Post
Research the Car Logo

2012 GMC Sierra 1500

Posted
By Research the Car 4 min read

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its reliability, capability, and comfortable ride. Engine options include a 4.3L V6 (200 hp, 260 lb-ft of torque), a 4.8L V8 (302 hp, 305 lb-ft of torque), a 5.3L V8 (315 hp, 335 lb-ft of torque with iron block, or 326 hp, 348 lb-ft of torque with aluminum block), and a 6.2L V8 (403 hp, 417 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options primarily include a 4-speed automatic (with the 4.3L and some 4.8L engines) and a 6-speed automatic (with the 5.3L and 6.2L engines and some 4.8L engines). Owners generally appreciate the Sierra’s strong towing capacity, comfortable interior, and smooth ride. Common dislikes include fuel economy, some issues with the AFM (Active Fuel Management) system on certain V8 engines, and potential for rust.

Engine

4.8L V8

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent topping off between oil changes.
    • Solution: Replacing valve seals or piston rings. In severe cases, engine replacement may be necessary.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8 (Specifically with Active Fuel Management)

  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption issues. Can be caused by AFM lifter failure or piston ring issues.
    • Solution: Deactivating the AFM system through tuning or installing a disabling kit, replacing AFM lifters, or replacing piston rings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on the solution.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • AFM Lifter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking sound from the engine, rough idle, misfires, and potentially reduced power. This is directly related to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system.
    • Solution: Replacing the failed AFM lifters and potentially the camshaft.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

6.2L V8

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Burning more oil than normal.
    • Solution: Replacing valve seals, piston rings, or engine replacement in extreme cases.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4L60E)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or complete failure to shift.
    • Solution: Rebuilding or replacing the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,800 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (6L80E)

  • Harsh Shifting/Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifting, especially between certain gears. Delayed engagement, slipping, or complete transmission failure.
    • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild, transmission replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000+ depending on the issue and solution.
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Clunking Noises
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially over bumps.
    • Solution: Replacing worn sway bar end links, ball joints, or control arm bushings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component.
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Rough Ride/Poor Handling
    • Description/Symptoms: Deteriorated shock absorbers can cause a bouncy or unstable ride.
    • Solution: Replacing the shocks.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the shocks.
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Battery Drain
    • Description/Symptoms: The battery drains overnight or within a few days, even when the vehicle is not in use.
    • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing the parasitic draw. Common culprits include aftermarket accessories, faulty relays, or a failing alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Power Window/Door Lock Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of power windows or door locks.
    • Solution: Replacing the affected window motor, door lock actuator, or switch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window/door.
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust on Rocker Panels and Cab Corners
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels and cab corners.
    • Solution: Cutting out the rusted areas and welding in new metal, followed by bodywork and painting.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+ per side, depending on the extent of the damage.
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Dashboard Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
    • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or installing a dashboard cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Headliner Sagging
    • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the backing and begins to sag.
    • Solution: Replacing the headliner or re-gluing the fabric.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500, while generally reliable, experiences common issues. The most concerning issues revolve around the 5.3L V8 engine with AFM, which has a history of excessive oil consumption and lifter failures, potentially leading to costly repairs. Rust is another issue that can be costly to repair. Other issues, such as electrical problems and interior trim issues, are less severe but still contribute to the overall ownership experience. Potential buyers should carefully inspect vehicles for signs of these issues and budget accordingly for potential repairs.

GMC, Sierra 1500
GMC Sierra 1500 2012
This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.