Used 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Consumer Reviews
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2004 GMC Sierra 4.8 V8
I purchased this vehicle used. It now has nearly 155,000 miles on it needing a little TLC and routine maintenance. It has needed little things like tune up, brakes, fluids changed, shocks and tires. This truck has exceeded all of my expectations for a higher mileage vehicle. It does not leak fluids or use and oil. I plan to put another 50K on it before even considering purchasing another truck. I have two friend that also own 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 with over 200+K miles on each. They both run very well needing only routine maintenance.
Rust bucket
bought brand new in 2004. at 45,000 miles the gauge cluster went, @ 88,000 miles the catalytic converter went, @ 7 years old the cab corners and rocker panels started to bubble despite always washing and hand waxing, along with car washes. At 110k I was using coolant and heard my lifters ticking. With no warranty I pulled the valve covers only to find anti-freeze and my cylinder heads covered in muck!!! The warped cylinder heads that caused the disaster were on millions of gm vehicles between 2002 and 2006. Cadillac's, yukons, sierras, etc, A local mechanic with gm explained that they knew about the problem but continued to use the heads because they had purchased millions of dollars worth of them and knew the buyers would get 100k miles out of them. He explained a recall would have cost millions of dollars so they decided it was pretty much just cheaper to screw the buyer. 3k in parts and labor and the car was down for a week. Needed all new lifters and heads planed. @ 120k rust is through the cab corners and rocker panels. Won't pass inspection in NH, Large holes. Now at 146k It's using coolant again. I tasted the water dripping from the exhaust pipe. Sure enough, anti-freeze. Time to go. Bad luck with 3rd gmc in a row. I'm a bow tie guy with chevelles and other muscle but a ford 250 super duty is looking pretty good. Gas of course where as nothing beats a Dmax.
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- Technology
- Performance
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- Value
- SLE Extended CabMSRP: $4,50031 mi away
- SLE Crew CabMSRP: $13,59572 mi away
- SLT Extended CabMSRP: $24,483136 mi away
great trucks
Bought this truck used at 126k miles drove for a month started loosing coolant took it into my dealership they found out it was the water pump not the heads replaced for free I've had to do shocks ball joints tire rod ends maf sensor left bank exhaust manifold gasket evap control module u joint and axle shaft seals because I'm super picky but understand that I did not buy a brand new truck I bought used this truck pulls like a dream rides great just wish it didn't govern at 98 and had better stopping power I drove an 08 and decided I still liked the 04 better plenty of power and mpg isn't bad 04 sierra sle 5.3 extended cab 4x4 z71 is a keeper for sure out Mudd's my buddies fords and dodges
GMC Denali Quadrasteer
The GMC Denali provides a level of comfort and sophistication never available in a pick up truck. It offers the upscale appointments with comfortable, adjustable leather seats,the most advance drive train of any truck on the road, the convenience and security of OnStar, and the performance of GM's 6 litre engine. The manuverability is fantastic and a must if you are towing a boat or toy hauler or trying to fit in a tight parking spot. Excellent performance, refinement, and capability with the loan drawback being the poor gas mileage, which is to be expected.
best truck i ever bought!
bought the truck at 120k miles 4 years ago. today i have 205k on it as my daily driver to work and back (80mile round trip highway) and to the day all ive had to replace was an alternator. towed a boat for 3 years weighing aprox. 3800lbs with easy and stability. this truck is absolutely bullet proof and i would buy it again in a heart beat. note: i also just bought a 2015 sierra all terrain edition last December and to be honest i like driving my 2004 sierra better! absolutely great all around truck!!!
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2004 GMC Sierra 1500 SLE 4X4 Std cab SB 5.3
Just turned 100k. Even though this truck has been meticulously maintained and never abused, it has had the transmission replaced (at 67K), sound system (at 25K), intermediate steering shaft (3 times), HVAC controls (at 75K), front rotors (2 times), instrument panel (at 70K), steering wheel control modules replaced (80K), Evaporative Emission Canister Vent Valve (at 124K), upholstery (at 124K), etc. There is so much slop in the drive train that I would never consider using as a tow vehicle. Good for going to the dump and grocery shopping. Limited slip (rear) is demonstrating signs of impending failure, just a matter of time.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
OK so Far
Bought used 117,000. Used a little oil and coolant would need irregular replenishing, odd. Every now and then a sticky lifter, then when I added Lucas to the oil all H--l broke loose, literally. Next oil change there was so much sludge in the sump the oil would not drained. Long story short, the sludge clogged the oil pump suction and w/o oil pressure things were not going to get any better. Found a used motor (100,000) miles, swapped out. Better engine, more power, no oil consumption, coolant OK. I'll probably drive this truck for another couple of years. I like it. I think the sludge was related to the coolant loss. As it was infiltrating the crank case and slowly evaporating out?
My last GM vehicle
I loved the the looks, but ultimately bought because of incentives. Should have paid two grand more and got Tundra. Water pump went out at 39k, steering shaft at 40k, antilock brake modulator at 42k, transmission at 80k (never towed), instrument panel at 88k. That’s about $4k of repairs that should never happened below 100k. I loved driving it and best seats of any vehicle I’ve owned. Averaged 14.2 mpg. However it was a money pit.
Cracked Cylinder Heads
At about 53,900 miles, my 2004 5.3L developed a ticking noise. Turned out to be cracked cylinder heads. $3800 repair bill. I had it repaired and traded it for a brand new Tundra with 5.7L engine. No regrets.
Great Rig!
This is a very well designed vehicle. It combines a very comfortable, luxurious driving environment with the ability to tow heavy trailers. Since a lot of stuff is included in the standard package, I got more accessories than I might have bought if they were priced separately. I really like Quadrasteer.
GMC Denali
This is an awesome vehicle, I will never by a FORD again. This is the best truck I have ever owned and plan on getting another soon.
gmc
excellent quality smooth ride should have got the 5.3 engine for more low end the 4.8 likes to rev and power comes on strong getting 20 plus miles per gallon with auto and 3.42 gears
2004 Sierra Denali
This truck is extremely inpressive. After 15 years of driving a BMW I wanted something totally different and fun to drive - the Denali is all I hoped it would be in a full-size truck. People notice it and it turns heads. The QuadraSteer is an absolute must and is everything you hoped it would be - simply amazing. With dealer incentives and some negotiation, the Denali can be had for around $34,600 - this makes it an incredible value. If you're in the market for a top-of-the-line full size truck, the Sierra Denali should be at the top of your list. A great truck.
Cracked cylinder heads
I love the truck it is very comfortable, and has been trouble free for 5 years, till I noticed the coolant level dropping, I figured out it had cracked cylinder heads. Took it to Boulevard GMC in Signal Hill and they charged me $170.00 for something I already knew and lied and said they took the valve covers off to inspect, when it shows no one has taken the valve cover off, (BEWARE OF THIS DEALERSHIP) GM wont help pretty much had to fix my self. I put in Bars head gasket fix and the leak in the heads went away, been 3,000 miles all I have to do is change my lifters and push-rods and should be good to go. Don't think I am going to be buying GM anymore.
GMC fan
Best in cless, best motor I have ever hade in a truck.It is my 2nd truck and the 1st thuck I got 300,000 mi out of it.
Has been a great truck for me
I bought this truck with 93,000 miles on it 10 years ago. It has served me well. When truck was lost in an accident, it had 161,000 miles. Never had a major mechanical failure. Biggest issue I had was Truck Body Controller, located under driver's, seat causing some quirks with interior lights, seat position memory, and battery drainage. That was probably a result of failed cab vents that were leaking and soaking carpet. The 4WD with locking rear was awesome! The engine was great. I towed quite a bit. It was rated at 7700 lb and frequently towed/hauled 5500 lbs up and down hills. Would have been nice to have the newer 6 sp transmission. No real complaints about this truck.
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best yet
I bought this truck brand new, actually bought a toyota first but found the mileage and power to lacking for the needs I had. this truck filled the bill alright, she has towed a trailer almost everyday and has been used as a working route truck.I have had not one problem with this truck even the tires have lasted longer than expected for stock run of the mill general tires. I love this truck but its time to move on to a new work truck I think I will do it all over with another short box gmc 1500 ! what a great investment this was for our co.
Cracked cylinder heads
This will be my last GMC vehicle. 2004 GMC Sierra with 60,000 miles developed 2 cracked cylinder heads and also need lifters replaced. $3600 repair bill. Called GMC to complain but they didn't care.
Whatta Truck!
Excellent truck. MUCH more than I expected. Good value, excellent craftsmanship. Fit and finish is up there with fine import automobiles costing $75,000+.
High miler, still purring!
I bought this truck 3 years ago with 120000 miles on it and it just purrs. Smooth, quiet, comfortable and even with all those miles it still doesn't burn or leak any oil. I haul a 260 gallon water tank in the back and it doesn't even phase the old girl. Just a great truck!
Factory Support
Buyer beware. I have had numerous problems with this vehicle, many of which are recurring. Dealerships have been unable to resolve the recurring problems. After lengthy conversations with GM, they not only refused to do anything to accomodate the situation (e.g. pay for alternate transportation on first day of service, get a rep involved to asses the problem)they also accused me of exagerating a few of the problems simply because a service technician did not fully describe the issues in his report. I understand that problems occur, but you will get no customer service from the manufacturer even when the problems are reoccuring and cannot be fixed.
heck of a truck
A great truck. I had a 1992 Sierra and loved it. I bought this truck and a week later took it on a 2000 mile elk hunting trip to Colorado. It was a long drive made enjoyable thanks to GMC. The snow in the mountains was no problem and the truck was perfect. This truck rides better and is quieter than my wifes 2002 Bonneville SLE.
1978 Revisited
I like my truck. It is a "Plain Jane" truck-no options. Performance is better than expected, though the mileage in town is poor-about 15 mpg. Good ride and no complaints, though I have only 2500 miles on it. For being a base truck, it suits my needs and makes me wish reviewers would talk about the basic trucks as well as the duded-up ones. The reset on the oil change system is neat. I like the magnatized drain plug too. Very easy oil change. A great ride. Much better than my 1993 ford F-150. Very similar to my old 1978 Silverado but with a much better turning radius. The 6 cylinder has plenty of power for what I need.
GREAT TRUCK
I drove this truck across the country, no problems and i had a trailer in pull. Maine to Washington. Very comfy and with a few add ons, the gas mileage for me is low 20's high way. 5.3L. Good truck, Recommend.
This truck is PERFECT!! Never owned GMC.
Always have owned Toyotas, new Tacoma extended cab (but not enough space), then a 4runner (but not a truck), now I just bought a 2004 GMC 1500 Sierra SLE extended cab 4wd, 5.3L for $28,700 OTD. I wanted to get Tundra Double cab, but too expensive and not really a truck, besides, the newer GMC's (2001 & up) are as good as toyotas in engine quality. Everything was just better in GMC Sierra. Couldn't be happier and satisfied than having this truck.
amazing truck!!!
My dad had originally bout this truck, it was the first 04 in Alaska at the time. He used it to comute 60 miles away for about 3 years, then I used it to drive to school about 30 miles away. Not once has this truck not started, even at -40 it started right up. Not once has it ever had any Major problem. Only mat. That has been done is oi change and brake pads. It is the best truck that my dad or I have ever owned. I am currently at 163,200 miles! Still defect free. My brother as well bought one of the same year since he liked mine so much, and he has the same thoughs about it. It is a amazing truck
Sierra SLT
My sierra has been in the family since new and has given us nothing but good service. I use it now for trash pickup and towing our 28' boat. In 225k miles, I have only replaced an alternator, climate control actuator, and normal maintenance. As a automotive dealer, this in my opinion is the best truck on the road!
GMC Sierra Sharp and Long Lasting
I have this truck four years now and not one problem. Mine is a sport side in black with added chrome. It looks and rides great. Instead of a heavy duty package, I have the easy ride suspension. It handles and feels great. On the open road it rides like a luxury car.
GMC SIERRA EXTENDED CAB
I HAVE ONLY OWNED THIS TRUCK FOR TWO MONTHS NOW, BUT EVERY DAY I LOOK FORWARD TO GETTING IN IT AND DRIVING IT. I CONSIDER MYSELF A PICKY PERSON AND TO DATE I CAN FIND NO FAULTS WITH MY GMC SIERRA. I RECOMMEND THIS TRUCK TO ALL FUTURE TRUCK BUYERS!
Life
This truck is a life saver for me, got into a car accident was going 85 and hit a telephone. I truly believed it saved my life, i just bought another one same year. Truck has a amazing build! i would tell anyone about this truck and how amazing it is.! i absolutely LOVE it.
Better than I expected
It has turned out to be a better vehicle than I expected. Very decent ride quality. Plenty of get up and go consiering it has the small V-8 engine. My biggest complaint is the lousy turning radius- takes much too much space to get in and out of parking spaces or to make a U turn. Nice fit and finish. It is holding up very well. Am not generally a GM fan, but this is a very nice vehicle.
Excellent Buy
You can't beat this truck for the price lot's of power locking Differential. All wheel disk brakes on other trucks this is a option but on GMC it is a standard option. I just couldn't be happier the 5.3 has plenty of power I'm sure it will keep up any of the other trucks with the same size engine.
gmc sierra
This truck is more than worth the money. This truck has performed all of the light duty work that I have needed without any problem. The payload capacity is excellent as well. I highly recommend this truck.
gmc
great truck good at hauling. very spacious and comtorble. gas mileage is good for a truck. had this truck from new to 180000 miles now original motor still runs very smooth as does tranny, and everything else. the only repairs i had to do so far on this truck was o2 sensors about 40bucks each a crank angle sensor about 50dollar and a output shaft seal on the transfer case, i did the work myself. other then that routine maintance and she'll run strong for a long time. i would diffently buy another in the future if needed.
Love my Denali!
Power, performance, and FUN to drive! Quadrasteer whips a better U-turn than a Volkswagen! It takes about a lane and a half to cut a tight u-turn. The 6 Liter engine has lots of power, but GUZZLES the gas! (The power is well worth the gas guzzling when you need it.) I change the oil and put in gas. I have had it 1 year TODAY and have 35,900 on it allready! GMPP Warranty was $4K extra! Very pleased with the truck & reliability, but the dealers who fix it work too fast and I have to point out the shoddy repairs. Biggest problem, the factory tonneau cover leaks water into the bed, and is constantly breaking. I have had it replaced TWICE (under warranty) Both times it was re-installed wrong.
Pleasant Surprise
e have only had this vehicle for one week, but I love it. We opted for the GMC over the Chevy Silverado based on appearance. The GMC looks like a truck. It is incredibly fast (5.3 litre V-8) for a 4 wheel drive truck. It is comfortable and the ride and handling are very nice. This truck is fun to drive. So far so good. We love it!
Best vehicle I've ever owned!
Absolutely, without a doubt the best truck I will ever own! 168,000 highway miles. Just replaced the original brakes at 167,000. Regular maintenance, oil changes, fluids, etc every 3 to 5K. No bells and whistles, this is a work truck, a darned good one! I get about 19-20 mpg on highway, I'll take it and not look back. Forget interior/exterior design...who cares? I wanted dependability. I got it. A great truck!
Sierre Style, Ride and Quality No.1
It is no wonder the Sierre is the only truck lists the Kiplinger List top 10. Coming from the Toyota 4Runner and Ford F150 crowds, this beats them both for quality, handling, comfort and style. The 2004 Dodge Ram is a vible competitor but too pricey when you do the comparisons of bang for your bucks.
Update
Overall this has been a good vehicle. Nice looking truck with a nice ride. Xm radio a must and the 6 CD Bose music system is great. Only complaint is about drive train noise. Seems the locking differential kicks in often with a clank. Dealer says normal. Had minor problem with front end the dealer took care of quickly and without complaint. Over all good value. Will buy another some day.
Sierra Upgrade
Upgraded from a 01 Z71 SLE to the 04 Z71 SLT. I like a lot about the new one. The leather, adjustable seats, sound system, XM, looks, HVAC, dimming outside mirror, heated mirrors (live in upstate NY). What I miss-inside storage my 01 had, the overhead console, the extended chrome accent on the side, the red gmc on the wheels. Some short cuts were taken I think. The last thing is the wind blows this one around while the 01 was rock solid. Different front maybe? I still love the truck and would buy no other make.
Good ride
This truck has been very good to me. It has performed flawlessly and the gas mileage hasn't changed either up or down by more than 1 mpg. I thouroughly enjoy driving this truck. My truck has the Z71 package and it has a solid feel to it.
truck rating
this is the first truck i have bought, i wish i had done this long ago. i have the smooth ride sus. it rides like a big car, handling is great, more than enough power. i have the short bed.
We love it
My husband & I have really enjoyed this GMC pick up. I like the extended cab & the extra doors for convenience of accessing the back seat. The dual heat/air control is especially convenient for my husband & I. I love the way the truck handles on the road, the smooth ride & the comfort of the front bucket seats (although I wish the passenger side reclined more for snoozes on long trips. We are SPOILED for regular am/fm radio now that we have XM Radio in the truck! Just generally LOVE this truck (have had it for about 5 or 6 weeks now & already took it on a 1000 miles round trip).
excellent
this is the best truck i have ever owned. period. loaded, leather etc. and as comfortable to drive as any car ( including cadillac and mercedes ) that i have owned and driven. 4wd takes me anywhere and under any conditions. you can't beat this one.
Best truck I have had
This is my very first truck and I am very satisfied. It is also very quick. The sport red does look pinkish in the sun so it is definalty a female truck.
I love this truck!
I tow a horse trailer. When I drove this truck, I thought it would help with towing. What a great surprise that I could drive it downtown, park it in a ramp, and actually not worry about the back end sliding in the snow. It's heaven after my F150, much more like a Cadillac than a truck. I love this truck!
Pleasantly surprised
I bought my 04 SLE extended cab 2WD last month and this truck gives me so much for my money. It accelerates effortlessly with the 5.3, shifts smoothly with the AT, and get 22 mpg on the freeway... that's right, 22 MPG!
good truck so far
i love the truck so far but the turning radious is terrable.tows great good fuel milage
03 GMC Sierra SLT Z-71
Great to drive. I am on the road 40- 45,000 miles annually so this truck serves as my office. The only thing that rides better is my '02 Yukon.
my first truck
i got this truck in late january and i've got 1700 miles on it. it's perfect for me, the ride is smooth, acceleration is great, and the cd player takes care of all my music needs. the only other trucks ive had the pleasure of driving are my brother's 2002 F-150 single cab, and my dad's 1978 F-150 extended cab, and it greatly surpasses both of them.