2004 GMC Sierra 2500 HD

Introduction

The 2004 GMC Sierra 2500 HD is a full-size heavy-duty pickup truck known for its impressive towing and hauling capabilities. It’s available with various engine and transmission options, including a 6.0L V8 engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Sierra 2500 HD is praised for its strong performance, spacious interior, and rugged design, but like any vehicle, it has its share of issues.

Engine

• 6.0L V8 Engine
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, loss of power, rough idling
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Piston Ring Land Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Overhaul engine
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Timing Chain Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling or grinding noises, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace timing chain and gears
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls:
    • 04V285000: Powertrain: Engine and Transmission

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic Transmission
  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shudder during acceleration
    • Solution: Replace torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Transmission Fluid Leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking fluid, slipping gears
    • Solution: Repair or replace transmission seals
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Suspension

• Front Suspension
  • Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises during turning, uneven tire wear
    • Solution: Replace ball joints
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Rear Suspension
  • Leaf Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or uneven ride height, breakage of leaf springs
    • Solution: Replace leaf springs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,000+
  • Recalls:
    • 03V239000: Suspension: Rear

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair electrical system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical system failure
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Starter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking or grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Door Panel Peeling
  • Description/Symptoms: Vinyl or leather door panel material peeling or cracking
  • Solution: Replace door panel
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Tailgate Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Handle breaks or becomes loose, tailgate won’t open or close properly
  • Solution: Replace tailgate handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Interior

• Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows won’t open or close properly
  • Solution: Replace window regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Dashboard Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges or displays malfunctioning or flickering
  • Solution: Replace dashboard cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Summary

The 2004 GMC Sierra 2500 HD has various issues across components, some of which can be costly to fix. The engine is prone to issues with the intake manifold gasket, piston rings, and timing chain. The transmission may experience torque converter shudder and fluid leaks. The suspension has potential issues with ball joints and leaf springs. Electrical problems include battery drain, alternator failure, and starter failure. The exterior and interior also have some reported issues with door panel peeling, tailgate handle failures, window regulator failures, and dashboard cluster malfunctions. Overall, while the Sierra 2500 HD is a capable truck, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider the potential repair costs.