Post
Research the Car Logo

2017 GMC Sierra 2500 HD

The 2017 GMC Sierra 2500 HD is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing capability and workhorse nature. Engine options include a 6.0L Vortec V8 (360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque) and a 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8 (445 hp and 910 lb-ft of torque). Both engines are paired with a 6-speed Allison automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the truck’s strong engine performance and robust build, while some common complaints revolve around ride quality and some reported reliability issues.

Engine

6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel V8 (L5P)

  • Fuel Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough running, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and potential check engine light. Can lead to severe engine damage if not addressed.
    • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • CP4 Fuel Pump Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: This fuel pump is known to fail on certain diesel engines because the lubrication of the pump is provided by diesel fuel. The failure causes metal shavings to flow through the fuel system causing damage to all the fuel injectors, fuel rails, and the high-pressure fuel pump.
    • Solution: The only solution is to replace the entire fuel system, including fuel injectors, fuel rails, fuel pump, and any other components that may have been contaminated with metal shavings. In addition, there are aftermarket kits available to replace the CP4 with a CP3 fuel pump that is more reliable.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $8,000 - $12,000+

6.0L Vortec V8 (L96)

  • Oil Consumption
    • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, and potential engine damage if oil levels are not monitored.
    • Solution: Replacement of valve seals or piston rings.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Allison 1000 6-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Shudder
    • Description/Symptoms: A shuddering or vibration felt during light acceleration, especially at lower speeds.
    • Solution: Flush the transmission fluid, replace the torque converter, or rebuild the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Front End “Death Wobble”
    • Description/Symptoms: Severe shaking and vibration in the front end, particularly at highway speeds after hitting a bump or imperfection in the road.
    • Solution: Replacing worn steering components (tie rod ends, ball joints, steering stabilizer), adjusting the alignment, or replacing the steering box.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Radio/Infotainment System Malfunctions
    • Description/Symptoms: Screen freezing, Bluetooth connectivity issues, loss of sound, or complete system failure.
    • Solution: Software update, replacement of the head unit, or repair of wiring connections.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1,200+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • No Issues Found

Interior

  • Cracked Dash
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard, often caused by exposure to sunlight and heat.
    • Solution: Replacement of the dashboard or installation of a dash cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2017 GMC Sierra 2500 HD presents a mixed bag of potential issues. Engine problems, particularly with the Duramax diesel, can be costly, while transmission and suspension issues can affect drivability. Electrical issues are common across many modern vehicles. Repair costs range from a few hundred dollars for minor fixes to several thousand for major engine or transmission repairs. Potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle’s maintenance history and consider a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic, paying close attention to the diesel fuel system and front-end components.

This post is licensed under CC BY 4.0 by the author.