2004 GMC Sierra 3500

Introduction:

The 2004 GMC Sierra 3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its ruggedness and towing capabilities. It is available with several engine and transmission options, including:

• 6.6L Duramax Diesel V8 (300 hp/520 lb-ft)
• 8.1L Vortec V8 (340 hp/455 lb-ft)
• 4-speed automatic transmission (Hydra-Matic 4L65-E)
• 5-speed automatic transmission (Allison 1000)

While the Sierra 3500 is generally well-received, owners have reported some specific issues with certain components.

Engine

6.6L Duramax Diesel V8

• Injector Sticking (LB7)
  • Symptoms: Rough idle, loss of power, reduced fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Symptoms: Coolant leak, reduced engine power
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

8.1L Vortec V8

• Spark Plug Blow Out
  • Symptoms: Engine misfire, rough idle, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs and repair threads if necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed automatic transmission (Hydra-Matic 4L65-E)

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Symptoms: Hard shifting, delayed shifting, no shifting
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid pack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Symptoms: Vibration during acceleration or deceleration
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

5-speed automatic transmission (Allison 1000)

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage (Rear)
  • Symptoms: Sagging rear end, loss of load-carrying capacity
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: 04V331000, 08V503000, 14V326000
• Shock Absorber Failure
  • Symptoms: Rough ride, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Symptoms: Slow engine start, loss of electrical power
  • Solution: Check for faulty electrical components and replace as necessary
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the cause
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Tailgate Handle Failure
  • Symptoms: Tailgate will not open or close properly
  • Solution: Replace tailgate handle
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Electrical Window Switch Failure
  • Symptoms: Window will not operate properly or may not operate at all
  • Solution: Replace electrical window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace or repair dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 GMC Sierra 3500 is a reliable and capable truck, but it is not without some potential issues. The most common problems involve the engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific issue and the necessary repairs. Overall, the Sierra 3500 is a solid choice for heavy-duty applications, but potential buyers should be aware of its potential issues before making a purchase.