1990-1998 GMC Sierra: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1998 GMC Sierra and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration (V8)
- Visibility
- Passenger and cargo room
- Antilock brakes (later models)
- Trailer-towing capability
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Ride
- Climate controls (early)
- Noise
Vehicle Highlights
GMC's Sierra and the nearly identical Chevrolet C/Ks had been redone as early 1988 models, in three series: 1500 (1/2 ton), 2500 (3/4 ton), and 3500 (1-ton). C pickups were 2-wheel drive; K indicated Insta-Trac part-time 4WD. Models without flared rear fenders were called Wideside, models with flared rear fenders Sportside. The short-bed had a 117.5-inch wheelbase and 6.5-foot bed. Long-bed trucks rode a 131.5-inch wheelbase with 8-foot bed. Extended-cab models had a 141.5-inch wheelbase with 6.5-foot bed, or a 155.5-inch wheelbase with 8-foot bed.The 6-passenger extended-cab (2500 only) had two full-width bench seats. A folding bench was available in other extended-cabs. Others got a 3-place bench seat or two buckets. Base engine was a 4.3-liter V6, making 160 horsepower. Options included 5.0- and 5.7-liter gasoline V8s, and a 6.2-liter diesel. All models had antilock rear brakes, and either manual shift or an automatic transmission.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | GMC Sierra 1500 5.0-liter ext. cab Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 34 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1998 GMC Sierra. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1998 GMC Sierra.
Year to Year Changes
1991 GMC Sierra:
A substantially revised 7.4-liter V8 could now be mated to an automatic transmission. Front bucket seats and a new gauge cluster while a tachometer joined the option list.
1992 GMC Sierra:
A flare-fendered cargo box became available on extended-cab models for '92. No more 4-speed manual gearboxes were installed.
1993 GMC Sierra:
Sierra's new automatic transmission gained electronic controls. A passenger seatback recliner was added to 40/60 split bench seats and low-back buckets. All windows now had tinted glass.
1994 GMC Sierra:
Grilles earned modest revision as new door guard beams and a center high-mounted stoplamp were installed. Two 6.5-liter diesel V8s joined the option list: a normally aspirated version rated 155 horsepower, and a 180-horsepower turbodiesel.
1995 GMC Sierra:
A driver-side airbag went into a revised interior, and 4-wheel antilock braking was installed on all models. The new dashboard featured cupholders and rotary climate controls.
1996 GMC Sierra:
Vortec engines arrived in '96, delivering more power. The new 4.3-liter V6 gained 40 horsepower (reaching 200). The 5.0-liter V8 gained 45 horsepower, the 5.7-liter added 50 horses, and the 7.4-liter V8 gained 60 horsepower (now 290). The heavy-duty 5.7-liter V8 now was rated 245 horsepower (up 65). An optional rear side door (on the passenger side) was available only on the C/K 1500 series Club Coupe short-bed SLE and SLT. It cannot be used unless the front door has been opened.
1997 GMC Sierra:
A passenger-side airbag went into all 1500 models and the rear-drive 2500 series. A dashboard switch could shut off the airbag if a rear-facing infant seat was installed.
1998 GMC Sierra:
Sierra saw only modest changes for 1998, and a new model was released in '99.
Our road test for the 1990-1998 GMC Sierra includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1998 GMC Sierra and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1998 GMC Sierra is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
We're wary of trying much work with the base V6. A 5.0- or 5.7-liter V8 is more appropriate for rugged duty, and better suited for automatic. The 5.7-liter V8 feels livelier, furnishing a stronger kick in low-speed acceleration and highway passing. In fact, it's our favorite Sierra engine. All V8s guzzle; expect under 15 mpg in urban driving. Ride quality suffers when the cargo box is empty, and is less pleasing in models with higher payload ratings. The latest Ford F-150, redesigned for '97, rides better. Sadly, unladen stopping distance from 60 mph averaged over 200 feet. And, despite standard antilock braking, rear-wheel lockup was difficult to avoid. Forward visibility is good from a wide, spacious-feeling cab with ample room for even the largest occupants. Early heat/vent controls are complicated, but otherwise, the dashboard is neat and functional. The glovebox is tiny, but optional bucket seats came with a console that included a storage bin. The optional rear door on late models requires a V8, automatic, and SLE or SLT package. Regular-cab models don't offer much room for reclining the seatback or storing items behind the seat, so they trail the latest Dodge Ram and Ford F-150 in that area. The rear seat in extended-cab models is wide, but the seatback is uncomfortably vertical, and knee room is tight.
Value for the Money
GM, Ford, and Dodge are closely matched in powertrain, body style, trim, and payload choices. Therefore, many buying decisions boil down to personal preference. Before deciding, be sure to try all three.
GM, Ford, and Dodge are closely matched in powertrain, body style, trim, and payload choices. Therefore, many buying decisions boil down to personal preference. Before deciding, be sure to try all three.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | GMC Sierra 1500 5.0-liter ext. cab Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 2 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 4 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 2 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 2 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 34 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
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 |
Our price chart for this generation GMC Sierra details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
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| 1998 | |||
| Sierra 1500 2WD | $3,300-5,500 | $2,600-4,300 | $800-1,400 |
| Sierra 1500 4WD | $4,500-6,200 | $3,700-5,100 | $1,600-2,200 |
| Sierra 2500 2WD | $3,800-5,600 | $3,100-4,600 | $1,200-1,700 |
| Sierra 2500 4WD | $5,100-6,800 | $4,300-5,800 | $2,000-2,700 |
| 1997 | |||
| Sierra 1500 2WD | $2,900-4,900 | $2,200-3,700 | $700-1,100 |
| Sierra 1500 4WD | $4,000-5,700 | $3,300-4,700 | $1,300-1,800 |
| Sierra 2500 2WD | $3,400-5,000 | $2,700-4,000 | $900-1,300 |
| Sierra 2500 4WD | $4,500-6,000 | $3,700-5,000 | $1,600-2,200 |
| 1996 | |||
| Sierra 1500 2WD | $2,500-4,100 | $1,800-3,000 | $500-900 |
| Sierra 1500 4WD | $3,600-4,900 | $2,900-3,900 | $1,000-1,400 |
| Sierra 2500 2WD | $2,900-4,300 | $2,200-3,300 | $700-1,000 |
| Sierra 2500 4WD | $4,100-5,300 | $3,400-4,300 | $1,400-1,700 |
| 1995 | |||
| Sierra 1500 2WD | $2,200-3,600 | $1,600-2,600 | $400-700 |
| Sierra 1500 4WD | $3,100-4,300 | $2,400-3,400 | $700-1,000 |
| Sierra 2500 2WD | $2,500-3,800 | $1,800-2,800 | $500-800 |
| Sierra 2500 4WD | $3,600-4,900 | $2,900-3,900 | $1,000-1,400 |
| 1994 | |||
| Sierra 1500 2WD | $1,900-3,200 | $1,300-2,200 | $300-500 |
| Sierra 1500 4WD | $2,700-3,700 | $2,000-2,800 | $600-800 |
| Sierra 2500 2WD | $2,300-3,300 | $1,700-2,400 | $400-600 |
| Sierra 2500 4WD | $3,100-4,000 | $2,400-3,100 | $700-1,000 |
| 1993 | |||
| Sierra 1500 2WD | $1,600-2,700 | $1,100-1,800 | $200-400 |
| Sierra 1500 4WD | $2,300-3,300 | $1,700-2,400 | $400-600 |
| Sierra 2500 2WD | $1,900-2,700 | $1,300-1,900 | $300-400 |
| Sierra 2500 4WD | $2,600-3,500 | $1,900-2,600 | $500-700 |
| 1992 | |||
| Sierra 1500 2WD | $1,500-2,200 | $1,000-1,500 | $200-300 |
| Sierra 1500 4WD | $2,000-2,800 | $1,400-2,000 | $300-500 |
| Sierra 2500 2WD | $1,600-2,300 | $1,100-1,500 | $200-300 |
| Sierra 2500 4WD | $2,200-3,000 | $1,600-2,100 | $400-600 |
| 1991 | |||
| Sierra 1500 2WD | $1,300-1,900 | $800-1,200 | $200 |
| Sierra 1500 4WD | $1,700-2,300 | $1,100-1,500 | $300 |
| Sierra 2500 2WD | $1,400-2,100 | $900-1,300 | $200-300 |
| Sierra 2500 4WD | $1,900-2,600 | $1,300-1,800 | $300-400 |
| 1990 | |||
| Sierra 1500 2WD | $1,200-1,700 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Sierra 1500 4WD | $1,500-2,200 | $1,000-1,400 | $200-300 |
| Sierra 2500 2WD | $1,400-2,000 | $900-1,300 | $200 |
| Sierra 2500 4WD | $1,600-2,300 | $1,100-1,500 | $200-300 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation GMC Sierra include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | ext. cab long bed | ext. cab short bed | reg. cab long bed | reg. cab short bed |
| Wheelbase, in. | 155.5 | 141.5 | 131.5 | 117.5 |
| Overall Length, in. | 237.1 | 218.4 | 213.4 | 194.5 |
| Overall Width, in. | 76.8 | 76.8 | 76.8 | 76.8 |
| Overall Height, in. | 74.9 | 70.4 | 70.4 | 70.4 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 7387 | 4140 | 4001 | 3849 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | -- | -- | -- | -- |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | 5040 | 3260 | 5380 | 2410 |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 34.0 | 34.0 | 34.0 | 25.0 |
| Seating Capacity | 6 | 6 | 3 | 3 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 40.0 | 40.0 | 40.0 | 40.0 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.7 | 41.7 | 41.7 | 41.7 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.5 | 37.5 | -- | -- |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 34.8 | 34.8 | -- | -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Powertrain Options and Availability
Base engine in most models was a 4.3-liter V6, rated at 160 horsepower. Three gasoline engines were available: 5.0, 5.7, and 7.4 liters, making 175, 210, and 230 horsepower, respectively. The 7.4-liter V8 was limited to heavy-duty C/K 2500 models. Also available: a 6.2-liter diesel, at 140 horsepower. The 4.3 V6 gained five horsepower for 1993. A C/K 2500 rated over 8500 pounds GVW could have a heavy-duty V6 with slightly less power, modified for hard use. By 1994, twin 6.5-liter diesels ousted the prior 6.2-liter, available with or without turbocharging. Horsepower got a big boost for '96, as V6 and V8 engines adopted a Vortec designation. The normally aspirated diesel disappeared, but the turbodiesel remained available. A 5-speed manual gearbox was standard on most models, though earlier examples might have a 4-speed. A 4-speed automatic transmission was optional. Insta-Trac part-time 4WD had automatic-locking hubs and shift-on-the-fly capability.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V8 | 7.4 / 454 | 230-290 | 285-410 | 4-speed automatic: 10/12 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Turbodiesel ohv V8 | 6.5 / 400 | 180-190 | 360 | 4-speed automatic: 16/21 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohv V6 | 4.3 / 262 | 160-200 | 235-255 | 4-speed manual: 18/20 5-speed manual: 17/22 4-speed automatic: 17/22 |
4-speed manual: -- 5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| ohv V8 | 5.0 / 305 | 175-230 | 270-285 | 5-speed manual: 15/20 4-speed automatic: 15/19 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 14.5 |
| ohv V8 | 5.7 / 350 | 200-255 | 300-335 | 4-speed manual: 13/16 5-speed manual: 14/20 4-speed automatic: 15/19 |
4-speed manual: -- 5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: 13 |
| Diesel ohv V8 | 6.2 / 379 | 140 | 255 | 4-speed manual: 19/21 4-speed automatic: 18/24 |
4-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| Diesel ohv V8 | 6.5 / 400 | 155 | 255 | 5-speed manual: 19/23 4-speed automatic: 17/22 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
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Built In: Canada, USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation GMC Sierra include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1998 Sierra 1500 |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1998 GMC Sierra directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990 diesel:
Fuel lines can contact automatic-transmission linkage shaft or propshaft.
1990-1992:
Brake-pedal bolt could disengage.
1994:
Brake-pedal retainer may be missing or mispositioned.
1994:
Brake-switch contacts can wear prematurely; may result in loss of brake lights without warning.
1994:
Some driver's seats could loosen.
1994-95:
Extended C10/15 with high-back buckets or 60/40 bench: Seatback might recline suddenly.
1994-96 C15:
Solder joints can crack, causing windshield wipers to work intermittently.
1995:
Steering-column nut could detach.
1995-96 w/gas engine:
Throttle cable may contact dash mat and bind.
1995-98 C15 crew-cab:
Front inner corner of fuel tank can contact body sill, wearing a hole in or cracking the tank; can result in fuel leakage.
1996 C-10/15 w/7.4-liter engine:
Fuel may leak.
1996:
Rear-axle U-bolts could loosen and eventually fall off.
1996:
The windshield wiper motor may fail on certain vehicles. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
1997 C-15/25:
One or two of the front seat mounting bolts were not installed; seat will not protect occupant properly in the event of a crash.
1998 C10753 extended-cab:
Rear brake line can contact left front fender wheelhouse inner panel; a hole could be worn in brake line, allowing loss of fluid and reducing rear brake effectiveness.
1998 extended-cab and 4-door utility:
Steering-gear bolt can loosen and fall out, resulting in separation of shaft from gear.
1998:
On some trucks, one or both front brake rotor/hubs may have out-of-spec gray iron that can fail during life of vehicle.
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