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Which Years of Used GMC Sierra 3500HDs Are Most Reliable?


in Reliability

We've identified 12 of the most reliable GMC Sierra 3500HD years. Check out which ones (and which years you should avoid with used truck shopping).

White GMC Sierra 3500HD
Source: Flickr

The GMC Sierra 3500HD is quite the mouthful of a name, and for good reason - it’s a full-size pick-up truck selection. There are five generations of the vehicle, which means there are plenty to choose from. In that case, you might want to land on the most reliable GMC Sierra 3500HD year.

If you’re in the mood to learn more about which years of the GMC Sierra 3500HD are most dependable, you’re in the best place. Reliability is everything - it will save you time and money in the long run. Keep reading to become familiar with the least reliable years of the 3500HD, common problems in the vehicle, and other helpful information. 

Quick Answer: Avoid GMC Sierra 3500HD Year Models 2004, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2020, and 2023.

There are ample versions of the GMC 3500HD available on the market, providing the ultimate truck experience for those who want a full-size vehicle. However, these years stand out as the worst if you want to make the best choice for your wallet and life. We recommend avoiding these models to choose the most reliable GMC Sierra 3500HD year. 


THE GMC SIERRA 3500HD YEARS TO AVOID

Those who want to make the wisest choice for their vehicle need to know which selections stand out. What are the GMC Sierra 3500HD years to avoid?


Which Year Models of GMC Sierra 3500HD are Safe to Buy Used?

There are ample years available for the GMC Sierra 3500HD, and several offer the least repairs from previous owners and an excellent history of dependability. These years have proven themselves thus far.

Here are the most reliable GMC Sierra 3500HD year selections available:

  • 2001 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2002 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2006 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2007 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2009 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2010 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2011 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2012 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2016 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2021 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2022 GMC Sierra 3500HD

Any will serve you well. 

If you want more updated features, go with the more recent model years for the GMC Sierra 3500HD. These selections have minimal complaints from owners and seem to have lower price points for repairs and maintenance than the worst year selections.

Which Year Models of GMC Sierra 3500HD to Avoid?

Unfortunately, where there are excellent selections, there are also some that are less than ideal. Several model years of the GMC Sierra 3500HD selections stand out as avoidable.

Here are the worst selections from the GMC Sierra 3500HD:

  • 2004 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2013 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2014 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2015 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2018 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD
  • 2023 GMC Sierra 3500HD

These have an unfortunate history with customers.

Out of these, the worst selection is the 2013 GMC Sierra 3500HD. It suffers some significant troubles. Drivers report faults with the AC system, engine, fuel area, and transmission - all critical areas in a vehicle. 

Common GMC Sierra 3500HD Problems

Also helpful in picking the most dependable option is learning some of the most common issues a particular vehicle faces. With an understanding of these items, you will better be able to care for your reliable year selection and keep it in excellent condition for longer.

According to repairpal.com, here are some of the biggest issues in the GMC Sierra 3500HD:

  • Check engine light
  • Gas cap issues
  • Faulty spark plugs

These are some of the worst areas of the GMC Sierra 3500HD.

Seeing these is a normal indication of wear and tear in a GMC Sierra 3500HD. However, they are most likely to appear in some of the worst versions of the GMC Sierra 3500HD and those with an unfortunate history of maintenance. 


HOW LONG DO GMC SIERRAS LAST?

If you’re looking to get a workhorse of a truck, it’s critical to consider the lifespan. You might wonder - how long do GMC Sierras last?


GMC Sierra 3500HD Problem Counts by Year

One of the best places to get information about your new vehicle investment is by learning from those with first-hand experience. Thus, it’s helpful to check out the problem counts by year.

According to carcomplaints.com, here are the number of issues by year:

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How much does a new GMC Sierra 3500HD typically cost?

According to edmunds.com%20which%20starts%20at%20%2449%2C300>), the starting price for a typical GMC Sierra 3500HD is around $51,195. The price point rises to a starting price of $97,195 for the most expensive trim.

How much does a used GMC Sierra 3500HD typically cost?

If you want a used GMC Sierra 3500HD, the price ranges from $14,980 to $129,995. The cost will vary depending on the condition of the car and the trim selected.

Is It Worth It to Buy a Used GMC Sierra 3500HD?

Unfortunately, the GMC Sierra 3500HD doesn’t have a top-notch reliability rating. So, it’s worth it if you want to save money. However, it isn’t worth it if you want a dependable vehicle selection. 

FAQs: Most Reliable GMC Sierra 3500HD Years

There are several excellent years available for the GMC Sierra 3500HD. We advise landing on the 2001, 2002, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2021, and 2022 selections.

Q: What common issues should I be aware of in the less reliable GMC Sierra 3500HD years?

Keep an eye out for problematic areas. Watch for check engine lights, faulty spark plugs, and trouble with the gas cap. 

Q: Can I trust the GMC Sierra 3500HD models from the early 2000s?

There are several year selections you can trust if you want the GMC Sierra 3500HD. If a year from the early 2000s is up your alley, we suggest landing on the 2001, 2002, 2006, or 2007 models. They have the best reviews from customers and will last on the road. 

Q: Is the 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD model reliable?

Unfortunately, we don’t recommend going with the 2020 GMC Sierra 3500HD if you can help it. This year, there were ample complaints from customers, including faults in the engine, brakes, and steering.


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