1990-1998 GMC Sierra: Reliability
Updated: 11/23/08
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Our reliability study for this generation GMC Sierra includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation GMC Sierra .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Automatic transmission:
700-R4 automatic transmissions may shift late or not upshift at all. The problem is a stuck throttle valve inside the transmission. (1990-92)
Automatic transmission:
Transmission binds in reverse, upshifts harshly, fails to upshift when hot, or sticks in first gear. (1990-91)
Climate control:
The temperature control lever may slide from hot to cold, usually when the blower is on high speed. (1992-94)
Cruise control:
The cruise control cuts out and won't reset because the cruise control module is too sensitive to vibrations at the brake pedal. (1994-95)
Dashboard lights:
The oil pressure gauge may read high, move erratically, or not work because the oil pressure sensor is defective. (1990-93)
Engine knock:
Continued engine knock on 4.3-liter engines during acceleration or climbing a grade has been addressed by at least 15 PROM revisions due to carbon buildup on the pistons. (1992)
Engine noise:
Engine knock in gasoline engines is usually eliminated by using an oil filter with a check valve, but if this does not fix it, GM has revised PROMs for the computers and will even replace the main bearings. (1990-95)
Engine noise:
The exhaust valves on 4.3-, 5.0-, or 5.7-liter engines may not get enough lubrication causing a variety of noises. (1990-98)
Transmission leak:
Fluid may leak from the pump body on 4L60-E transmissions due to the pump bushing walking out of the valve body. (1995-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $560 |
| Alternator | $378 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $725 |
| Brakes | $230 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $595 |
| Exhaust System | $420 |
| Radiator | $350 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $335 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $210 |
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