a used GMC Sierra, it’s good to know which years to avoid.

For example, the 2014 and 2015 models are well-known for using a lot of oil and having A/C problems, while the 2017 Sierra had major brake issues.

Knowing about these common problems can help you make a better choice and avoid costly repairs.

Let’s look into which years to avoid to ensure a smoother experience.

Key Takeaways

• The 2014 Sierra 1500 has dim headlights and uses a lot of oil.
• The 2015 Sierra has dim headlights, A/C problems, and transmission issues.
• The 2017 Sierra idles roughly and has major brake problems.
• The 2019 Sierra has issues with the ECU and electronic control unit.
• Models from 2005, 2006, and 2007 often face electrical system failures and transfer case issues.

Overview of Problematic Years

When thinking about which GMC Sierra models to avoid, pay special attention to the 2014, 2015, and 2017 models because they’ve a lot of owner complaints and technical problems.

The 2014 Sierra 1500 is often considered one of the worst years, with many reports of dim headlights and high oil consumption.

The 2015 Sierra isn’t much better, with issues like dim headlights, A/C condenser failures, and transmission problems.

In 2017, owners had to deal with rough idling and major brake issues, including unusual noises and stiffness.

These years are some of the worst for the Sierra, so it’s best to avoid them if you’re looking for a used model. Each year has its own serious mechanical and safety problems.

Issues With 2005 Models

The 2005 GMC Sierra had quite a few problems, especially with its electrical system and V6 engine, which hurt its overall performance. Common issues included failures with the dashboard gauges, particularly the speedometer and fuel gauge. The V6 engine often had carbon buildup and problems with fuel delivery, making it less reliable. Additionally, issues with the transfer case often messed up the AWD system.

Here’s a quick overview:

Problem	Description	Impact
Electrical System	Dashboard gauge failures	Inaccurate readings
V6 Engine	Carbon buildup, fuel delivery faults	Reduced engine reliability
Transfer Case	AWD system malfunctions	Impaired drivability

These recurring issues made the 2005 Sierra less dependable.

Problems in 2006 Models

The 2006 GMC Sierra trucks had a lot of problems, especially with their electrical systems and engines. Many of these trucks had faulty wiring, which caused different electrical issues. The dashboard gauges often failed, giving drivers wrong information.

The V6 engines also had issues, like carbon buildup and problems with fuel delivery, which made the trucks run poorly. The active fuel management system added more stress to the engine. Additionally, there were common issues with the transfer case, which affected the all-wheel drive system.

Because of these problems, the 2006 Sierra trucks are less reliable than other years, so you should be careful if you’re thinking about buying one.

Avoid 2007 GMC Sierra

If you’re thinking about buying a used GMC Sierra, steer clear of the 2007 model. This year has major problems with electrical systems and the transfer case. People have complained about the battery draining too quickly and issues with the ECU.

The all-wheel drive often malfunctions too. Plus, the dashboard gauges, like the speedometer and fuel gauge, tend to fail a lot, making the 2007 Sierra a bad choice.

Electrical and Transfer Case Issues

If you own a 2007 GMC Sierra, you might face serious electrical and transfer case problems that hurt the truck’s reliability and performance. The transfer case often has major issues that can make the vehicle hard to drive and expensive to fix. These problems can mess with the all-wheel-drive (AWD) system, making the truck handle poorly and perform worse.

On top of that, electrical problems are common. Things like the battery draining too fast and ECU failures can make your Sierra less reliable. These electrical issues often need costly repairs and can leave you stranded without warning.

Because of these common problems, it’s a good idea to avoid the 2007 GMC Sierra to save yourself from these potential headaches.

Dashboard Gauge Failures

If you have a 2007 GMC Sierra, you might run into problems with your dashboard gauges, like the speedometer and fuel gauge not working right. These issues can be distracting and make it hard to know important information.

Common problems that owners talk about include:

• Speedometer problems: Wrong speed readings can make driving unsafe.
• Fuel gauge errors: Not knowing how much fuel you have can cause unexpected stops.
• Expensive repairs: Fixing these problems can be costly.
• Driver frustration: Ongoing issues can make driving less enjoyable.

Fixing these dashboard gauge problems is important for keeping your vehicle safe. Getting them repaired quickly ensures you can accurately monitor important information, keeping you safe and your vehicle running well.

Concerns for 2012 Models

If you’re thinking about getting a 2012 GMC Sierra, there are a few important issues to watch out for.

The transmission and transfer case can cause major driving problems.

The electrical system often has issues too, like battery and ECU failures.

Plus, the V6 engine can have problems with carbon buildup and fuel delivery.

Transmission and Transfer Case

The 2012 GMC Sierra has some well-known problems with its transmission and transfer case. Owners often report issues like gears slipping, rough shifting, and other malfunctions that can make driving difficult and expensive to fix.

Transmission problems in these 2012 models can really affect how well the vehicle performs, leading to:

• Slipping gears: which means the power doesn’t get delivered smoothly.
• Rough shifting: causing uncomfortable and potentially harmful jolts.
• Transfer case failures: which can mess up the AWD system.
• High repair costs: because fixing the transmission and transfer case can be complicated.

If you’re thinking about buying a used 2012 Sierra, make sure to check the transmission and transfer case for any signs of trouble. Catching these issues early can stop bigger problems later and help keep the vehicle reliable.

Electrical System Faults

Many 2012 GMC Sierra owners deal with ongoing electrical issues, like the battery draining quickly and problems with the Engine Control Unit (ECU). You might find that the battery dies often, making it hard to start the truck and causing other electrical failures.

People also report that the ECU can act up, leading to various electrical problems in the vehicle. These issues can impact important parts like the lights, power windows, and other electronic features. Fixing these problems usually requires detailed diagnostics and can be expensive.

If you’re thinking about buying a 2012 Sierra, know that these electrical problems might need a lot of time and money to fix. It’s important to consider these potential issues before deciding to buy.

V6 Engine Issues

If you’re thinking about buying a 2012 GMC Sierra with a V6 engine, be aware that these models have some big problems with carbon build-up, fuel delivery issues, and stress from the active fuel management system. These engine problems can cause lower gas mileage, rough idling, possible engine misfires, and more frequent maintenance.

Owners have reported that carbon build-up in these V6 engines leads to poor performance and engine hesitation. The strain from the active fuel management system makes driving issues worse and can lead to expensive repairs. Regular maintenance is key to reducing these problems.

Knowing about these V6 engine issues is important when thinking about the long-term reliability of a 2012 GMC Sierra.

2014 Sierra Challenges

When thinking about a GMC Sierra, be aware of four common problems that have come up in different model years.

First, brake problems have been a big issue, especially in the 2017 model, with over 70 complaints to the NHTSA about strange noises and stiffness.

Second, dim headlights have been a frequent complaint, particularly in the 2014 and 2015 models.

Third, A/C condenser failures are another common issue, especially in the 2015 Sierra, causing poor cabin cooling.

Finally, some model years have had transmission problems, leading to rough shifting and lower performance.

Knowing about these issues can help you make a better decision and avoid expensive repairs later.

2015 Sierra Issues

When looking at the GMC Sierra, transfer case problems in the 2007 and 2012 models can mess up the AWD system. Other issues make certain years of this truck not the best to own.

These problems include:

• Electrical system issues: Things like the battery draining too fast and the ECU breaking down.
• V6 engine troubles: Problems such as carbon buildup, fuel delivery issues, and stress from the active fuel management system.
• Dashboard gauge failures: The speedometer and fuel gauge can stop working, which can be distracting.
• Transfer case issues: Common in the 2007 and 2012 models, affecting AWD performance.

These repeating problems show why some years of the GMC Sierra are better to avoid if you want a reliable and safe truck.

Faults in 2017 Models

If you own a 2017 GMC Sierra, watch out for some common problems. These trucks often have issues with rough idling, ongoing brake problems, and troubles with the headlights and air conditioning.

Many owners have reported these problems, which can affect how well the truck runs.

Rough Idling Issues

Drivers of the 2017 GMC Sierra often had problems with rough idling, which made the engine run unevenly. These issues were more than just small annoyances; they caused real worries about how well the engine was working and what might be wrong inside.

If you drive a 2017 Sierra, you might notice:

• Inconsistent RPMs: The engine speed goes up and down, making the idle rough.
• Engine Stalling: The engine sometimes stops when idling, which can be dangerous.
• Vibration and Noise: The engine shakes a lot and makes strange noises.
• Fuel Efficiency Drops: Bad idling can make the truck use more gas.

These problems often needed a mechanic to diagnose and fix them, which affected how reliable and easy to drive the 2017 GMC Sierra was.

Brake System Problems

Owners of the 2017 GMC Sierra often had serious brake problems, with over 70 complaints to the NHTSA. These issues included strange noises and stiff brakes. Drivers said these brake problems caused rough idling and triggered multiple brake alerts. These performance issues made driving difficult and raised safety concerns.

If you’re thinking about buying a 2017 Sierra, it’s important to know about these brake problems. The many complaints suggest that the 2017 GMC Sierra mightn’t be the best choice if you want reliable brakes. Always check for these brake issues before deciding.

Headlight and A/C Concerns

Besides brake problems, the 2017 GMC Sierra had major issues with dim headlights and A/C condenser failures. These problems can really mess with your driving experience and comfort. Dim headlights make it hard to see, which is a big safety issue. A/C condenser failures make the cabin hot and uncomfortable, especially in the summer.

Key problems reported include:

• Dim Headlights: Harder to see, making driving dangerous.
• A/C Condenser Failures: No cooling, leading to a hot and uncomfortable interior.
• Headlight System Failures: Poor design causing frequent problems.
• Transmission Issues: More mechanical problems that affect the vehicle’s reliability.

Troubles With 2019 Models

The 2019 GMC Sierra trucks have some serious problems with their electronic control unit (ECU). This issue affects how well the truck performs and how reliable it is. Many owners have reported recurring issues with the ECU, which can cause different parts of the truck to malfunction.

Because of these problems, it’s important for anyone thinking about buying a 2019 Sierra to know about these long-term reliability concerns. If you’re looking at a 2019 Sierra, make sure you understand these ECU issues before making a decision.

It’s crucial to consider these factors to avoid future problems.

Common Transmission Problems

If you’re thinking about getting a GMC Sierra, especially the 2014 or 2015 models, watch out for some common transmission problems that can mess with how well the truck works and how long it lasts. Here are a few issues you might run into:

• Slipping gears: The transmission might slip out of gear, which can mess with how the truck speeds up and drives.
• Rough shifting: You could notice the truck shifting gears roughly or taking longer than usual to shift.
• Fluid leaks: Sometimes, the transmission fluid leaks, which can cause the fluid level to drop and the transmission to overheat.
• Increased wear: These problems can make the transmission parts wear out faster.

It’s really important to keep up with regular maintenance and fix these issues quickly. Always get a professional to check it out and repair it to avoid more serious damage to the transmission.

Electrical Faults Overview

Over the years, GMC Sierra trucks have had various electrical problems that can hurt their performance and reliability. Common issues include battery drain and ECU (Engine Control Unit) malfunctions, affecting different model years. Many owners have reported problems with their dashboard gauges, like the speedometer and fuel gauge not working correctly, which can be distracting and dangerous while driving. These electrical issues have led to many complaints and worries about the overall performance of these trucks. Fixing these problems is essential to keep your GMC Sierra running well and lasting a long time.

Problem	Affected Component	Impact
Excessive Battery Drain	Battery	Shorter battery life
ECU Malfunction	ECU	Problems with engine running
Speedometer Failure	Dashboard Gauges	Distractions while driving
Fuel Gauge Failure	Dashboard Gauges	Incorrect fuel level readings
Electrical Complaints	Various Components	General reliability issues

Engine Concerns by Year

When looking at engine problems over the years, you’ll see issues like transfer case failures, V6 engine troubles, and ECU malfunctions in certain models. The 2014 and 2015 GMC Sierras are particularly known for these problems.

Knowing about these issues can help you steer clear of expensive repairs and ensure your vehicle runs smoothly for a long time.

Transfer Case Issues

GMC Sierra models from 2007 and 2012 often have problems with their transfer cases, which can mess up the all-wheel-drive system. These issues can lead to big problems with your vehicle’s performance and handling. You might find it hard to switch to four-wheel drive or hear strange noises coming from the transfer case.

It’s important to fix these problems quickly to avoid more serious damage and keep your AWD system working well.

Here are some tips:

• Regular check-ups can catch transfer case problems early.
• Pay attention to strange noises or trouble engaging four-wheel drive.
• Ignoring these problems can lead to expensive repairs.
• Fixing issues early keeps your vehicle running smoothly.

Knowing about these problems can help you take steps to keep your GMC Sierra in good shape.

V6 Engine Problems

In some years, the V6 engines in the GMC Sierra have had major problems like carbon buildup, trouble with fuel delivery, and stress from the active fuel management system. These problems can make the engine less reliable, causing less power, rough idling, and even engine damage if not fixed quickly.

Owners of these models often have to pay more for maintenance and get worse fuel efficiency. It’s important to know which years have these V6 engine problems to avoid issues.

Fixing these engine problems early can prevent long-term damage and ensure a more dependable driving experience. Always check maintenance records and reviews to understand the GMC Sierra’s engine reliability before buying.

ECU and Electrical Faults

In addition to engine problems, some GMC Sierra models have had issues with their ECU and electrical systems, particularly in the years 2007, 2012, 2014, 2015, and 2019. These problems can really affect how your vehicle runs and how reliable it is.

Common issues include:

• Battery draining too quickly
• Problems with the ECU
• Electrical system failures that affect the engine
• General issues with vehicle reliability

If you’re dealing with these issues, it’s important to get proper diagnostics and repairs. Fixing ECU and electrical problems in these GMC Sierra models will help keep your vehicle running well and give you a better driving experience.

Ignoring these problems can lead to bigger issues, so it’s crucial to address them as soon as possible. Don’t overlook these electrical problems if you own or are planning to buy one of these specific model years.

GMC Sierra Maintenance Tips

Regular upkeep, like changing the oil, rotating the tires, and replacing fluids on time, is key to keeping your GMC Sierra running smoothly and lasting longer. Skipping these tasks can lead to higher repair bills later. When you hit 150,000 miles, it’s important to change the coolant and engine accessory drive belts. If you’re the third or fourth owner, be ready for possible major engine and transmission work around this mileage.

Mileage	Maintenance Task	Why It’s Important
Every 5,000-7,500	Change the oil	Keeps the engine in good shape
30,000-50,000	Rotate tires and check fluids	Ensures the truck runs well and stays safe
150,000	Change coolant and drive belts	Avoids serious engine problems

Taking good care of your Sierra can help it reach 200,000-300,000 miles without major issues.

Reliability of Specific Years

When looking at the reliability of different GMC Sierra model years, it’s important to know about common issues that might make your experience less enjoyable. Some years have more problems than others, making them some of the worst GMC Sierra models.

Here are a few issues to watch out for:

• 2007 and 2012: Problems with the transfer case that affect the all-wheel-drive system.
• Various years: Electrical problems like the battery draining too fast and issues with the engine control unit (ECU).
• Certain models: V6 engine troubles, such as carbon buildup and fuel delivery issues.
• 2019: Issues with the ECU and transmission problems.

These ongoing problems can really hurt the performance and reliability of the truck. If you’re thinking about buying a used GMC Sierra, keep an eye out for these specific years to avoid a lot of headaches.

Best Alternatives to Consider

If you’re looking for reliable alternatives to the GMC Sierra, here are some good options:

• Ford F-150: Known for its strong towing ability and different engine choices.
• Ram 1500: Offers a smooth ride, a fancy interior, and good fuel efficiency.
• Chevrolet Silverado: Similar to the Sierra with competitive features.
• Toyota Tundra: Famous for its durability and high resale value.
• Nissan Titan: Features a tough design, a powerful V8 engine, and good pricing.

Model	Key Features
Ford F-150	Strong towing, varied engines
Ram 1500	Luxurious interior, fuel-efficient
Chevrolet Silverado	Similar to Sierra, competitive features
Toyota Tundra	Durability, high resale value
Nissan Titan	Rugged design, powerful V8, competitive pricing

 

When looking at performance cars, make sure to check out our guides on models like the Gmc Canyon, Gmc Acadia and Gmc Terrain. Knowing which model years to target and which to avoid is crucial. Our expert reviews break down these models, providing insights into the years that are celebrated for their engineering excellence and driving satisfaction, as well as those that are best to avoid due to potential issues.

Conclusion

To sum up, while the GMC Sierra offers strong performance, certain years have more problems and should be avoided.

For example, the 2014 and 2015 models have issues with excessive oil use and faulty A/C systems. The 2017 model has brake problems, and older models often have electrical issues.

It’s important to choose the right year to ensure a safer and more reliable experience. Make a wise decision for peace of mind.