2007-2008 GMC Sierra 1500: Full Review

Updated: 11/23/08

2008 GMC Sierra 1500
2008 GMC Sierra 1500
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2007-2008 GMC Sierra 1500 

  • Price Range:  $9,700 - $30,200
CG Rating

61

out of 100

About our Road Test

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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2007-2008 GMC Sierra 1500 and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.

Pros

  • Seat comfort
  • Transmission operation
  • Brake performance
  • Quietness (for a truck)

Cons

  • Fuel economy
  • Steering/handling

Vehicle Highlights

Redesigned for 2007 like the similar Chevrolet Silverado, GMC's Sierra full-size pickup truck got fresh styling, more power, and new features. Temporarily, at least, the new model sold alongside the Sierra Classic, which was a carryover of the previous (1999-2006) design. Chevrolet offered a similar Classic model in 2007. Unchanged in wheelbase, the redesigned Sierras measured 3 inches longer overall and 1.5 inches wider. Regular, extended-cab, and crew cab body styles returned. Extended-cabs had rear-hinged back doors that do not open independently of the fronts, but they opened wider than before. Extended and crew cabs included a three-person rear bench seat, and were available with either front bucket seats or a bench. Regular-cab models could be equipped with either a 6.5- or 8.1-foot cargo bed. Crew cabs had a 5.8-foot bed. Extended-cabs came in all three bed lengths. Two distinct interiors were offered, called "Pure Pickup" and "Luxury Inspired." Available engines, depending on cab and bed configurations, were a 195-hp V6, or V8s rated at 295, 315, and 367 hp. All V8s gained power for 2007. Some engines were capable of running on E85 (an ethanol/gasoline blend) and features GM's Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation. A four-speed automatic transmission was standard; manual shift no longer was offered. Rear-wheel drive was standard. Two four-wheel-drive systems were available: a basic setup that should not be left engaged on dry pavement, and GM's Autotrac that could handle dry surfaces. Both 4WD systems included low-range gearing. Sierras were offered in Work Truck, SLE, and SLT trim levels that corresponded to similar versions of Chevrolet's Silverado. Unique to GMC was the top-line Sierra Denali crew cab, which came with rear-drive or all-wheel drive and a 403-hp V8, six-speed automatic transmission, distinct trim, and additional standard features. Four suspensions were available: Z83 and Z85 for ride comfort, Z60 street-performance for maximum handling capabilities, and Z71 for off-roading. Standard on all models were ABS and, for 2007, GM's OnStar assistance. Curtain side airbags, traction control, and an antiskid system with rollover sensors were newly available on selected models. Other new options included a power-sliding rear window, remote engine start, navigation system, power-adjustable pedals, rear-obstacle detection, and power rear-side windows for extended cabs. GMC competed against the Ford F-150 and Toyota Tundra as well as Chevrolet's Silverado.

Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)

Category Sierra 1500 4WD crew-cab w/5.3 V8, Z85 susp. Rating
Performance 6
Fuel Economy 3
Ride Quality 6
Steering/Handling/Braking 3
Quietness 6
Controls/Materials 6
Interior Room 9
Room/Comfort (rear) 8
Cargo Capacity 6
Value within Class 8
Total Score: 61
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2007-2008 GMC Sierra 1500. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2007-2008 GMC Sierra 1500.

Year to Year Changes


2008 GMC Sierra: A new All Terrain with an off-road theme included the Z71 suspension and special interior and exterior trim. XM satellite radio became standard in all models.

Our road test for the 2007-2008 GMC Sierra 1500 includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2007-2008 GMC Sierra 1500 and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2007-2008 GMC Sierra 1500 is right for you.

Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation

Acceleration is more than adequate at all speeds with the 5.3 V8, and robust with the Denali's 6.2-liter V8. The smooth-shifting transmission kicks down quickly for more passing power. Tow/Haul mode adjusts shift points for best performance with heavy loads. Denali's manual-shift control, mounted on the shifter stalk, works with an easy flick of the thumb. Test 4WD Sierras have averaged 14.1 mpg. Denalis averaged 14.6 to 15.9 mpg. GMC recommends regular-grade fuel for all engines except the Denali's 403-hp V8, which should use premium. Some 5.3-liter engines can run on E85 (an ethanol/gasoline blend). GMC's standard Z85 suspension provides a comfortable, compliant ride, with less reverberation over bumps than in most pickups. The stiffer Z60 suspension makes the ride more jittery over smaller bumps, partly due to its 20-inch tires (versus standard 17s). The available Z71 suspension is suited for off-road duty. That one exhibits some choppiness over pavement cracks and washboard surfaces, though it's not overly harsh in everyday driving. A Denali with 20-inch tires is sufficiently composed, though standard 18-inch rubber is likely to offer more stability. Steering is nicely weighted, if a bit numb. Expect noticeable body lean in fast turns and quick changes of direction with the Z85 suspension, but handling is on par with most other full-size pickups. The Z60 and Z71 suspensions improve handling only slightly. Responsive brakes have fine pedal feel. Road and engine sounds are lower than in most pickups. In fact, the 5.3-liter V8 is a model of refinement. Wind noise intrudes only above 60 mph. Gauges are easy to see and read, but the rotary wiper switch is inconveniently mounted on the turn-signal stalk. GMC's "Pure Pickup" interior places radio and climate controls high on the dashboard, just out of easy reach. Materials are better than expected of a work-oriented truck. The available Luxury interior mimics what's in the big Yukon SUVs, with controls mounted lower but within easy reach, plus materials that are a cut above the pickup norm-even though most surfaces are hard plastic. GMC's optional navigation system absorbs some audio controls, but does not complicate their use. Denalis expand on the Luxury interior, with upgraded trim and an overall upscale feel. Front-seat space is ample for adults. Bucket and bench seats lack side support in fast turns, but are firm and comfortable. Visibility is generally good, though the extended cab's thick rear pillars hinder views to back corners. Short drivers may appreciate optional power-adjustable pedals, if installed. Rear-seat occupants can experience generous headroom. Legroom is ample in crew cabs. Extended-cab seatbacks are set at a comfortable angle, but legroom can get tight with front seats moved far back. With front bucket seats, the center console restricts foot space for the center rear-seat passenger. Extended-cab rear doors have been available with power windows, which are a welcome convenience. They open wider than before-nearly flush with the cargo bed, for easier entry and exit. But if fully open, a seated passenger cannot close the door. On both extended and crew cabs, the rear seat cushion flips back against the seatback, leaving a large cargo area with a nearly flat floor. The Pure Pickup interior features upper and lower gloveboxes; the Luxury interior has only a lower one. Front bucket seats came with a roomy console bin, while the bench seat has been available with a flip-down center armrest that doubles as a large storage bin. Otherwise, few interior storage cubbies are provided.
Value for the Money
GMC's redesigned-for-2007 Sierra and the similar Chevrolet Silverado are among the best large pickup trucks for refinement and available features. Any truck buyer, new or used, would be well-advised to give these Recommended picks a long, hard look.

Expert Ratings Summary

Category Sierra 1500 4WD crew-cab w/5.3 V8, Z85 susp. Rating
Performance 6
Fuel Economy 3
Ride Quality 6
Steering/Handling/Braking 3
Quietness 6
Controls/Materials 6
Interior Room 9
Room/Comfort (rear) 8
Cargo Capacity 6
Value within Class 8
Total Score: 61

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.

Air conditioner: The A/C may not work or the modes won't change on the manual temperature controls of extended cab and crew cab vehicles due to a wiring problem. (2007-08)

Audio system: When using a portable music player (e.g. iPod) there may be noise in the car's speakers whenever the vehicle's power adapter is used and a ground loop isolator (from Radio Shack) is required between the device and the power outlet to prevent the noise. (2007-08)

Cupholders: The console cup holders allow drinks to fall out when cornering unless the original mats were replaced with liners having ears that retain the drink. (2007)

Electrical problem: Numerous electrical problems (door locks, power windows, speakers, courtesy lights etc.) may quit working because a wiring harness gets damaged by the seat belt on crew cab model. (2007)

None: The DVD monitors in the front seat headrests may quit working because the video feed cable comes loose requiring installation of cable clamps. (2003-08)

Oil leak: An oil leak at the oil pressure sensor may cause the low oil light to come on and oil level to become low. (2006-07)

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 $1,000
Alternator $600
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $3,900
Brakes $850
Constant Velocity Joints $1,150
Exhaust System $1,350
Radiator $600
Shocks and/or Struts $1,950
Timing Chain or Belt $1,000
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
2008
Crew Cab 1500 2WD $17,000-25,000 $15,600-23,000 $10,900-16,000
Crew Cab 1500 4WD $20,500-28,500 $18,900-26,200 $13,300-18,500
Denali Crew Cab 2WD $26,500-29,000 $24,600-27,000 $17,500-19,100
Denali Crew Cab 4WD $29,500-32,500 $27,400-30,200 $20,400-22,400
Sierra 1500 2WD $14,000-23,000 $12,700-20,900 $8,500-14,000
Sierra 1500 4WD $17,500-25,000 $16,100-23,000 $11,200-16,000
2007
Crew Cab 1500 2WD $14,800-20,500 $13,500-18,700 $9,300-12,900
Crew Cab 1500 4WD $17,800-23,500 $16,400-21,600 $11,400-15,000
Denali Crew Cab 2WD $23,500-25,500 $21,600-23,500 $15,300-16,600
Denali Crew Cab 4WD $26,000-28,000 $24,200-26,000 $17,200-18,500
Sierra 1500 2WD $11,000-19,000 $9,900-17,100 $5,900-10,300
Sierra 1500 4WD $13,500-21,500 $12,300-19,600 $8,000-12,700
Sierra Classic 2WD $10,800-19,200 $9,700-17,300 $5,800-10,400
Sierra Classic 4WD $13,800-22,000 $12,600-20,000 $8,300-13,200
Sierra Classic Hybrid $14,700-17,000 $13,400-15,500 $9,100-10,500
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 crew cab ext. cab (5.8-ft. bed) reg. cab long bed (8.1-ft bed) reg. cab short bed (6.5-ft. bed)
Wheelbase, in. 143.5 133.9 133.0 119.0
Overall Length, in. 230.2 220.6 224.6 205.7
Overall Width, in. 80.0 79.9 79.9 79.9
Overall Height, in. 73.8 73.8 73.7 73.9
Curb Weight, lbs. 5142 4864 4588 4448
Cargo Volume, cu. ft. -- -- -- --
Standard Payload, lbs. 2039 1829 1812 1952
Fuel Capacity, gals. 26.0 26.0 34.0 26.0
Seating Capacity 6 6 3 3
Front Head Room, in. 41.2 41.2 41.4 41.4
Max. Front Leg Room, in. 41.3 41.3 41.3 41.3
Rear Head Room, in. 40.5 39.2 -- --
Max. Rear Leg Room, in. 38.7 34.3 -- --

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.


Powertrain Options and Availability

Regular Sierras came with a choice of four engines, each driving a four-speed automatic transmission. The 4.3-liter V6 made 195 horsepower, versus 295, 315, and 367 for the three V8 engine possibilities. Some versions of the 5.3-liter V8 were E85-capable. Rear-wheel drive was standard, but two 4WD systems were available. GMC's Denali held a 6.2-liter V8 that produced 403 horsepower, working with a six-speed automatic.
Engines Size liters /
cu. in
Horse- power Torque Transmission:
EPA city/hgwy
Consumer Guide Observed
ohv V81 6.0 / 364 367 375 4-speed automatic: 13/18 4-speed automatic: --
ohv V61 4.3 / 262 195 260 4-speed automatic: 15/20 4-speed automatic: --
ohv V81 4.8 / 293 295 305 4-speed automatic: 14/19 4-speed automatic: --
ohv V81 5.3 / 325 315 338 4-speed automatic: 15/20 4-speed automatic: --
ohv V81 6.2 / 376 403 415 6-speed automatic: 12/19 6-speed automatic: 15.1

1. EPA Note: Figures shown are for 2008 models with 2WD. The Environmental Protection Agency changed its procedure for 2008 to yield more realistic estimates. Therefore, estimated mileage is lower than for prior years.

Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist.

Built In:  Canada, Mexico, 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 2008 GMC Sierra 1500
Front Impact, Driver 5
Front Impact, Passenger 5

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 2007-2008 GMC Sierra 1500 directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.

NHTSA Recall History

2007 Sierra 1500: On certain Federal-Mogul replacement wheel hub assemblies, inboard retention nut could loosen, resulting in ABS indication, noise, and/or wheel separation.
2007-08 Sierra equipped with a heated wiper washer fluid system: A short circuit on the printed circuit board for the washer fluid heater may overheat the control-circuit ground wire. This may cause other electrical features to malfunction, create an odor, or cause smoke, increasing the risk of a fire. Dealers will install a wire harness with an in-line fuse free of charge.

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