Used 2002 GMC Sonoma Consumer Reviews
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Good little truck
njoosse, 11/15/2012
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
14 of 14 people found this review helpful
Nice little truck, very reliable. Lots of power, tows easily, good on gas. Its ten years old, with 115000miles, starting to rust. No issues with reliability at all, but I find it has a lot of rattles and squeaks, more than I would expect. Everything works good, air blows cold, heated seats, etc..., overall a good truck.
2002 Sonoma ZR5
SlickDaddy, 07/26/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
13 of 14 people found this review helpful
The ZR5 appearance package, $1400, adds a roof rack, bed rails, upgraded wheels, and full length side steps. The S10 uses black, but the GMC uses brushed aluminum and looks much better.
2002 GMC Sonoma for sale near you
Showing 3 of 11 listings
- SLS Crew CabMSRP: $4,560553 mi away
- SL Extended CabMSRP: $7,995620 mi away
- SLS Crew CabMSRP: $6,277990 mi away
See all 11 listings
Miles per gallon
patty, 07/12/2008
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
17 of 19 people found this review helpful
My Sonoma never even got 19 on a good day. It only gets 17 on the highway. I drive 50 miles round trip highway miles to work every day. I have had it for 6 months and I have to sell it because of the poor mpg.
Vibration? Vibration!? We don't need...
N. J., 05/27/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I took it in at 400 miles for a vibration coming from the rear. A month later GM says it's inherent to the two- piece driveshaft in extended models and "unrepairable". The dealer has tried hard to correct the problem to no avail. If the Corp. Service Rep. won't authorize re-purchase, I'll have to take refuge in the Lemon Law here in GA.
Sonoma the truck of many problems
Robert Godfrey, 09/11/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
10 of 13 people found this review helpful
I've had problems with the rear, then the transmission, then the engine. Body panels were out of alignment and body rattles. A harsh ride, that's so bad that when you hit a series of small bumps the truck skates sideways, making it the most dangerous pick-up truck I've ever driven. Low unconfortable seats with very poor visibility of the front end, and large blind spots. Makes me sorry I bought a GM vehicle, but I'm stuck with it, maybe this will steer others to another manufacturer.
I'd buy another...
barch97, 08/17/2003
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I've been driving this truck every day for over a year and it's still as pleasurable as my initial dealer test drive. Other than fuel and regular maintenance, it hasn't cost me a dime. Excellent value compared to others in class. Solid and comfortable transportation with added piece of mind from 4wd and anti-lock brakes.
Why me
wacky!, 04/19/2003
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SL 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I had a 94 Chevy S-10 before and I loved it. So, I bought the truck I always wanted, a Sonoma 4x4 ZR2. Overall a good and nice looking truck with a nice ride. Nothing but problems with the transmission. Shifting problems, transmission leaks, trans fluid coming up the transmissin dip stick and driping on the exhaust manifold. Dealer has no clue what is the matter and GMC is giving me the run around! Too late for Lemon Law...Argh!! Do not know what to do!
Good little truck.
Matt, 10/29/2015
2002 GMC Sonoma 2dr Regular Cab SL 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 5M)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
Bought the truck used with 120k miles for a steal, it's pushing 180k now and I've done nothing to this truck other than basic maintenance. The only issues I've had with it are a crap radio (which is a common GM problem) and the typical rust on these little trucks. As far as the rust goes, the fender wells on the bed are for the most part completely gone, but the stepside trucks seem to be plagued with this issue. Slight rust on the cab corners and rockers, and the spare tire cable rusted and the tire fell off. As far as reliability, it's been among the best I've owned. It's not a powerhouse, but the little 2.2 does well when mated to the 5 speed. It doesn't seem to like interstate travel, as its runs about 3k rpms at 75 mph, but it cruises right along. The engine is noisy, it has that trademark 2.2 timing chain noise, but it has no effect on performance. Replacing with oem parts will cure it, but I just haven't gotten around to it yet. Overall I love my little truck, and wouldn't hesitate to buy another. May go for a 4.3 next time for more power.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
Very happy
larry moore, 12/24/2007
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We are the original owners and are very happy with our first 4x4 vehicle. We cannot believe how great the ride is for being a 4x4. The performance is great with the 4.3 engine. We drive for 7 hrs to get up north in the summer and we both feel fresh, even tho we each sat in the same position all the way. We make sure that it is maintained regularly. We are seniors and are depending on never getting rid of our 2002 Sonoma 4x4 extended cab.
Wish I could do it over!!!
floydfan76, 04/17/2003
2002 GMC Sonoma 2dr Regular Cab SL 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 5M)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
This truck has been nothing but problems. My truck has less than 8000 miles on it and it has had the dash replaced, transmission rebuilt. The fuel injector, intake gasket and rocker covers have also needed replacing. I have tried to get a buy back from GMC but I guess the truck hasn't broken enough for them to do that yet, and I do say yet because I am convinced that they will buy the damn thing back by the time it is all said and done. Stay away far away from this truck.
Sonoma Crew Cab the finest in Luxury
Slink, 06/11/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 4 people found this review helpful
The Sonoma Crew Cab is the finest in Luxury with a Kick! It has the power, it has the options, it is the best small truck that thinks it's a big truck on the market hands down.
sonoma zr2 review
sonomazr2, 03/04/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
3 of 6 people found this review helpful
This is by far the best mid-size p/u you can get. Its suspension is far beyond its competetion & if you like the Dakota you must like driving loaners because your getting a lot of transmission work done. The Ford Ranger is just cheesy. Those who rate this truck poorly need to get their head out of places it shouldnt be. There are foriegn trucks, but im a real American.
170000 mile review
Wishbone, 06/20/2008
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SL 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this truck new. The biggest complaint I have is the warranty is not good. At 30000 miles the rear axle went out. They rebuilt it with no questions asked. At 40000 miles it went out again, again they rebuilt it and no questions asked. I never towed anything and never abused the truck. The mechanic said he heard a whine at 50000 miles and he was overriden by the rep that was deaf and said he heard nothing. At 52000 miles the rear axle crapped out again and GMC said it was out of warranty and I was on my own. Got a junk yard axle and have had no problems with it since. I've replaced the A/C compressor and the fuel pump, but no other major items and am at 170000 miles! Love this truck
Great little workhorse!
BigD, 05/30/2009
2002 GMC Sonoma 2dr Regular Cab SL 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This is a little truck with an attitude...I have the 4.3 V6 and it will take on those big boys like the full size fords and dodges and stay with them. now this is a stock V6 and it has the sound of a big boy! it tows real good and can carry a big load and still do 70mph...so if you are looking at this model of a truck you will not be disapointed if you buy it!
Good so far...
wgraham, 06/12/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The only complaint I have is the vortec V-6, while more than enough power for a two wheel drive extended cab, is not nearly enough for my 4 door 4x4. I have always wanted one of these though and am very happy overall.
Awesome. Wish they still made them.
ChadneyG5, 04/24/2010
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I bought this truck new. I drive it every day & have ridden it hard with frequent off-roading and towing. It has had almost no problems. I now have 130k miles on it (in 2010) & it runs like new. Other than regular maintenance, I've only had to replace the fuel pump & water pump. There is a door hinge pin that is a design flaw that must be replaced approx. every 100k mi. for $40. I've owned 3 Toyota trucks previously and got this because of the 0% 60mo. financing. None of my Toyotas ran this well for so long, with such comfort. The MPG was about the same. I average 16-18.
My 2002 GMC Sonoma Regular Cab
gordon1fan, 08/09/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 2dr Regular Cab SL 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 5M)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
At the time that I was writing this, my GMC Sonoma has about 450 miles. My 2002 GMC Sonoma SL Regular Cab features a four-cylinder Vortec 2.2 liter engine with sequential port fuel injection that is powered by producing 120 horsepower and 140 lbs-ft of torque. My vehicle also has Automatic transmission and all-season SBR tires. I really did not get the truck that I wanted. I was shopping around for a extended cab, automatic with a 4.3 liter V6. I had to get what I could afford, so I test drove and bought this 2002 GMC Sonoma SL Regular Cab.
GREAT TRUCK
luv my truck, 12/29/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
The 2002 Sonoma ZR5 SLS Crew Cab is a great truck. I just traded my 2002 Sonoma SLS Extended Cab( 4 cylinder ) for this. There is alot more room inside the truck, it is LOADED with everything. The biggest let down for me is the gas mileage. The Sonoma SLS Extended Cab 2WD( 4 cylinder )was worse on gas than our 2002 Grand Prix GT and the ZR5 is just a little worse than the 4 cylinder. The truck is a little overpriced( $28,000 ) but is really worth the extra money. The Flame Yellow color is extremely bright and it catches alot of attention.
Great truck
Jim woods, 07/20/2005
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Leased this fine truck in March 2002. When the lease ran out, I was totally prepared to lease my third 4x4 Sonoma, only to find out they discontinued it for a goofy 5 cylinder replacement. So I bought my lease truck with 29,000 miles on it. The only trouble I've had is needing to replace the instrument cluster at 34,000 miles because both the temperature and fuel guages became intermittant. But,I really love this little 4x4. It's been reliable and tough, with gobs of smooth power. It still gets 19 mpg in town and 23 on the road, not too bad for a big v6, 4x4.This truck has not developed one single rattle or squeak since I first got it. All in all, it's a dandy.
Poor gas mileage/repairs under warranty?
Linda, 08/02/2006
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I have a roar in the engine from time to time that sounds like I have shifted to 4 WD when it is definitely in 2WD. Taken in to the dealer and he can never hear that sound. Does not do it all the time but when it does it sounds like the engine is going to come out from under the hood. Been in the shop 5x with shifting problems, shims, water in headlamp, wind noise both front doors, very poor gas mileage empty load or pulling trailor. Would not recommend this truck to anyone.Center console is too small and tight up front. backseat leg area too small. Just me and the dog and still not enough room.Bummer cruise control. Cheap, would have paid the difference for a good cruise controller.
The go getR
David Rogers , 10/07/2022
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
It's a great little truck, when I got it, it had 67,500 miles on it. I've driven it mainly on the highway my mileage per gallon was at 25.1, the truck now has 393851, the little truck still has the original timing chain. The starter, distributor, ac compressor, water pump radiator, Heater core and speed selector switch for the heater control has been changed. This is the best vortex motor I've ever had. Wish this 2wd had 4 wheel drive. Now it only gets 20.3 mpg. I think its time for a tune up. It's a 2002 SLS 4.3 2wd. The seats are not the best for long drives. On the model below it doesn't list the correct model. That's why I listed it here
love my sonoma
foster, 03/16/2009
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
expensive truck to fix, only 85000 kms, changed o2 sensors, battery, brakes, front bearings, front bushings, 4x4 actuator valve, around $3000 so far in repairs, paint is chipping off bottom 2 inches of the 3rd door, still love my truck, 4x4 does not engage properly when its below 0 degrees C. Moisture buildup in the air line.
Great little truck
dustin, 05/20/2009
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I haven't had this truck very long so i can't say about the reliability. But it seems really solid. I have the zr2 package. It rides really good for a 4x4. The gas mileage isn't horrible, it is a truck after all. It will get up and go, but my moms minivan will go faster. But her van can't go thru mud!!!
Vibration buy-back
N. J., 06/15/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This is a follow-up to my earlier rating. The truck IS unrepairable. It has taken GMC TWO MONTHS to admit this and authorize a buy back. They started to charge me useage for the 400 miserable miles I drove it. Unmitigated gall! Now I'm told they don't want to re-imburse me for the sales tax. I'm out of patience and looking at other brands, GM card be damned.
ZQ8 Sport Suspension Review
GRB, 07/27/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The Good: Sport suspension improves the appearance and handling of the truck tremendously. The Bad: Inherent to the sport suspension is a rough ride and frequent vibration from the rear of the truck. Conclusion: Buy this model only if you're willing to sacrifice ride comfort for performance.
problems
problems, 12/20/2002
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
nothing but problems The fuel gauge sending unit has been replaced twice the four wheel drive is out and still waiting on a second round of parts the power drivers seat will make dinging noises when going over bumps all problems have not been solved still hoping I enjoy driving the truck but if this continues may have to dump it.
1 fun ride!
LINMUP, 02/03/2005
2002 GMC Sonoma 2dr Regular Cab SLS 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I've had really good luck with my '02 Sonoma SLS 5spd. with a 4.3l V6. It's definitely a fast little truck with only a few small/cheap parts. Cold air intake and a hypertech chip and you've got a sport truck. I love blowing away the occassional sport compacts and full- sized "accessorized" trucks! Power-to- weight ratio...you do the math (275hp+small, light truck= HOLD ON!)
Solid reliable truck
Walt K, 07/11/2004
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have almost 50,000 miles on my 6 cyl extended cab SLS and it has performed perfectly ever since it was driven out of the showroom. Absolutely no mechanical problems at all. The ride is a little rough and the seats are not as comfortable as I would like. But the V6 is strong and the auto trans shifts nicely. I drive on the highway a lot and my gas milage averages just above 20 MPG.
Like it...... but
B-man, 09/15/2004
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I like my truck and plan on keeping it for a long time. The 4.3 has plenty of power for me although it is a bit thirsty. I haven't had any reliability issues at all. My complaints come from GM's classic little things like, I'm on my 3rd radio and this one is messing up. (out of warranty now) Wind noise from drivers door weather stripping. (that the dealer couldn't hear when it was under warranty) Intermittent wiper switch slowly faded and is now on a mood basis. Noise from the front right wheel well when I turn left and accelerate hard. Scared to go to the dealer on this one!! Only other complaint is gas milage. Tows plenty, but hauls nothing!
gmc items
hoss II, 10/13/2004
2002 GMC Sonoma 4dr Crew Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Vehicle needs aproximately 50 more horse power to be a good work truck. It suffers from a blind spot over the right rear corner due to the location and size of the c pillar and rear seat headrests. The fit and finish of the sheet metal (out of Linden NJ) was less than stellar. Warranty repairs to AC compressor, transfer case electric shift solenoid and air distribution system vacuum motors required
Drinks like a fish
SwampRat, 11/11/2004
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I like my 2002 GMC Sonoma, but it has terrible gas mileage. It averages about 13 mpg for me. My 1984 full size 4WD truck got better mileage (and that was a V8 compared to this 6-cylinder). Aside from that, it's been a good truck. It's comfortable, rides well, and I've had little in the way of problems. The rear left side's window's weatherstripping cracked, but it was replaced under warranty. As long as you can afford the gas for it, I'd highly recommend this truck. I've also driven Dodge and Ford compact pickups, and I'd definitely recommend the Sonoma over either of them. If you're going to get a truck like this, DEFINITELY get a 3 door. It's worth it!
2002 Sonoma 4wd Ext. cab OK but w/caveat
Kent Bryant, 12/01/2006
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 4WD SB (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have no idea if they made the shell flimsier or not with this year model, but I had two previous Sonomas which did not receive anywhere near the small body dents. Also, the older models actually had better accessories than this new one such as rear defrost and sun visor mirrors. Also, the 4WD switching buttons on the inside console predictable failed at my 3 year ownership mark, so now I am limited to 2-wheel drive even though I own a 4WD truck. Have no idea what it will cost me to get that fixed. It was always troublesome from the beginning. Other than that, pretty reliable vehicle after 4 years.
Love it after 100K miles
safeman, 07/26/2007
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SL 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Have had the truck for 5 years and have a little over 111,000 miles on it. Other than regular maintenance, have not had to repair anything. Got 105,000 miles on the original tires! Extremely reliable. Rides as well today as when I first bought it. Had an accident in it at 80 mph on I-95. I was hit in the passenger door, spun 180 degrees and slid across 3 lanes of oncoming traffic. I ended up facing the wrong way on the opposite shoulder of the interstate. The truck was rock solid during the entire ordeal. The truck still looks good, runs well and is comfortable. It still gets 20 mpg. After reading some of the earlier comments, I wonder whether we are talking about the same vehicle.
Once the problems were fixed...
bigwarranty, 05/08/2003
2002 GMC Sonoma 3dr Extended Cab SLS 2WD SB (2.2L 4cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
The first 5 month of ownership were hell. The truck had water leaks like you would not believe. They fixed 5 different leaks 4 times, and replaced the rug and jute 3 times because mold from the water getting under the rug made the interior unhealthy to even sit in. LSS, the Division Manager met with me and gave me options. I wanted them to buy back the truck, but they wanted to charge me for miles. No way! In the end, I let them fix this truck "one last time" and I would agree to keep it if they gave me a 7 yr./100,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty. Once everything was fixed, I fell in love with my truck... and it smells like a new truck should.