2016 GMC Sierra 3500 HD

The 2016 GMC Sierra 3500 HD is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and hauling capabilities. Available engine options included the 6.0L Vortec V8 (gas) producing 360 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, and the 6.6L Duramax Diesel V8, generating 397 horsepower and 765 lb-ft of torque. Both engines could be paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the truck’s robust performance and durability but sometimes note concerns with ride quality and certain electronic features. Common dislikes include the dated interior design compared to competitors and reported issues with the emissions systems on diesel models.

Engine

6.0L Vortec V8 (Gas)

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes. May be accompanied by blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Possible repairs include replacing valve seals, piston rings, or even the entire engine in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.6L Duramax Diesel V8 (LML)

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent regeneration cycles, reduced engine power, and diagnostic trouble codes related to the DPF.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, DPF cleaning, or DPF replacement. Sometimes caused by faulty sensors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) Valve Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, decreased fuel economy, and engine warning lights.
  • Solution: EGR valve replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, and decreased fuel economy
  • Solution: Fuel injector replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Allison 1000 6-Speed Automatic (Diesel)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, slipping between gears, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shift Flare/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifts between gears.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve body or solenoids in the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Hydra-Matic 6L90 6-Speed Automatic (Gas)

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission delays when shifting into gear, or shifts are too harsh.
  • Solution: Flush the transmission and replace the fluid, replace the valve body, or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the truck sitting lower than the front, reduced load-carrying capacity, and a bouncy ride.
  • Solution: Leaf spring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front End Vibration
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration felt in the steering wheel and front end, particularly at higher speeds.
  • Solution: Balancing tires, replacing worn ball joints or tie rod ends, or replacing worn steering components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Premature battery failure, requiring frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair parasitic drain (e.g., faulty module or accessory). Replacing battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Infotainment System Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Freezing, lagging, or complete failure of the infotainment system.
  • Solution: Software updates, system resets, or replacement of the infotainment unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to lock or unlock, intermittent issues.
  • Solution: Door lock actuator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Undercarriage and Frame
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the truck’s frame and undercarriage, especially in areas with heavy salt use.
  • Solution: Undercoating, rust repair, or frame replacement in severe cases.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Backup Camera Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Backup Camera image is grainy or not working
  • Solution: Backup Camera replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: 16V-646

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or overlay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2016 GMC Sierra 3500 HD, while a capable work truck, presents potential issues across various components. The Duramax diesel is prone to emissions-related problems, while the gasoline engine might suffer from excessive oil consumption. Transmission issues, electrical glitches, and suspension wear are also common concerns. The severity and cost of these repairs can vary significantly, ranging from relatively inexpensive fixes like sensor replacements to major overhauls such as engine or transmission replacements, potentially costing several thousand dollars. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic.