What are the most common GMC Sierra 1500 problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 3,286+ owner reports, the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 has 8 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: AFM/DFM Lifter Collapse and Failure, 8-Speed/10-Speed Transmission Torque Converter Shudder, Electronic Brake Control Module Failure. Of these, 4 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the GMC Sierra 1500 reliable?
The 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 has 8 known issues documented across 3,286+ owner reports. 4 issues are rated critical: AFM/DFM Lifter Collapse and Failure and 8-Speed/10-Speed Transmission Torque Converter Shudder and Electronic Brake Control Module Failure and P0016 — Crank/Cam Correlation Fault from Stretched Timing Chain on 5.3L AFM V8. Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common GMC Sierra 1500 problems?
Repair costs for known GMC Sierra 1500 issues range from $0 to $8,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, AFM/DFM Lifter Collapse and Failure, typically costs $4,000-$8,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2014-2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AFM/DFM Lifter Collapse and Failure?
The Active Fuel Management (AFM) and Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) systems use special hydraulic lifters that collapse to deactivate cylinders for fuel economy. These lifters are prone to premature failure due to poor physical design and inadequate oil flow. Failures can occur as… Repairs typically run $4,000-$8,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2015-2023 GMC Sierra 1500 8-Speed/10-Speed Transmission Torque Converter Shudder?
The 8L90 8-speed and 10L80/10L90 10-speed automatic transmissions experience shuddering during light throttle acceleration, particularly at highway speeds between 35-60 mph. The issue is caused by the torque converter lock-up clutch slipping and chattering. Harsh shifts between g… Repairs typically run $150-$4,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2014-2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Electronic Brake Control Module Failure?
The electronic brake control module (EBCM) experiences failures causing ABS, traction control, and stability control systems to malfunction. Issues range from warning lights illuminating to complete system failures. The 2023 models have a specific recall for software that may fai… Repairs typically run $150-$1,500. Severity: high.
What is the 2007-2021 GMC Sierra 1500 P0016 — Crank/Cam Correlation Fault from Stretched Timing Chain on 5.3L AFM V8?
P0016 means the crankshaft and Bank 1 intake camshaft are out of sync beyond tolerance. On the 5.3L V8 Sierra 1500 this is a signature failure because of two engine-specific problems: (1) the timing chain stretches over time — accelerated by AFM lifter debris and extended oil-cha… Repairs typically run $150-$1,800. Severity: high.
What is the 2019-2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Infotainment System Audio Loss and Malfunction?
The infotainment system experiences intermittent complete audio loss affecting stereo, turn signals, and safety warning sounds. The audio system may randomly go to maximum volume and cannot be controlled. OTA software updates have caused additional issues including erratic blinke… Repairs typically run $0-$2,500. Severity: medium.
What is the 2014-2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Direct Injection Carbon Buildup on Intake Valves?
Direct injection engines do not spray fuel over the intake valves like port injection systems, allowing carbon deposits from oil and blow-by gases via the PCV system to accumulate on intake valve backs and ports. Over time, this buildup restricts airflow causing performance and e… Repairs typically run $400-$800. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2022 GMC Sierra 1500 P0011 — Intake Cam Over-Advanced from Sludge-Clogged VVT Solenoid on 5.3L V8?
P0011 means the Bank 1 intake camshaft is timed more advanced than the ECM commanded — the phaser is stuck/biased advanced. On the Sierra 1500 5.3L/6.2L, the dominant cause is a VVT (camshaft actuator) solenoid whose internal screen has clogged with oil sludge or AFM debris, jamm… Repairs typically run $40-$450. Severity: medium.
What is the 2007-2023 GMC Sierra 1500 P0455 — Gross EVAP Leak from Failed Vent Solenoid, Missing Gas Cap, or Broken Vent Hose?
P0455 indicates a large (gross) EVAP leak — the ECM cannot pull or hold vacuum in the evaporative system at all. On the Sierra 1500 the classic causes are a completely missing/unsealed gas cap, a stuck-open or failed EVAP vent solenoid (mounted under the truck near the fuel tank/… Repairs typically run $20-$350. Severity: low.
