2007 GMC Sierra 3500 HD

The 2007 GMC Sierra 3500 HD is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its robust capabilities and durability. It was offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. Engine choices included the 6.0L Vortec V8 (300 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque), the 8.1L Vortec V8 (330 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque), and the highly regarded 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 (360 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options typically included a 6-speed Allison automatic for the diesel, and a 4-speed automatic for the gas engines. Owners often praised the Sierra 3500 HD for its towing capacity, powerful engine options, and comfortable ride for a heavy-duty truck. Common complaints often centered around fuel economy (especially with the gas engines), and some model-specific issues that arise with age.

Engine

6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 (LMM)

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, white smoke from the exhaust, and decreased fuel economy are all symptoms of fuel injector failure. Often, the truck will throw a diagnostic code related to injector performance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s). It’s generally recommended to replace all injectors on the affected bank (side of the engine) at the same time to ensure even fuel delivery and prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ per injector (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Whining noise from the turbo, reduced power, black smoke from the exhaust, and increased EGTs.
  • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Cooler Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR cooler.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L Vortec V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and low oil pressure. This can be due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the engine internals. This could involve replacing the piston rings, valve stem seals, or even a complete engine rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $6000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and the chosen repair method).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolts
  • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leak, ticking noise, reduced power.
  • Solution: Replace broken exhaust manifold bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 (parts and labor)
  • Recalls: None Found

8.1L Vortec V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and low oil pressure. This can be due to worn piston rings or valve stem seals.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the engine internals. This could involve replacing the piston rings, valve stem seals, or even a complete engine rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $6000+ (depending on the extent of the damage and the chosen repair method).
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Allison 1000 6-Speed Automatic (Diesel)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during gear changes, slipping, and difficulty engaging gears.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2500+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifts, slipping, and failure to shift into certain gears.
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

4L80E 4-Speed Automatic (Gas)

• Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or delayed shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sag
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, reduced load-carrying capacity, and poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace or add-a-leaf to the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (parts and labor per side).
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning, flickering lights, and loss of information display.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ (parts and labor).
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated, loss of ABS functionality, and potential issues with traction control and stability control systems.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (parts and labor per sensor).
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (especially around wheel wells and rocker panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust, bubbling paint, and potential structural damage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels. This can range from minor rust repair to complete panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity and extent of rust).
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1500+ (depending on the chosen solution).
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 GMC Sierra 3500 HD, while a capable and durable truck, does have its share of common issues. The most significant problems often revolve around the 6.6L Duramax diesel engine (fuel injector issues) and transmissions. Rust is a major concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. Electrical issues with the instrument cluster are also common. The severity and cost of these issues can vary greatly depending on the vehicle’s condition and maintenance history. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the truck for signs of rust, engine problems (smoke, unusual noises), and transmission issues (slipping, hard shifting). Pre-purchase inspections from a qualified mechanic are highly recommended.