Used 2004 GMC Sierra 2500HD Consumer Reviews
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GMC 2500HD 4 years later
Truck has been overall a good unit. Windsheild leak when new at passenger floorboard and behind dash. Took 1 year for local dealer to finally fix. Climate Control slow to activate fan, really noticable on hot days, seems I have to press brake pedal to start blower (wierd). Trans will sometimes start in 2nd gear, then shift to 1st. Usual problems with intermiediate steering shaft (now on 2nd fix), driver's seat belt and armrest broke, pass side also (wrty fixes). Also having wierd problem during cold months with intermittent dash light and guages recycling, no fix yet. Orig brakes are still strong at 90k miles, tire wear good, body still tight and quiet, engine strong with no oil usage
2004 Duramax
Absolutely the best truck I have ever owned. During it's maiden break-in run I got 23.8 mpg. When engine is broken in mileage should be even better. I drive between 55-65 mph and this seems to be the "sweet spot" for performance. Got it to haul our slide in camper and this will be no problem now. (Not like our 91 Silverado which on it's best day with only one person got 20 mpg)
- SLEMSRP: $9,99554 mi away
- SLE Crew CabMSRP: $16,875217 mi away
- SLE Extended CabMSRP: $8,995456 mi away
Power Plus
2003 Sierra with 8.1 liter 345 HP and Alison Auto. Plenty of power for towing. A little hestitant on take off when cold. 20,000 miles in 6 months and it runs like day 1. Fuel mileage is absolutely HORRENDOUS!!!! Towing an enclosed race car trailer x-country avg. mileage = 7.95. Driving enmpty no load at all avg. mileage = 12.98.
Don's Review
The experience of getting better gas milage with the 6.0 motor in the GMC as opposed to the 4.8 in my Chev, makes me wish I had bought the Chev with the 6.o instead of the 4.8. Factor in the added pulling power, makes it far better. I highly reccomend getting the 6.0 in either model truck.
Still smiling...
I researched long and hard when deciding on the $$ for the Duramax/Allison combo. Man am I pleased! It pulls my travel trailer like it wasn't even there. MPG has been better than my previous Firebird. Comfort is much better than I expected for a 3/4 ton. Looks? Man, you can't beat the Fire Red color! Don't know what it might take to wipe this smile off my face!
Duramax Powered
I have the 2nd generation LLY Duramax engine in mine and i love it. I had to replace the injectors when i bought it at 130,000 but other than that i have just been upgrading. The ride is great, the seats are comfortable, the fuel economy is good, 20-24 highway, 15-18 city, if i keep my foot out of it(hard to do with 400 HP and 600LbFt of torque on tap). I have not had any major breakdowns since owning it. The transmission did blow up at 143,000, but it was a freak electrical short that caused it to engage 2 gears at once(lots of chunks in the pan). It actually got me all the way back to the shop in limp mode which was about 25 miles, 10 of which on a logging road.
GMC 2500 HD/ Durmax Diesel
I appreciate the diverse choices when purchasing vehicles but choose to pick GM d/t the ability to find anything from fast sports cars, Corvette, to tough Durmax Diesel. The current Vehicle of choice is as described above and I wouldnt tow w/out the performance of the GMC Sierra 2500 HD Durmax Diesel. Not only does the beautifully engineered design look great driving down the highway but also performs outstanding w/absolutely no problems. This is my 3rd Duramax and would recommend it to any serious driver that needs a truck w/towing capacity. Not to mention gas milege...what truck of this capacity can get
Fuel Economy
I've had my 2500HD for just under a year now and I LOVE it. The only problem I really have is its fuel economy. I average around 14 mpg, but where it lacks fuel economy it makes up for it in power. I haul around a skidsteer on a 14 ft open trailer. The skidsteer weighs more then my truck but still no problems pulling it. The fuel economy doesn't really change weather your hauling or not. I just purchased an SLR performance chip that should do the trick. This truck is perfect for anyone with the money to pay for gas.
Research Before Buying
The quality of this truck is questionable. Major issues include getting only 275 - 300 miles/tank of gas. Serious steering problems with absolutely no long-term fixes. This is a widespread issue which truly makes the truck a misery to drive! Rust at less than two years. Faulty air, seating, and other minor repairs. I can hardly imagine buying another due to GM's lack of being able to warrany their trucks and offering a fix on such a major steering issue. All they offer is a lube which needs to be applied every four to six months and does not really work well.
Diesel is wonderful
Traded in my 96' GMC 3/4 ton Suburban, w/ 454 Vortec engine for this new crew cab, Duramax w/ Allison transmission. Wow what a difference in towing power. Previously driving over mountins into Prescott and Payson, from the Phoenix area, we were lucky to keep up 35mph. Now, wow, 65mph over the same roads and mountains, towing the same trailer. Diesel milage is better than the gas by about 5 to 6 mpg. Wish the Suburban had this engine/trans.
This Truck needs help!
Truck rides very rough. Truck's brakes are sluggish. Truck is 6 litre not great gas. Truck has had all kind of problems! If you have to stop fast you are in trouble. That's why this truck has been in 3 fender benders. Had to replace complete rear brakes and rear seals .
Been driving this truck since new
Bought the extended cab gas 6.0l engine with the 480LE transmission combo in 2003. Currently has 250k+, and other than a tranny rebuild at 150k and normal maintenance issues, this thing is a champ. Keep up with fluid changes, no problems. Has towing and carrying cap, no problems and it rides better loaded out with 1500 poinds. HEAVY undercarriage construction. Still running smooth and still with original plugs
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Excellent Duramax Diesel!
Don't want to spend to much time here, but if your thinking about buying this vehicle w/ this motor, all I would say is "do it". It awesome!
Not so happy with my 2500HD
I had a dent on the hood when I purchased the truck. The push button 4 wheel drive went out (defective switch). The passenger side door module went bad (haven't got it fixed yet, they can't get the part). The truck has 1300 miles. These trucks aren't cheap and so far I'm not impressed. GMC needs to clean up there act!
2500 HD SLT
During the first 3 months my truck was in the shop 6 times. Radio would not return CD, without it for 3 days. Once for extending camper mirrors, passenger side motor bad. Once for A/C, recall part not replaced prior to purchase. Three times for 4 WD, computer chip keeps going out and shifting into 4WD low on its own regardless of speed. I'll go back to the Ford F-250 with the V-10. More power, better gas mileage and reliability.
Not Impressed
I bought this truck as a replacement for my 96' 1500 as I needed more muscle to tow a 5th wheel trailer. The 8.1L has plenty of punch, but I struggled with traction on anything less than dry hard surfaces. I have already experienced the typical Chevy/GMC parking light burn out on one side that they can't seem to fix and I have had numerous fuel indicator malfunctions. The fuel consumption is killing me and towing or not is not much difference. Ready to look for an older/smaller model again!
Good, bad, and ugly
The Isuzu engine is the best part of this truck, along with the Allison tranny. The worst part has been all the GM stuff. Everything from numerous AC problems to leaks, memory features deleting themselves, multiple transfer case problems for auto 4WD, and leaking fuel injectors. If it were not for the dealership's attitude and incompetance i would buy again.
2004 Gmc Duramax Allison Auto
Bought Brand New 3 months ago and now have just under 10K miles. The Duramax is all that and more. Excellent Truck!! Not one problem so far!! Ride Quality is awesome for a 2500HD Truck!
Truck of the Year
Fuel milage is great, 15-18 mpg.Steering column has presented a few small issues allong with sticky power mirror on the drivers side - replaced once.
another awesome gm truck
this is the fifth (sixth if you count my Tahoe) gm truck that i have had and it is by far the best. talk about reliable. a heavy duty truck that has no problems pullikng my triler in any clime and place. in the snow, on the beach, it does not matter. talk about space, i have two kids and a dog and we travel with no problems, even on long trips. i will never own another type of truck, from any dealer...now a hummer...that is a different issue. ron tootle major, us marine corps camp lejeune nc gm truck owner since 1985 1985 chevy s-10 1988 chevy s-10 2001 chevy silerado ext cab z-71 2002 gmc sierra ext cab z-71 2002 chevy tahoe 4x4 2004 gmc sierra 2500hd quad cab 4x4
GMC Duramax
This truck is awesome. We pull a 5th wheel camper and it pulls it like there is nothing there at all. Great truck.
Duramax and Allison are superior
I have owned this truck since new in 2003. Only in the last several years have I used it to its full potential. I have pulled a 10,000 lb fifth wheel to Florida twice and a new 12,000 lb fifth wheel to GA last week and I averaged a little over 13 mpg. On the return trip I got over 24 mpg running at 70 mph all day. I do have a tonneau cover for the bed which might help. I first took this new truck to Ohio in 2003 and only got 22 mpg with the same configuration. I did add a K and N air induction system before my last trip but this truck pulls like a champ without any additonal brains or Banks kits. The 5 speed transmssion is smooth and I know improvements have been made in the 09's.
It was nice at $1.89/gal for fuel.
This truck has been used mostly on the highway, carries dirt/mulch and recreational toys. And has done so for 62,000 miles without a single mechanical problem! It was originally purchased for towing a camper. Within 6 months of purchase, rising gas prices made driving this thirsty vehicle downright painful! With the cruise control set at 65 station to station on an interstate,13.7mpg. Disappointments? The ventialtion system. The AC is not cold nor dry enough to defog windows. And the radio is horrible! Did I mention fuel efficiency?
great
the truck has been a great truck i dont think u can get a better one
GMC Sierra
Best pickup I have ever owned, plenty of power and is very comfortable
Nice for towing
This truck was bought for towing and does a great job pulling our fifth wheel camper.
GMC CrewCab 4WD SLT with 8.1L /Allison
600 miles and drive-by-wire trottle body left me stranded. Immediately after the dealership replaced with new trottle body, the 4WD Transfer Case Control Module misteriuosly went bad (RE: Service Bullitin Rel. 02/2003). Very poor Service Dept. at dealership. I had very bad experience with unscrupulous mechanic who falsely claimed work that was not performed. Suspension springs incorrectly installed by manufacturer.
Go GMC!!
Great Power and Transmission, Had a Service 4WD Problem recently 5/2003 with 4000 miles on truck. Went into 4WD low w/o input from driver. Part not available, waited 3 weeks and a tow truck ride later!! YES I would buy another.
nice truck
the truck is absolutely awsome. i had a 2002, same truck, traded it for the same payments and love it to death. it's stong as an ox, both in horsepower and towing. (ford who?)
lemon
We have a 2003 gmc that's been a nightmare.the horn keeps blowing fuses,won't start in park,no reverse fuel light doesn't work plus the gas gage stuck on and the thin plastic bottom part of the bumper crack. Trying to get the dealer and gm to take this truck back hasn't been fun. Anyone looking to buy a new truck be careful,when you pay 45000.00 for a new truck you don't expect this.
Can't wipe the grin away
Only service problem was the Service 4WD Problem as well. New module fixed problem. No other problems since. I found the ride to be very comfortable especially for a 3/4 ton. The room inside accomodates the family and kids with room to spare. 6 adults can ride in comfort with good leg and shoulder room. Milage is great for the power and weight. My average milage to-date is about 19 mpg over 17000 miles. The transmission is absolutely incredible and is what makes this truck exceptional. It handles heavy trailers with ease. I have yet to use all the power the Dmax puts out. It is without a doubt the best truck I have owned.
4dr Crew Cab SLT 4WD SB Duramax/Allison
This is my first pickup. Used to own a 93 Suburban. Traded an Acura CL Type S for this truck. Surprisingly good build quality. After 1500 miles, no problems at all. In the Acura I had to replace the front seat and the sunroof after this many miles. Wish that the OnStar GPS system could be hooked into a 3rd party navigation system with a screen and DVD. Performance (acceleration, braking) is great, though I've not yet towed anything. Heated seats are better/warmer than those in Acura. No complaints!
Hot Rig..!
More truck than I expected, plenty of power. Very roomy, solidly built with great ride.
BUY ONE!!!
I purchased my truck about 3 weeks ago, and have put 1800 miles on it. I absolutely love the Duramax/Allison combo. Anything with this setup will drive like a dream. The Duramax doesn't hesitate with anything, and the allison smartly downshifts when slowing down to reduce brake wear. This truck is also the quietest diesel I've tested, when comparing the "BIG 3". At anything above 50mph you can't even notice you're running a diesel. ...every time I drive it...I like it even more...nuff' said.
Good but could be better!
Thus far it's proven to be what was expected. I do like the pick up power and acceleration power, the turning radius needs to be inproved. Another plus would be to install a rear window that is fuctional. Heat controls for the rear needs installed. Overall the performance, handling, and appearance are what I' expected. I've named it the HULK, it's big, it's green and it's powerful!
Best Truck to get
This is the best truck I have ever owned.
GMC 2500HD
I am pleased with my purchase at this time. It tows as is expected for a truck with its power- it is capable in the woods and farm as well as on the highway-- though the fuel economy is a jolt. But then again it is alot of weight to move.
dura-maxed
I have owned my gmc for a short while and am very pleased with the Duramax/Allison combination,I have owned powerstrokes in the past,the difference is amazing, the Duramax power range extends for a much longer time, torque is great.Allison transmission holds gear going down steep grades and the mileage for a full size pickup is awesome (average is 18 mpg, I have gotten as high as 21 mpg)
What A Truck - Diesel/Allison Combo
Bought this last May, love the Duramax/Allison Combo - pulls my 10000 pound 5th wheel like it wasn't there. 12 MPG @ 65 MPH - nooo problem. Very stable on the road.
GMC 1500 HD
My truck gets about 15 miles per gallon, which is better than I thought it would. It pulls hay like it wasn't back there.
8.1L tons of gas power!
The torque and power of the 8.1L is incredible, but be aware at the gas pump. An average of 9.1 mpg will be all you'll get. Towing large campers or trailers is no trouble what-so- ever. Especially in lower range gears the 8.1L begs for more. All around I love the truck, including a great interior and stock stereo.
Solid Workhorse 6.6 Duramax
Great engine and transmission combo. Duramax / Allison ran well for most of the 10 years I owned the truck. Was used as a work truck with a contractors body fitted. Weekends was used to haul a 3 horse trailer. It worked every day of it's life with me. Poor build quality was evident in the front hubs, bodywork (rusted cab corners and rocker panels, roof flexing with windows open) and cab interior (gauges gave up, blower motor repeatedly died, gauge cluster lights died one by one, headliner fell off). Diesels are expensive to maintain when things go wrong, in my neighborhood it is hard to find a reputable diesel mechanic. Normal maintenance (oil change etc.) is probably more expensive but less frequent. All in all a very reliable truck that felt more like a car to drive.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Hot Duramax
This duramax is bad to the bone added bully dog 75 hp system to the truck now get 19.6 in town and 23 on the highway. pulled my 30 ft 5th wheel RV thought Colarado never missed a lick passed everything on the road and still averaged 13.7 mpg. Truck will white smoke the tires through 3rd gear and out run a new 6.0l Powerstroke no problem.
disgusted
vehicle has 19,000 miles and the breaks give out periodically.....gmc does nothing to resolve...been fighting for over a year and a half with this issue....there best advice is keep driving till one of there mechanics can feel the breaks give out...will NEVER BUY ANOTHER GMC customer service and parts are terrable
Bob's GMC
Drove this GMC across the country, many mountain roads and off highway. One of the most fun vehicles I have driven and I absolutely love the Turbodiesel and Allison transmission combination. I have had zero problems with this truck, you would think it was made in Japan for the quality.
Bad (good) Truck
Truck is great. Needs better fuel economy and a bigger gas tank. Great power and transmition (8.1 / Allison).
EXHAUSTED
Disappointed in the power. Tried to pull a 16' stock trailer with two bulls. It was all it could do to get over a small hill. Constant air conditioning problems. Unscrupulous dealership tells me it has been repaired. Lies. Electric window problems. Needs larger fuel tanks for a truck that gets 13mph. Wears front tires knobby. Stress cracks in the windshield. Brakes squeel. Tapping in the engine. Would I buy again. No Chance. Off to the dealership for engine noise;AC repairs again. Watch out Ford/Dodge, here I come.
best one yet
2003,like the truck.already done ford and dodge,full power and towing is effortless
??
this is great truck ! no question about it .
Too Much
The 8.1L, Allison Trans, this vehicle is beyond awesome, lousy milage but that is what was expected. Pull or tow anything, fast as hell, acceleration is neck snaping, stable anywhere you take it. So far no problems like my last GMC (ABS pump went out), the dealer is lousy, can't trust a thing they say. Time will tell.