The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size truck with a price range of $30,492 to $45,205. It’s more expensive than other trucks in its class, but offers more luxury and technology. The Sierra is targeted at buyers looking for something to help them stand out from the crowd.
2016 GMC Sierra 1500: Quick Overview
- New features for the 2016 model year include an updated infotainment system, a redesigned front bumper with LED lighting, and an upgraded 8-speed transmission paired with the 5.3L engine.
- Reliability ratings are average according to J.D. Power, with improvements in quality over the 2015 model.
- Three engines are available. The V6 is the most fuel-efficient option, and the 6.2L V8 tows the most weight.
- Fuel efficiency is average for its class. Tying for 2nd out of five full-size trucks with a combined rating of up to 20 miles per gallon.
- Safety is a strong suit for the 2016 Sierra 1500 series compared to other trucks, earning five stars in government crash tests.
- The 2016 GMC Sierra ranks near the bottom of the full-size truck class based on owner reviews. Ranking low does not mean it’s a bad truck, though, considering it’s competing against much larger and more capable trucks. Overall, it’s a truck built for luxury, making it more expensive than competitors, but aside from the costs, there are no serious downsides.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Problems Does the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Have?
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 series has fewer complaints compared to previous years. The top problems include nine recalls and rare but severe brake failure, rough shifting.
Transmission problems are the most frequently reported issue, including rough shifts between gears. Dealerships suggest updating the transmission software, but owners have mixed results where the software updates do not fix the shifting issues.
A/C and heater problems are also mentioned by owners. Most common is the A/C system blowing hot air. Usually, it’s caused by a loss of refrigerant in the system, and can indicate a leak that will need to be tracked down.
Engine problems, including a rough idle, are rarely reported. Rough engine idling is frequently caused by misfires, sensor problems, or piston rings. It will take an inspection to diagnose the issues if they happen on your truck.
There are nine recalls affecting the 2016 Sierra 1500, more than average for a truck its age. Recalls include airbags, the audio warning system, upper control arms, vacuum pump brake assist, and software problems with the braking system. The most serious are brake problems since it can increase the risk of an accident.
What are the Prices, Models & Specs?
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500’s four trims run from tough work truck to luxurious, tricked-out Denali. The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 series is more expensive than other half-ton trucks, primarily because it’s more luxurious. It’s available used from $30,492 to $45,205, depending on the model and mileage. When new, it had a retail price of $27,815 to $54,640. It’s a truck that has increased in value due to a shortage of full-size trucks in the current market.
- Base is the entry-level model with keyless entry, AM/FM stereo system with a 4.2-inch screen, cloth bench seating, and a 4.3L V6 engine.
- SLE is above it in the lineup with power windows & locks, a CD player,17-inch wheels, and USB connectivity.
- SLT is next in the lineup and comes with the 5.3L V8 engine, leather seating, heated and ventilated front seats, and an upgraded seven-inch infotainment screen.
- Denali is the flagship model with upgraded leather, front bucket seats, 20-inch chrome wheels, an 8-inch infotainment screen, a magnetic suspension, and additional sound insulation for a more luxurious ride.
How Long Will the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Last?
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 series will last over 200,000 miles, which is below average for a full-size truck. It’s an expensive truck to own as well, with higher-than-average maintenance costs. Repair Pal estimates maintaining a 2016 Sierra 1500 series will cost $770 per year.
The 2016 GMC SIERRA 1500 is in fact reliable. No, it does not have any problems so far. It is fairly new
Extremely reliable and no problems at all only one recall cannot complain at all. Regular maintenance and long lasting tires
GMC Sierra 1500 Series Denali Driving Review
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Technology in the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 series is very good compared to other full-size trucks. It was updated for the 2016 model year to add some new features.
- Base technology includes a stereo with a 4.2-inch infotainment screen with Bluetooth connectivity.
- Upgrades include a larger seven or eight-inch touchscreen depending on the model, Apple CarPlay, GPS navigation, and an upgraded stereo.
- For safety, there are antilock brakes, stability control, airbags, OnStar communication. On upgraded models, there’s a backup camera, lane departure warning system, and forward-collision warnings.
What Engine Options are Available?
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 engine options include a capable V6, two potent V8s, and a hybrid powertrain. Performance is good in the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 series. With the 6.2L V8 engine, it’s a quick truck, reaching 60 miles per hour in 5.8 seconds. Towing ratings are good as well, with a maximum capacity of 12,000 pounds depending on cabin configuration.
- The base engine is a 4.3L V6 with 285 horsepower and 305 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Above that is the 5.3L V8 engine making 355 horsepower and 383 lb.-ft. of torque.
- The flagship engine is the 6.2L V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb.-ft. of torque.
What Colors Options are Available?
How Big is the Sierra 1500?
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 series is a full-size truck. It’s similar in size to other half-ton trucks including the Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado 1500. Three cab options are available including a two-door regular cab, 2.5-door double cab, and full four-door crew cab. The double cab has room for five people, but rear legroom is tight. If you know you’ll be carrying passengers, the crew cab is the best choice since it fits adults comfortably in the rear seats. Three bed lengths are also available including a five-foot eight-inch bed, six-foot six-inch bed, and an eight-foot bed.
How Does the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Compare to Other Trucks?
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 series ranks 12th out of 14 full-size pickup trucks based on owner reviews. At the top of the class is the GMC Sierra 2500HD. The 2500 series is similar to the 1500 series, but is larger and more capable of towing with its optional diesel engine. A larger cabin in the 2500 series also has more passenger room compared to the 1500 series. Where the 1500 series wins out is that it’s more affordable and easier to live with, fitting in most garages and parking spaces. If you need a truck that can tow construction and farm equipment, the 2500 is a better choice, but if you want a daily driver, the 1500 series is the winner.
Another rival is the Toyota Tundra, which is close in price to the Sierra 1500. Where Toyota wins out is with a longer-lasting powertrain, and a more comfortable suspension. The GMC has better technology with a more up-to-date infotainment system, can tow more, and has better interior materials. Overall, between the two trucks, it comes down to what you need to do. If you want a long-lasting daily driver, the Tundra is a better option, if you know you’ll need to tow and want more luxury, the GMC wins.
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 a Good Truck?
Based on 120 owner reviews and research from 11 automotive and government websites, we conclude yes, the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 series is a good truck. The Sierra is a more luxurious version of the Chevy Silverado 1500 series with a refined interior, and the 6.2L engine offers excellent towing capabilities. Downsides include higher ownership costs than other trucks, and transmission problems where it shifts roughly between gears. Overall, if you’re in the market for a half-ton truck, the Sierra 1500 is a good choice if you want more luxury.
