Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2018 GMC Sierra 1500
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 shows some issues, mainly with its power train and engine, highlighted by a significant number of owner complaints. The recalls cover critical safety systems such as airbags and brakes. It's advisable to thoroughly inspect these areas when considering a purchase.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 has 7 NHTSA recall campaigns and 305 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars, averaged across 7 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #26V325000 Roof Rail Air Bag Inflator Endcap May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #26V166000 Roof Rail Air Bag Inflator Endcap May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #25V432000 Roof Rail Air Bag Inflator Endcap May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #24V756000 Roof Rail Air Bag Inflator End Cap May Detach NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V603000 Vacuum Pump May Decrease Power Brake Assist NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V761000 Software Error May Cause Unintended Braking NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V645000 Vacuum Pump May Decrease Power Brake Assist NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Power Train 131 complaints
- Engine 67 complaints
- Electrical System 43 complaints
- Service Brakes 40 complaints
- Steering 30 complaints
- Unknown or Other 25 complaints
Of the 305 complaints on file, 10 report a crash and 1 a fire; across all 305 complaints, owners report 5 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Engine performance problems
How to check: Listen for unusual engine noises; check dashboard for warning lights.
Transmission issues
How to check: Check for smooth gear shifts during test drive.
Decreased brake assist
How to check: Test brake responsiveness; ensure firm pedal pressure.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold Start
What to check: Listen for rough idling or misfires.
Red flag: Engine knocks or stalls.
- 02
City Driving
What to check: Check for smooth gear changes.
Red flag: Transmission jerks or hesitates.
- 03
Highway Acceleration
What to check: Ensure engine accelerates smoothly without noises.
Red flag: Loss of power or rough acceleration.
- 04
Braking
What to check: Test brake pedal firmness and response.
Red flag: Spongy brakes or delayed stopping.
- 05
Steering Maneuvers
What to check: Feel for any steering vibration or play.
Red flag: Loose steering or excessive vibration.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Has the brake issue been addressed?
- Any history of transmission repairs?
- Were all recalls serviced?
- Has the engine had any major repairs?
- Do you have maintenance records?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Vehicle history report
- Maintenance records
- Recall repair receipts
- Title and registration
- Warranty documents
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
Looking at a specific 2018 GMC Sierra 1500? Check the actual car
This checklist covers the model. From your free try.vin dashboard you can go further — paste the seller's listing for a deal score, or drop their photos for an AI condition report.