Last updated: 2026-03-04

2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Reliability Score & Common Problems
The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 scores 60/100 ("Good"). With 10 recalls and 523 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.
2019 is the first model year of the 5th Generation (2019–Present).
Recalls
10
Complaints
523
Complaint Rate
28.1
per 10k sold
Above avgEst. Annual Cost
N/A
Major Repair Risk
N/A
NHTSA Rating
5/5
Score Breakdown
Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume
Independent repair cost ratings
Recall count weighted by severity
Breadth of reported problem categories
Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.
Top Issues
10 recalls on record
Generation & Refresh (US)
2019 is the first model year of the 5th Generation (2019–Present).
- First-year models may have unresolved issues from the new design.
- Redesigned for the 2019 model year.
- 5th generation Sierra 1500 (US).
What this means for buyers
First-year models carry more risk — early production issues are common. Consider waiting for the second year if reliability is a priority.
Compare 2019 pricing and recall counts against 2020+ before deciding.
5th Generation (2019–Present)
Should You Buy the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500?
The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 scores 60/100 ("Good"), placing it in acceptable but not class-leading territory. As a first-year redesign, early-adopter issues are common.
Its complaint rate (28.1 per 10k sold) is above the Truck segment average of 21.1. The most common reports involve engine (159).
A pre-purchase inspection is recommended for used examples, with particular attention to engine (159). An extended warranty may provide additional peace of mind.
Compared to the 2020 GMC Sierra 1500, which scored 3 points higher. See also the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 for an earlier comparison.
Pros
- Acceptable reliability score
- 5-star NHTSA crash rating
Cons
- Above-average recall count
- Above-average complaint rate for Truck
- ENGINE issues reported (159 complaints)
- 3 fire incidents reported in owner complaints
Compare 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 With
Common Problem Categories
Safety
- 10 manufacturer recalls issued
Other
- ENGINE (159)
- POWER TRAIN (106)
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (63)
- SERVICE BRAKES (57)
- STEERING (40)
- UNKNOWN OR OTHER (28)
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (13)
- STRUCTURE (11)
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING (8)
- SUSPENSION (7)
- LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES (4)
- ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC) (4)
- BACK OVER PREVENTION (3)
- VISIBILITY/WIPER (3)
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL (3)
- AIR BAGS (3)
- FUEL SYSTEM (2)
- PARKING BRAKE (2)
- SEAT BELTS (2)
- TIRES (2)
- FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM (1)
- VISIBILITY (1)
- WHEELS (1)
Recall Overview
10
recalls on record
The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 has 10 recalls on record, which is above average. A higher recall count can indicate multiple component concerns. However, recalls also demonstrate that the manufacturer is actively addressing known issues. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
NHTSA.gov →Complaint Breakdown
28.1
per 10k soldSegment avg: 21.1
Safety Incidents
Crashes
10
Fires
3
Injuries
11
Deaths
0
Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.
2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Recall Details
10 recalls have been issued for the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. All recall repairs are performed free of charge at authorized dealerships.
TIRES
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2021 GMC Sierra 1500 and Silverado 1500 vehicles equipped with certain accessory road tires and a 17" spare tire. The 17" spare tire provided with the vehicle is not compatible for use with the accessory wheels, which can cause the anti-lock brake system (ABS) to not function properly under certain conditions.
Consequence
An ABS system that does not function properly can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will provide a new 17" spare tire and wheel assembly that is compatible with the accessory wheels, free of charge. Dealers will also apply a new spare tire information label, and provide owners with an owner's manual insert clarifying which spare tire to use with the accessory road tires and with the 17" original tires. Owner notification letters were mailed February 7, 2022. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212346510.
TIRES
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
Consequence
Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers inspect and replace the tires as necessary, free of charge, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 25, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212336230.
TIRES
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
Consequence
Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.
2019 GMC Sierra 1500 NHTSA Safety Ratings
Overall Safety Rating
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)
Gas Powertrain
Rollover risk: 19.1%
Safety Technologies
GMC Sierra 1500 Repair Costs & Maintenance
Maintenance Rating
3.5Maintenance rating: 3.5 out of 5Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.
Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.
When Buying a Used 2019 GMC Sierra 1500
Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing, based on the most common reported issues.
- Inspect engine for lifter and camshaft damage
- Check for transmission shuddering and hard shifting
- Verify oil cooler line for leaks or detachment
- Test engine for knocking or ticking sounds
- Ensure no warning lights are present on the dashboard
- Check for any oil consumption issues
- Inspect for water leaks around rear window and third brake light
Check Any 2019 GMC Sierra 1500's History Before You Buy
Reliability scores tell you what to expect from the 2019 Sierra 1500 in general — but every car has its own story. Uncover past accidents, title issues, odometer rollbacks, and service records for a specific GMC Sierra 1500 with a free VIN lookup.
Powered by VINExposed.com — free vehicle history reports using public title and safety data.
2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Common Problems by Component
523 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.
ENGINE
159 complaintsOwners of the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 frequently report engine issues related to oil cooler line leaks, lifter failures, and catastrophic engine failures. Common symptoms include oil leaks, engine knocking, loss of power, and engine shutdowns, often occurring without warning at highway speeds. Many complaints involve significant engine repairs or replacements, with some owners noting problems as early as 71,000 miles. Safety implications are noted, with several owners describing sudden power loss while driving, which poses a risk in high-speed traffic situations. These patterns suggest that potential buyers should be aware of these issues, especially when considering vehicles with higher mileage.
POWER TRAIN
106 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent issues with the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500's powertrain, particularly concerning engine and transmission failures. Complaints commonly describe symptoms like engine knocking, ticking sounds, and catastrophic engine failure, often linked to camshaft and lifter issues, with some incidents occurring around 50,000 to 115,000 miles. Transmission problems are also prevalent, with reports of shuddering, hard shifting, and unexpected downshifts, sometimes leading to loss of control or stalling. Safety implications include at least one injury and a fire incident, highlighting the potential risk of driving these vehicles with unresolved powertrain issues. Used car buyers should be aware of these patterns, especially if considering a vehicle with higher mileage.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
63 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report several electrical system issues with the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500. Complaints frequently mention problems with the vehicle's electronic brake assist, including warning lights and system malfunctions, often around 35,000 to 43,000 miles. Multiple owners describe engine stalling and loss of power while driving, sometimes accompanied by electrical failures such as dim lights and non-responsive instrument panels. Two reports involve fires, highlighting potential safety risks. Additionally, issues with the rearview camera system and water leaks affecting electrical components are noted. These patterns suggest potential reliability concerns for used car buyers considering this model.
SERVICE BRAKES (57 complaints)
SERVICE BRAKES
57 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 frequently report issues with the vehicle's braking system, including sudden, unintentional braking and complete brake failure. Symptoms often described include the vehicle abruptly stopping without warning, brake pedals becoming stiff, and multiple brake-related warning messages appearing on the dashboard. These issues are reported to occur at various mileages, with some instances noted as early as 7,000 miles and others beyond 120,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with reports of crashes and injuries linked to these brake failures. Buyers considering this model should be aware of these potential braking system issues and the associated safety risks.
STEERING (40 complaints)
STEERING
40 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners report frequent power steering failures in the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500, often resulting in the steering wheel becoming difficult to turn or locking entirely. Symptoms typically include loss of power steering assistance, accompanied by dashboard warnings such as "Service ESC" and "Steering Assist Reduced." These issues are noted across various mileages, with some occurring as early as 13,000 miles. Safety implications are significant, with three complaints involving crashes due to steering failures. Buyers considering this model should be aware of potential steering system malfunctions that may require significant effort to manage during driving.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (28 complaints)
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
28 complaintsOwners of the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 frequently report issues related to water leaks, particularly around the rear window and third brake light, leading to concerns about mold and water damage. Complaints often describe problems with electronic systems, such as IntelliBeam headlights deactivating unexpectedly and backup cameras showing intermittent blue screens or fuzzy images, which can hinder visibility. Some owners experience rear-end lockups at low speeds, with two incidents resulting in injuries, raising safety concerns. These issues appear across various mileage ranges, with some electronic problems noted around 51,000 miles. Buyers should be aware of these recurring issues and the potential for costly repairs if outside warranty coverage.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (13 complaints)
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
13 complaintsOwners of the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 frequently report engine failures, often necessitating engine replacements. Common symptoms include engine shuddering, loss of motive power, abnormal ticking sounds, and illuminated warning lights such as the check engine light. Many complaints mention engine issues occurring around 50,000 to 120,000 miles, with some indicating problems like metal shavings in the oil pan, lifter and camshaft damage, and engine seizing. Safety implications include instances where the vehicle loses power while driving, which could increase the risk of accidents. Potential buyers should be aware of these patterns and the potential need for significant engine repairs.
STRUCTURE (11 complaints)
STRUCTURE
11 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 frequently report issues with water leaks, particularly from the rear window and third brake light, which can lead to water entering the cab and potential mold growth. Complaints also describe problems with the tailgate unlatching during transit, posing a risk of damage and safety concerns. Additionally, some owners note the peeling of the vehicle's exterior frame coating, leading to rust, typically around 25,000 miles. A few reports mention structural failures such as a sunroof explosion and a hard tri-fold bed cover detaching while driving. These issues suggest potential safety implications, including visibility problems and risks associated with unsecured vehicle components.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING (8 complaints)
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
8 complaintsOwners of the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 frequently report issues with the backup camera display brightness when the vehicle is put into reverse, particularly at night. Complaints describe the screen as being excessively bright, which can be blinding and makes it difficult to use side mirrors effectively, potentially compromising night vision. This issue appears to occur regardless of the vehicle's mileage, with no specific mileage range mentioned. Additionally, one owner reports a problem with LED headlamp covers becoming obstructed by snow, reducing visibility. Another owner notes an intermittent issue with the lane departure signal, which sometimes blinks only once instead of the intended three times. These issues are primarily related to visibility and could pose safety challenges when driving or reversing in low-light conditions.
AIR BAGS (3 complaints)
AIR BAGS
3 complaintsSafety-relatedOwners of the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 report issues with air bags failing to deploy during collisions, notably in incidents involving rear-end and deer impacts. Common symptoms described include air bag covers detaching and smoke filling the cabin, with the vehicle's system indicating deployment despite no physical air bags being released. These issues are reported at low mileage, around 6,000 miles, and involve significant safety implications, as all documented cases involve crashes. Prospective buyers should be aware of these air bag deployment concerns, particularly in the context of crash safety.
When Do 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 Problems Start?
Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.
Best & Worst GMC Sierra 1500 Years
Best GMC Sierra 1500 Years to Buy
The best GMC Sierra 1500 year is 2025 with a reliability score of 80/100, rated excellent. Other strong picks include 2024 (73/100) and 2023 (69/100).
GMC Sierra 1500 Years to Avoid
The worst GMC Sierra 1500 year is 2019 with a score of 60/100, primarily due to engine (159) issues.
2019(this page)
10 recalls · 523 complaints
GMC Sierra 1500 Reliability Score Trend
GMC Sierra 1500 reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 72/100 compared to 63/100 for older years.
Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.
| Year | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | 66/100 | Good |
| 2019 | 60/100 | Good |
| 2020 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2021 | 63/100 | Good |
| 2022 | 65/100 | Good |
| 2023 | 69/100 | Good |
| 2024 | 73/100 | Good |
| 2025 | 80/100 | Excellent |
GMC Sierra 1500 Reliability Compared to Other Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 reliable?
What are the most common problems with the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500?
How many recalls does the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 have?
Is the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 expensive to maintain?
How We Calculate Reliability Scores
Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.
Key Ranking Factors
Complaint Severity
NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.
Repair Costs
Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.
Recall Impact
Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.
Issue Diversity
Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.
Scores are grouped into four tiers:
- 80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
- 60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
- 40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
- 0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution
Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.
Browse More GMC Models
Browse More 2019 Vehicles
2019 Lexus RX
Score: 82/100
2019 Lexus IS
Score: 79/100
2019 Chevrolet Colorado
Score: 78/100
2019 Lexus GX
Score: 78/100
2019 Mazda 3
Score: 78/100
2019 Hyundai Elantra
Score: 78/100
2019 Lexus UX
Score: 77/100
2019 Toyota Corolla
Score: 77/100
See incorrect data? Report an issue