GradeGMC Sierra Reliability Grade
Below-average reliability
Grade a specific GMC Sierra
Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.
The GMC Sierra earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B- for its engine and a C for its transmission. It ranks 4th of 5 full-size trucks we grade. The transmission (C) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 5,398 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
GMC Sierra reliability by year
Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.
Best years: 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2016
Years to avoid: 2019–2020 (engine failure / knocking) and 2021–2023 (stalling / loss of power)
Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.
How long does the GMC Sierra last?
A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.
GMC Sierra vs. other full-size trucks
| Model | Engine | Trans. | Overall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toyota Tundra | A- | A | A |
| Chevrolet Silverado | B | C+ | B- |
| Ram 1500 | C+ | B- | C+ |
| Ford F-150 | B | D | C |
| GMC Sierra | B- | C | C |
Own a GMC Sierra?
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Rate your SierraGMC Sierra reliability FAQ
Is the GMC Sierra reliable?
Below-average reliability. The GMC Sierra earns a C overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a B- for its engine and a C for its transmission. It ranks 4th of 5 full-size trucks we grade. The transmission (C) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 5,398 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2013-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.
How many miles will a GMC Sierra last?
We estimate a well-maintained GMC Sierra lasts around 250,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.
What are the best years for the GMC Sierra?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the most reliable GMC Sierra model years are 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2016.
What GMC Sierra years should I avoid?
Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the GMC Sierra years to be most careful with are 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022 and 2023. The 2022 grades an F overall (engine D, transmission D), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power. The 2023 grades an F overall (engine D, transmission D), and its top engine/transmission problem is stalling / loss of power.
Is the GMC Sierra transmission reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the GMC Sierra transmission a C (below-average reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.
Is the GMC Sierra engine reliable?
GradeMyCar grades the GMC Sierra engine a B- (average reliability).