Which T1XX Sierra engine should I buy?

For most owners the 5.3L L84 is the sweet spot on price and capability, as long as the DFM lifter history checks out. The 6.2L L87 is the strongest gas engine but carries the 25V-274 rod-bearing recall on 2021-2024 trucks, so buy one only with the recall work documented. The 3.0L Duramax diesel is the mileage-and-towing pick and avoids the lifter issue entirely. The 2.7L turbo is fine for a light-duty daily driver.

What is the DFM lifter problem?

DFM (Dynamic Fuel Management) shuts off cylinders to save fuel. On the 5.3L and 6.2L V8s the deactivating lifters can collapse, throwing a misfire and a persistent tick or knock, and the fix is usually a camshaft-and-lifter job. Engines built around late 2020 to early 2021 are the worst cluster. A cold-start tick that does not go away is the warning sign.

Is the 6.2L recall a dealbreaker?

Not if the work was done. NHTSA recall 25V-274 covers 2021-2024 6.2L trucks for a rod-bearing and crankshaft defect that can seize the engine. GM inspects the engine and either clears it with a switch to heavier oil or replaces it. Ask for the recall completion record; a completed remedy makes the truck safe to buy.

Does the 3.0L Duramax use regular oil?

No. The 3.0L Duramax takes dexosD 0W-20, a diesel-specific spec, not the dexos1 0W-20 the gas V8s use. Do not cross the two. It holds about 7 quarts with the filter and uses the same PF66 oil filter as the 2.7L turbo.

Which oil filter fits my Sierra?

Two filters cover the whole lineup. The 2.7L turbo and the 3.0L Duramax use the ACDelco PF66. The 5.3L, 6.2L, and the 2019-2021 4.3L V6 use the ACDelco PF63. Match the filter to the engine, not the model year.

Are the headlights LED or halogen?

It depends on the trim. Pro, SLE, and Elevation ran halogen reflector headlamps. SLT, AT4, AT4X, Denali, and Denali Ultimate came with sealed full-LED assemblies that are not bulb-serviceable, so a failed LED means replacing the whole headlamp unit. Confirm your exact trim before buying replacement bulbs.

What battery does the T1XX Sierra take?

The gas trucks (2.7L, 4.3L, 5.3L, 6.2L) use a BCI Group 94R battery rated around 730 CCA. The 3.0L Duramax diesel uses a larger Group 49 battery around 850 CCA. AGM is the upgrade over flooded lead-acid and handles the parasitic draw of a modern truck better.

How much can a T1XX Sierra 1500 tow?

Properly equipped, up to about 13,300 lb on the 6.2L with the Max Trailering package. Real-world numbers depend on cab, bed, axle ratio, and rear-axle choice; the heavy-duty tow axle uses 75W-140 gear oil instead of the standard 75W-90. Check the door-jamb payload sticker and the trailering label for your specific truck.

Does the 2019–2026 GMC Sierra 1500 have any recalls?

Yes. NHTSA has 25 recall campaigns on record for the 2019–2026 GMC Sierra 1500. Verify your VIN at nhtsa.gov.

The T1XX (5th Generation) GMC Sierra 1500 Clubhouse

GMC Sierra 1500 T1XX (2019-2026) Owner's Hub

The T1XX Sierra 1500 (2019-present) is GMC's dressed-up half-ton: MultiPro tailgate, optional carbon-fiber CarbonPro bed, and a 2022 refresh that finally fixed the cheap interior. Five engines ran the generation: a 2.7L turbo four, the 4.3L V6 (2019-2021 only), the 5.3L and 6.2L V8s, and the 3.0L Duramax inline-six diesel. The V8s and their cylinder-deactivation lifters are the story: collapsed lifters, and on 2021-2024 6.2L trucks a rod-bearing recall (25V-274) that can seize the engine. Buy one with the recall work documented and a real maintenance record and it is a genuinely good truck.

Photo: HJUdall / Wikimedia Commons / CC0 Public Domain

Production: 2019-2026
Engines: 2.7L · 4.3L · 3L · 5.3L · 6.2L
Max tow: 13,300lb

Configure your truck

Year

Cab

Trim

What your Sierra 1500 takes

The parts and fluids that fit this generation. Specs we publish are confirmed against two independent sources; the rest fill in as we verify them.

Wiper blades22" driver · 22" passenger✓ VerifiedView
Engine oil5W-30 (6 qt) · 0W-20 (7 qt) · 0W-20 (8 qt)✓ VerifiedView
Spark plugsLV3: 41-114 · L84: 41-114 · L87: 41-114 · L3B: 41-106IP✓ VerifiedView
Tire pressure32 / 35 psi (front / rear)✓ VerifiedView
Key fob batteryCR2032 (remote) · CR2032 (smart)✓ VerifiedView
Differential fluidRear: 75W-85 GL-5 (GM Original Equipment, High Efficiency)✓ VerifiedView
Serpentine beltLV3: 4PK870 · LM2/LZ0: 6PK1900 · L84: 4PK870 · L87: 4PK870✓ VerifiedView
Wheel fitment17x8 ET24✓ VerifiedView
ThermostatLV3: 187°F · L84: 187°F · L87: 187°F✓ VerifiedView
Headlight bulbsH11 low · 9005 highFrom owner's manualShop
CoolantDEX-COOL (GM GMW3420)From owner's manualShop
Transmission fluidL3B: DEXRON HP · L87: DEXRON ULVFrom owner's manualShop
Oil filterParts in catalogShop
Engine air filterParts in catalogShop
Cabin air filterParts in catalogShop
BatteryParts in catalogShop
Brake padsParts in catalogShop
Brake rotorsParts in catalogShop
Tire sizeNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
Brake fluidNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
A/C refrigerantNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
Fuel filterNot catalogued yetFind yours soon
Power steering fluidElectric power steering — no fluid.N/A

Floor mats

Our top custom-fit pick for the GMC Sierra 1500 is the Husky Liners Weatherbeater Floor Mats 1st & 2nd rows.

Floor mats for the GMC Sierra 1500 →

CCT Top Picks

The starter shopping list for your T1XX Sierra 1500

What Sierra owners actually buy here: a dexos1 0W-20 full synthetic for the 5.3L and 6.2L V8s, a high-capacity engine air filter that crosses to ACDelco A3244C, the CF185-family cabin filter behind the glovebox, and a Group 94R AGM battery for the ICE trucks. The 2.7L turbo takes 5W-30, and the diesel takes dexosD 0W-20, so match the oil to your engine. Categorized picks by use case sit further down.

Mobil 1
Extended Performance Full Synthetic Motor Oil 0W-20
CCT 7.3Health 8.5Quality 7.2
See Price on Amazon →See review
K&N
33-5083 High-Flow Washable Engine Air Filter
CCT 7.0Health 9.0Quality 6.6
See Price on Amazon →See review
ECOGARD
XC10022C Premium Cabin Air Filter with Activated Carbon
CCT 7.3Health 9.5Quality 7.2
See Price on Amazon →See review
ACDelco
Gold 94RAGM AGM BCI Group 94R Battery
CCT 7.1Health 9.0Quality 6.9
See Price on Amazon →See review

Heritage · T1XX (5th Generation) Sierra 1500

2019-2026

1999
Sierra nameplate arrives
GMC splits its full-size trucks off the shared C/K name and badges them Sierra for 1999, on the new GMT800 platform.
2014
K2XX generation
The fourth-generation Sierra brings the EcoTec3 engine family, the 4.3L V6, and 5.3L and 6.2L V8s that carry into the next truck.
2019
T1XX launches
All-new platform, the six-position MultiPro tailgate, the industry-first carbon-fiber CarbonPro bed, and the 2.7L turbo four.
2022
Mid-cycle refresh
A long-overdue interior overhaul, Super Cruise hands-free driving, and the hardcore AT4X and luxury Denali Ultimate trims.

Last verified: July 2026.

The GMC Sierra 1500 on the T1XX platform (2019-present) is the truck GMC uses to charge Denali money for a Chevrolet Silverado. Same bones, same engines, dressier skin, and a couple of genuinely useful ideas the Silverado did not get first: the six-position MultiPro tailgate and the optional carbon-fiber CarbonPro bed. It launched in 2019 with a cheap interior that the 2022 refresh finally fixed, and it is a good truck once you understand which engine you are buying and what it can go wrong with.

Should you buy one

A used T1XX Sierra holds value hard, so you are not going to steal one. What you are buying into is GM's half-ton drivetrain, which is proven and cheap to service, wrapped in a nicer cabin than the Chevy. The catch is the V8 lifter story below. Sort that out and the rest of the truck is easy to own.

Good for: towing up to about 13,300 lb, daily driving with weekend truck duty, anyone who wants a work truck that does not feel like one, and diesel buyers who want highway mileage in a half-ton.
Bad for: buyers who want the cheapest possible half-ton (a base Silverado does the same work for less), or anyone unwilling to check a recall record before signing.
Skip if: the 6.2L has no proof the 25V-274 recall was performed, or any DFM V8 has a cold-start tick that will not clear.

The engines, honestly

Five engines ran this generation, and they are not the same conversation.

The 5.3L L84 is the volume V8 and the one most owners should buy. It makes 355 hp, tows well, and parts are everywhere. The 6.2L L87 is the strongest gas engine at 420 hp and the one that hauls the heaviest trailers, but it carries the rod-bearing recall on 2021-2024 trucks. Both V8s use Dynamic Fuel Management, and both can suffer collapsed lifters. That is the single most important thing to inspect on any gas Sierra.

The 3.0L Duramax inline-six diesel is the quiet standout. It returns highway mileage no gas half-ton matches, tows smoothly, and sidesteps the DFM lifter problem entirely because it has no cylinder deactivation. It does take a diesel-specific dexosD 0W-20 oil and a Group 49 battery, so budget for those. The 2.7L turbo four is fine for a light daily driver and got a useful torque bump to 430 lb-ft in the 2022 refresh. The 4.3L V6 was the fleet base engine and was dropped after 2021; there is no reason to seek one out.

The maintenance that actually matters

This is the real-world cadence, not the dealer upsell sheet.

Every oil change: match the oil to the engine. dexos1 0W-20 for the 5.3L and 6.2L, dexos1 5W-30 for the 2.7L turbo, dexosD 0W-20 for the diesel. The 2.7L and diesel share the PF66 filter; the V8s and the 4.3L use the PF63.
Listen at cold start: a lifter tick on a DFM V8 is not normal. Catch it early, before it becomes a camshaft.
Every 22,500 miles or annually: cabin air filter (ACDelco CF185 family) behind the glovebox, and inspect the engine air filter (ACDelco A3244C).
Around 97,500 miles: spark plugs on the gas engines (ACDelco 41-114 iridium on the V8s and 4.3L). The diesel has no service plugs.
At 150,000 miles: first coolant change (DEX-COOL, orange, GM GMW3420). Do not mix it with green or pink coolant.
By spec, not by feel: the 10-speed uses DEXRON ULV and the early 8-speed uses DEXRON HP; they are not interchangeable, and neither is DEXRON VI.

Skip the dealer's throttle-body and induction "services" on a truck under 100,000 miles. They do less than the maintenance above and cost more.

Common problems, ranked by severity

1. 6.2L L87 rod-bearing failure and engine seizure
catastrophic
Supplier defects in rod bearings and out-of-spec cranks can spin a bearing and lock the engine while driving. NHTSA recall 25V-274 covers roughly 153,000 GM trucks; the remedy is an inspection plus a switch to heavier oil, or a full engine replacement if damage is found. Get proof the recall work was performed before buying a 2021-2024 6.2L.
Years affected: 2021-2024
2. AFM/DFM lifter collapse (5.3L L84 and 6.2L L87)
expensive
The cylinder-deactivation lifters can collapse, causing a misfire, a persistent tick or knock, and often a full camshaft-and-lifter job. Engines built around late 2020 through early 2021 cluster worst, with some failing well under 20,000 miles. A cold-start tick that does not clear is the tell.
Years affected: 2019-2022
3. Diesel transmission control-valve failure
expensive
On 3.0L Duramax trucks the automatic-transmission control valve can fail and lock the rear wheels while driving. NHTSA recall 24V-797 covers it, with a follow-up re-fix under 26V-083. Confirm the latest remedy was applied on any diesel from these years.
Years affected: 2020-2022
4. 10-speed harsh shifts and torque-converter shudder
Minor
The 10L80 automatic can shudder at a steady 40-70 mph and bang the cold 1-2 upshift, traced to valve-body pressure drift and the torque converter. GM addressed most cases with a fluid-flush bulletin and revised transmission fluid.
Years affected: 2019-2020
5. Infotainment and electrical gremlins
Minor
Screen freezes and reboots, dropped audio and HVAC control, and false StabiliTrak or trailer-brake warnings (TSB 23-NA-022). A body-control-module glitch can also drain the battery overnight. Mostly software and connector fixes, rarely catastrophic.
Years affected: 2020-2024

Year-by-year notes

2019: T1XX launch. MultiPro six-position tailgate, optional CarbonPro carbon-fiber bed, Denali flagship, and the new AT4 off-road trim. Engines at launch: 4.3L V6, 2.7L turbo, 5.3L and 6.2L V8s.
2020: 3.0L Duramax LM2 inline-six diesel arrives (277 hp, 460 lb-ft).
2021: Final model year for the 4.3L V6; it is dropped for 2022. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard on most trims.
2022: Mid-cycle refresh: new 13.4-inch screen, 12.3-inch digital cluster, head-up display. AT4X and Denali Ultimate debut, Super Cruise offered. 2.7L torque rises to 430 lb-ft. Old body sold alongside as the 2022 Sierra Limited.
2023: Diesel LZ0 replaces the LM2 (305 hp, 495 lb-ft). Refreshed interior fully rolled out across trims.
2024: Lineup settles on the 2.7L, 5.3L, 6.2L and 3.0L LZ0 diesel. Super Cruise availability expanded.
2025: Adaptive cruise standard across trims; Super Cruise standard on Denali Ultimate.
2026: Minor update: new colors, optional sport exhaust, carryover powertrains. Max tow rated to 13,300 lb.

Trim decoder

Pro (2019-2026)
Fleet and work-truck base. Vinyl or cloth, steel wheels, halogen headlamps. The hose-it-out trim.
SLE (2019-2026)
The volume retail trim. Cloth, alloy wheels, still halogen headlamps.
Elevation (2019-2026)
Monochrome-look appearance package on the SLE body. Halogen headlamps.
SLT (2019-2026)
First trim with leather and standard full-LED headlamps.
AT4 (2019-2026)
Off-road trim launched with the generation: 2-inch factory lift, locking rear diff, skid plates, Rancho shocks.
AT4X (2022-2026)
Added in the 2022 refresh. Multimatic DSSV dampers, front and rear lockers. The serious off-roader.
Denali (2019-2026)
Chrome-and-leather flagship. Standard 6.2L availability, full LED, premium interior.
Denali Ultimate (2022-2026)
Top of the range from the 2022 refresh. Full-grain leather, open-pore wood, standard Super Cruise.

Safety recalls on record

Every NHTSA recall campaign for the 2019–2026 GMC Sierra 1500, by model year. Covers model years 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026.

Recall campaigns

Do Not Drive

Highest urgency

NHTSA Do-Not-Drive / Park-Outside flags

Power Train (Drivetrain)Do Not Drive26V289000 · May 2026
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with four-wheel (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and certain 2015-2020 Suburban, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Tahoe vehicles. A component missing from the drivetrain transfer case may cause the front and/or rear wheels to lock up without warning to the driver.
RiskFront or rear wheel lockup increases the risk of a crash.
FixOwners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N262557620. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 7, 2026.

See all 25 recall campaigns by system

Power Train (Drivetrain)4

Power Train (Drivetrain)Do Not Drive26V289000 · May 2026
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2026 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, and GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles with four-wheel (4WD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), and certain 2015-2020 Suburban, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Yukon, Yukon XL, and Tahoe vehicles. A component missing from the drivetrain transfer case may cause the front and/or rear wheels to lock up without warning to the driver.
RiskFront or rear wheel lockup increases the risk of a crash.
FixOwners are advised not to drive their vehicle until the remedy is completed. Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the transfer case assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 18, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. GM's number for this recall is N262557620. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on May 7, 2026.
Power Train (Drivetrain)20V650000 · Oct 2020
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 and 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 trucks. One of the driveshaft joints may not have been properly welded, causing the driveshaft to separate while the vehicle is moving.
RiskIf the driveshaft separates, there may be a loss of propulsion, increasing the risk of crash.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the driveshaft, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin December 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N202314870.
Power Train (Drivetrain)26V083000 · Feb 2026
General Motors, LLC is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 2500, 3500, and 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles that may have been repaired incorrectly under recall 24V797. The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock up.
RiskRear wheel lock up increases the risk of a crash.
FixDealers will inspect the vehicles and update the transmission control software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 6, 2026. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N252516560. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 12, 2026.
Power Train (Drivetrain)24V797000 · Oct 2024
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2022 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, 2021 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with diesel engines. The transmission control valve may fail and cause the rear wheels to lock-up.
RiskRear wheel lock-up can increase the risk of a crash.
FixDealers will install new transmission control module software, free of charge. GM will provide a special coverage program to cover the repair of transmissions that are identified by the remedy software as containing a defective control valve. Owner notification letters were mailed December 12, 2024. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, GMC customer service at GMC 1-800-462-8782 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N242454440.

Tires4

Tires21V985000 · Dec 2021
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2021 GMC Sierra 1500 and Silverado 1500 vehicles equipped with certain accessory road tires and a 17" spare tire. The 17" spare tire provided with the vehicle is not compatible for use with the accessory wheels, which can cause the anti-lock brake system (ABS) to not function properly under certain conditions.
RiskAn ABS system that does not function properly can increase the risk of a crash.
FixDealers will provide a new 17" spare tire and wheel assembly that is compatible with the accessory wheels, free of charge. Dealers will also apply a new spare tire information label, and provide owners with an owner's manual insert clarifying which spare tire to use with the accessory road tires and with the 17" original tires. Owner notification letters were mailed February 7, 2022. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-462-8782 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212346510.
Tires21V423000 · Jun 2021
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
RiskOver cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
FixDealers inspect and replace the tires as necessary, free of charge, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on June 25, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212336230.
Tires21V115000 · Feb 2021
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
RiskOver cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.
Tires20V684000 · Nov 2020
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT5, GMC Acadia and Chevrolet Traverse vehicles and 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. The vehicles may have been manufactured with Continental tires that were overcured.
RiskOvercured tires may experience a carcass break in the sidewall resulting in a sudden air loss or could develop a belt edge separation which could lead to partial or full tread/belt loss. Either condition increases the risk of a crash.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect vehicles and replace tires that have DOT number and production mold number combinations identified by Continental, free of charge. The recall began December 17, 2020. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N202319030.

Brakes4

Brakes20V055000 · Jan 2020
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. These vehicles received updated software for the Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM). This software has an error, and as a result, the vehicle's electronic brake assist may be disabled. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
RiskA loss of electronic brake assist can increase the risk of a crash.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began February 24, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N192268091.
Brakes19V889000 · Dec 2019
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Cadillac CT6, and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. Due to an Electronic Brake Control Module (EBCM) software error, the vehicle's Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and Antilock Brake System (ABS) may become disabled. Furthermore, if this specific error occurs, the vehicle's diagnostics will not illuminate the instrument cluster ESC and ABS malfunction warning lights. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 126, "Electronic Stability Control" and 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
RiskIf the driver operates the vehicle unaware that ESC and ABS are not functioning, there is an increased risk of a crash.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the EBCM, free of charge. The recall began February 4, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N192268090.
Brakes20V116000 · Feb 2020
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. The bolts used to attach the front and/or rear brake calipers may have not been heat treated and may break under load.
RiskBroken caliper bolts can reduce brake performance or interfere with wheel rotation and increase the risk of a crash.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake caliper bolts, free of charge. The recall began March 23, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-866-522-9559. GM's number for this recall is N202294420.
Brakes24V674000 · Sep 2024
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Escalade ESV vehicles. The electronic brake control module software may fail to display a warning light when a loss of brake fluid occurs. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Vehicle Safety Standard number 135, "Light Vehicle Brake Systems."
RiskWithout a warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, which can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
FixThe Electronic Brake Control Module (eBCM) software will be updated through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2024. Owners can contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N242447990.

Seat Belts3

Seat Belts20V792000 · Dec 2020
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, 2021 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe and GMC Yukon XL and 2020-2021 Chevrolet Silverado 2500 and 3500 and GMC Sierra 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The seat belt brackets may not be secured to the seat frame in the front-row center seating position.
RiskIf a seat-belt bracket is not secured, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the front-row center seat position, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect left-side and right-side front-row center seat-belt bracket attachments and reassemble it correctly as necessary, free of charge. The recall began January 26, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202314670.
Seat Belts19V814000 · Nov 2019
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500, and 2020 Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Sierra 2500, and Sierra 3500 vehicles equipped with carpet floor covering. When the front seat belt pretensioners deploy, hot gas may vent through an opening in the pretensioner bracket, possibly igniting the carpet.
RiskA vehicle fire could result if materials ignite inside the vehicle.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will close off the opening in the pretensioner bracket, free of charge. The recall began December 13, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N192270600.
Seat Belts20V811000 · Dec 2020
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.
RiskIf a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.

Air Bags2

Air Bags18V868000 · Dec 2018
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab and GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab vehicles. The passenger-side frontal air bag module may have been damaged during assembly, possibly resulting in the air bag not inflating properly in the event of a crash.
RiskIn the event of a crash, an air bag that does not inflate properly can increase the risk of injury.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the passenger side air bag module, free of charge. The recall began on December 18, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N182198820.
Air Bags20V446000 · Jul 2020
General Motors, LLC. (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT5 and XT6, Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500 and Traverse and GMC Acadia and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500 vehicles. The diffuser component of the Roof-Rail Air Bag (RRAB) inflator may not have been properly crimped to the inflator and could separate from the inflator during air bag deployment.
RiskIf the diffuser separates from the inflator during deployment, RRAB performance may be degraded, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect RRAB modules, free of charge. The recall began September 3, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is N202305380.

Exterior Lighting2

Exterior Lighting22V903000 · Dec 2022
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate when the headlights are on. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108, "Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment."
RiskDRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.
FixThe body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-827.
Exterior Lighting22V463000 · Jun 2022
General Motors (GM) has decided that certain 2022 model year Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra vehicles equipped with an accessory sport bar. The accessory sport bar contains a high-mounted brake light that may not function. In addition, it may block the vehicle's existing high-mounted brake light. As such, these vehicles may fail to conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."
RiskAn inoperative high-mounted brake light can reduce visibility to other drivers and increase the risk of a crash.
FixDealers will inspect the installation of the accessory bar and provide the correct vehicle wiring, if necessary, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters advising owners of the safety risk were mailed on August 10, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed on January 27, 2023. Owners may contact GM's customer service on 1-888-988-7267 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020.. GM's recall number for this recall is N222368110.

Electrical System1

Electrical System19V888000 · Dec 2019
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2019-2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500 trucks. The battery positive (B+) cable rings may have been manufactured with excessive glue, potentially causing an intermittent electrical connection between the B+ cable and alternator.
RiskAn intermittent electrical connection between the B+ battery cable and the alternator could cause the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash. The intermittent connection could also lead to electrical arcing, which could generate sufficient heat to damage surrounding material, increasing the risk of a fire.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect for the presence of glue or other contamination at the B+ cable attachment to the alternator and clean the connection and reattach the B+ cable connection, as necessary. If arcing has damaged the cable, nut, or alternator, the dealer will replace the damaged components. All services will be performed free of charge. GM issued owners an interim notification on February 4, 2020. GM issued second notice and the recall began March 9, 2019. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N192273510.

Fuel System1

Fuel System19V837000 · Nov 2019
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Camaro, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The fuel pump may be missing a pressure regulator, allowing for over-pressurization of the fuel system.
RiskOver-pressurization can crack the fuel pump and cause leaks, increasing the risk of a fire in the presence of an ignition source.
FixGM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel pump, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2019. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267. GM's number for this recall is N192283991.

Engine & Cooling1

Engine & Cooling25V274000 · Apr 2025
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing defects that can lead to engine damage and engine failure.
RiskEngine failure increases the risk of a crash.
FixDealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N252494000.

Body / Structure1

Body / Structure25V060000 · Feb 2025
General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles equipped with chrome front grille deflectors. The attachments that hold the front grille deflectors in place may fracture, resulting in grille detachment.
RiskA detached front grille deflector may become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
FixDealers will reinforce or repair all attachment points on the chrome front grille deflector, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed March 17, 2025. Owners may call GM customer service for GMC at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N242490120.

Equipment Adaptive/mobility1

Equipment Adaptive/mobility25V876000 · Dec 2025
Rollx Vans (Rollx) is recalling certain GMC Yukon, Sierra, Chevrolet Express 2500, Ford Transit, E-250, Toyota Sienna, Sienna Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country, Voyager, Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Ram Promaster vehicles equipped with QRT-Deluxe and QRT-Max wheelchair restraints. Please refer to Rollx's recall report for specific model year information. The retractors may not lock, preventing the wheelchair from being properly secured.
RiskAn unsecured wheelchair can move during transit, increasing the risk of injury.
FixRollx will work with Q'Straint to inspect and replace the retractors as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 5, 2026. Owners may contact Rollx's customer service at 1-800-956-6668.

Equipment1

Equipment26V114000 · Feb 2026
General Motors has decided that certain 2027 Chevrolet Bolt EV, 2025-2026 Cadillac OPTIQ, Chevrolet Colorado, Equinox EV, GMC Canyon, 2026 Buick Enclave, Envision, Cadillac CT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade IQ, Escalade IQL, LYRIQ, VISTIQ, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Corvette Convertible, Corvette Coupe, Corvette Convertible E-Ray, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500, 3500, Silverado EV, Suburban 1500, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Hummer EV Pickup, Hummer EV SUV, Sierra 1500, 2500, 3500, Sierra EV, Terrain, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The radio may not have been set to the correct status to download the electronic owner's manual during production. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, “Occupant Protection.”
RiskWithout an owner's manual to consult, owners may not know how to safely use and operate the vehicle, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
FixDealers will reset the vehicle radio, which will facilitate automatic download of the electronic owner’s manual, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 16, 2026. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-866-467-9700, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223. The manufacturer's number for this recall is N252540430. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on NHTSA.gov on February 26, 2026.

Source: NHTSA, by model year — not by individual VIN. A campaign may not apply to every vehicle of a given year. Confirm your car at nhtsa.gov.

What owners actually buy

Hand-picked from the CarCareTruth catalog, ordered to match the spec card above. Every score is health + chemistry + effectiveness, in one number.

Engine oil (0W-20 V8, 5W-30 turbo, dexosD diesel)

Oil filter (PF66 turbo/diesel, PF63 V8)

Engine air filter (ACDelco A3244C)

Cabin air filter (ACDelco CF185)

Spark plugs (ACDelco 41-114, 0.040-inch gap)

Brake fluid (DOT 3)

Battery (Group 94R gas, Group 49 diesel)

FAQ

Which T1XX Sierra engine should I buy?: For most owners the 5.3L L84 is the sweet spot on price and capability, as long as the DFM lifter history checks out. The 6.2L L87 is the strongest gas engine but carries the 25V-274 rod-bearing recall on 2021-2024 trucks, so buy one only with the recall work documented. The 3.0L Duramax diesel is the mileage-and-towing pick and avoids the lifter issue entirely. The 2.7L turbo is fine for a light-duty daily driver.
What is the DFM lifter problem?: DFM (Dynamic Fuel Management) shuts off cylinders to save fuel. On the 5.3L and 6.2L V8s the deactivating lifters can collapse, throwing a misfire and a persistent tick or knock, and the fix is usually a camshaft-and-lifter job. Engines built around late 2020 to early 2021 are the worst cluster. A cold-start tick that does not go away is the warning sign.
Is the 6.2L recall a dealbreaker?: Not if the work was done. NHTSA recall 25V-274 covers 2021-2024 6.2L trucks for a rod-bearing and crankshaft defect that can seize the engine. GM inspects the engine and either clears it with a switch to heavier oil or replaces it. Ask for the recall completion record; a completed remedy makes the truck safe to buy.
Does the 3.0L Duramax use regular oil?: No. The 3.0L Duramax takes dexosD 0W-20, a diesel-specific spec, not the dexos1 0W-20 the gas V8s use. Do not cross the two. It holds about 7 quarts with the filter and uses the same PF66 oil filter as the 2.7L turbo.
Which oil filter fits my Sierra?: Two filters cover the whole lineup. The 2.7L turbo and the 3.0L Duramax use the ACDelco PF66. The 5.3L, 6.2L, and the 2019-2021 4.3L V6 use the ACDelco PF63. Match the filter to the engine, not the model year.
Are the headlights LED or halogen?: It depends on the trim. Pro, SLE, and Elevation ran halogen reflector headlamps. SLT, AT4, AT4X, Denali, and Denali Ultimate came with sealed full-LED assemblies that are not bulb-serviceable, so a failed LED means replacing the whole headlamp unit. Confirm your exact trim before buying replacement bulbs.
What battery does the T1XX Sierra take?: The gas trucks (2.7L, 4.3L, 5.3L, 6.2L) use a BCI Group 94R battery rated around 730 CCA. The 3.0L Duramax diesel uses a larger Group 49 battery around 850 CCA. AGM is the upgrade over flooded lead-acid and handles the parasitic draw of a modern truck better.
How much can a T1XX Sierra 1500 tow?: Properly equipped, up to about 13,300 lb on the 6.2L with the Max Trailering package. Real-world numbers depend on cab, bed, axle ratio, and rear-axle choice; the heavy-duty tow axle uses 75W-140 gear oil instead of the standard 75W-90. Check the door-jamb payload sticker and the trailering label for your specific truck.
Does the 2019–2026 GMC Sierra 1500 have any recalls?: Yes. NHTSA has 25 recall campaigns on record for the 2019–2026 GMC Sierra 1500. Verify your VIN at nhtsa.gov.

The shortlist

One top pick per category, fitting your Sierra 1500

Skip the comparison. The Best Of page shows the single highest-scored CarCareTruth product in every category that fits the t1xx (5th generation) Sierra 1500.

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Sources

GMC Sierra 1500 (production years, trims, engines, model history) on Wikipedia · accessed 2026-07-01
NHTSA recall 25V-274 (6.2L L87 engine loss of propulsion) report PDF · accessed 2026-07-01
NHTSA recalls database (queried per model year 2019-2026) · accessed 2026-07-01
GM Authority: 3.0L LZ0 Duramax more power and torque for 2023 · accessed 2026-07-01
The Drive: 2022 GMC Sierra updates, Super Cruise, new trims, fresh interior · accessed 2026-07-01

What your Sierra 1500 takes

Floor mats

Should you buy one

The engines, honestly

The maintenance that actually matters

Common problems, ranked by severity

1. 6.2L L87 rod-bearing failure and engine seizure

2. AFM/DFM lifter collapse (5.3L L84 and 6.2L L87)

3. Diesel transmission control-valve failure

4. 10-speed harsh shifts and torque-converter shudder

5. Infotainment and electrical gremlins

Year-by-year notes

Trim decoder