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GMC Sierra 1500 1999–2006 problems by year and mileage

1st generation Sierra (GMT800)

NHTSA data through 24 September 20261,398 complaints, 1,225 with mileageMethod

Which year is yours? Tap it to see what breaks on it.

• 1999103kmedian
• 200091kmedian
• 200197kmedian
• 200280kmedian
• 200375kmedian
• 200460kmedian
• 200570kmedian
• 200652kmedian

Each tile shows the median mileage at which that model year’s failures were reported. The 1999 reports latest and the 2006 earliest, but part of that gap is age: the 1999 has had 7 more years on the road to accumulate mileage.

The short answer

“Is the 1999–2006 GMC Sierra 1500 reliable?”

Median of reported failures

76,000 mi

90% of reports came by

156,000 mi

Reports with mileage

1,225

Recalls

30

Most reported

1. Hydraulic brake circuit27.4% of complaints · median 70,000 mi
2. Brakes25.5% of complaints · median 100,000 mi
3. Electrical system17.0% of complaints · median 66,000 mi

When each system fails ↓

Documented problems

• Instrument Cluster2003–2006
• Transmission
• Fuel System
• Drivetrain

What each one is ↓

Owners filed 1,398 complaints with NHTSA about the 1999–2006 GMC Sierra 1500; the hydraulic brake circuit leads with 27.4% of them, and half of the 1,225 that record an odometer reading came by 76,000 miles. A count like this can’t rate reliability on its own: NHTSA records what owners chose to report, not how many of each car were sold.

Failures are spread across the mileage range, with the middle half between 48,000 and 112,000 miles.

Before-you-buy checklist ↓At your mileage ↓Check this VIN — NHTSA ↗

How many miles does a 1999–2006 GMC Sierra 1500 last?

Figure 1 · GMC Sierra 1500 1999–2006 · 1,225 reports with mileage

Mileage at failure

Complaints per 5,000-mile bin, 0 to 200,000 miles, equal bins on a linear scale. Tallest bar = 66 complaints.

665033170

5.4% of all reports fall between 60,000 and 65,000 miles

25k50k75k100k125k150k175k200k

• Rest of the range
• Median
• 200,000+ — 48 complaints (3.9%), plotted separately

10%

27,000

25%

48,000

Median

76,400

75%

112,187

90%

155,540

Tallest bin: 66 complaints between 60,000 and 65,000 miles. Based on 1,225 complaints that record mileage. Bin width 5,000 miles.

Show the numbers

Complaints by mileage bin

Mileage	Complaints	Share
0–5,000	29	2.4%
5,000–10,000	13	1.1%
10,000–15,000	23	1.9%
15,000–20,000	24	2.0%
20,000–25,000	20	1.6%
25,000–30,000	37	3.0%
30,000–35,000	32	2.6%
35,000–40,000	39	3.2%
40,000–45,000	53	4.3%
45,000–50,000	46	3.8%
50,000–55,000	52	4.2%
55,000–60,000	43	3.5%
60,000–65,000	66	5.4%
65,000–70,000	53	4.3%
70,000–75,000	60	4.9%
75,000–80,000	56	4.6%
80,000–85,000	59	4.8%
85,000–90,000	42	3.4%
90,000–95,000	37	3.0%
95,000–100,000	41	3.3%
100,000–105,000	47	3.8%
105,000–110,000	27	2.2%
110,000–115,000	30	2.4%
115,000–120,000	27	2.2%
120,000–125,000	28	2.3%
125,000–130,000	17	1.4%
130,000–135,000	28	2.3%
135,000–140,000	17	1.4%
140,000–145,000	15	1.2%
145,000–150,000	16	1.3%
150,000–155,000	21	1.7%
155,000–160,000	14	1.1%
160,000–165,000	7	0.6%
165,000–170,000	9	0.7%
170,000–175,000	14	1.1%
175,000–180,000	9	0.7%
180,000–185,000	6	0.5%
185,000–190,000	7	0.6%
190,000–195,000	6	0.5%
195,000–200,000	7	0.6%
200,000+	48	3.9%

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain. Complaint counts reflect what owners reported and are not a measure of failure rate per vehicle sold.

What this can and cannot tell you: these are complaints owners chose to file, not a failure rate. Popular models accumulate more of them simply by being common. How this is built.

Common Sierra 1500 problems, and when they happen

Figure 2 · GMC Sierra 1500 1999–2006

When each system fails

Bar spans the middle half of reports; the notch inside each bar is the median. Miles at failure on a proportional scale — equal distances are equal ratios, not equal miles.

System0–12,000 mi factory-defect window12,000 mi and beyond wear and service lifeMedian

1. Steering80 reports50,00020,000–90,000Steering: 80 reports, median 50,000 miles, middle half 20,000 to 90,000 miles.
2. Transmission and driveline59 reports64,00020,000–108,000Transmission and driveline: 59 reports, median 64,000 miles, middle half 20,000 to 108,000 miles.
3. Electrical system238 reports66,00047,000–91,000Electrical system: 238 reports, median 66,000 miles, middle half 47,000 to 91,000 miles.
4. Hydraulic brake circuit383 reports70,00042,000–99,000Hydraulic brake circuit: 383 reports, median 70,000 miles, middle half 42,000 to 99,000 miles.
5. Body structure52 reports88,00060,000–136,000Body structure: 52 reports, median 88,000 miles, middle half 60,000 to 136,000 miles.
6. Airbag system56 reports98,00052,000–155,000Airbag system: 56 reports, median 98,000 miles, middle half 52,000 to 155,000 miles.
7. Brakes356 reports100,00070,000–135,000Brakes: 356 reports, median 100,000 miles, middle half 70,000 to 135,000 miles.

5001k2k5k10k20k50k100k200k

• Your odometer — appears after you enter it in “Where your car sits”

Ordered by median mileage, earliest first. The first 12,000 miles are shaded: that is the boundary this site uses between a manufacturing defect and ordinary wear, not a property of the world.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

All systems in a table

Complaints by vehicle system

System	Complaints	Share	Median	25–75%
Hydraulic brake circuit	383	27.4%	70,000	42,000–99,000
Brakes	356	25.5%	100,000	70,000–135,000
Electrical system	238	17.0%	66,000	47,000–91,000
Steering	80	5.7%	50,000	20,000–90,000
Transmission and driveline	59	4.2%	64,000	20,000–108,000
Airbag system	56	4.0%	98,000	52,000–155,000
Body structure	52	3.7%	88,000	60,000–136,000
Suspension	46	3.3%	68,000	25,000–106,000
Engine and its cooling system	40	2.9%	80,000	43,000–94,000
Fuel system	39	2.8%	75,000	48,000–100,000

System by system, in words

Complaints about this generation are not spread evenly across the vehicle, and the systems that generate the most of them do not all fail at the same point in a car's life. The median failure across all systems here is 76,000 miles; the figures below show which parts of the car run ahead of that and which run behind.

The hydraulic brake circuit accounts for 27.4% of complaints (383 reports, 346 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 70,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 42,000 and 99,000 miles.

A single system taking 27.4% of all complaints is a concentration worth noting. It means that for this generation, most of what owners reported came back to one area of the car rather than being distributed across many small faults.

The brakes account for 25.5% of complaints (356 reports, 333 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 100,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 70,000 and 135,000 miles.

The electrical system accounts for 17.0% of complaints (238 reports, 204 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 66,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 47,000 and 91,000 miles.

The steering accounts for 5.7% of complaints (80 reports, 66 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 50,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 20,000 and 90,000 miles.

The transmission and driveline accounts for 4.2% of complaints (59 reports, 54 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 64,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 20,000 and 108,000 miles.

The airbag system accounts for 4.0% of complaints (56 reports, 42 of them with a mileage figure), with a median of 98,000 miles, close to the vehicle's overall pattern. The middle half of these reports falls between 52,000 and 155,000 miles.

Known problems with the 1999–2006 Sierra 1500

Before you buy a 1999–2006 Sierra 1500: the 3-minute check

Generated from 1,225 mileage-tagged complaints, 30 recall campaigns, 4 documented problem areas. Print this page — the checklist survives print.

For a buyer, failures on this generation are spread rather than concentrated: the middle half falls between 48,000 and 112,000 miles, with a median of 76,000. There is no single mileage threshold to watch, which means condition and maintenance records are more informative than the odometer.

On inspection, the hydraulic brake circuit and the brakes are where this generation's reports concentrate, so those are the areas worth a specific look. The hydraulic brake circuit in particular shows a median failure mileage of 70,000, which gives a concrete number to compare against the odometer of any car you are considering.

None of this is a substitute for a pre-purchase inspection on the individual car. Aggregate patterns describe a population; the example in front of you has its own history.

Sierra 1500 problems by mileage: where your car sits

Type your odometer reading, or read the common mileages in the table. Your marker lands on the timing chart above and on the curve below.

Your odometer, milesGo

Figure 3 · GMC Sierra 1500 1999–2006 · 1,225 reports with mileage

Share of reports below each mileage

Share of mileage-tagged reports filed at or below each odometer reading. Steps rise only at bin edges, by exact counted shares.

100%75%50%25%0%

25k50k75k100k125k150k175k200k

• 60,000 mi — 34% of reports below
• 90,000 mi — 61% of reports below
• 120,000 mi — 78% of reports below
• 150,000 mi — 88% of reports below
• 200,000 mi — 96% of reports below
• Median — the staircase crosses the 50% line here
• Your odometer — appears after you enter it above

The staircase tops out at 96%: the remaining 3.9% of reports (48) came above 200,000 miles.

Nothing is smoothed or interpolated. Linear axis, same as Figure 1.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation, public domain.

1999–2006 GMC Sierra 1500 recalls (30)

NHTSA records 30 recall campaigns covering vehicles in this generation. A recall means the manufacturer or the regulator concluded there was a safety defect or a standard was not met, and that a free remedy is owed to owners — including second and later owners.

The campaigns cluster around the hydraulic brake circuit (6), the seat belts (4), the steering (3). Several campaigns against one area can mean a remedy that did not hold, or separate defects in parts filed under the same heading; the summaries below name each defect.

Recall status is specific to the individual vehicle, not the model. Checking a VIN against NHTSA's lookup is free and takes under a minute, and it is the only way to know whether a particular car has had the work done.

Recall repairs are free at an authorized dealer, for any owner. Summaries below shorten NHTSA’s own wording. Some of these campaigns are filed under the shared name “Sierra”, which NHTSA also uses for heavy-duty trucks; they are marked below, and the VIN decides whether one applies.

1. Nov 2007 · 2001 · Engine and Engine Cooling filed under the shared nameIf the sensor becomes completely inoperative, the engine will quit running and will not re-start.

   The defect. On certain pickup trucks equipped with an 8.1L v8 engine, the crankshaft position can operate intermittently or fail completely. If the sensor operates intermittently, the ses light may illuminate and the vehicle may run rough. The engine may stall, and if…

   What can happen. If the sensor becomes completely inoperative, the engine will quit running and will not re-start. Either of these failures can increase the risk of a crash.

   The free fix. Dealers will replace the crankshaft position sensor free of charge. The recall began on december 18, 2007. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 and GMC at 1-866-996-9463.

   NHTSA campaign 07V-521 (2007-11-07).

2. Oct 2006 · 2005 · Air Bags filed under the shared nameIf the passenger sensing system malfunctions, the front air bag on the passenger side may be disabled when it…

   The defect. Certain vehicles originally built with cloth seats that were equipped with an automatic air bag passenger sensing system and later reupholstered with aftermarket leather seat cover kits are involved. Testing has indicated that the aftermarket leather seat…

   What can happen. If the passenger sensing system malfunctions, the front air bag on the passenger side may be disabled when it should be enabled, or enabled when it should be disabled. In either case, in the event of…

   The free fix. Because a replacement leather seat cover that is compatible with the passenger sensing system is not available, general motors (gm) will repurchase these vehicles in accordance with the terms stated…

   NHTSA campaign 06V-417 (2006-10-31).

3. Aug 2006 · 2006 · Wheels filed under the shared nameIf a customer replaces a wheel and only relies on the rim size designation that is indicated on the label, a…

   The defect. Certain sport utility vehicles and trucks fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 110, "Tire selection and rims." These vehicles have an incomplete tire rim designation on the certification/tire label located on the…

   What can happen. If a customer replaces a wheel and only relies on the rim size designation that is indicated on the label, a wheel that is of a different rim contour designation may be installed. It may be difficult…

   The free fix. A label that will correct the label originally installed will be mailed to consumers along with installation instructions. The customer will have the option for dealers to install the label. The…

   NHTSA campaign 06V-307 (2006-08-11).

4. Aug 2006 · 2004–2006 · Engine and Engine Cooling filed under the shared nameIf the damper comes loose, a fuel leak may result.

   The defect. On certain trucks equipped with an 8.1L v8 (rpo l8-VIN g) engine have a condition in which the engine fuel rail pulse damper retainer clip may fracture resulting in inadequate retention of the damper.

   What can happen. If the damper comes loose, a fuel leak may result. Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.

   The free fix. Dealers will replace the engine fuel rail pulse damper retainer clip free of charge. The recall began on august 31, 2006. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 and GMC trucks at…

   NHTSA campaign 06V-289 (2006-08-03).

5. Mar 2006 · 1999–2000 · Structure filed under the shared nameIf one cable fractures, the remaining cable may retain the tailgate in a horizontal position.

   The defect. Certain pickup trucks have galvanized-braided-steel tailgate support cables used to support the tailgate in the full open (horizontal) position. Over time these cables can corrode and fracture when loads are applied to them.

   What can happen. If one cable fractures, the remaining cable may retain the tailgate in a horizontal position. If both cables fracture, the tailgate would drop and strike the top surface of the rear bumper. If anyone…

   The free fix. Dealers will replace the galvanized support cables with stainless steel support cables. In addition, dealers are to inspect the tailgate hinge and replace it, if necessary. The recall is expected to…

   NHTSA campaign 06V-066 (2006-03-08).

6. Dec 2005 · 2006 · Equipment filed under the shared nameA misprinted label could lead to improper vehicle loading specifications or tire inflation which could result…

   The defect. Certain trucks and sport utility vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 110, "Tire selection and rims." These vehicles were shipped with tire and loading information labels listing an inacccurate vehicle…

   What can happen. A misprinted label could lead to improper vehicle loading specifications or tire inflation which could result in a tire failure, increasing the risk of a crash.

   The free fix. Owners will be provided with corrected labels and installation instructions. At the customer's option, a dealer can install the label for them. The recall began on march 31, 2006. Owners may contact…

   NHTSA campaign 05V-552 (2005-12-07).

7. Oct 2005 · 2005–2006 · Steering filed under the shared nameIf this were to occur, power steering assist would be lost and increased steering effort would be required.

   The defect. Certain passenger vehicles may have been built with a power steering hose that is not to specification. Under extreme steering maneuvers, such as turning the steering wheel fully to the left or right while braking, the hose may fracture and leak fluid.

   What can happen. If this were to occur, power steering assist would be lost and increased steering effort would be required. On vehicles equipped with hydro-boost power brakes, it could also result in loss of power…

   The free fix. Dealers will inspect the power steering hose(s) for two suspect date codes and replace them if required. The recall will begin on october 14, 2005. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC…

   NHTSA campaign 05V-455 (2005-10-05).

8. Aug 2005 · 1999–2002 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic filed under the shared nameThis can cause increased stopping distances during low-speed brake applications, which could result in a…

   The defect. Certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles may experience unwanted antilock brake system (ABS) activation. This condition is more likely to occur in environmentally corrosive areas. This recall will be launched in the "salt belt" states of connecticut…

   What can happen. This can cause increased stopping distances during low-speed brake applications, which could result in a crash.

   The free fix. Dealers are to remove the wheel speed sensor and thoroughly clean the wheel speed sensor mounting surface on the bearing, apply rust inhibitor to the cleaned surface, grease the mounting surface…

   NHTSA campaign 05V-379 (2005-08-29).

9. Apr 2005 · 2003–2005 · Seat Belts filed under the shared nameA lap portion of the seat belt routing that is not low and snug on the hips can allow the lap belt to ride up…

   The defect. On certain crew cab pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the 2nd row center occupant seat belt routing may make it difficult to position the lap portion of the safety belt low around the hips of occupants, especially smaller occupants, seated in this…

   What can happen. A lap portion of the seat belt routing that is not low and snug on the hips can allow the lap belt to ride up on an occupant's abdomen instead of fitting low around their hipbones, and therefore, can…

   The free fix. Dealers will cut open the guide loop, remove a portion of the loop, and then the remaining two sides should be folded over and secured with a retainer free of charge. The recall began on july 21…

   NHTSA campaign 05V-163 (2005-04-22).

10. Apr 2005 · 1999–2005 · Parking Brake filed under the shared nameIf the parking brake does not hold, unintended vehicle movement could occur, which could result in a crash.

    The defect. On certain pickup trucks equipped with manual transmissions and built with either pbr parking brake systems or trw parking brake systems, the parking brake friction linings may wear to an extent where the parking brake can become ineffective in immobilizing a…

    What can happen. If the parking brake does not hold, unintended vehicle movement could occur, which could result in a crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will install a low-force spring clip retainer for vehicles equipped with a pbr parking brake system. On vehicles equipped with the trw parking brake system, dealers will install a redesigned…

    NHTSA campaign 05V-161 (2005-04-22).

11. Mar 2005 · 2005 · Seat BeltsImproper use of child restraint anchorage could result in personal injury to the seat occupant.

    The defect. Certain sport utility vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 225, "Child restraint anchorage systems" the requirements for location and instructions for properly attaching child restraints. The owner manual…

    What can happen. Improper use of child restraint anchorage could result in personal injury to the seat occupant.

    The free fix. Dealers will mail an owner's manual update that describes the location and proper use of the tether anchors. The recall began on april 15, 2005. Owners may contact GMC at 1-866-996-9463.

    NHTSA campaign 05V-127 (2005-03-31).

12. Feb 2005 · 2005 · Power Train filed under the shared nameThe vehicle may move in an unintended direction resulting in possible injury to others outside of the vehicle.

    The defect. Certain sport utility vehicles equipped with an automatic transmission, fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 102, "Transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock and transmission braking effect." Under…

    What can happen. The vehicle may move in an unintended direction resulting in possible injury to others outside of the vehicle.

    The free fix. Dealers will reprogram the instrument panel cluster free of charge. The recall began on february 14, 2005. Owners may contact Cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, and GMC at…

    NHTSA campaign 05V-055 (2005-02-14).

13. Feb 2005 · 2004–2005 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic filed under the shared nameIf a separation occurred and the hood of the vehicle were open, fragments from the accumulator could cause…

    The defect. Certain trucks, sport utility vehicles, and vans equipped with bosch hydro-boost brake assemblies, the hydraulic brake booster pressure accumulator may crack and separate from the hydro-boost assembly during normal operating conditions.

    What can happen. If a separation occurred and the hood of the vehicle were open, fragments from the accumulator could cause injury to people in the immediate area. The presence of this crack or fractured surface…

    The free fix. Dealers will test the hydro-boost assembly for functional operation of the two-function valve. If the hydro-boost assembly fails the test, dealers will replace the assembly free of charge. The recall…

    NHTSA campaign 05V-043 (2005-02-08).

14. Jan 2005 · 2005 · Steering filed under the shared nameIf this happens while the vehicle is moving, a crash could occur without prior warning.

    The defect. On certain trucks, the bolt that attaches the intermediate steering shaft to the steering gear may not meet specification. The bolt may fracture resulting in the loss of steering.

    What can happen. If this happens while the vehicle is moving, a crash could occur without prior warning.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the intermediate steering shaft bolt free of charge. The recall began on january 24, 2005. Owners may contact GMC at 1-866-996-9463 and Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438.

    NHTSA campaign 05V-018 (2005-01-21).

15. Jan 2005 · 2000 · Power Train filed under the shared nameAn inoperative pump can cause increased steering effort, and in hydro-boost equipped vehicles also increased…

    The defect. Some pickup trucks, vans, and sport utility vehicles equipped with a hydraulic pump driveshaft that can fracture, resulting in immediate loss of hydraulic power steering assist. On certain vehicles equipped with hydro-boost power brakes, the same condition…

    What can happen. An inoperative pump can cause increased steering effort, and in hydro-boost equipped vehicles also increased braking effort, but does not completely eliminate the ability to steer or slow the vehicle.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the hydraulic pump. The campaign began on february 14, 2005. Owners may contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC at 1-866-996-9463.

    NHTSA campaign 05V-005 (2005-01-07).

16. Nov 2004 · 2001–2004 · Equipment Adaptive/MobilityIn the event of a vehicle crash, the wheelchair may not be adequately secured possibly resulting in injuries…

    The defect. On certain vans equipped with sure-lok wheelchair securement systems, the sprocket teeth of the retractor assembly is out of alignment.

    What can happen. In the event of a vehicle crash, the wheelchair may not be adequately secured possibly resulting in injuries to a wheelchair occupant.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect and replace the wheelchair securement retractors as necessary. Sure-lok will handle the repairs for this campaign. Owners should contact sure-lock at 1-908-231-1804 or…

    NHTSA campaign 04V-562 (2004-11-26).

17. Aug 2004 · 2005 · Fuel System, Gasoline filed under the shared nameIf the tube retainer screw breaks, fuel could leak from the fuel rail crossover joint, the engine may stall…

    The defect. On certain sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks equipped with 5.3L (rpo l59) v8 engines, the engine fuel rail crossover tube retainer screws were not manufactured to specifications and may break.

    What can happen. If the tube retainer screw breaks, fuel could leak from the fuel rail crossover joint, the engine may stall and, if an ignition source were present, an engine compartment fire could occur.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the fuel rail crossover tube and, if necessary, replace the retainer screws. Owners were notified by telephone on july 30, 2004, with a followup owner letter began august 5…

    NHTSA campaign 04V-376 (2004-08-02).

18. May 2004 · 2004 · TiresIf someone has a flat tire on the front wheel, they will not be able to install the provided spare tire.

    The defect. The spare tire and wheel assembly that was provided on certain conversion vehicles will not fit on the front wheel hub due to offset of the wheel. However, it will fit on the rear wheels.

    What can happen. If someone has a flat tire on the front wheel, they will not be able to install the provided spare tire.

    The free fix. Dealers will install a spare wheel with the correct offset. Owner notification began on june 11, 2004. Owners should contact regency at 1-800-989-4727.

    NHTSA campaign 04V-240 (2004-05-17).

19. May 2004 · 2003–2004 · Seat Belts filed under the shared nameThe standard requires child seat lower anchorages in two seating positions for vehicles with three rear…

    The defect. Certain extended and regular cab pickup trucks and cargo vans converted to compressed natural gas (cng) fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 225, 'Child restraint anchorage systems.' These vehicles have one seating…

    What can happen. The standard requires child seat lower anchorages in two seating positions for vehicles with three rear seating positions. The standard cab and cargo van vehicles, which only have front seating…

    The free fix. To bring the standard cab and cargo van vehicles into compliance, dealers will inject epoxy into the air bag off switch to prevent air bag activation, relocate the switch behind the instrument panel…

    NHTSA campaign 04V-225 (2004-05-11).

20. Mar 2004 · 2000–2004 · Structure filed under the shared nameAnyone sitting or standing on the horizontal surface of the tailgate when both cables fractured could be…

    The defect. On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the galvanized steel tailgate support cables that retain the tailgate in the full open (horizontal) position may corrode, weaken, and eventually fracture. If both cables fractured, the tailgate would…

    What can happen. Anyone sitting or standing on the horizontal surface of the tailgate when both cables fractured could be injured by falling from the tailgate. On vehicles that have had the bumper removed, the…

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the cables. Interim owner notification began on april 7, 20004. The recall began on september 24, 2004, when replacement parts were available, and will continue through october…

    NHTSA campaign 04V-129 (2004-03-17).

21. Feb 2004 · 2003–2004 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic filed under the shared nameConsequently, the valve o-ring seal may fracture.

    The defect. Certain sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and passenger vans fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 135, ?Passenger car brake systems.? Some of these vehicles were produced with an out-of-specification brake…

    What can happen. Consequently, the valve o-ring seal may fracture. Steering efforts may be slightly increased while braking or parking. Under certain driving conditions, a fractured seal may require a slight increase…

    The free fix. Dealers are to replace the hydro-boost relief valve. The recall began on june 18, 2004. Owners should contact Cadillac at 1-866-982-2339; Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438; GMC at 1-866-996-9463; or hummer…

    NHTSA campaign 04V-045 (2004-02-04).

22. Nov 2003 · 2002 · Fuel System, Other filed under the shared nameA strong odor of natural gas may be detected from inside the vehicle, possibly accompanied by a hissing noise.

    The defect. Some 2wd and 4WD pickup trucks, converted to either dedicated or bi-fuel compressed natural gas (cng) fuel usage, were assembled with a throttle cable that can contact and rub through the flexible pressurized fuel line creating a pinhole leak of natural gas…

    What can happen. A strong odor of natural gas may be detected from inside the vehicle, possibly accompanied by a hissing noise. If the natural gas were accidentally ignited, serious injury could result.

    The free fix. Dealers will secure the throttle cable to eliminate the possibility of contact with the cng fuel line. The cng fuel line, throttle cable, and cruise control cable are also to be inspected and…

    NHTSA campaign 03V-435 (2003-11-03).

23. Jan 2003 · 2003 · Visibility filed under the shared nameIn vehicles with this condition, the windshield may not be retained in accordance with the safety standard…

    The defect. Certain pickup trucks fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 212, "Windshield mounting." Some of these vehicles lack a continuous urethane bonding bead between the body surface and the windshield.

    What can happen. In vehicles with this condition, the windshield may not be retained in accordance with the safety standard during a vehicle crash.

    The free fix. Dealers will remove, reseal, and reinstall the windshield. Owner notification began on january 28, 2003. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do…

    NHTSA campaign 03V-018 (2003-01-23).

24. Jul 2002 · 2000 · Air Bags filed under the shared nameIn a vehicle crash, front seat occupants may receive more severe injuries.

    The defect. On certain pickup and utility trucks, some of these vehicles have an air bag sensing diagnostic module (sdm) which contains an anomaly that could result in the driver and passenger's air bag failing to deploy during certain frontal crashes.

    What can happen. In a vehicle crash, front seat occupants may receive more severe injuries.

    The free fix. Dealers will recalibrate the sdm on the affected vehicles. Owner notification began august 28, 2002. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not…

    NHTSA campaign 02V-178 (2002-07-01).

25. Apr 2001 · 2001 · EquipmentIf the tires are under-inflated, it could reduce the tread life of the tire, and the tire could degrade to a…

    The defect. Vehicle description: certain 2-wheel drive pickup trucks fail to comply with requirements of fmvss no. 120, "Tire selection and rims for motor vehicles other than passenger cars." The problem was caused by a computer error that resulted in the certification…

    What can happen. If the tires are under-inflated, it could reduce the tread life of the tire, and the tire could degrade to a point of allowing sudden air loss. If the tires are over-inflated, it could reduce the…

    The free fix. Owners will be provided with a new label and installation instructions. However, a dealer can install the label if the owner so desires. Owner notification began may 31, 2001. Owners who do not…

    NHTSA campaign 01V-125 (2001-04-10).

26. Oct 2000 · 1999–2000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic filed under the shared nameDuring braking, the pedal will be lower than normal and stopping distances will be longer.

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles. Some of these vehicles have a clearance condition between the front right-hand brake pipe and the body cross sill that could decrease to the point of allowing contact during the life of…

    What can happen. During braking, the pedal will be lower than normal and stopping distances will be longer. If this occurs when stopping distance is limited, a crash could occur.

    The free fix. Dealers will inspect the front right-hand brake pipe for wear. If there are signs of wear, this section of the brake pipe will be replaced with a new designed brake pipe section. If there are not…

    NHTSA campaign 00V-345 (2000-10-30).

27. Aug 2000 · 2000 · Service Brakes, HydraulicThese vehicles do not comply with requirements of fmvss no.

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles equipped with vacuum power, 4-wheel disc brakes. These vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 105, "Hydraulic brake systems." These vehicles were built with a kinked…

    What can happen. These vehicles do not comply with requirements of fmvss no. 105.

    The free fix. Dealers will re-route the brake booster vacuum supply hose.

    NHTSA campaign 00V-222 (2000-08-08).

28. Apr 2000 · 1999 · Seat BeltsIn the event of a vehicle crash, the right front passenger restraint systems may not meet the neck extension…

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles. These vehicles do not comply with the occupant protection requirements of fmvss no. 208, "Occupant crash protection."

    What can happen. In the event of a vehicle crash, the right front passenger restraint systems may not meet the neck extension requirements.

    The free fix. Dealers will install a tray insert on the top of the passenger side of the instrument panel. The tray insert corrects the noncompliance.

    NHTSA campaign 00V-122 (2000-04-27).

29. Feb 2000 · 2000 · Service Brakes, Hydraulic filed under the shared nameThe base brakes would remain fully functional, but the dynamic rear proportioning (drp) system, which…

    The defect. Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes. Some of these vehicles have an antilock brake system (ABS) motor containing an out-of-specification spring clip. This clip could allow the motor bearing to become misaligned. If…

    What can happen. The base brakes would remain fully functional, but the dynamic rear proportioning (drp) system, which optimizes front to rear brake balance, would become inoperative.

    The free fix. Dealers will replace the brake pressure module valve assembly.

    NHTSA campaign 00V-055 (2000-02-28).

30. Oct 1998 · 1999 · Steering filed under the shared nameIf this condition is ignored, the steering gear to frame can wear and/or fatigue the attaching bolts to the…

    The defect. Vehicle description: extended cab 4-wheel drive pickup trucks. Some of these vehicles have a lower than specified torque on all three of the steering gear to frame attachment bolts. The bolts can loosen over time allowing the steering gear to move. This…

    What can happen. If this condition is ignored, the steering gear to frame can wear and/or fatigue the attaching bolts to the point of breakage or the bolts backing out. If all the bolts break or back out, the…

    The free fix. Dealers will retorque the steering gear to frame bolts to proper specifications.

    NHTSA campaign 98V-242 (1998-10-06).

Some of these 30 campaigns also cover Chevrolet Silverado 1500 1999–2006 (24 of them) and Chevrolet Suburban 2000–2006 (13 of them): the same campaign number appears in NHTSA’s file against both, which means the same defect and the same free repair. 4 of the 30 are specific to this vehicle alone.

Crashes, fires and injuries owners reported

What owners reported alongside the failure itself, out of 1,398 complaints against this generation:

Crashes

82 (5.9%)

Fires

19

Injury reports

32

Fatality reports

1

These flags are self-reported by complainants and unverified by NHTSA; one report can carry several flags, so the counts overlap and do not sum to a total. They are not adjusted for how many of these vehicles are on the road. No chart is drawn here on purpose: overlapping counts spanning very different magnitudes cannot be honestly encoded as lengths.

Sierra 1500 problems by model year

The 2004 drew the most complaints of this generation, 223, most of them about the electrical system, and the 2001 the fewest, 140. A typical year drew about 180.

What Sierra 1500 owners reported

The contact owns a 1995 N/A GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that after parking, turning the vehicle off, and exiting, the vehicle suddenly rolled forward, down a slight incline, and crashed into another parked vehicle. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not…

2000 · 4,000 miles · Airbag system

The contact’s father owns a 2004 GMC Sierra 1500. The contact stated that after she inserted the key in the ignition and started the vehicle, the front driver’s side air bag exploded, without warning. The contact sustained an injury to her left arm, hand, neck, and head that required medical attention. The vehicle was…

2004 · 200,000 miles · Airbag system

Started my truck and the failure electrical system came across i pushed in the botton that changes it and came back on then it said tighten fuel cap washer fluid low i hit the button again it went of but battery light stayed on and gauge read about 10 volts.My truck ran fine and started when i got to my first then at…

2005 · 18,000 miles · Electrical system

I had a crack in the windshield and when they replaced it the technician said it was so rusted from the inside that if anything happened again they would not replace it he had to really do some work arounds he said to even replace this one. That makes me feel that this is a real safety issue if we were to get in a…

2006 · 230,000 miles · Body structure

Built from 1,225 NHTSA complaints with mileage · snapshot 2026-09-26 · open data · how it is built

Other Sierra 1500 generations

• Sierra 1500 2007–2013 866 reports with mileage, most about the airbag system
• Sierra 1500 2014–2018 1,507 reports with mileage, most about the brakes
• Sierra 1500 2019–2025 649 reports with mileage, most about the engine

Other full-size pickups from the same years

• Chevrolet Silverado 1500 1999–2006
• Toyota Tundra 2000–2006
• Dodge Ram 1500 2002–2008
• Ford F-150 1997–2003