Reliability & 5-year cost of ownership — 2008 GMC Sierra Denali
NHTSA data on file today
try.vin couldn't confirm NHTSA's recall list for the 2008 GMC Sierra Denali, so this page doesn't state a recall count — check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for current campaigns. 18 owner complaints are on file.
Most-cited components in owner complaints
- Structure 6 complaints
- Air Bags 3 complaints
- Unknown or Other 3 complaints
- Electrical System 2 complaints
- Electronic Stability Control (ESC) 1 complaint
- Exterior Lighting 1 complaint
Together, the 18 complaints on file report 1 injury (owner-reported, not verified by NHTSA).
Average
Estimated 5-year repair + maintenance cost: $7,000–$12,000AI estimate — not from NHTSA data
The 2008 GMC Sierra Denali has a moderate number of complaints, mainly concerning the structure and airbags. No widespread severe issues are evident, resulting in an average reliability outlook.
Most-common failures
| Part | Typical mileage (AI estimate) | Cost range (AI estimate) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| structure | 90,000–120,000 miles | $300–$600 | common |
| airbags | 70,000–100,000 miles | $400–$900 | occasional |
| electrical system | 80,000–110,000 miles | $200–$500 | occasional |
AI estimate — not from NHTSA data: the mileage bands and repair-cost ranges above. Get a written repair quote before you budget.
Scheduled maintenance to budget
Routine items every owner should plan for.
- oil and filter change
- brake system check
- tire rotation and alignment
- engine air filter replacement
- coolant system flush
- spark plug replacement
- transmission fluid check
Warning signs to watch for
Symptoms that signal a major upcoming repair.
- cracking noises in structure
- airbag light on
- flickering electrical components
- unresponsive locks
- soft brake pedal
Generated by gpt-4o on from the NHTSA recall campaigns and owner-complaint counts on file for the 2008 GMC Sierra Denali at the time. The rating is an AI assessment; cost and mileage figures are AI estimates, not NHTSA data.