2020 GMC Sierra 1500
The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 is a popular full-size pickup truck offering a range of engine and trim options to suit various needs. Engine choices include a 2.7L turbocharged four-cylinder, a 4.3L V6, a 5.3L V8, a 6.2L V8, and a 3.0L Duramax turbodiesel. The 5.3L V8 produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include 6-speed, 8-speed, and 10-speed automatics, depending on the engine. Owners often praise the Sierra for its comfortable ride, spacious cabin, and available technology features. However, some common complaints revolve around the infotainment system glitches, transmission issues (depending on the configuration), and certain build quality concerns.
Engine
2.7L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder No Issues Found
4.3L V6 No Issues Found
5.3L V8
- Active Fuel Management (AFM) / Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, excessive oil consumption, and potential complete engine failure. This is related to the AFM/DFM system which deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy. The lifters can fail causing damage to the camshaft.
- Solution: Replacing the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft. Many owners choose to delete the AFM/DFM system during the repair to prevent future issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
6.2L V8
- Active Fuel Management (AFM) / Dynamic Fuel Management (DFM) Lifter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough running, excessive oil consumption, and potential complete engine failure. This is related to the AFM/DFM system which deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy. The lifters can fail causing damage to the camshaft.
- Solution: Replacing the failed lifters and potentially the camshaft. Many owners choose to delete the AFM/DFM system during the repair to prevent future issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
- Recalls: None Found
3.0L Duramax Turbodiesel No Issues Found
Transmission
6-Speed Automatic No Issues Found
8-Speed Automatic (Typically paired with the 5.3L V8)
- Harsh Shifting/Shuddering
- Description/Symptoms: Noticeable shudder or vibration during certain gear changes, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear, and 2nd and 3rd gear. Can also experience hard or jerky shifts.
- Solution: Some owners have found success with transmission fluid flushes and using updated transmission fluid. In more severe cases, torque converter replacement or full transmission rebuild is required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Fluid flush ($200 - $400), Torque Converter ($800 - $1500), Transmission Rebuild ($3000 - $6000+)
- Recalls: None Found
10-Speed Automatic (Typically paired with the 6.2L V8 or 3.0L Duramax)
- Harsh Shifting/Delayed Engagement
- Description/Symptoms: Experiences harsh shifts, especially during low-speed driving. Can also suffer from delayed or hesitant engagement when shifting into Drive or Reverse.
- Solution: A software update of the transmission control module (TCM) is often performed. If the issue persists, valve body replacement or transmission rebuild may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update ($100 - $300), Valve Body Replacement ($1,500 - $2,500), Transmission Rebuild ($3,000 - $6,000+)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension No Issues Found
Electrical
- Infotainment System Freezing/Glitching
- Description/Symptoms: The infotainment screen freezes, lags, or glitches, making it difficult to use navigation, audio, or other features.
- Solution: Software updates from the dealership are often the first step. In some cases, replacement of the infotainment unit is needed.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Software Update ($0 - $150), Infotainment Unit Replacement ($500 - $1500+)
- Recalls: None Found
- Backup Camera Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The backup camera intermittently fails to display an image or displays a distorted image.
- Solution: Check the wiring and connections to the camera. Replacement of the camera unit may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Camera Replacement ($200-$500)
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Power Tailgate Malfunction
- Description/Symptoms: The power tailgate fails to open or close properly, or makes unusual noises during operation.
- Solution: Inspect the tailgate struts, latch mechanism, and wiring. Replacement of the struts or latch may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Cracked Dashboard
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appear on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Replacement of the entire dashboard assembly.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2020 GMC Sierra 1500, while generally a reliable truck, is prone to certain issues depending on the specific engine and transmission configuration. The most serious issues involve the AFM/DFM lifter failures in the 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines, which can lead to significant repair costs. Additionally, the 8-speed and 10-speed automatic transmissions can exhibit harsh shifting behavior. Electrical issues such as infotainment glitches and backup camera failures are also common. Dashboard cracking is a known interior issue. While some of these issues can be addressed with software updates or relatively inexpensive repairs, major mechanical failures can be costly. Prospective buyers should carefully research the specific engine and transmission combination they are considering and be aware of the potential for these problems.