2003 GMC Sierra 1500 Review
2003 GMC Sierra 1500 Review
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+60
GMC Sierra 1500 model years
GMC Sierra 1500 types
- Extended Cab
- Regular Cab
See Edmunds pricing data
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Roomy extended-cab models, strong V8 engines, innovative features.
Cons
- Spotty fit-and-finish concerns, low-grade interior materials.
What’s new
The Sierra gets a revised look this year that includes a new front fascia, revised side moldings and an additional wheel design. Top-of-the-line models get power-folding heated mirrors with puddle lamps and turn signal indicators. Inside, the Sierra now offers a Bose stereo system and XM Satellite Radio. The instrument panel and center console have been redesigned, and GMC has added new seats, a more comprehensive driver information center, optional satellite steering wheel controls and a dual-zone climate control system. For increased safety, Sierras now feature a standard front-passenger-sensing system and dual-stage airbags. All 4.3-liter V6-equipped Sierras and California-emission V8s are now ULEV certified, while electronic throttle control is now standard on all V8 engines. Finally, the Autotrac four-wheel-drive system has been modified for less intrusiveness at low speeds, and the brake system received upgrades that provide better pedal feel and improved overall performance.
Edmunds says
Powerful drivetrains, classic exterior styling and unique options make the Sierra a pickup worth considering, but Fords new F-150 has it beat when it comes to interior design and overall refinement.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2003 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab Work Truck Rwd LB (4.3L 6cyl 5M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.64 per gallon for regular unleaded in Rhode Island.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Rhode Island
$280/mo for Sierra 1500 Work Truck
Sierra 1500 Work Truck
vs
$270/mo
Avg. Large Truck
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Also Consider
2024 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali
Pro
Starting MSRP$69,900
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GMC.com
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.
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Also Consider
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- 6 Colors
- 1 Trim
- 6 Packages
- $69,900starting MSRP
Build & PriceGMC.com
*The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price excludes destination freight charge, tax, title, license, dealer fees, and optional equipment. Dealer sets final price. Click here to see all GMC vehicles’ destination freight charges.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2003 GMC Sierra 1500.
5 star(65%)
4 star(24%)
3 star(9%)
2 star(1%)
1 star(1%)
71 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.25 out of 5 stars
just like a beautiful woman
pabelomeister, 03/13/2013
2003 GMC Sierra 1500 4dr Extended Cab SLE 4WD LB (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
I got this truck used with 80000. It had a bad intake gasket and got replaced. Engine has not given me any issues since. z71 4x4 is pretty dang nice, its hard to get this this thing stuck in the mud. Issue with the motor in the transfer case... but never stopped working (says service yada yada. been checked. not a big issue). basic maintenance and think I can give this vehicle to my kids … (not soon either). GMC seems like a good truck with some quirks, but solid and runs when you need it. The 5.3 has some passing power, and tows like a champ. If you like your girls a little high maintenance, go on and get it. If not, then buy an old truck and forget about all the gadgets. good luck.
4 out of 5 stars
Couldn't ask for anything more.
rustysmith, 03/03/2009
2003 GMC Sierra 1500 2dr Regular Cab Rwd SB (4.3L 6cyl 5M)
6 years later, I'm still happy with my purchase. It's been a great truck with no worries. The only problem I've had is not getting the speedometer fixed before the recall ran out. My own fault. Other than that, only oil changes for over 120k miles. Reliability on these trucks is second-to-none. I have three friends with the same body style (one '04 and two '05's) and all have over 100k … miles w/only 3 problems. My speedometer went out @ 105k. On the '05, his alternator went out @ 134k and his tranny went @ 166k. Using the gold standard of reliability, he has an '01 Camry. The starter went @ 150k and the tranny @ 160k. GM seems to be catching up to the Japanese automakers. Great job.
3.25 out of 5 stars
Review
R Coyle, 05/18/2010
2003 GMC Sierra 1500 4dr Extended Cab SLE 4WD LB (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
Bought new in late 2002 truck has been average for comfort and mileage is good. Reliability is not good to many small issue my truck only has 60k and have replaced both front wheel bearings, replaced two power window motors, had to replace sensor for ABS brakes, steering gear box and now the cluster is going bad. GM know the cluster unit is an issue but refused to help on the repair … cost. I think I am going to look at the Toyota Tundra for my next truck. GM just need to have a better warranty on the little things that are always going bad on their vechiles.
3.88 out of 5 stars
Great Truck
CJB, 08/26/2010
2003 GMC Sierra 1500 4dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.8L 8cyl 4A)
I bought the truck new in 2003.I needed something for the snow and thought I would try a GMC for once.There have been no problems with the truck until the 4WD module went out at 55k miles.The truck seems to dance around in the rear end in the snow abit.havent had any problems to speak of until 85k miles when the left front hub bearing went out. Tires lasted until 68k miles and still have … the original battery in it.The front/rear brakes still have 50% left and should be good until 150k miles.The interior is still solid and everything still works like the day I bought it.
2003 Sierra 1500 Highlights
Extended Cab
Work Truck
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $23,600 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Combined MPG | 16 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $280/month |
Seating | 6 seats |
Drivetrain | rear wheel drive |
Max Towing Capacity | 8,100 lbs. |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Sierra 1500 include:
- Alarm
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalMarginal
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintPoor
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