Pre-purchase inspection checklist — 2019 GMC Sierra 1500
The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 has seen a notable number of complaints and recalls, particularly concerning the engine, power train, and brakes. With 658 complaints and 10 recalls, it is essential to thoroughly check the vehicle. The issues range from driveshaft separations to electronic and brake system flaws, but the data does not indicate widespread catastrophic failures. Proceed with caution and ensure careful pre-purchase inspections.
NHTSA data on file today
The 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 has 10 NHTSA recall campaigns and 658 owner complaints on file as of . Recall data is refreshed daily from NHTSA.
NCAP overall rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars, averaged across 6 NHTSA-tested trims.
Recall campaigns on file
- NHTSA #21V985000 Spare Tire Incompatible with Accessory Wheels NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V423000 Tire Failure may Cause Sudden Air Loss NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #21V115000 Tire Failure may Cause Sudden Air Loss NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V792000 Front Center Seat Belts may not be Secured NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V650000 Driveshaft May Separate NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #20V055000 EBCM Software Error/FMVSS 126, 135 NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V889000 EBCM Software Error NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V888000 Poor Alternator Connection may cause Crash or Fire NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #19V814000 Fire after Seat Belt Pretensioner Deployment NHTSA notice
- NHTSA #18V868000 Passenger Air Bag Module Damaged During Assembly NHTSA notice
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Engine 313 complaints
- Power Train 140 complaints
- Service Brakes 107 complaints
- Electrical System 95 complaints
- Unknown or Other 45 complaints
- Steering 42 complaints
Of the 658 complaints on file, 13 report a crash and 3 a fire; across all 658 complaints, owners report 12 injuries (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Known issues to inspect
Frequent complaints
How to check: Look for warning lights and listen for knocking noises.
Driveshaft may separate
How to check: Examine driveshaft for proper connections and welds.
ABS and ESC failures
How to check: Check for ABS/ESC warning lights and effectiveness.
Battery cable issues
How to check: Inspect battery connections for excess glue and stability.
Airbag may not deploy
How to check: Confirm recall repairs completed on airbags.
Test-drive walkthrough
- 01
Cold start
What to check: Listen for engine knocks or rough idle.
Red flag: Persistent knocking noise.
- 02
First minute idling
What to check: Notice any warning lights on the dashboard.
Red flag: Check engine or ABS light.
- 03
City driving
What to check: Test brakes for responsiveness and noise.
Red flag: Brakes feel spongy or noisy.
- 04
Parking maneuvers
What to check: Check steering for smooth operation.
Red flag: Stiff or unusual steering feel.
- 05
Low-speed turns
What to check: Listen for any suspension noise or creaks.
Red flag: Loud or persistent creaking.
- 06
Highway acceleration
What to check: Verify smooth transmission shifts.
Red flag: Jerky or delayed gear shifts.
- 07
End of drive inspection
What to check: Inspect engine bay for leaks or smells.
Red flag: Strong odor or fluid leaks.
Questions for the seller
Use this exact phrasing.
- Have recall repairs been completed?
- Are there any known engine issues?
- Has the transmission been serviced?
- Has the brake system been checked?
- Any electrical system problems recently?
Documents to request
Don't sign anything until you have these.
- Recall repair documentation
- Service history records
- Title and registration
- Owner's manual
- Extended warranty details
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2019 GMC Sierra 1500 at the time. AI output can be wrong; confirm anything you find with a mechanic.
Next step
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