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Used 1996 GMC Sonoma Consumer Reviews

4.0 out of 5 stars
41 reviews

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We have a limited number of reviews for the 1996 Sonoma, so we've included reviews for other years of the Sonoma since its last redesign.

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2 out of 5 stars

Put the vehicle down and back away

buy japanese, 03/16/2003
1996 GMC Sonoma SLS Sport 2dr Extended Cab SB (2.2L 4cyl naturally aspired 5M)
2 of 4 people found this review helpful

Wow, Where do I start. I purchased this truck new with only 8 miles on it. I have had nothing but problems. I will just make a list. 2 Head gaskets replaced and now this one is leaking. 12,000m 38,000m. three wiper motors replaced 28,000m. one starter replaced 25,000m. Two clutches and all related parts, throwout, slave,etc. 40,000m 75,000. three sets of universal joints 50,000 80,000 102,000m. Fuel pump went out 80,000m. Had to go back to dealer to have several squeaks/rattles fixed. Lumbar adjustment broke second time I used it. Drivers side mirror broke. Cupholder came apart. Both door speakers quit working.

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4.13 out of 5 stars

I love this truck

Roxy-Ann, 07/15/2010
1995 GMC Sonoma SL 2dr Regular Cab SB (2.2L 4cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

This truck in my opinion is wonderful, my grandfather taught me to drive stick shift in this truck and haven't had to replace the clutch yet then I was driving one day and cleaned out a ditch with it at 80 miles per hour and let me tell you I drove that truck right out of the ditch. Now mind you this truck has not been modified or anything just a regular old work truck but the most reliable vehicle I have ever been lucky enough to drive that truck kept me alive. So if anyone is looking for a good truck for a teenage driver this would be the truck for you.

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3.38 out of 5 stars

don't really want to part with it...

michael little, 06/29/2002
1995 GMC Sonoma SLE 2dr Extended Cab SB (2.2L 4cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

I bought it brand new with 450mi on it, at about $14,500. I religiously have and continue to make the mechanics of the truck running smoothly, using only top of the line grade fluids, filters, plugs, etc. There was a head gasket leak about 3-4 years ago, and had to be completely re-worked, but has had no problems since...in fact, the engine runs like 50,000mi and has recently had a serp. belt replaced. There are minor faults such as the integrity of the body, some of which was fixed(rust), but only by the dealer.I've never seen an accident(even minor)with this truck, and has proven good in the snowy weather(up to 2-3 feet).

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4.38 out of 5 stars

Built on Wednesday!

Jeff va, 08/14/2007
1995 GMC Sonoma SLS 2dr Extended Cab SB (2.2L 4cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

One tough ole bird! Bought the truck in 2000 with 96K miles from my brother. Got 215K out of her before I put her up for sale. Various maintenance items replaced along the way, water pump at 118K, clutch at 126K, alternator at 127K, fuel pump at 179K, radiator at 214K due a cracked tank. Never had to go into the motor. Origional timing chain was still in service when it sold! Truck had tow package with engine oil cooler. I think that and a healthy diet of Amsoil and Mobil 1 greatly contributed to truck's longevity. Would buy another one in a minute!

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3.5 out of 5 stars

This is a Mechanic's Truck

David, 01/04/2009
1995 GMC Sonoma SL 2dr Regular Cab LB (2.2L 4cyl naturally aspired 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Fun to drive with plenty of power for a small truck, even with a 2.2 four cylinder. If you need a truck that you can mod, this truck is compatible with tons of parts, mod kits, and engines. It's an older truck and a GMC, so the exterior metal much thicker than the typical modern truck that dents if you just lean on it. However, you must let this vehicle warm up for about 5 to 10 minutes before you drive it in cold weather or you will break your headgasket, which is a costly repair. If you're low on cash and need a truck, a Sonoma is perfect for you as long as you take care of it, and check your fluids.

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