2016 GMC Sierra
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its comfortable ride, strong towing capacity, and available technology. Engine options included a 4.3L EcoTec3 V6 (285 hp, 305 lb-ft of torque), a 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 (355 hp, 383 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.2L EcoTec3 V8 (420 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options varied depending on the engine, with either a 6-speed or 8-speed automatic transmission available. Owners often praise the Sierra for its refined interior and quiet cabin. Common complaints include issues with the infotainment system, transmission hesitation, and some engine-related problems.
Engine
4.3L EcoTec3 V6
- Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, misfires, check engine light. Often occurs due to failure of the AFM lifters, which deactivate cylinders to improve fuel economy.
- Solution: Replacing the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft if damaged. Requires removal of the cylinder head.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
5.3L EcoTec3 V8
- Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, misfires, check engine light. Similar to the 4.3L V6, the AFM system can lead to lifter failures.
- Solution: Replacing the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft if damaged. Requires removal of the cylinder head.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Excessive Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an excessive amount of oil between oil changes. This may be accompanied by blue smoke from the exhaust and low oil level warnings.
- Solution: Some possible solutions include replacing the valve cover with a redesigned PCV orifice and cleaning carbon buildup. Other more intensive repairs can include piston ring replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+, depending on the severity and repair method.
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L EcoTec3 V8
- Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, misfires, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacing the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft if damaged. Requires removal of the cylinder head.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic Transmission (Typically paired with 4.3L V6 and some 5.3L V8 models)
- Harsh Shifting/Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or rough shifting between gears, especially during acceleration or deceleration. Slipping can be felt as a momentary loss of power or engine revving without corresponding vehicle acceleration.
- Solution: Diagnosis to pinpoint the cause. This could involve a transmission fluid change, valve body replacement, or a complete transmission rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (fluid change) - $3,500+ (rebuild/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
8-Speed Automatic Transmission (Typically paired with 5.3L V8 and 6.2L V8 models)
- “Torque Converter Shudder” / Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable shudder or vibration felt at certain speeds (often around 40-60 mph) when the transmission is in a high gear and under light load. May also experience harsh or erratic shifting.
- Solution: Some owners have had success with transmission fluid flushes using a specific type of fluid. Other solutions involve replacing the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 (fluid flush) - $1,500+ (torque converter replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- “Chevy Shake” / Vibration at Highway Speeds
- Description/Symptoms: A persistent vibration felt throughout the vehicle, primarily at highway speeds. Often more pronounced in 4WD models.
- Solution: Diagnosing and addressing the root cause, which can vary. Common culprits include tire imbalance, driveshaft issues (u-joints, balance), or worn suspension components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (tire balance) - $1,000+ (driveshaft or suspension component replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Lagging
- Description/Symptoms: The touchscreen infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or exhibits significant lag when navigating menus or using features.
- Solution: Attempting a system reset (check owner’s manual for instructions). If the problem persists, a software update or replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $0 (reset) - $1,000+ (unit replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Battery Drain Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The vehicle battery drains prematurely, leading to difficulty starting or a completely dead battery, especially after the vehicle has been sitting for a short period.
- Solution: Investigating for parasitic drains (components drawing power when the vehicle is off). Common causes include faulty door actuators, aftermarket accessories installed incorrectly, or a failing battery.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the cause.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Cracked Dash
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in hotter climates. The dark color options are known to have this issue.
- Solution: Replacement of the dashboard. Installation can be very labor intensive. Dash covers are also an option.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1,500+
Interior
- Seat Heater Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Seat heaters fail to function, often with no heat being generated.
- Solution: The heating element needs to be repaired or replaced.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $700+
Summary
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 can be a reliable truck, but it’s important to be aware of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly AFM lifter failure and excessive oil consumption in the 5.3L V8, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues with both the 6-speed and 8-speed automatics are also common. Electrical problems can range from minor infotainment glitches to more significant battery drain issues. While some issues, like the “Chevy Shake,” may be considered more of a nuisance, others can significantly impact the vehicle’s performance and reliability. Before purchasing a 2016 GMC Sierra, it’s advisable to have a pre-purchase inspection performed by a qualified mechanic to identify any potential problems and factor repair costs into your budget.