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    GMC Sierra 1500

    EPA MPG: 18 mpg

    RECALL ALERT:
    There are 5 recalls on this vehicle. Learn More.

    Reliability

    Overall Reliability

    The 2018 Sierra 1500 is less reliable than other cars from the same model year.

    The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 has been recalled 5 times by NHTSA. View Recalls
    Most Common Trouble Spots
    Common Trouble Spot
    Common Trouble Spot

    Owner Reported Trouble Spots

    The Reliability score is based on our latest subscriber survey of 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 owners. The owner comments describe problems respondents experienced with this vehicle.

    In-car Electronics

    Infotainment system (audio, GPS, phone), rear entertainment system, backup or other camera/sensors, head-up display.

    What Owners Say

    Display screen freezes up

    "Screen was susceptible to Texas extreme summer heat which fried the touchscreen"

    Anonymous, TX (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    "It started after owning truck almost 2 years. Display was glitching. Took it back to dealer 4 times before resolved. Solution was to replace the positive power harness into the cab. Then they obviously left the left the microphone unplugged from the head unit. Now the voice commands dont work. Im not taking it back again. 4 times was enough! They found a way to charge me for something every time including changing the negative battery cable twice which didnt fix the problem."

    Anonymous A., TX (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali 6.2-L V8)

    "The display screen randomly fades in and out when in map mode. The problem continues."

    Anonymous A., FL (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    "Touch screen completely failed."

    Anonymous, FL (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 6.2-L V8)
    Hardware replacement

    ""One of the lights went out on the climate control buttons, but it was integrated with the whole infotainment unit, so the whole unit needed replacing. Minor inconvenience.""

    Anonymous, LA (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali 5.3-L V8)

    "Screen was susceptible to Texas extreme summer heat which fried the touchscreen"

    Anonymous, TX (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)
    In-dash navigation system (GPS)

    "Display went bad, radio tuning stopped working. Mapping system stopped working. Disconnected the battery to reboot. Had to replace the screen assebly at over $1000"

    Anonymous, AL (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)
    Voice control commands

    "Dealer probably left the microphone unplugged from the head unit the 4th time they worked at trying to fix the display glitches. Im not taking it back again!"

    Anonymous A., TX (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali 6.2-L V8)

    Transmission Major

    Transmission rebuild or replacement, torque converter, premature clutch replacement.

    What Owners Say

    Torque converter

    "Shudder at 45-60 MPH"

    Anonymous, TX (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali 6.2-L V8)
    Transmission rebuild or replacement

    "The torque converter was replaced by GMC at 20,xxx miles in December 2020. Complete transmission failure and replacement July 2025 at 36 xxx miles."

    Anonymous A., MO (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali 6.2-L V8)

    "The transmission and torque converter were replaced with less than 30,000 miles. It has been the dealer on multiple occasions only to be told to flush the transmission filter and replace with higher grade fluid. This is a well known issue with GM 8-speed transmissions and the government has allowed them to avoid taking responsibility for know defects. My truck is now out of warranty, including the extended drive train warranty I purchased when the truck was new. The truck now has 65,000 miles. For a 2018 model, considered low. The hard shift issue is back and it looks like I will be paying out of pocket for a new or rebuilt transmission."

    Anonymous, CA (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    "INitially the transmission would shudder when driving down the road, almost like driving over rumble strips. GM replaced fluid, and it started again. This time, the entire transmission failed. GM did a complete transmission replacement, but NOT until it completely failed while I was over 1,000 miles from home. This was after GM assured me it was completely road worthy and the long trip would not be a problem."

    Anonymous, MO (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    "When I purchased the truck new the transmission made clunking noises. The day I picked the truck up from the dealership I told the dealership of the problem and they said it was fine. After bring it back three times and them denying a problem existed I took it to another GMC dealer where the manager agreed the transmission was clunking but said that GMC said it was fine, that was how the transmission operates. After maintaining the truck according to GMC spec, two weeks ago the transmission started having major issues, gear slipping and making noises. The dealership said the transmission needed to be replaced for $6000. When I called to transmission repair shops both said this is a well known defect in the GMC Sierra transmission and GMC knows about it. One of the shops told me they had bought the same truck new in 2018 and the transmission failed with 5000 miles on the odometer. Fortunately for them it was under warrantee. Someone (CR) should shine a bright light on the fact that GMC is knowingly selling trucks with faulty transmissions. Overall I have found GMC to be unresponsive, unwilling to stand behind their vehicles and lacking commitment to their customers."

    Anonymous A., (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    Exhaust

    Muffler, pipes, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Exhaust leaks

    ""The exhaust has a strong, bad odor and excess fumes. The vehicle does pass emissions tests, though, so it is only mildly annoying.""

    Anonymous A., LA (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)
    Other/unsure

    "Replaced the radiator. Had small holes in the core."

    Anonymous A., CA (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali 6.2-L V8)
    Pipes

    "Flex pipe off cat conv broke and was difficult to get sealed."

    Anonymous, PA (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    Transmission Minor

    Gear selector and linkage, transmission computer, transmission sensor or solenoid, clutch adjustment, rough shifting, slipping transmission, leaks.

    What Owners Say

    Other minor transmission & clutch problem

    ""Truck vibrates around 1500 rpm. It is also known as the CHEVROLET Shake. Started close to 50k miles just as warranty was expiring. Dealerships do not claim the problem. I was given various reasons for the vibration each time I took to dealership such as, tires being out of balance (I put new tires on), mud underneath since I live on dirt road (I wash underside before taking in for repair). The vibration has not been corrected. SoI just continue to drive an uncomfortable ride. A GMC 1500 Denali that costs as much as it did, should not vibrate. There should be a recall on it, rather than not acknowledging it. I had a previous 2015 GMC 1500 Denali truck that had the same vibration. It was traded in on the 2018 new GMC 1500 Denali truck that developed the same vibration. I will not buy another GMC truck until the problem is acknowledged and resolved by GMC.""

    Anonymous, OK (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali 6.2-L V8)
    Slipping transmission

    "Known issues with GM Trucks 2015-2019 that GM refuses to put out a recall because the transmission is a dud."

    Anonymous, MO (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 5.3-L V8)

    "there is a letter out early in 2020 on transmissions, they replaced the fluid, did not fix the problem, had 2 torque converters put in along with vales body replaced, still did not fix the problem. Talked to an master mechanic who used to work for GMC and he said it was a bad transmission and needs to be replaced. Dealership does not want to do that per GMC company."

    Anonymous A., AL (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 6.2-L V8)

    Drive System

    Driveshaft or axle, CV joint, differential, transfer case, four-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive components, driveline vibration, electrical failure, traction control, electronic stability control.

    What Owners Say

    Differential

    ""My 2018 differential has a seal leak that is supposed to cost over 2,000 to repair. I only have 60,000 kms on the truck so this seems ridiculous.""

    Anonymous A., AB (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)
    Driveshaft or axle

    "Driveshaft complete failure. Snapped in half."

    Anonymous, FL (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 6.2-L V8)

    Climate System

    AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, refrigerant leakage.

    What Owners Say

    A/C compressor

    "Air conditions stopped working."

    Anonymous, WA (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)
    Condenser

    ""The AC stopped blowing cold air, and now it blows only warm air.""

    Anonymous A., LA (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    Paint/Trim

    Paint (fading, chalking, peeling, or cracking), loose interior or exterior trim or moldings, rust.

    What Owners Say

    Loose exterior trim or moldings

    "The chrome on the running board on one side of the truck is peeling. It started about a year and half ago but was just past the warranty and G M wouldnt do anything about it."

    Anonymous A., AB (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    "Running boards rusted out within first year. Still look awful and still need replaced."

    Anonymous, OH (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 5.3-L V8)

    Brakes

    Premature pad/rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, antilock system, parking brake, master cylinder, calipers, squeaking, brake failure, regenerative braking.

    What Owners Say

    Premature brake wear

    "had to have the back pads changed after 30000"

    Anonymous, KY (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali 6.2-L V8)

    Fuel System/Emissions

    Sensors (O₂, or oxygen, sensor), emission-control devices (includes EGR), fuel-injection system, fuel gauge/sender, fuel pump, problems filling up the tank.

    What Owners Say

    Emission control devices (includes EGR)

    "EGR valve had to be replaced"

    Anonymous A., TX (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    Body Hardware

    Windows, locks and latches, doors or sliding doors, tailgate, trunk or hatch, mirrors, seat controls (power or manual), seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defect.

    What Owners Say

    Other body problem

    "Two years ago the chrome on the factory installed running boards started to pit and flake. Despite keeping the chrome polished. Given the worsening condition I am concerned the integrity of the running boards may have been compromised by the rust."

    Anonymous A., (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 5.3-L V8)

    Engine Major

    Engine rebuild or replacement, cylinder head, head gasket, turbocharger or supercharger, timing chain or belt.

    What Owners Say

    Engine rebuild or replacement

    "Im not the primary driver of this vehicle. However, we began having engine problems soon after the warranty expired."

    Anonymous, (2018 GMC Sierra 1500 Unsure Unsure)

    Engine Electrical

    Alternator, starter, hybrid battery replacement, hybrid battery related systems, regular battery, battery cables, engine harness, coil, ignition switch, electronic ignition, spark plugs and wires failure, auto stop/start.

    Engine Minor

    Accessory belts and pulleys, engine computer, engine mounts, engine knock or ping, fuel leaks, oil leaks.

    Engine Cooling

    Radiator, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, overheating.

    Electrical Accessories

    Cruise control, clock, warning lights, body control module, keyless entry, wiper motor or washer, tire pressure monitor, interior or exterior lights, horn, gauges, 12V power plug, USB ports, alarm or security system, remote engine start, heated or cooled seats, heated steering wheel, headlights, automatic headlights, automatic wipers, wireless charging pad.

    Suspension/Steering

    Shocks or struts, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, alignment, steering linkage (includes rack and pinion), power steering (pumps and hoses, leaks), wheel balance, springs or torsion bars, bushings, electronic or air suspension.

    Noises/Leaks

    Squeaks, rattles, wind noises, seals and/or weather stripping, air and water leaks.

    2018 Pickup Trucks Reliability

    This Car
    vs. Similar Cars

    GMC vs. Other New Car Brands Reliability

    Reliability History
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    Overall Reliability Verdict

    POTENTIAL TROUBLE SPOTS
    Powertrain
    Engine Major
    Engine Minor
    Engine Cooling
    Engine Electrical
    Transmission Major
    Transmission Minor
    Drive System
    Fuel System/Emissions
    Exhaust
    Suspension/Steering
    Brakes
    Climate System
    Build Quality
    Electrical Accessories
    Body Hardware
    Paint/Trim
    Noises/Leaks
    In-car Electronics
    Reliability indicates how models have performed in the past, providing the basis for predicting how the vehicles will hold up in the year ahead. These charts provide the most comprehensive reliability information available to consumers. Based on information received from our latest subscriber survey for about 380,000 vehicles, our reliability history charts give you a rundown on how 2000 through 2025 vehicles are holding up in 20 potential trouble spots, ranging from the engine, transmission, electric motor, EV charging, and brakes, to power equipment and the electrical accessories.
    Recalls
    PROVIDED BY
    AIR BAGS
    Jun 26, 2025
    A detached end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape and project the end cap or fragments of the inflator into the vehicle, increases the risk of injury or crash.
    Summary:
    General Motors (GM) is recalling certain 2018 GMC Sierra 1500, 2019 Sierra 2500, 3500, Chevrolet Silverado 3500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab vehicles. The left or right-side roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will replace the left and right side RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed July 23, 2025. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N252513060.
    For more information:
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 25V432000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 1658
    AIR BAGS
    Oct 10, 2024
    A separated inflator end cap or inflator rupture can allow compressed gas to escape, resulting in the end cap or other components being propelled into the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury or crash.
    Summary:
    General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2018-2019 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, and GMC Sierra 2500, 3500 Crew Cab trucks. The left or right-side roof-rail air bag (RRAB) inflator end cap may detach from the inflator or the inflator sidewall may rupture.
    What should you do:
    Dealers will replace the left and right side RRAB modules, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed November 8, 2024. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC Customer Service at 888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N242474500.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to nhtsa.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 24V756000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 2061
    SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
    Oct 01, 2020
    A decrease in brake assist can increase the brake pedal effort and distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2018 Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500 and Yukon vehicles equipped with either a 5.3L or 6.2L V8 engine. The output of the mechanical vacuum pump can decrease over time, decreasing the amount of vacuum/power brake assist.
    What should you do:
    GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module, free of charge. The recall began November 11, 2020. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-522-9559, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438. GM's number for this recall is N202300860.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 20V603000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 14620
    ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC), SERVICE BRAKES, SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
    Oct 24, 2019
    Unintended activation of the driveline-protection system will cause unintended braking on the wheel on the opposite side of the failed sensor, causing the vehicle to pull to one side unexpectedly, increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2020 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, and GMC Yukon, and 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles equipped with a 5.3-liter engine, a 3.08-ratio rear axle and four-wheel drive. If a wheel-speed sensor fails, while the vehicle is traveling between 41 and 60 mph in four-wheel or automatic mode, the Electronic-Brake Control Module (EBCM) software may activate the driveline-protection system.
    What should you do:
    GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began December 11, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192261050.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V761000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 652967
    SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
    Sep 06, 2019
    As the vacuum level drops, the brake assist decreases, increasing braking effort, extending the distance required to stop the vehicle, thereby increasing the risk of a crash.
    Summary:
    General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2015-2017 Cadillac Escalade, 2014-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, 2015-2018 Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon vehicles. The amount of vacuum created by the vacuum pump may decrease over time.
    What should you do:
    GM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Electronic Brake Control Module, free of charge. The recall began October 8, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N192268490.
    For more information:
    Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
    NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number: 19V645000
    Potential Number of Units Affected: 3456719
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