2002 GMC Sierra 2500 Review
Price Estimate: $2,830 - $4,822

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GMC Sierra 2500 model years
GMC Sierra 2500 types
- Extended Cab
- Regular Cab
Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Class-leading engines and hauling capacity, roomy interior.
Cons
- Cheap interior materials, spotty build quality.
What’s new
GMC's light-duty 2500s get only minor changes for 2002. Base model SLs now come standard with air conditioning, while uplevel SLE and SLT models get standard deep-tinted glass. All Sierras get redesigned badging and extendable sun visors.
Edmunds says
Why buy more truck than you can use but settle for less than you need? GMC doesn't think that makes sense, so it offers a 2500-series light-duty Sierra to slot between humdrum half-tons and big-bruiser heavy-duties. Ask the Toyota salesperson if the Tundra can do that.
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Vehicle overview
If you're looking for flexibility, capability and a "professional grade" image, look no further than GMC's 2500 Sierra. Available as either a regular-cab longbed or an extended-cab shortbed in three different trim levels, these versatile trucks provide all the power and comfort you're ever likely to need.
Like the half-ton 1500 series, these trucks share platforms and components with Chevrolet's Silverado, but the Sierra gets some styling and feature enhancements to position GMC as the "professional grade" truck. Looks and special content aside, the biggest draw for GMC's big pickups are their exceptional powertrains, outstanding payload capacity, and unparalleled towing and hauling ability.
Under the hood, all light-duty 2500's get GM's 6.0-liter Vortec V8, good for 300 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. This engine easily out-muscles Ford's 5.4-liter Triton V8 (260hp, 350 lb-ft) and Dodge's 5.9-liter V8 (245hp, 345 lb-ft). The standard transmission is a New Venture 4500 five-speed manual, with a heavy-duty 4L80-E four-speed automatic optional.
Underneath, the Sierra 2500 features an independent front suspension that utilizes torsion bars and gas-pressurized shocks. A solid rear axle with variable-rate leaf springs supports the rear. Standard four-wheel disc brakes with ABS provide excellent stopping power with minimal fade. Two-wheel-drive 2500s are rated to tow up to 10,800 pounds, while four-wheel-drive versions max out at 10,300 pounds.
The Sierra comes in three trim levels: SL, SLE and SLT. All models feature air conditioning, a driver message center, dual power outlets, a tilt steering wheel and an AM/FM stereo. SLE models add convenience features like power windows and locks, cruise control, upgraded cloth interior, an AM/FM/CD stereo and remote keyless entry. Loaded SLT models feature leather bucket seats, deep tinted glass, cast aluminum wheels, power heated outside mirrors and the Autotrac transfer case on 4x4 models.
With comfy seats, easy-to-use radio and climate controls, and plenty of the latest features, the inside of the Sierra is as functional as the outside. From industrial-size cupholders to a multi-function vehicle system monitor, it's safe to say, if it doesn't come on a Sierra 2500, it probably doesn't come on any pickup. So whether you're looking for a little extra power when hauling your boat, or your truck is the most important tool you bring to the jobsite, the Sierra 2500 is one well-rounded pickup that's hard to beat.
Reliability
The 2002 GMC Sierra 2500 has a 3 years / 36,000 miles basic warranty and 4 recalls. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.
Recalls
4 recalls foundChecking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.
If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).
- Recall Number:
- 06E050000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 6800
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN FEDERAL-MOGUL NATIONAL AND CARQUEST AFTERMARKET HUB ASSEMBLIES, P/N 515058, SOLD FOR USE ON 2001-2006 GENERAL MOTORS 1500 AND 2500 4WD TRUCKS. ON THE SUBJECT HUB ASSEMBLIES, THE ABS SENSOR CORD DEPARTS FROM THE HUB ASSEMBLY AT A 90 DEGREE ANGLE. AS A RESULT, THERE IS A FIT ISSUE WITH THE BRAKE ROTOR DUST SHIELD INTERFERING WITH THE ABS SENSOR CORD. IF THE HUB ASSEMBLY IS INSTALLED DESPITE THIS INTERFERENCE, THE GAP BETWEEN THE ABS SENSOR AND THE TONE WHEEL MAY BE ALTERED. THIS MAY WEAKEN THE OUTPUT OF THE ABS SENSOR. DIMINISHED OUTPUT COULD RESULT IN AN UNWANTED ABS ACTIVATION AT LOW SPEEDS AND STOPPING DISTANCE COULD BE AFFECTED.
- Defect Consequence:
- IF STOPPING DISTANCE IS LIMITED, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR.
- Corrective Action:
- FEDERAL-MOGUL WILL NOTIFY ITS OWNERS AND WILL EITHER CREDIT THE CUSTOMERS ACCOUNT OR REPLACE THE UNIT. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING JUNE 2006. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FEDERAL-MOGUL CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-563-8507 EXT 3530.
- Recall Number:
- 06E043000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 88303
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Defect Consequence:
- THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Corrective Action:
- HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Recall Number:
- 06E010000
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 1360
- Defect Description:
- CERTAIN FABTECH AFTERMARKET REPLACEMENT PITMAN ARMS, P/NOS. FTS71000 AND FTS71001, INSTALLED FOR USE ON CERTAIN 2001-2006 GM C/K 2500 PICK UP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THE PIN LOCATED INSIDE THE PITMAN ARM CAN SHEAR OFF DUE TO A REVERSE BENDING FATIGUE CONDITION, RESULTING IN A TOTAL LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.
- Defect Consequence:
- LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL COULD LEAD TO A VEHICLE CRASH WITH POTENTIAL INJURY OR DEATH.
- Corrective Action:
- FABTECH WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE PITMAN AND IDLER ARMS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN DURING FEBRUARY 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FABTECH AT 909-597-7800.
- Recall Number:
- 01V220000
- Manufacturer Recall Number:
- 01050
- Manufactured from:
- 2001-04-01 to 2001-06-15
- Number of vehicles affected:
- 38863
- Defect Description:
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 6.6L DIESEL ENGINES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 105, "HYDRAULIC AND ELECTRIC BRAKE SYSTEMS." THESE VEHICLES HAVE A BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT IN THE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER THAT MAY NOT ILLUMINATE WHEN THE BRAKE FLUID IS LOW. IN ADDITION, WHEN THE BRAKE FLUID IS LOW, THE VEHICLE MAY NOT MEET THE PARTIAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 105.
- Defect Consequence:
- THESE CONDITIONS COULD RESULT IN REDUCED BRAKING CAPABILITY, WHICH COULD LEAD TO A CRASH.
- Corrective Action:
- DEALERS WILL CHANGE THE LOCATION OF A WIRE CONNECTION IN THE UNDERHOOD BUSSED ELECTRICAL CENTER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 9, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Warranty
3 years / 36,000 miles Basic Warranty- Basic Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Drivetrain Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
- Rust Warranty
- 6 years / 100,000 miles
- Roadside assistance Warranty
- 3 years / 36,000 miles
GMC Sierra 2500 Owner Reviews
Most Helpful Owner Reviews
Trending topics
Great truck for work or play
5 out of 5 starsVince, 10/25/2015
2000 GMC Sierra 2500 HD SLE 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
I picked this up to replace a 1999 Dodge Ram 2500 V10. I use my trucks for towing my toys and for getting to my hunting camp. I bought the GMC used with very low (50K) miles and I received the service records. The previous owner had a few problems with the worst being the door handle. I have had no major problems. Mine is the 3 door 2500 4x4. The interior is good with very comfortable … seats. The seats have some play in the tracks and I have a kit to fix it, but never got around to doing it so I'd rate that minor. Gauges are great with tranny temp and steering is good. 4 wheel disk brakes are excellent. HVAC works well and has not had any problems. Ride is above average. Fuel economy is 15 -17 with the 3.73 gears. The 4L80E transmission (TH400 descendant) is excellent and is heavy duty. It has push-button 4x4 shifting. Auto, high, and low. You can from high to low on the fly, and to low below 5 MPH. Auto works well on wet roads. My 4x4 shifter has not malfunctioned. Mine has the rear locking differential and gets through sand very well compared with the Dodge. This truck has a nice off-road feel and feels very capable The 6.0L LQ4 engine does make the piston slapping sound at start-up, but goes away when warm as designed. Engine makes good power, but power is a bit too high in the RPM range for serious work with the 3.73 gears. This model uses the power steering pump to boost the brakes and my unit had a bit of a leak. Flushing the power steering unit with Prestone anti leak pwr steering fluid fixed it. The stock radio is below average and the speakers were blown when I got it. The body has not rusted, but the black paint is starting to fade on the hood. The 3 door is kind of a pain just having one door and when putting groceries in the back seat since you can't fit the cart in the opening. Other than that I like this truck very much. I've only performed maintenance. Oil every 3K, brake flush, transmission flush, and diff fluid changed.
jacks toy
3.63 out of 5 starsjackj, 03/21/2004
2000 GMC Sierra 2500 SL 2dr Regular Cab LB (5.3L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A)
rear brakes and parking brake leave
something to be desired. Rear rotors
rust decreasing overall braking power
and make the parking brake all but
useless. Good power and excellent
towing vehicle for horse trailer.
Two piece drive shaft failed during
our second towing excursion.
Dealership replaced with a single piece
unit. Now it hums while you drive but
has … proven to be reliable.
Unit stuck in 4wd during -20 degree
weather. Again dealership repaired.
Dealership was cooperative in making
repairs.
GMC ONLY
4.5 out of 5 starsMark, 08/18/2005
2000 GMC Sierra 2500 HD SLE 3dr Extended Cab 4WD SB (6.0L 8cyl naturally aspired 5M)
I like my GMC very much,it is snappy and has good torque for pulling a medium weight travel trailer. The only complaint I have with this truck is a persistant knock in the engine that is very noticable in the morning starts. My previous truck was a 1976 3/4 ton 4x4 GMC long bed. The ride on the 2000 was my first consideration in buying a new truck. My next step up will be the Duramax.
Service 4WD Light
4.88 out of 5 starscw4915e, 02/23/2005
1999 GMC Sierra 2500 SLT 3dr Extended Cab SB (5.3L 8cyl naturally aspired 4A)
4WD light comes on intermittently lately. Poor troubleshooting procedures from a Chilton manual led me to replace the front diff actuator motor. Seems the real culprit is a sticky selector switch. Humidity may be affecting this switch, apparently the resistors are shot for each position and loses ability to keep voltage signal to transfer case module. Original battery lasted 6 years so … that was awesome to get over 6 years from a battery. Also developed a leak at the front differential. First thought it was the output seal but ended up being the plastic vent cap that screws into the diff.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2002 GMC Sierra 2500, so we've included reviews for other years of the Sierra 2500 since its last redesign.
2002 Sierra 2500 Highlights
Extended Cab
Base
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $29,539 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Gas |
Seating | 6 seats |
Drivetrain | four wheel drive |
Max Towing Capacity | 10,300 lbs. |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Sierra 2500 include:
- Alarm
Related Used 2002 GMC Sierra 2500 info
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