2014 GMC Sierra

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2014 GMC Sierra, organized by category and engine/transmission option.

The 2014 GMC Sierra is a full-size pickup truck that offers a blend of capability and comfort. It was a popular choice for its towing capacity, spacious cabin, and available technology. Engine options included a 4.3L V6 (285 hp, 305 lb-ft of torque), a 5.3L V8 (355 hp, 383 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.2L V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque). All engines were paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciated the Sierra’s styling, quiet cabin, and smooth ride, but some common complaints include issues with the automatic transmission, excessive oil consumption in some engines, and certain electrical glitches.

Engine

4.3L V6

• No Issues Found

5.3L V8 (L83)

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, misfires, and potential for reduced power or engine damage. AFM lifters can collapse, leading to these symptoms.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed lifters, often including replacing all lifters and the camshaft. AFM delete kits are available as a permanent solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable oil consumption between oil changes. Spark plugs may be fouled with oil.
  • Solution: GM released a revised valve cover and oil deflector to mitigate oil consumption. Piston ring replacement may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the severity and repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L V8 (L86)

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking or knocking noise from the engine, misfires, and potential for reduced power or engine damage. AFM lifters can collapse, leading to these symptoms.
  • Solution: Replacing the failed lifters, often including replacing all lifters and the camshaft. AFM delete kits are available as a permanent solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Excessive Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable oil consumption between oil changes. Spark plugs may be fouled with oil.
  • Solution: GM released a revised valve cover and oil deflector to mitigate oil consumption. Piston ring replacement may be necessary in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the severity and repair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6L80 6-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear, or slipping between gears.
  • Solution: Transmission flush, valve body repair or replacement, or complete transmission rebuild/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• “Service Stabilitrak” Message/Faulty Wheel Speed Sensors
  • Description/Symptoms: The “Service Stabilitrak” message appearing on the dashboard. Can be caused by a faulty wheel speed sensor, causing the system to falsely detect a loss of traction.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty wheel speed sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Radio Display Issues/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the radio display screen. Can manifest as flickering, freezing, or a blank screen.
  • Solution: Software update or replacement of the radio unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup camera image is distorted, not appearing, or intermittently cutting out.
  • Solution: Replacing the backup camera unit or repairing wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, particularly in warmer climates or after prolonged sun exposure.
  • Solution: Replacing the dashboard or using a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $1500+ (Dash cover or full replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 GMC Sierra, while generally a reliable truck, has several common issues to be aware of. The most serious and potentially costly problems revolve around the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines, particularly AFM lifter failure and excessive oil consumption. Transmission issues, while less severe, can also be a significant expense. Electrical gremlins like radio and backup camera failures are also fairly common. Potential buyers should have these areas inspected before purchasing a used 2014 Sierra. The average cost of repairs for these issues ranges from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for major engine or transmission work.