54,000 Miles In, My 2019 Sierra Already Has a Problem, But My Two Previous GMC Sierras Went Well Over 150K Miles

For decades, GMC has earned a reputation for building reliable, durable trucks. But for one loyal GMC Sierra owner, Connie Squire, the story of her 2019 GMC Sierra tells a slightly different tale—one of unexpected mechanical issues and mounting concerns about quality.

Connie recently shared her experience in a comment under a Torque News article, explaining that while her 2000 and 2008 GMC Sierras exceeded 150,000 miles without major issues, her 2019 Sierra, with just 54,000 miles on the odometer, suffered a catastrophic engine failure. A failed cylinder required a complete engine rebuild, leaving her uncertain about the long-term reliability of her truck.

"I am on my third GMC Sierra. I loved my 2000 and 2008 but my 2019 is a problem. I only have 54k on it and a cylinder went requiring a complete rebuild since the warranty would not replace it with a new engine. My other two Sierras went well over 150k miles each without any major problems. I have no guarantee that the problem will not resurface and my warranty has expired. I have always loved my trucks but this one has me concerned. Since it was built prior to the pandemic I don't know the reason beyond GMC changing the engine from one that worked to this one that has had many problems. I don't like the constant "upgrades" that are anything but good. I can't afford a new one at this point and just praying it will last," Connie wrote.

A Legacy of Reliability—Interrupted

For Connie, her two previous GMC Sierras were everything a truck should be: dependable workhorses capable of handling daily demands and long hauls without complaint. It’s a testament to GMC’s historical build quality that these older models endured years of service without major mechanical issues.

However, her 2019 Sierra has been a stark departure from this legacy. The engine’s cylinder failure, requiring a full rebuild rather than a replacement under warranty, is not just an inconvenience—it’s a red flag for a truck still relatively early in its lifespan. 

While some GMC owners like Connie are grappling with unexpected reliability challenges in earlier models, GMC seems to be doubling down on luxury and road capability with their latest offerings. The 2024 GMC Sierra HD, for instance, promises to redefine ruggedness with an added touch of elegance. Could these improvements mark a turning point for GMC's lineup?

Known Issues with the 2019 GMC Sierra

The 2019 GMC Sierra, part of the fifth generation of Sierra trucks, introduced several new features and upgrades, but it also came with its share of reported problems. Owners have raised concerns about issues ranging from engine failures to electrical glitches and transmission problems. Among the most common complaints:

1. Engine Problems: The 2019 Sierra’s 5.3L V8 engine has been reported to suffer from lifter failures, excessive oil consumption, and in some cases, catastrophic failures like Connie’s.
2. Transmission Issues: The 8-speed automatic transmission in the 2019 model has been a frequent source of frustration, with reports of hard shifting, hesitation, and even complete transmission failure.
3. Electrical Malfunctions: Owners have also reported electrical gremlins, such as unresponsive infotainment systems, malfunctioning sensors, and inconsistent lighting.

Obviously these issues don’t affect every 2019 Sierra. Yet, some people like Connie question the constant upgrades that GM makes in its newer trucks.

Why Did the 2019 Model Fall Short?

One possible reason for the 2019 Sierra’s struggles could be the shift toward newer technologies and engine designs aimed at improving fuel efficiency and performance. While innovation is crucial, it’s not uncommon for early versions of new systems to experience more frequent issues. Additionally, while Connie notes her truck was built before the pandemic, others have pointed to broader supply chain disruptions and cost-cutting measures that may have impacted quality across the industry.

What Can GMC Sierra Owners Do?

For Sierra owners experiencing or concerned about potential issues, here are some steps to help extend the life of your truck and address problems proactively:

1. Regular Maintenance: Keeping up with scheduled maintenance is key to preventing small issues from becoming major repairs. Regular oil changes, transmission fluid checks, and inspections can help catch potential problems early.
2. Monitor Common Problem Areas: If you own a 2019 Sierra, pay close attention to engine performance, oil levels, and transmission behavior. Unusual noises, excessive oil consumption, or rough shifting are early warning signs that something may be wrong.
3. Consider Extended Warranties: While GMC’s factory warranty may not always cover major repairs, purchasing an extended warranty can provide peace of mind for owners worried about costly repairs.
4. Stay Informed: Joining forums and owner groups can be an invaluable resource for identifying patterns and finding solutions to common problems. Knowledge shared by other owners can help you advocate for repairs or improvements when dealing with dealerships.
5. Work With the Dealer: If you’re facing significant repair costs, it’s worth discussing options with your dealership. While not guaranteed, some dealerships may offer goodwill repairs or discounts, especially for loyal customers.

For owners like Connie, who are hesitant about upgrading due to past issues, GMC's latest off-road innovations might restore some confidence. The 2024 Sierra HD AT4X is specifically designed for extreme off-roading, blending durability with advanced technology. This could be the truck that balances reliability with adventure.

A Crossroads for GMC Loyalty

For Connie, the 2019 Sierra’s engine failure has been a turning point. After years of trusting GMC, she now faces an uncertain future with her truck and questions about whether the brand’s modern offerings can live up to its reputation. “I have no guarantee that the problem will not resurface and my warranty has expired,” she writes, expressing a sentiment shared by many truck owners whose confidence in their vehicle has been shaken.

For GMC Sierra owners, Connie's story is a reminder to stay vigilant, prioritize maintenance, and be prepared to navigate the challenges that can come with owning a modern truck.

Despite recent challenges faced by some GMC owners, the brand has a reputation for creating trucks that stand out in both style and capability. A perfect example is the GMC Sierra 1500 All Terrain X, which many consider one of GMC's coolest modern trucks. I think this legacy of innovation in 2017 inspired GM's future models to combine durability with cutting-edge appeal.

Have you experienced similar issues with your GMC Sierra or another truck? How do you think automakers can balance innovation with reliability? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let us know how your truck has held up over the years. Your experiences and insights could help other owners facing similar challenges.

Armen Hareyan is the founder and the Editor in Chief of Torque News. He founded TorqueNews.com in 2010, which since then has been publishing expert news and analysis about the automotive industry. He can be reached at Torque News Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin, and Youtube. He has more than a decade of expertise in the automotive industry with a special interest in Tesla and electric vehicles.