2004 GMC Sierra 1500

Posted Feb 27, 2026

By Research the Car 3 min read

2004 GMC Sierra 1500

Overview

The 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 is a well-regarded full-size pickup truck known for its robust build and capability. As with any vehicle of this age, certain components may experience wear and tear, but overall reliability is generally considered good. This analysis focuses on documented common issues beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential areas of concern for owners and prospective buyers. We will examine the primary engine and transmission options, as well as other key systems like suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components.

Engine

4.3L V6 Vortec

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating, sweet smell from engine bay.
Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
Cost: $400 - $700

Oil Pressure Sensor Failure

Symptoms: Inaccurate or fluctuating oil pressure readings on the gauge, check engine light.
Solution: Replacement of the oil pressure sensor.
Cost: $100 - $250

4.8L V8 Vortec

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating, sweet smell from engine bay.
Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
Cost: $400 - $700

Oil Pressure Sensor Failure

Symptoms: Inaccurate or fluctuating oil pressure readings on the gauge, check engine light.
Solution: Replacement of the oil pressure sensor.
Cost: $100 - $250

5.3L V8 Vortec

Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure

Symptoms: Engine misfires, ticking noise from the engine, check engine light, loss of power.
Solution: Replacement of lifters, camshaft, and potentially other related components. Some owners opt for AFM delete kits.
Cost: $1500 - $3000+

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating, sweet smell from engine bay.
Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
Cost: $400 - $700

Oil Pressure Sensor Failure

Symptoms: Inaccurate or fluctuating oil pressure readings on the gauge, check engine light.
Solution: Replacement of the oil pressure sensor.
Cost: $100 - $250

6.0L V8 Vortec

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating, sweet smell from engine bay.
Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
Cost: $400 - $700

Oil Pressure Sensor Failure

Symptoms: Inaccurate or fluctuating oil pressure readings on the gauge, check engine light.
Solution: Replacement of the oil pressure sensor.
Cost: $100 - $250

Transmission

4L60-E 4-Speed Automatic

Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Issues

Symptoms: Shuddering, slipping, failure to engage or disengage, harsh shifting.
Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the transmission, often involving torque converter replacement.
Cost: $1800 - $3500

3-2 Downshift Solenoid Failure

Symptoms: Harsh downshifts, particularly from 4th to 3rd gear.
Solution: Replacement of the 3-2 downshift solenoid.
Cost: $300 - $600

4L80-E 4-Speed Automatic

No widespread issues reported.

Symptoms: N/A
Solution: N/A
Cost: Varies

NV3500 5-Speed Manual

No widespread issues reported.

Symptoms: N/A
Solution: N/A
Cost: Varies

NV4500 5-Speed Manual

No widespread issues reported.

Symptoms: N/A
Solution: N/A
Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Ball Joint Wear

Symptoms: Clunking noises, uneven tire wear, steering wander.
Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints.
Cost: $400 - $800

Sway Bar Link Bushing Wear

Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises over bumps, especially at lower speeds.
Solution: Replacement of worn sway bar links and bushings.
Cost: $150 - $300