2017 GMC Sierra 1500

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2017 GMC Sierra 1500, organized by category and engine/transmission configuration. The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck known for its comfortable ride and user-friendly technology. Engine options include 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). Transmission options include a 6-speed automatic (paired with the 4.3L V6 and some 5.3L V8 models) and an 8-speed automatic (paired with some 5.3L V8 and all 6.2L V8 models). Owners often praise the Sierra’s quiet cabin and strong towing capability, but some common complaints include transmission issues, particularly with the 8-speed automatic, and electrical glitches.

Engine

4.3L V6

No Issues Found

5.3L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, particularly at lower RPMs. Ticking or knocking sound coming from the engine. Check engine light may illuminate. Can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty lifters. Some owners opt for AFM delete kits to prevent recurrence, which involves replacing the lifters with non-AFM lifters and reprogramming the engine control unit (ECU).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between oil changes. Blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to determine the source of the oil consumption. Common causes include worn piston rings or valve seals. Repair may involve replacing piston rings, valve seals, or the entire engine, depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $7,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.2L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, particularly at lower RPMs. Ticking or knocking sound coming from the engine. Check engine light may illuminate. Can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty lifters. Some owners opt for AFM delete kits to prevent recurrence, which involves replacing the lifters with non-AFM lifters and reprogramming the engine control unit (ECU).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6L80)

No Issues Found

8-Speed Automatic (8L90)

• Harsh Shifting/Shuddering
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or jerky shifting between gears, particularly at lower speeds. A noticeable shudder or vibration felt during acceleration.
  • Solution: Transmission flush using a revised transmission fluid. Replacement of the torque converter may be necessary in more severe cases. Some owners report success with a full transmission rebuild or replacement, but this is a more costly option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Premature Wear of Shocks
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncing or excessive body roll when driving. Decreased ride comfort. Leaking fluid from the shocks.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn shocks.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Infotainment System Freezing/Crashing
  • Description/Symptoms: The infotainment system freezes, becomes unresponsive, or restarts unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Software update to the infotainment system. If the issue persists, replacement of the infotainment unit may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly, especially when the vehicle is not in use. Difficulty starting the vehicle.
  • Solution: Diagnosis to identify the source of the parasitic drain. Common causes include faulty modules, aftermarket accessories, or a failing battery. Repair may involve replacing the battery, repairing or replacing the faulty module, or removing the aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Poor Quality Chrome Trim
  • Description/Symptoms: The chrome trim on the vehicle can peel or rust very easily.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rusted or peeling trim.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard. Installation of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 GMC Sierra 1500 has a number of potential issues. The most significant and costly are related to the engine’s Active Fuel Management system and the 8-speed automatic transmission. Addressing these issues can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Electrical and interior issues are less severe, but can still be annoying to deal with.