Post
Research the Car Logo

2008 GMC Sierra

Posted
By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2008 GMC Sierra is a full-size pickup truck known for its reliability and capability. Available engine options include a 4.3L V6, a 4.8L V8, a 5.3L V8, and a 6.0L V8. The 5.3L V8, producing around 315 horsepower and 338 lb-ft of torque, was a popular choice for its balance of power and fuel economy. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and a 6-speed automatic, depending on the engine and trim level. Owners often praise the Sierra for its comfortable ride, strong towing capacity, and classic truck styling. Common dislikes include fuel economy, particularly with the larger V8 engines, and some reported issues with certain electrical components.

Engine

4.3L V6

No Issues Found

4.8L V8

No Issues Found

5.3L V8 (LY5/LMG)

  • Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, misfires, rough idling, and potential cylinder deactivation issues. Often caused by collapsed lifters due to lubrication problems or mechanical failure within the AFM system.
    • Solution: Replacement of the failed lifters, often including all lifters to prevent future failures. AFM delete kits are also a common modification to eliminate the system entirely and prevent future problems.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ (depending on severity and whether AFM delete is performed).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, often leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage. Caused by piston ring issues or valve seal leaks.
    • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the source of the leak. Replacement of piston rings or valve seals as needed. In severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ (depending on the severity and the repair needed).
    • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

  • Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Erroneous or no oil pressure reading on the dashboard gauge. Can trigger a check engine light. The sensor itself is prone to failure.
    • Solution: Replacement of the oil pressure sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E (4-Speed Automatic)

  • Harsh Shifts/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifts between gears, particularly 1st to 2nd and 2nd to 3rd. Transmission slipping under load. Often caused by worn clutch packs, valve body issues, or a failing torque converter.
    • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Valve body repair or replacement. Torque converter replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+ (depending on the repair and shop rates).
    • Recalls: None Found

6L80E (6-Speed Automatic)

No Issues Found

Suspension

  • Clunking Noises from Front Suspension
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Can be caused by worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or sway bar links.
    • Solution: Inspection of the front suspension components. Replacement of worn ball joints, tie rod ends, or sway bar links.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the components needing replacement).
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Door Lock Actuator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the door locks. Door may not lock or unlock with the key fob or the interior switch.
    • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (per door).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Instrument Panel Gauge Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or non-functional gauges on the instrument panel. Often affects the speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge. Caused by stepper motor failure within the instrument cluster.
    • Solution: Instrument cluster repair or replacement. Replacement of individual stepper motors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (depending on the repair and shop rates).
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Blower Motor Resistor Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor only works on certain settings or not at all. Often, the lower settings (1-3) will fail, while the highest setting (5) still works.
    • Solution: Replacement of the blower motor resistor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust on Rocker Panels and Cab Corners
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels and cab corners, particularly in areas where salt is used on the roads.
    • Solution: Repair or replacement of the rusted panels. Requires cutting out the rust, welding in new metal, and repainting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ (depending on the severity and body shop rates).
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Cracked Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard, often due to sun exposure and temperature fluctuations.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement or installation of a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ (depending on the repair method).
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 GMC Sierra, while a capable and reliable truck, does have some common issues. The 5.3L V8 is prone to AFM lifter failure and oil consumption, potentially leading to costly repairs. Electrical issues like door lock actuator and instrument panel failures are also prevalent. Rust on the rocker panels and cab corners is a concern, especially in colder climates. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others, such as engine or transmission problems, can be significant financial burdens. Prospective buyers should be aware of these potential problems and carefully inspect any used 2008 GMC Sierra before purchasing.

GMC, Sierra
GMC Sierra 2008
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.