Gmc Sierra 3500 problems

Gmc Sierra 3500 years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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Gmc Sierra 3500 model years

Common Gmc Sierra 3500 problems

The GMC Sierra 3500, a popular choice for those needing a heavy-duty pickup truck, has been known to have several common problems. These issues are based on complaints from owners and can help potential buyers be aware of what to expect.

Fuel Transfer Unit: Some owners of the 2014 Sierra 3500 have reported issues with the fuel transfer unit, which can lead to problems with the fuel system.

Electrical Issues: Electrical problems, such as flickering headlights and issues with the fuel transfer unit, have been reported by owners of the GMC Sierra 3500.

Exterior Issues: Complaints about exterior issues, such as leaking roof antennas, have been reported by owners of the 2015 Sierra 3500.

These common problems with the GMC Sierra 3500 highlight the importance of being aware of potential issues and addressing them promptly to ensure the vehicle remains in good working condition.

What years to avoid Sierra 3500?

Sierra 3500 Generations

The Sierra 3500 has 4 generations, each with their own issues. Using the same PainRank™ system we've determined that you're better off avoiding the 1st generation (1992–2006).

Is the GMC 3500 diesel reliable?

The GMC Sierra 3500 HD Reliability Rating is 2.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 11th out of 17 for fullsize trucks. The average annual repair cost is $1,121 which means it has poor ownership costs. The frequency of repairs is average, but when issues do arise, they are more likely to be severe than with other models.

How many miles per gallon does a GMC Sierra 3500 get?

Based on data from 36 vehicles, 2,711 fuel-ups and 909,449 miles of driving, the 2021 GMC Sierra 3500 HD gets a combined Avg MPG of 13.84 with a 0.16 MPG margin of error.

Is GMC 3500 good for towing?

How much can a 3500 HD GMC Sierra pull? The heavy-duty 2024 GMC Sierra 3500 HD has the highest GMC Sierra towing capacity, a maximum gooseneck towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Gmc Sierra 3500 years

We have researched Gmc problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Gmc Sierra 3500 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Gmc Sierra 3500 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Gmc Sierra 3500 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Gmc Sierra 3500 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Gmc Sierra 3500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Gmc Sierra 3500 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Exterior lighting problems
Service brakes problems
Power train problems
Electrical system problems
Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Gmc Sierra 3500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Sierra 3500 model years

A total of 39 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Sierra 3500 model years

There were a total of 15 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Sierra 3500 model years

There were a total of 36 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 603 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Gmc Sierra 3500 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Gmc Sierra 3500 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Gmc Sierra 3500 2016

Date Of Incident: 2024-10-25
Date Complaint: 2024-10-25
Crash: 1
VIN: 1GTV2MEC2GZ
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS
Summary: The contact owned a 2016 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle would lose automotive power. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the negative battery was replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that while her husband was driving at approximately 45 MPH, a deer ran into the middle of the roadway and impacted the front grill and bumper. The Service Air Bag warning light was illuminated. After the impact, the contact noticed smoke was leaking into the interior of the vehicle from the front driver-side and passenger-side air bags. The contact stated that the vehicle would not move forward or reverse after the impact. The contact stated that the front driver-side and passenger-side seat belts failed to retract or extend. The contact and her husband were able to unbuckle the seat belts and safely exit the vehicle in time. No injuries were sustained. No police reports or fire reports were filed. The vehicle was deemed a total loss and was towed to the contact's home where it remained for further investigation. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made not aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2017

Date Of Incident: 2024-07-05
Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
VIN: 1GT02WEG8HZ
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: tHE 6L90 TRANMISSION FAILED WITH NO WARNING AT 58,408 MILES. HAD TO BACK THE TRUCK UP IN TRAFFIC OVER 1/2 MILE TO REACH A SAFE SPOT. SEEMS GM IS HAVING A LOT OF PROBLEMS WITH THIS TRANSMISSION AND THEIR 8 SPEED TRANSMISSION. NO ASSISTANCE FROM GM TO REPAIR SEEING I WAS OUT OF THE 5 YEAR 100000 WARRANTY. SEEMS GM KNOW ABOUT THESES PROBLEMS. HAD TO SPEND $5K TO GET NO DEALER SERVICE TO INSTALL A REMANUFACTURED TRANS, HOPING IT WILL NOT HAPPEN AGAIN

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2019

Date Of Incident: 2024-10-16
Date Complaint: 2024-10-20
VIN: 1GT42WEY7KF
Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
Summary: Bought the vehicle new in 2019 currently at a dealership to have the third in tank electric fuel pump installed. When it was in the shop for the second fuel pump installation the technician informed me that the pump can go out at any time causing a potential accident. Fortunately truck wouldn’t start and was diagnosed at dealership.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2014

Date Of Incident: 2024-10-15
Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
VIN: 3GTU2VEC3EG
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: The contact owns a 2014 GMC Sierra. The contact stated that while making a right turn into the driveway, the steering wheel had become stiff. No warning light had illuminated. The vehicle was no longer being driven since the steering wheel was too stiff and required excessive force causing control to be lost while driving. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 105,000.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2021

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-09
Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
VIN: 1GT49WEY9MF
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: While driving 55mph on a 2 lane road, pulling a 5th wheel camper, the truck transmission downshifted by itself to a low gear. This caused a scary and immediate deceleration from 55 to 25mph. The trailer wanted to push into the oncoming lane the deceleration was so fast. The truck is at a dealership and they acknowledge the issue but not a fix other than putting back in the failed part. There was no warning and my readings say many others are having same issue. The small dealership we left the truck with (yemm Chevrolet in Galesburg Il) said they had 3 trucks with the same issue. The truck has been with the dealership for 7 weeks now.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2024

Date Of Incident: 2024-09-29
Date Complaint: 2024-10-01
VIN: 1GT49WEY9RF
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2024 GMC Sierra 3500. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and hauling a trailer, the message "Trailer Brake Disabled - Service Required" was displayed. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the failure was related to TSB Number: 23-NA-113; however, the part to do the repair was not yet available. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 2,390.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2023

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-23
Date Complaint: 2024-09-23
VIN: 1GT49WEYXPF
Components: TIRES
Summary: The contact owns a 2023 GMC Sierra 3500. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and hauling a 2023 Merhow Horse trailer, the TPMS became inoperable and could not read the trailer tire pressure. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, where it was diagnosed and determined that the failure occurred due to the TPMS sensor location and range. The dealer informed the contact that the TMPS sensor was losing the WI-FI connection because it was located behind the license plate, and the TMPS sensor was designed with a 23-ft. range. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 7,000.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2024

Date Of Incident: 2024-08-10
Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
VIN: 1GT49WEY6RF
Components: STEERING,WHEELS
Summary: since new there is a violent vibration in the steering wheel and floor boards. steering wheel oscillates side to side at speed from 38mph to very bad at 65mph. Dealer has had it 5 times and still cant fix it. they state the front hub extensions are out of round and have tried 3 sets without any success. this truck is not safe to drive as it will put your hands to sleep due to the vibration. Also it will cause premature system component failure. the GM forum and Duramax forum is showing many cases nation wide with this symptom. Also there is NO provision with the current 18 inch wheel to index concentrically with the mating hubs on all four wheel locations This is mainly affection the Dually wheel Denali or high-country vehicles

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2024

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-15
Date Complaint: 2024-09-22
VIN: 1GT49YEY2RF
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: The truck intermittently shuts off trailer brakes.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-06
Date Complaint: 2024-09-04
Crash: 1
VIN: 1GT49WEY2NF
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: When towing our 5th wheel RV we started getting messages on the computer that the trailer brakes were not working due to an issue with the brake controller. Trailer brakes would come and go. The only time we got notification was when towing. Only 20 minutes after getting the first notification we were involved in an accident due to the trailer brakes not working. We thoroughly had the trailer brakes and plugs checked and they are not the problem .

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2023

Date Of Incident: 2024-01-01
Date Complaint: 2024-08-30
VIN: 1GT49WEY6PF
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE
Summary: There are 2 issues with this vehicle: #1) The rear window defrost causes an electrical issue that melted the plastic on our rear sliding window. Dealer claims we put something hot against the window but we did not. This appeared after we used the rear defrost. Several other owners have complained about this as well. #2) The vehicle is advertised as having adaptive cruise but it does not have this feature.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2024

Date Of Incident: 2024-05-13
Date Complaint: 2024-08-21
VIN: 1GT49YEY2RF
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: The truck disengages the 5th wheel trailer brakes. The DIC states "Trailer brakes disabled - service required". I intermittently lose trailer braking capability.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2020

Date Of Incident: 2024-03-07
Date Complaint: 2024-08-01
VIN: 1GT49WEYXLF
Components: STRUCTURE
Summary: There is a current safety recall N232426400 on GMC pickups including the year of my truck. GMC is saying that my VIN is not covered by the recall. However, I have the multi-pro tailgate and it came open about 6 months ago on its own as i was backing up and it caused me to run into my trailer with the tailgate. I put my tailgate up after moving my truck from under my trailer and then when i went to back up somehow the tailgate popped open and i didnt know and it contacted the top of tailgate while it was down.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2018

Date Of Incident: 2024-07-26
Date Complaint: 2024-07-29
VIN: 1GT42YEY8JF
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2018 GMC Sierra 3500. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, several unknown warning lights illuminated on the instrument panel. The contact pulled over to the shoulder of the roadway to restart the vehicle. After the vehicle was restarted, the vehicle hesitated to stop while depressing the brake pedal. The local dealer was contacted, but the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 53,800.

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Gmc Sierra 3500 2022

Date Of Incident: 2024-02-15
Date Complaint: 2024-07-26
VIN: 1GT49WEY5NF
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Summary: The contact owns a 2022 GMC Sierra 3500 equipped with a 2024 Gatormade 35+5 Trailer. The contact stated that while driving on several occasions, the "Check Trailer Wiring" message was displayed. Additionally, when the brake pedal was depressed however, the trailer did not slow as intended; however, the rear brake lights were illuminated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,000.

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Latest 5 recalls Gmc Sierra 3500

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 99 recalls for different components of the Gmc Sierra 3500.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Gmc Sierra 3500 2018
Report Received Date: 2024-10-10
Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR
Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2018-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra 2500, 3500 Crew Cab trucks. The left or right-side roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence: A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the left and right side RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 25, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC Customer Service at 888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N242474500.

Model: Gmc Sierra 3500 2019
Report Received Date: 2024-10-10
Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN:INFLATOR
Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2018-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra 2500, 3500 Crew Cab trucks. The left or right-side roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
Consequence: A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the left and right side RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 25, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC Customer Service at 888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N242474500.

Model: Gmc Sierra 3500 2024
Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH
Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The tailgate's electronic gate-release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertently unlatching while the vehicle is in park.
Consequence: An unlatched tailgate may open while driving and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232426400.

Model: Gmc Sierra 3500 2020
Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH
Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The tailgate's electronic gate-release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertently unlatching while the vehicle is in park.
Consequence: An unlatched tailgate may open while driving and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232426400.

Model: Gmc Sierra 3500 2021
Report Received Date: 2024-02-01
Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TAILGATE:LATCH
Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2024 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles equipped with power-unlatching tailgates. The tailgate's electronic gate-release switch may short circuit due to water intrusion, which can result in the tailgate inadvertently unlatching while the vehicle is in park.
Consequence: An unlatched tailgate may open while driving and result in a loss of unsecured cargo, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: Owners are advised to check that the tailgate is closed and latched before driving. Dealers will replace the exterior touchpad switch assemblies, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 17, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N232426400.

Latest negative Gmc Sierra 3500 car reviews

Dale Steuber 2024-11-01

Vehicle year: 2002

It seems like the Ford is a much better option than this one.
Leonard Fisher 2024-10-28

Vehicle year: 2005

It seems like the Ford is a much better option than this one.
Carlos Price 2024-10-05

Vehicle year: 2004

Truck looks great! The fuel mileage (non-towing) is not bad for a ton dually at 13 mpg. However, when towing, it's a different story. The average for this 6.0L engine is six (6) miles per gallon. Unfortunately, the tow mileage is not great and the truck is at its maximum performance on the interstate at 70mph. It seems to have no power left.
Burley Johnston 2024-09-04

Vehicle year: 2006

I wish I had bought an F-350.
Nathan Keebler 2024-08-24

Vehicle year: 2004

I wish I had bought an F-350.

Latest positive Gmc Sierra 3500 car reviews

Jameson Schuppe 2024-11-10

Vehicle year: 2005

The only issue I've had is that the left door speaker went bad. The one thing that bothers me is that the rear springs make a clunking noise when going over some bumps at lower speeds, even with just the camper on.
Noe Roob 2024-11-04

Vehicle year: 1998

It sounds like you have a great truck! With just over 140,000 miles, it's impressive that it doesn't burn oil and still has plenty of power. I think it's a great idea to do a minor restoration and keep the original colors of camel beige with cherry red sides. It's always been a head turner and I'm sure it will continue to be. Best of luck with the restoration!
Grady Klein 2024-10-22

Vehicle year: 2004

I am so glad to hear that you are extremely satisfied with Fleet Manager Diane Ford! It's quite ironic that she works for GM with that name, isn't it? I'm also happy to hear that you have an excellent truck that has lasted 230K miles on the last one and is still going strong at 430K on the Duramax/Allison combination.
Tyler Hirthe 2024-10-22

Vehicle year: 2005

I must say, my experience with my GMC has been absolutely fantastic! Since I first got it, I have travelled over 17,000 miles and it has never let me down. It hauls my 42' 5th wheel with ease and my daughter and I both love the DVD system with the wireless headphones. The sound and entertainment systems are top-notch. Although the shocks can be a little stiff when I'm not hauling, it's a minor issue. I did a lot of comparison shopping and found that my GMC had the most options for the best price.
Keshawn Kozey 2024-10-19

Vehicle year: 2004

Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my truck that I bought at the end of July. I installed a Una-Goose ball hitch in the bed and I drive it every day. So far, I've put over 29,000 miles on it and I haven't had any reason to take it to the dealer yet. I actually do all my own general service! I've towed loads as heavy as 16,000 pounds without any problems. The transmission handles all the loads with ease thanks to the grade braking. The only issue I've had is keeping my speed down because there's so much power! I find myself going too fast sometimes. Anyway, thanks for listening to my story!