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Gmc Sierra 3500 Problems

The GMC Sierra 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck designed for serious work. With 1,404 complaints and 2 deaths recorded, reliability concerns exist for this workhorse. The truck offers substantial towing and payload capacity for commercial and personal use. Choosing the right model year and powertrain is essential for trouble-free ownership.

1,404
Total Complaints
82
Total Recalls
30
Model Years
2
Reported Deaths
!

Years to Avoid

These years have significantly more complaints than average.

2020
✓

Best Years

These years have the fewest reported problems.

1996 2003 2009

Common Problem Categories

Power Train 164
Service Brakes 158
Electrical System 156
Service Brakes, Hydraulic 112
Air Bags 106

Complaints by Model Year

All Model Years

Year ↓ Complaints Recalls Crashes Fires Rating
2025 28 0 0 0 Average
2024 104 3 0 4 Below Average
2023 52 1 2 0 Average
2022 74 3 12 0 Below Average
2021 54 5 0 0 Average
2020 138 7 12 8 Avoid
2019 38 5 2 2 Average
2018 38 6 0 0 Average
2017 32 7 2 6 Average
2016 54 6 0 0 Average
2015 80 7 2 6 Below Average
2014 20 3 2 0 Good
2013 30 4 2 0 Average
2012 30 4 0 0 Average
2011 48 5 0 2 Average
2010 4 5 0 0 Good
2009 14 5 0 0 Good
2008 54 3 0 0 Average
2007 38 3 0 2 Average
2006 26 0 2 4 Average
2005 58 0 0 4 Average
2004 58 0 0 4 Average
2003 18 0 4 0 Good
2002 58 0 6 2 Average
2001 88 0 6 2 Below Average
2000 60 0 6 2 Average
1999 50 0 2 0 Average
1998 24 0 0 4 Average
1997 30 0 8 0 Average
1996 4 0 0 0 Good

Gmc Sierra 3500 Years to Avoid

The 2020 model year is the most problematic Sierra 3500 and should be avoided for now. First-year production of the redesigned generation brought numerous issues. Transmission shudder and harsh shifting affected many owners. Electrical problems, particularly with infotainment systems, were frequent. Two fatalities are associated with the Sierra 3500 line. 2021 models improved but early adopter risks remain.

Best Gmc Sierra 3500 Years

The 2010 model year represents excellent value and proven reliability for Sierra 3500 buyers. The previous generation from 2011-2019 is well-understood and dependable. The Duramax diesel in these years is particularly reliable. 2017-2019 models offer the best technology before the redesign.

Frequently Asked Questions