GMC Sierra Reliability: How Long Does the GMC Sierra Last?

Last updated on October 4th, 2023 at 11:08 am

The GMC Sierra is a pretty comfortable truck to drive. Besides offering comfortable seats and excellent shock absorbers, it also has lovely gas mileage for a car of its size.

Sierra comes in 3 main distinct models: Sierra 1500, 2500, and 3500. A significant difference between them is their towing capacities and payload.

The series of Sierra is the luxury sister of the infamous Chevrolet Silverado. In this article, we will talk about GMC Sierra Reliability and how long these trucks last.

How Long Does the GMC Sierra Last?

The GMC Sierra has an average of expected 250,000 miles to last before needing extensive repairs.

However, Sierras may also live as short as 200,000 miles or as long as 300,000 miles.

Heavy-duty tasks like towing trailers or oversized hauling cargo can stress the vehicle’s engine and transmission, which would reduce the lifespan if proper maintenance and diligent use is absent.

GMC Sierra Reliability: Is the GMC Sierra Reliable?

From RepairPal, the Sierra receives a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, which ranks it 3rd out of 17 for large trucks.

For the past ten years, the Sierra 1500 received stellar ratings from J.D. Power. Most model years were rated 75% to 89% for quality and reliability.

From the data gathered, it is safe to say that the Sierra is more reliable than similar trucks.

Reliability Ratings of the GMC Sierra and Other Similar Vehicles

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Best and Worst Years for the GMC Sierra

Here, we will look at some of the good and bad years for the Sierra.

Best Years

2012 model of the GMC Sierra is the most durable and reliable model to date. It also received the highest rating of 89 out of 100 for quality and reliability from J.D. Power.

This model also got an overall rating of 87 out of 100 and 2nd consumer-rated truck of the year, next only to Chevrolet Avalanche.

2021 Sierra model received fewer complaints than other year models, but it is still new.

Worst Years

One of the worst GMC Sierras is the 2017 model, which has the lowest rating in quality and reliability from J.D. Power.

2014 model of the Sierra has many expensive issues such as AC/Heater, paint, suspension, interior accessories, engine, and electrical problems.

The 2015 model also received many complaints, and Car Complaints called the 2015 model the worst GMC Sierra model year.

GMC Sierra Model Years and Reliability Ratings

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How Long Does the GMC Sierra Last Compare to Similar Pickup Vehicles?

The Sierra is a long-lasting truck but let’s compare its qualities and lifespan to similar other trucks.

GMC Sierra vs. Nissan Titan

The Titan is a full-size pickup truck introduced in 2003 in the United States by Nissan.

The Nissan Titan has an average mileage of about 250,000 miles, the same as expected from a GMC Sierra.

The annual maintenance and service cost of a Nissan Titan is $555 on average and for the GMC Sierra is $727.

Repairpal rates both the trucks 3.5 out of 5 for quality and reliability.

According to J.D. Power, the overall rating for Nissan Titan is 83 out of 100, and for GMC Sierra is 85 out of 100.

Even though both trucks have similar qualities, the Titan would be cheaper to maintain than the Sierra.

GMC Sierra vs. Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 is a large pickup truck with a diverse lineup of potent powertrains manufactured by Ford.

The estimated lifespan for the F-150 is 300,000 miles which are lesser than the expected lifespan for Sierra.

The Ford F-150 has an average annual maintenance cost of $788, which is close to the service cost for GMC Sierra.

According to RepairPal, the F-150 scores a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5, the same as the Sierra.

J.D. Power rates the Ford F-150 79 out of 100 and Sierra 85 out of 100 for overall rating.

The GMC Sierra is more spacious than the Ford F-150.

GMC Sierra vs. Chevrolet Silverado

The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck with a roomy interior and easy-to-use tech features.

Silverado has an expected mileage of about 250,000 to 300,000 miles and can go even beyond that with proper maintenance.

The Silverado’s maintenance and service cost is $714 per year and for the GMC Sierra is $727 on average.

If rated in quality and reliability, the Chevrolet Silverado scores 3.5 out of 5, much like GMC Sierra, according to RepairPal.

J.D. Power scores the Chevrolet Silverado 82 out of 100 and the GMC Sierra 85 out of 100 for overall rating.

Both the vehicles offer similar package options; however, the Sierra is more expensive than the Silverado.

Comparison Chart

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Does the GMC Sierra Rust Quickly?

Some drivers have complained about frame rust on the Sierra, which appeared to rust faster than the body itself.

This issue occurred after more than five years of ownership, but it is good to remember that pickup trucks are more prone to rust than regular cars.

Keep the truck bed covered using a truck bed cover and keep your truck free of moisture to prevent the formation of premature rust.

Are GMC Sierra Trucks Expensive to Maintain?

The annual maintenance and repair cost is $727 on average. But the cost of maintenance depends on the trim model, age mileage, and other variables.

For an average full-sized truck, the maintenance cost is $936, so comparatively, the Sierra is cheaper to maintain.

How Long Does the GMC Sierra Tires Last?

The tires are expected to last up to 60,000 miles if rotated at the correct times.

GMC Sierra tires are usually priced between $150 to $350 per tire, and labor would add some extra cost.

Rotate the tires every 7,000 miles and maintain proper air pressure for the longevity of your vehicle tires.

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How Long Does the GMC Sierra Brakes Last?

Sierra brakes can last as minimum as 25,000 miles or as maximum as 70,000 miles. Even though they are capable of last that long, inspect them often.

Abrupt stops and sudden acceleration causes the lifespan of your brake pads to be cut short. Always speed up or decelerate slowly to reduce the stress put on your brake pads.

How Long Does the GMC Sierra Transmission Last?

The GMC Sierra transmissions can last up to 150,000 miles and exceed that with minimum maintenance and service.

Transmission fluid change is recommended every 40,000 to 50,000 miles as included in the routine maintenance.

Being gentle on the gear lever, transmission flushes, and routine maintenance are some of the basic things to do to take care of your transmission system.

Tips to Increase the Lifespan of Your GMC Sierra

• Replace the transmission fluid every 50,000 miles and inspect the transmission system often to notice signs of damage.
• Check the brake fluids, steering fluid, and engine coolant and top them up whenever required.
• Store your truck inside a garage to protect it from the weather’s elements.
• Get used to the owner’s manual to learn about the location of essential components, what your vehicle needs, and dashboard warning signs.
• Clean your truck regularly to get rid of dirt and grime, which leads to rust.
• If any issue occurs, fix it as soon as possible.
• Check the engine oil every 7,000 miles to ensure smooth running.

We hope this article has assisted you with any questions regarding a GMC Sierra.

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