Sierra 1500 (K2XX)
NHTSA Safety Ratings About NHTSA ratings
Engine Reliability Ratings
L5P - Direct Injection, DURAMAX, GEN 5, VAR 1
6.6L 8-cyl TurboView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
LV3 - VVT, Aluminum, E85 Max
4.3L 6-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
L86 - VVT, AFM, E85 Max, Aluminum.
6.2L 8-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
L83 - VVT, AFM (Active Fuel Management), Aluminum
5.3L 8-cylView details
Complaint Breakdown
Known Issues
9 additional engine variants with fewer than 10 complaints not shown.
Vehicle-Level Issues
These issues affect the GMC Sierra 1500 regardless of engine variant.
All Generations
Alternatives in Full-Size Truck
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 problems?
The 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 has accumulated 2,421 NHTSA complaints. The most frequently reported problem areas are Brakes, Transmission, Electrical System. As with any used vehicle, a pre-purchase inspection and vehicle history report are recommended.
Which GMC Sierra 1500 engine is most reliable?
The 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 was offered with 13 engine options. Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 5.3L 8-cyl has the lowest complaint density and is considered the most reliable choice for buyers.
Is the 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 a good used car?
The 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 can be a solid used car purchase depending on trim, mileage, and maintenance history. With 2,421 total NHTSA complaints on record, prospective buyers should review the known problem areas and check for open recalls before buying.
How many NHTSA complaints does the 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 have?
The 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 has 2,421 complaints filed with NHTSA as of our latest data pull. Complaint counts reflect owner-reported issues and do not necessarily indicate defects or safety risks on their own.
What recalls affect the 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500?
There are 0 NHTSA recalls affecting some 2014-2018 GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. Recall status varies by VIN โ check the NHTSA recall database at recalls.nhtsa.dot.gov with your specific VIN to confirm which campaigns apply.
What should I check before buying a used GMC Sierra 1500?
Before buying a used GMC Sierra 1500, verify all open recalls are completed via the NHTSA VIN lookup tool. Pay particular attention to Brakes, Transmission, Electrical System, which are the most commonly reported problem areas. Request maintenance records, have an independent mechanic inspect the vehicle, and run a vehicle history report to check for prior accidents or title issues.
What are the NHTSA crash test ratings for the Sierra 1500?
The 2018 GMC Sierra 1500 received an overall 5-star safety rating from NHTSA. Frontal crash: 5 stars. Side crash: 5 stars. Rollover: 4 stars (17.4% rollover probability). Electronic Stability Control: Standard. Forward Collision Warning: Optional. Lane Departure Warning: Optional. These ratings are based on standardized crash tests conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Data from NHTSA federal complaints database. 2,421 complaints analyzed. Data confidence: high. Last updated: 2026-04-07.