1997 Gmc Sierra 1500 problems

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The Chevrolet Silverado is a range of trucks manufactured by General Motors under the Chevrolet brand. Introduced for the 1999 model year, the Silverado is the successor to the long-running Chevrolet C/K model line. Taking its name from the top trim level from the Chevrolet C/K series, the Silverado is offered as a series of full-size pickup trucks, chassis cab trucks, and medium-duty trucks. The fourth generation of the model line was introduced for the 2019 model year.

The Chevrolet Silverado shares mechanical commonality with the identically related GMC Sierra; GMC ended the use of the C/K nomenclature a model generation prior to Chevrolet. In Mexico, high-trim level versions of the Silverado use the Chevrolet Cheyenne name (not to be confused with the 2003 concept). Competing against the Ford F-Series, Ram Pickup, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Titan, the Silverado is among the best-selling vehicles in the United States, having sold over 12 million trucks since its introduction in 1998 as a 1999 model year.

History

The Silverado nameplate made its debut for the 1975 model year, becoming the top trim level on all Chevrolet C/K trucks, slotted above Custom Deluxe, Scottsdale, and Cheyenne. For the 1968 model year (seven years before the Silverado), GMC C/K trucks used variations of the Sierra name (Sierra, Sierra Classic, Sierra Grande, and High Sierra). Even after the C/K series officially ended, GM still uses the CK and the CC in their current model codes, to denote a two-wheel drive (CC), and four-wheel drive (CK).

For the 1988 GMT400 model architecture, Chevrolet retained the C/K model nomenclature, with GMC branding its full-size line as Sierras. While sharing the same body and chassis, the model chronology of the Silverado and Sierra are different, with five generations of the Sierra, while four of the Silverado.

In 2018, at the NTEA Work Truck Show in Indianapolis, Indiana, Chevrolet unveiled the first medium-duty Silverado, expanding the model line to a 4500HD, 5500HD, and 6500HD chassis cab. Largely the successor to the 2003–2009 GMT560 chassis, the medium-duty trucks are exclusive to Chevrolet, with no plans for an equivalent GMC version. Instead, Navistar International (now partnering with GM) would sell the medium-duty trucks as a rebadged counterpart, called the CV. This is in fact a very similar nod to how the Avalanche did not have a GMC Yukon–based equivalent, but instead, Cadillac would take its place as the former's rebadged counterpart, the Escalade EXT.

1997 Gmc Sierra 1500

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Common 1997 Gmc Sierra 1500 problems

The 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 has been reported to have several common problems, primarily in the categories of interior accessories, transmission, and wiper blades.

  • Transmission: The 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 has experienced transmission failure, which is the worst problem reported by owners. The average cost to fix this issue is not available, and it typically occurs at an average mileage of 7,000 miles.
  • Wiper Blades: Another common problem with the 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 is the failure of wiper blades to work. This issue occurs at an average mileage of 107,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Gear Shift: Some owners have reported issues with the gear shift, which won't move out of park. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 104,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Exterior Accessories: A small number of owners have reported issues with exterior accessories, such as paint quality. This issue is not widespread but has been reported by some owners.
  • Cooling System: A few owners have reported issues with the cooling system, which has resulted in engine overheating. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 136,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Engine: Some owners have reported issues with the engine, such as engine failure. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 157,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Steering: A few owners have reported issues with the steering system, which can result in a loss of steering control. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 159,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Brakes: Some owners have reported issues with the brakes, such as brake failure. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 161,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Windows/Windshield: A few owners have reported issues with the windows and windshield, such as windows not working properly. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 162,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Fuel System: Some owners have reported issues with the fuel system, such as fuel leaks. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 165,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Seat Belts/Air Bags: A few owners have reported issues with the seat belts and airbags, such as airbags not deploying. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 166,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Suspension: Some owners have reported issues with the suspension system, such as suspension failure. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 167,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Body/Paint: A small number of owners have reported issues with the body and paint, such as rust. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 168,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Electrical: Some owners have reported issues with the electrical system, such as electrical failure. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 169,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Drivetrain: A few owners have reported issues with the drivetrain, such as drivetrain failure. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 170,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.
  • Miscellaneous: Some owners have reported miscellaneous issues with the 1997 GMC Sierra 1500, such as problems with the power windows and seats. These issues occur at an average mileage of 171,000 miles, and the average cost to fix them is not available.
  • Lights: A small number of owners have reported issues with the lights, such as headlights not working. This problem occurs at an average mileage of 172,000 miles, and the average cost to fix it is not available.

In summary, the 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 has several common problems, primarily in the categories of interior accessories, transmission, and wiper blades. These issues can be costly to fix and can affect the overall reliability and safety of the vehicle. It is essential for owners to be aware of these issues and to address them promptly to ensure the safe and reliable operation of their vehicle.

1997 Gmc Sierra 1500 engine

What is the most common problem with GMC?

Nearly every GMC model experiences issues with its HVAC system. The air conditioning condenser on the 2015 Sierra 1500 is known to fail. It seems the Envoy is the only model that escapes this issue.

How many miles per gallon does a 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 5.7 Vortec get?

The 5.7-liter V-8 has plenty of power though the 13-mile-per-galloncity/17-m.p.g. highway rating clearly indicates there's a price to pay for anyand all energy boosts. Thank goodness the fuel tank holds 25 gallons, you'llneed each and every one of them.

Is a 1997 GMC Sierra fuel injected?

Best Answer. The 1997 GMC 350 (5.7 L) is a Vortec motor with fuel injection. It was first used in 1996 and I believe motor through 2000 are the same as yours. Older motors use a throttle body intake with a carburetor.

Is a GMC Sierra a good first car?

GMC Sierra

If you're a first-time buyer looking for something high-end and premium without needing the Silverado's top-line towing and performance power, the Sierra may be a perfect choice.

Is GMC Sierra 1500 reliable?

Yes, GMC trucks are among the most reliable pickups on the market. Year after year, the J.D. Power Dependability Study has ranked the Sierra 1500 and Sierra 2500HD in the top five of their respective segments.

Does GMC Sierra have engine problems?

The 2022 GMC Sierra engine issues are one of the largest GMC scandals in recent years. It is more than likely that customers will be dissuaded from buying this truck in the near future but hopefully, General Motors will manage to address all the issues quickly.

What is the best year for the Sierra 1500?

Overall, the GMC Sierra 1500 is worth it if you're willing to keep up with regular maintenance for the machine. We recommend 2004, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017, and 2018 options as your top picks on the market.

How long do GMC Sierra 1500 engines last?

If you take care of your GMC Sierra, you can expect it to last around 250,000 miles without too many worries.

1997 Gmc Sierra 1500 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Gmc Sierra 1500.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

1997 Gmc Sierra 1500 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1997 Gmc Sierra 1500.

2007-10-24
  • Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.
2006-05-19
  • Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
  • Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
1998-08-10
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CREW CAB PICKUP TRUCKS. THE FRONT, INNER CORNER OF THE FUEL TANK CAN CONTACT THE BODY SILL EITHER INTERMITTENTLY OR CONSTANTLY. THIS MOVEMENT CAN CAUSE A DISCERNIBLE NOISE AND, OVER TIME, CAN WEAR A HOLE IN OR CRACK THE FUEL TANK AT POINT OF CONTACT.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN FUEL LEAKAGE AND A DISTINCT FUEL ODOR IF THE TANK WERE FILLED ABOVE THE LEVEL OF THE HOLE OR CRACK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD RESULT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE FUEL TANK FOR WEAR AND, EITHER INSTALL A SPACER BETWEEN THE FUEL TANK AND THE FRONT CROSSMEMBER, OR IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE FUEL TANK.
1997-10-07
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS. ONE OR TWO OF THE FRONT SEAT MOUNTING BOLTS WERE NOT INSTALLED. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS."
  • Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, A SEAT WITH THIS CONDITION WILL NOT PROTECT THE OCCUPANT AS REQUIRED BY THE STANDARD.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL CHECK ALL SEAT MOUNTING BOLTS AND INSTALL ANY MISSING BOLTS.
1997-03-07
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: EXTENDED CAB AND 2-DOOR UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH RECLINING SEATS AND THE EASY-ENTRY FEATURE. THESE VEHICLES EXHIBIT A CONDITION IN WHICH A PINCH POINT EXISTS IN THE RECLINER MECHANISM THAT CAN TRAP AND PINCH A PERSON'S HAND OR FINGER(S) WHEN THE EASY-ENTRY FEATURE IS ACTIVATED.
  • Consequence: THIS PINCHING CAN CUT THE HAND OR POSSIBLY SEVER THE FINGER(S) WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A PROTECTOR COVER OVER THE RECLINER MECHANISM.

Negative 1997 Gmc Sierra 1500 car reviews

  1. Keeley Gerlach 2024-10-15

    Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share some information about my truck with you. It's been well-maintained and is in great shape, even though it had 165,000kms on it when I bought it. I've driven it for 10,000kms so far and it's been dependable. It has a 4.3L V6 motor that gets anywhere from 15-21 mpg in the city, although I've noticed that it fluctuates quite a bit with the cold weather. While the performance is a bit weak, I still find it to be a great truck. I would suggest the v8 models if you're looking for more power though. Unfortunately, the A/C condenser has a leak and doesn't work, and the rear shocks are clunky and will need to be replaced. However, with regular maintenance, this truck runs really well. Thanks for your time!

  2. Jarrett Senger 2024-08-05

    At 48,000 miles, the transmission began to shift hard. Despite a transmission service, the new fluid burned up after only 8-9,000 miles. The dealer's service department was unhelpful, and the transmission had to be replaced for $725.00. Unfortunately, at 51,000 miles, the same issue arose again, and neither GM nor the dealer were able to assist. However, we were fortunate enough to find a transmission specialist in Reno, NV who informed us that this was a common problem with these trucks, caused by a GM design defect in a small $21.70 switch in the torque converter. They were able to replace the switch for less than $400.00, and we have not experienced any further issues in the past 9 months.

  3. Joseph Thiel 2024-03-24

    Congratulations on your first car! It's great that you're able to drive something you enjoy. As a younger person, it can be tough to find the right vehicle, but it sounds like you've found a great fit with this truck. While you used to be hard on it with hard accelerating, braking, steering, and offroading, it's wonderful to hear that you now take good care of it. The only issues you've had are with the manifold gasket and the driver's seat, but other than that, the fluids are fine between checkups and the truck runs great for you. Keep up the good work!

  4. Bernhard McClure 2024-01-15

    I got a great deal on this vehicle at the dealership in Urbana Ohio, but unfortunately, I've had a lot of issues with it. From electrical problems to brake and transmission issues, it's been a frustrating experience. The power steering has gone out multiple times and the windshield wipers have even stopped working in the rain. This experience has made me reconsider my loyalty to GM products. I'm now considering purchasing a reliable Japanese car with the insurance money.

Positive 1997 Gmc Sierra 1500 car reviews

  1. Jerome Sanford 2024-10-21

    Your truck sounds like a reliable and efficient machine! In the 3 years that you've owned it, you've only had to do brakes once and one tune up (plugs, wires & a cap), which is impressive. With the 4.3L V6 and a 5sp manual tranny, you get a solid 20 miles to the gallon in the summer and about 19 to 19.5 miles to the gallon the rest of the year. Living in New Hampshire, it's great that you have a 2 wheel drive truck with tire chains that can crawl out of almost anything. Thanks for sharing your experience!

  2. Sanford Sanford 2024-10-18

    Hi there! I'm selling my car after 160,000 miles. It has been well-maintained with only 2 sets of tires, a new fuel pump, and a manifold gasket needed. The car has no rust and the paint and interior still look like new. It gets around 16 mpg under most conditions and does not burn oil between 6000 mile changes. I have loved this car so much that I am planning to buy another one, but this time a crew cab as entry and exit can be difficult to the crowded rear seat.

  3. Drake Kessler 2024-09-22

    Hi there! Your 6 cylinder car is a real workhorse, it just keeps going and going!

  4. Stanford Schimmel 2024-09-11

    Hi there! I just wanted to share some information about my truck. It's a 97 extended cab XLT with leather seats, a 350 TBI, and Vortec heads. It's the first year with a 3 door design, which is pretty cool. Although it has some typical Chevy paint flaking issues, a cracked dash, split leather seats, and a drooping headliner, it runs like a champ! I've had to replace the driver's side power seat, AC compressor, and alternator, as well as the battery, but it's still amazing. I plan on doing a complete overhaul after 25 years and letting my kids enjoy it for the next 25. Thanks for listening!

  5. Braden Christiansen 2024-09-06

    Hey there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share with you that my family has owned this truck for over 10 years, and now it's mine! When I first started driving it, it had about 100,000 miles on it. Now, it has 220,000 miles and I'm happy to say that I've only had to do regular maintenance and replace the starter and alternator. It's been a reliable truck and I'm grateful to have it!

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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1997 Gmc Sierra 1500 problems:

Top 5 Problems GMC Chevy Truck 4th Generation 1988-02 - YouTube
Top 5 Problems GMC Chevy Truck 4th Generation 1988-02 - YouTube
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Apr 4, 2020 ... This Top 5 Problems on the 4th Gen GM Trucks will show you the most common issues you will find on GMT400 platform trucks from 1988 to 2002.

1997 GMC C1500 Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
1997 GMC C1500 Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
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88 to 98 Chevrolet Truck Common Problems - YouTube
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Other years of Gmc Sierra 1500

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1997 Gmc Sierra 1500 photo