Last updated: 2026-10-10

GMC Sierra 1500

GMC Sierra 1500 Years to Avoid

9 scored model years (2018–2026) · model average 69/100

The GMC Sierra 1500 years to avoid are 2019, 2021 based on reliability scores, NHTSA recalls, and owner complaints. The worst year is 2019 with a reliability score of 60/100. The best GMC Sierra 1500 year to buy is 2024 73/100.

Verdict

The 2019, 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 score significantly below the model average of 69/100. The weakest year is 2019 with a score of 60/100 due to engine (159) issues. The best year to buy instead is 2024 73/100. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.

See years to avoid ↓See best year ↓See all years ranked ↓

GMC Sierra 1500 Years to Avoid

These model years score significantly below the GMC Sierra 1500 average of 69/100.

#YearScoreRatingRecallsComplaintsTop Issue
1201960/100Good10523Engine (159)
2202163/100Good6420Engine (142)

Why These Years Should Be Avoided

60
GoodReliability score: 60 out of 100, rated Good

2019 GMC Sierra 1500

Weakest of the nine scored years, with engine seizures and transmission shudder leading 523 owner complaints; both the 2018 and 2020 rate better.

10 recalls523 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Engine (159), Power Train (106), Electrical System (63), Service Brakes (53), Steering (40), Unknown Or Other (28)

View full 2019reliability report →
63
GoodReliability score: 63 out of 100, rated Good

2021 GMC Sierra 1500

Weaker than most Sierra years, with lifter failures starting as early as 7,000 miles and a 6.2-liter engine recall that left trucks waiting on parts.

6 recalls420 complaintsEst. repair:

Top issues: Engine (142), Power Train (95), Electrical System (45), Engine And Engine Cooling (36), Steering (25), Unknown Or Other (22)

View full 2021reliability report →

What Are Common GMC Sierra 1500 Problems?

Sierra 1500 engine problems

764 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2021, 2022

2019: Sudden seizures and power loss strike with little warning, often at highway speed, and the dash fills with warning lights.

Sierra 1500 transmission problems

565 complaints

Most reported in 2018, 2019, 2021

2018: Hard, jarring shifts from the 8-speed automatic are the dominant complaint, especially between first and second gear.

Sierra 1500 electrical problems

310 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2022, 2021

2019: Two fires are reported.

STEERING

144 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2020, 2018

2019: Power steering cuts out while driving or at startup, leaving a heavy wheel and a service power steering message, often with the same ESC and brake warnings seen under brakes.

STRUCTURE

144 complaints

Most reported in 2022, 2023, 2024

2022: The upper grille molding or deflector breaks loose at highway speed and flies off.

SERVICE BRAKES

140 complaints

Most reported in 2019, 2020, 2018

2019: Restarting after a short stop can bring up a cluster of warnings: brake system failure with a 62 mph limit, Service ESC, service trailer brake, and reduced steering assist.

Best GMC Sierra 1500 Year to Buy Instead

73
GoodReliability score: 73 out of 100, rated Good

2024 GMC Sierra 1500

Stronger than most 2024 trucks, yet marked by 6.2L engine seizures and transmission valve body failures in the first 20,000 miles.

Score: 73/100 (Good)1 recalls242 complaints
View full 2024reliability report →
VIN History Report

Found a Safe Year? Check the Specific Car

Even the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 has 1 recall on file. A VIN check confirms the recall work on the exact car and shows its accident, title, and service history.

No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

All GMC Sierra 1500 Years by Generation

5th Generation (2019–Present) (2019–present)

82
ExcellentReliability score: 82 out of 100, rated Excellent

2026 GMC Sierra 1500

0 recalls · 0 complaints

80
ExcellentReliability score: 80 out of 100, rated Excellent

2025 GMC Sierra 1500

1 recalls · 56 complaints

73
GoodReliability score: 73 out of 100, rated Good

2024 GMC Sierra 1500

1 recalls · 242 complaints

69
GoodReliability score: 69 out of 100, rated Good

2023 GMC Sierra 1500

3 recalls · 318 complaints

65
GoodReliability score: 65 out of 100, rated Good

2022 GMC Sierra 1500

5 recalls · 439 complaints

63
GoodReliability score: 63 out of 100, rated Good

2020 GMC Sierra 1500

11 recalls · 368 complaints

63
GoodReliability score: 63 out of 100, rated Good

2021 GMC Sierra 1500

6 recalls · 420 complaints

Weakest Year
60
GoodReliability score: 60 out of 100, rated Good

2019 GMC Sierra 1500

10 recalls · 523 complaints

Weakest Year

Frequently Asked Questions

What GMC Sierra 1500 years should you avoid?
Based on our data, you should avoid the following GMC Sierra 1500 years: 2019 (score: 60/100), 2021 (score: 63/100). These model years score significantly below the GMC Sierra 1500 average of 69/100.
What is the best year for the GMC Sierra 1500?
The best year for the GMC Sierra 1500 is 2024, with a reliability score of 73/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 242 owner complaints. Newer model years (2025–2026) score higher partly because they've had less time to accumulate owner complaints.
How many recalls does the GMC Sierra 1500 have?
Across all years in our database, the GMC Sierra 1500 has a total of 42 recalls. Recall counts vary by year — check individual model year reports for details.
Is a used GMC Sierra 1500 worth buying?
Yes, especially the 2024 model year, which scores 73/100. Stick to years at or above the model average of 69/100 for the best ownership experience.
What are common GMC Sierra 1500 problems?
The most common GMC Sierra 1500 problems are engine (764 complaints), power train (565 complaints), electrical system (310 complaints). These issues are reported across multiple model years based on NHTSA owner complaint data.
Is the GMC Sierra 1500 reliable long-term?
The GMC Sierra 1500 has an average reliability score of 69/100 across all model years in our database, rated "good". Overall, it is a reliable vehicle, though some model years perform better than others.
Which GMC Sierra 1500 generation is most reliable?
The most reliable GMC Sierra 1500 generation is the 5th Generation (2019–Present) with an average score of 69/100. Compare generations in our all-years-by-generation section above.
Is the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 a good used buy?
Yes, the 2024 GMC Sierra 1500 is our top-recommended model year with a reliability score of 73/100 ("Good"). It has 1 recalls and 242 owner complaints, making it a solid used buy.

How we score every GMC Sierra 1500 model year

Scores weight complaint severity at 35%, repair costs at 30%, recall impact at 20%, and the spread of complaints across systems at 15%, with complaint counts adjusted for US sales. Read the full methodology.

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