Used 1996 GMC Sierra 1500 Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1996 Sierra 1500, so we've included reviews for other years of the Sierra 1500 since its last redesign.
Hell Yes I Love My Truck
95_z71_1500, 04/21/2011
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
I'm in love with my '95 GMC Sierra 1500 Z71. She's currently broken down but it took her 195,xxx miles. But the engine, tranny, and everything else is still GREAT. Just the transfer case gave out when I was pullin' a dodge out of the sand(got it out) but she gave out afterwards. So I'm rebuilding it. But other then that she's everything I need. I've taken this set-back as a chance to fix 'er up. Just ordered Halo projector headlights/LED turn signals, new grille assembly, &performance chip. Soon to order smoked LED tail lights and 3rd brake light, tires, seat covers, door panels, chrome handles all around, 5in fender flares, 3-5 in body lift, and other things. CAN'T WAIT!
100% truck
tom galvin, 08/03/2008
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
Had 1995 GMC ext cab Sierra truck for 2 yrs now and love it. Tows almost everything, strong, safe. Got in accident, no damage crushed other cars fender. Looks nice, comfortable. Second row kinda compact. Drive it all around Atlanta and north Georgia for work. Fun to drive off road. No major problems, but a/c went out 1 year ago. Keyless entry, 20 mpg average, 4wheel drive capable, can see very well at night, good get up and go. GMC perfected the truck. I'm going to give it to my son in one year when he can drive and I'm going to miss not having it everyday.
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 for sale near you
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- 1996 GMC Sierra 1500MSRP: $5,995908 mi away
Solid GMC
KB in N.C., 06/12/2002
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased my GMC new in 95 and have been pleased with the truck since I purchased it. I have, to this point, had one main problem with the driver's seat base bracket. The bracket actually broke out of warranty and GMC agreed to pay half of the replacement cost since I had reported having a problem with it before the warranty ran out. The seat still has some movement in it but not excessive. Overall, I have enjoyed owning the truck and have made a few enhancements to it myself since buying it.
Thunder Rolls
captainkaos, 09/18/2009
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
9 of 10 people found this review helpful
95 Sierra Z-71 Extended cab. Owned it since day 1. Now has 263,000 miles on her. Has been in the shop 4 times in 14 years. No real major issues. If you take care of her, she will take care of you. I love this truck. Thought about trading her during cash for clunkers and test drove the F-150, Chevy Silverado and the Ram. They still didn't compare to her. My old gal still rode better and had the same or more power. Furthermore, the cost of a new truck is insane. I can buy half a house for the cost of a new truck. The Tundra was nice but 42k about killed me. They don't make them as solid as this one anymore. If you want a good dependable work horse, this is it. I think I'd cry if I sold her:(
Great Truck
Rich, 02/03/2005
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I am the original owner. Best truck I've owned, beats the F150 I had hands down. Low maintenance costs, only real work was a leaking master cylinder replacement at 2,000 miles (under warranty) and head gasket at approximately 120,000. Only other work was routine maintenance.
1996 gmc sierra 1500 ext cab z71 4x4 . i love it
charles84, 01/09/2012
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
i got my sierra as a early graduation present and i couldnt ask for more, the 350 has a lot power,very roomy Interior,real smooth ride to the driver and the passangers.also got the off road kit.good gas millage.my only problems so far have been brakes and routine maintaince oil changes,transmission fluid and etc.tows and hauls great,recently was towin a horse trailer and i could'nt even tell it was back there.very fun to drive.power seats are awesome specially for me,im not a small man and i still got plenty room behind the wheel.handles great to be a full size truck.like i said before i couldnt ask for more.
Love My Z71
edwnek3, 11/10/2012
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
I got my Z71 from work. I work at a pawn shop where one of our customers needed to pawn the truck, after we had it for a few weeks he needed a second loan on it and we gave it to him. A few weeks later he asked us to just buy the truck minus what he already owed in pawn. Of course we did and I immediately began hounding the shop owner to sell it to me. I couldn't be happier with the truck. It's big and bad-ass. Fixed it up with Flowmaster exhaust, brush guard and 17" in rims. We pulled an extremely large pontoon boat out of water and across town, truck didn't even care it was back there!! 10 stars out of a possible 5!
1996 GMC SIERRA SLE 5.7 LTR 2WD SB
S4, 03/31/2002
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Our GMC has been an overall good vehicle. It has had no major problems. Problems have included: Bad altenators. Rough Idle Glove box button broke 2 new A/C Compressors in 14 months Seat rails worn out, making seat shaky Plastic around the door handle cracked Windshield squirters quit working Design Flaws include: Very Wide turning radius Cup Holder blocks A/C Vent Plastic used in interior is too brittle Center caps should lock in.
Best looking and functional work truck ever!
Alexander Kovach, 03/05/2016
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
First, understand that this is a 20 year old truck, free of bells and whistles by today's standards. Now the good. This truck is solid. This is my second K1500, the first went for 300k miles. These are sturdy! Vortec engines are very well machined, and with routine maintenance, they will run as long as you own your truck. Towing has been great. I have the 305ci 5.0L with the 5 speed manual transmission, and that control of the shifting is exactly what I wanted. If you need to make repairs, the maintenance is a snap. The engine bay is large, with lots of space; swapping out an alternator, waterpump, plugs etc, are a breeze. The only issue I've had is the AC compressor developed a leak after 20 years. NOT BAD AT ALL! The price is excellent! For $5000 you can find these in excellent condition, and drive them for years! Best functional work truck for the money, and lots of aftermarket replacement parts available. This is the best variety of pickups GM ever put out.
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Best truck made
mdn, 02/27/2004
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
has 196500 miles, only thing I have had to do is: a/c compressor, rear bearings, rear main seal in engine...knock on wood, not even a water pump yet or alternator...no tranny problems EVER...put chip in as soon as I got it..got 21 mpg w/350 engine on vacation trips!!!!I tow trailers and haul often...best truck I ever owned..I wish I could buy another same model new!!!!
P-O-W-E-R!
HappyTexan, 05/23/2004
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
Now i've seen my fair share of powerful trucks but this is the fastest out of them all.190 horses doesn't seem like much but belive me it is.Since we bought it in late 2003 we haven't had a chance to put it to the long term reliability test.We've owned (older) chevrolets,fords,and even dodges in the past but this thing stands out from the rest of them.This thing can tow like a bat out of hell and it still lets you know what it's made of.We have the Z71 package and it has an ok ride...what you'd expect from a pickup of its size and since it has a three inch lift kit it compromises the ride a bit.t gets about 13/16 as a usual truck
never selling it
bubba, 06/18/2009
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
this truck is perfect for anyone looking for a dependable truck that you can make all the modifications you want. i have had a few problems (expected from a truck with 315000 miles on it) but nothing that can't be fixed yourself. the few problems i had were things that i thought were going to cost a fortune b/c of what the truck was doing. but they were not at all as bad as they seemed. if you are looking this truck is a trooper this is it, i backed in to a 03' cadillac cts it was $8000 of damage to it and all it did to my truck is push in the bumper.
great truck!!!
brent_hxc, 08/23/2009
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 2dr Extended Cab LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this truck about 10 days a go with 150,000 I bought it in talala I drove it home which is about 70 mi (no pobs ever!) is fast and tows anything and every thing!. Its gets about 17 mpg and its not bad. And thats with a 350 5.7l and King cab. By Brent
I love my truck!
ZakVortec95, 01/03/2010
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
i have a 95 sierra long box 4x4 that i have done some modifications to. being 16 i like to add things to it like so far a visor avs bug visor and vent shades, cherry bomb extreme. i love it it has a lot of power it looks nice. i recomend it! btw it has a vortec 305
Love This Truck
alex1906, 01/10/2010
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my truck from a friend and at the time he used it to haul a racecar trailer every weekend. I purchased it with 125,000 miles - he said good luck he didn't think it would last much longer (the body and interior were in excellent shape and it mechanically sound). I got it super cheap because of his stupidity. This truck consistently hauls a horse trailer that is too big for it and does a lot of other hard work. It's pushing 240k miles and everything is still original. Of course it gets maintenance regularly and has had some minor issues (EGR valve, blower motor resistor, etc). I'm starting to get a little rust on the body right behind both doors. However, the truck is still solid.
Excellent Pickup
chrisreed82, 10/15/2010
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my '95 GMC. I tow a trailer and haul ATVs with it. I help people move. I haul heavy loads of scrap wood out of our cabin property. Then I clean it up and cruise in style and comfort through town, and I get plenty of admiring glances and folks telling me what a beautiful truck I have and how much they loves these old GMCs. I've had no problems with it. I can work on it, it's so simply. Maintenance is a cinch. The interior is comfy and I can haul my whole family. This truck is happiest when just cruising around relaxed. It is pleasant to travel in, or work in. My best mileage yet was 18mpg, or 425 gallons on one tank, and that was pulling a light trailer. Highly recommend a '95 GMC.
No worries for high miles
DeDub, 09/13/2004
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought my GMC with 228,000 miles on it, I did have some needed repairs that needed to happen, but it was the most fun, reliable, and just plain great car I've ever owned. Even with the high miles, all original engine, 6" lift and 35" tires, I was still getting great milage, and tons of admiring looks. I'd highly recommend GMC to any buyer.
Great truck!!
Oran, 10/22/2018
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 2dr Regular Cab 4WD LB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Love it! These trucks are bullet proof! Fun to drive with the 350 and 5 speed!
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6.5 Turbo Diesel
Brian Hubbard, 02/26/2020
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
If you happen to come across a 95 GMC 1500 6.5TD, you need to include it in your family photos. This is one you'll never forget. From the GM-8 Borg Warner turbo, to the 4.11 limited slip rear w/ locking front differential - this is the vehicle you drive over the Porsche or Camaro if you're late. I've had mine for 5 years. It has rust but mostly the chips fall on PowerStroke 6.0/6.4/7.3 or whatever else they haven't kept up with well over a decade later. Live in an area with protests? Slap a grill on the front and once they hear the deafening lifters dancing to the 24:1 compression, people will run.
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Owner 23 of 26 years and this thing is bulletproof
95 GMC K1500 5point7, 03/11/2021
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
My dad originally bought this truck when I was almost 12, we took on every sports trip for years and years, and I've been driving it since I was in high school. Now over 230k miles, still on the original engine (5.7L), tranny (Automatic), and transfer case. I've had to replace the A/C system, a radiator, water pump, and wear parts. The astounding thing is this truck is not my daily driver, sometimes it will sit for weeks or months, cold weather even, and I turn the key and it starts right up every time. There is no way I would ever trade this for a new truck, this thing is perfect. I've had to do a lot of winter driving, I've driven AWD Audis, Volvos, and every 4WD American truck and this is the best vehicle I've ever driven in the snow. My favorite part is it will let you fishtail as much as you want and then if you really punch it, it will straighten right out. I will eventually spend the money to fix all the cosmetic issues (no real rust, just the paint is flaking and has some dents) and I will gladly spend whatever money necessary to keep it mechanically sound. I love this truck more than just about anything.
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SUNSPOT BABY
donnie, 12/12/2021
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
hi im donnie, i bought this trk totaled it was rolled over with 1400 miles on it.at that time i owned a body shop.after a short few years i got my operating engineers card.traveled alot.this trk is awesome.i now have 300,000 + on it the only wrench ever used was routine maintenance.alt,belt,air filter,oil changed every 3,000 miles.never a starter,fuel pump.today it starts every time.NEVER has left me down.i have alot of interesting stories to share.my trk is just unbelievable.........
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Awesome Power
JJAlmand, 07/10/2008
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've owned this truck for two years and it is by far the best truck I've ever owned. The interior has plenty of room and the exterior looks sharp. My truck has over 200k and it still runs strong. I love the power of the 350ci V8, especially with a set of flowmaster duals. The limited-slip is another wonderful thing bout this truck. This truck is a performer and a reliable worker.
GMC K1500 Ext Cab
David Williams, 04/17/2002
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had Oxygen sensor, Coil, and Fuel pump replaced under the 36000 mile warranty. Haven't had a problem with the truck since. Now have 98000 miles. Brake pads need replacing every 25-30K miles. I have been disappointed with the soft brake peddle and the stopping distance. Just doesn't feel assuring on emergency stops. Towing has been great, fuel economy beats all other full size 4x4 trucks (18 Hi-way, 15 city, and 14 pulling trailers in 3rd gear.)
Proud GMC owner
William Wheeler, 12/31/2007
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is one of the best trucks I have ever owned, driven daily by my wife, a school teacher. I took it over about 5 years ago and have had no problems, only scheduled maintaince.
great truck
Tom, 06/15/2009
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Regular Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have only had this truck for a year but i can tell you straight out that it is one of the best trucks i have ever owned very fun to driv
great truck
chuck, 06/19/2009
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
if you want a truck that is fun to drive reliable and built to last then you will love this truck it beats ford's 96 f-150 by a long shot
GMC 1500
Lars, 09/11/2002
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We, too, have had the oxygen sensor replaced; radio control push buttons replaced and have a shaky seat track on the passenger's side. Also, after letting people in the back from the passenger's side, the seat then has to be slammed back into the lock position or you slide back and forth. In the winter, the soda gets warm and in summer the coffee gets cold, all because of the cup holder position in front of the main vents. Overall, though, a very reliable truck.
Excellent Truck
Chico Bob, 11/08/2002
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Excellent truck. Flaws include: Intake manifold gasket started leaking around 60K, 1 oxygen sensor around 45K, U- joints around 65K, windshield wiper module. All relatively inexpensive items to fix. Front brake pads lasted 80K (all city miles - they will last if you don't drive like a maniac). 16mpg in city, almost 20 mpg on highway (5.0 V8).
5 year review
KWNelson, 12/17/2002
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 2dr Regular Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I thought this would be a great truck for many years, but recent problems now occur. I have replaced the radiator, A/c condensor, heater core and now transmission in the past year, and this takes my reliability score down. Its a nice drive, just problems with integrity.
One Great Truck
QJ, 09/03/2003
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have owned quite a few trucks just like this one. They are tough trucks. I have been impressed by the payload capabilities and towing power. I pour concrete on the side and this truck does everything. I can fill the bed with broken-up concrete and not even worry about payload. The interior is nice and comfortable. The extended cab could be just a bit roomier. Overall this is a pretty nice truck.
My GMC
Stephen Humbard, 01/04/2004
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Had some problems with computer in beginning. Once it was replaced at 27000 mile no problems since. A/C went out at about 38000 and had to replace compressor. No other major problems with truck. Been a very reliable work truck.
A Great Ride
jordanna way cool, 07/03/2004
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This truck is great and it gets great gas miledge for such a truck it even has a step-side which I really liked because it really added the extra touch that I wanted and most importantly I only gave $6,000 for it which I love I got my truck at Rob's Automotive at 14111 Lebanon Road in Old Hickory, Tn and they have great cars at great prices and I think every one should a car there!!!!!!!!!!!!
Rare Black Beauty
Rich Patino, 01/31/2019
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 2dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
1996 GMC SLT Z71, 3 DOOR STEP SIDE, 5.7 VORTEC, 4L60E. This one is fully loaded and still runs and drives beautiful. I love my Truck!
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Gmc beast of a.truck
Hotrod, 04/24/2023
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT 2dr Extended Cab LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Awesome truck
Reliable workhorse
Dan, 01/05/2018
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Reliable and comfortable. I am original owner, maintenance costs have been reasonable. Gas mileage not the best. Spare tire location not convenient, cable rusted off and tire disappeared.
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review
Dexter, 01/18/2022
1995 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab 4WD LB (5.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
Served well. A shortcoming: the fire wall developed a fissure, allowing water to leak into the front passenger floor.
Average
Augusto, 12/04/2002
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SL 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I'm not happy with Air fan Switch control. The LED indicating light for air recirculation and A/C went out. The starter went out too soon.
Original owner
venatic, 05/06/2004
1996 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 2dr Extended Cab SB (4.3L 6cyl naturally aspired 5M)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
I'm the original owner of this truck and it's the first one that I've owned. It currently has 155,XXX miles on it and still runs great. Brakes are probably my biggest complaint. They seem soft and don't grab like other vehicles I've owned. Repairs have been nominal. They include the anti-lock brake system, intake manifold, 2 fuel pumps, alternator, front brake pads and rotors. Overall a good vehicle and one I purchase again.