The 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 marked a significant evolution as it introduced the then-all-new GMT800 platform, ushering in a sleeker, more modern design. This generation of the Sierra 1500 was available in various body styles, including regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab, with model years running through 2007. Key trims typically included the base Sierra, SL, SLE, and the more luxurious SLT. Pricing when new varied considerably based on configuration but generally positioned it as a capable and stylish full-size pickup. Its popularity stemmed from its robust build, comfortable ride for a truck of its era, and strong V8 engine options.
The Good
The 1997 Sierra 1500 offers robust V8 performance for hauling and towing, a comfortable ride for its class, and a durable, no-nonsense design. It provides strong value, appealing to those seeking a dependable workhorse with a hint of refined comfort.
The Bad
Potential owners should watch out for rust, particularly on the frame and body panels, as well as potential issues with the 4L60E transmission's longevity. Interior wear and tear, especially on seats and dashboard materials, is also common.
1997 GMC Sierra 1500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.3L V6 Vortec
- 5.0L V8 Vortec
- 5.7L V8 Vortec
- 7.4L V8 Vortec (for heavier duty applications, though less common on 1500 models)
- Horsepower:
- 4.3L V6: Approximately 195 hp
- 5.0L V8: Approximately 220 hp
- 5.7L V8: Approximately 255 hp
- Fuel Economy: (Estimates, highly variable based on engine, drivetrain, and driving conditions)
- 4.3L V6: 15-17 MPG city / 19-21 MPG highway
- 5.0L V8: 13-15 MPG city / 17-19 MPG highway
- 5.7L V8: 12-14 MPG city / 16-18 MPG highway
- 0-60 Times: (Estimates)
- 4.3L V6: 9-10 seconds
- 5.7L V8: 7-8 seconds
- Towing Capacity: (Varies significantly with configuration, wheelbase, rear-end ratio, and engine)
- Properly equipped 1500 models could tow between 5,000 lbs to over 9,000 lbs.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sierra (Base): Standard vinyl or cloth seats, AM/FM radio, basic instrumentation, steel wheels, manual windows and locks.
- SL: Upgraded cloth interior, power windows and locks (often), air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM CD player.
- SLE: Further enhancements including premium cloth or leather seats, power mirrors, alloy wheels, upgraded audio system, more interior amenities.
- SLT: Top-tier trim, often featuring leather upholstery, automatic climate control, driver-side power seat, fog lights, and other luxury appointments.
Additional features across trims could include 4WD, different bed lengths (short or long), and various option packages for enhanced utility or comfort.
1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1997 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Regular Cab 6.5-Foot Bed 2WD 4-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | OSHAWA TRUCK |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3871 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6100 pounds |
| Overall Height | 70.80 inches |
| Overall Length | 194.50 inches |
| Overall Width | 76.80 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 117.50 inches |
| Standard Seating | 3 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.7-L V-8 OHV 16V |
| Engine Size | 5.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 2-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $16,012 |
| Invoice Price | $14,010 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Have?
The 1997 GMC Sierra 1500, as part of the new GMT800 generation, generally exhibits good long-term reliability, but like any vehicle of this age, it has its common issues. One of the most frequently reported concerns is the durability of the 4L60E automatic transmission. While capable, these transmissions can develop issues over time, especially with heavy use or inadequate maintenance, leading to slipping, harsh shifting, or failure. Owners sometimes report needing rebuilds or replacements. Another area to watch is the potential for electrical gremlins; issues with power windows, door locks, or the instrument cluster can arise. Body and frame rust are significant concerns, particularly in regions with harsh winters or high humidity. Areas prone to rust include the rocker panels, cab corners, wheel wells, and the frame itself. Early models of this generation might experience some catalytic converter issues or exhaust leaks. Ignition system components, such as spark plugs and ignition coils, can also wear out over time. While there aren't widespread major recalls specific to the 1997 model year that indicate a design flaw, routine maintenance is crucial. For example, the vortec V8 engines are generally robust, but neglecting cooling system maintenance can lead to overheating and more severe engine damage. The 4.3L V6 is also a solid engine but can be prone to intake manifold gasket leaks over time. Overall, the 1997 Sierra 1500 is considered a dependable truck if well-maintained, but potential buyers should be aware of these common wear-and-tear items and inspect thoroughly for rust and transmission health.
How long will the 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 last?
With consistent maintenance, a 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 can reasonably be expected to last between 200,000 to 300,000 miles. Many owners report them easily exceeding 250,000 miles if major components like the engine and transmission receive regular fluid changes and timely repairs. The Vortec V8 engines are known for their longevity. However, long-term durability is heavily influenced by how the truck was used and maintained. Those frequently used for heavy towing or in rough conditions may experience accelerated wear on the drivetrain and suspension. The primary weaknesses that tend to appear over time are related to rust and the 4L60E transmission, which may require rebuilds or replacements around the 150,000 to 200,000-mile mark if not properly cared for. Despite these potential issues, the overall construction and robust nature of the Sierra contribute to its strong long-term potential.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1997 GMC Sierra 1500, being from the late 90s, features a relatively basic tech and safety suite by modern standards. Built-in technology was focused on core functionality. Entertainment options typically included an AM/FM radio, with optional upgrades to a CD player. Higher trims could be optioned with a premium sound system. There was no integrated navigation, Bluetooth, or infotainment screens. Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent, with the exception of cruise control being a common option on mid to higher trims. Basic power windows and door locks were available on higher trims, but manual operation was standard on base models. Safety features included standard seat belts, front airbags for the driver and passenger, and anti-lock brakes (ABS) were generally standard on 2WD models and often optional or standard on 4WD. Side-impact door beams were also incorporated for enhanced structural integrity. Crash-test ratings for this specific model year are not readily available through standard databases like NHTSA or IIHS in the same detailed format as contemporary vehicles. However, trucks of this era were generally built with a strong, body-on-frame construction. While it lacked the advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, or adaptive cruise control found in newer vehicles, it prioritized fundamental safety through its robust chassis and basic occupant protection systems. Optional features often revolved around utility and comfort, such as a trailer brake controller, various towing packages, and upgraded interior materials, rather than advanced electronic aids.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1997 GMC Sierra 1500's price ranged broadly from approximately $18,000 for a base model regular cab to over $30,000 for a well-equipped, crew cab SLT model with V8 power and 4WD. As a vehicle over two decades old, it has experienced significant depreciation. Current used market prices for the 1997 Sierra 1500 typically range from $2,000 to $8,000, heavily dependent on mileage, condition, trim level, and mechanical soundness. Trucks with lower mileage, excellent maintenance records, minimal rust, and desirable V8 engines in higher trims will fetch premium prices in the used market. Conversely, high-mileage or rusty examples can be found for significantly less. Factors affecting resale value include the presence of rust, the condition of the transmission, the original engine, and the overall upkeep. Well-maintained examples can hold their value surprisingly well as reliable work trucks.
1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 can be quite economical, especially compared to modern trucks. Insurance costs are generally reasonable due to its age and lack of high-tech features, though full coverage on older vehicles might not be cost-effective. Fuel economy, particularly with the V8 engines, is a significant cost, averaging around 13-18 MPG combined. Maintenance is straightforward and parts are widely available and relatively inexpensive. Repairs are also generally manageable, with common issues like transmission work being a potential but not universal expense. Overall, for a sturdy pickup, it represents a cost-effective ownership proposition, particularly if purchased at a low used price and maintained diligently, making it more economical than costly to own for those needing a functional truck.
1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
25.00 gallons
City Mileage
14 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
19 miles/gallon
1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Recalls & Defects
Seats
Recall date
1997-03-07
Recall no.
97v037000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Extended Cab and 2-Door Utility Vehicles Equipped With Reclining Seats and THE Easy-Entry Feature. These Vehicles Exhibit A Condition IN Which A Pinch Point Exists IN THE Recliner Mechanism That CAN Trap and Pinch A Person's Hand or Finger(S) When THE Easy-entry Feature IS Activated.
Consequence
This Pinching CAN CUT THE Hand or Possibly Sever THE Finger(S) Without Prior Warning.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Protector Cover Over THE Recliner Mechanism.
Notes
Owner Notification:owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During March 1997. Note:owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020 or GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Seats
Recall date
1997-10-07
Recall no.
97v176000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Light Duty Pickup Trucks. ONE or Two OF THE Front Seat Mounting Bolts Were NOT Installed. This Does NOT Comply With THE Requirements OF Fmvss NO. 207, "seating Systems."
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, A Seat With This Condition Will NOT Protect THE Occupant AS Required BY THE Standard.
Remedy
Dealers Will Check All Seat Mounting Bolts and Install ANY Missing Bolts.
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During October 1997. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020 or GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-800-424-9393.
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly
Recall date
1998-08-10
Recall no.
98v187000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Crew Cab Pickup Trucks. THE Front, Inner Corner OF THE Fuel Tank CAN Contact THE Body Sill Either Intermittently or Constantly. This Movement CAN Cause A Discernible Noise And, Over Time, CAN Wear A Hole IN or Crack THE Fuel Tank AT Point OF Contact.
Consequence
This Condition CAN Result IN Fuel Leakage and A Distinct Fuel Odor IF THE Tank Were Filled Above THE Level OF THE Hole or Crack. IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, A Fire Could Result.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Fuel Tank FOR Wear And, Either Install A Spacer Between THE Fuel Tank and THE Front Crossmember, or IF Necessary, Replace THE Fuel Tank.
Notes
Owner Notification Began August 24, 1998. Owners WHO Take Their Vehicles TO AN Authorized Dealer ON AN Agreed Upon Service Date and DO NOT Receive THE Free Remedy Within A Reasonable Time Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-222-1020 or GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Gasoline
Recall date
2006-05-19
Recall no.
06e043000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Replacement Fuel Filters, Fram Brand Name P/N G3727, With Date Codes X52911 Through X60801 Sequentially or X600141 and A Mexico Country or Origin Marking ON THE Fuel Filter Housing Manufactured From October 18, 2005, Through March 21, 2006, Sold FOR USE ON THE Vehicles Listed Above and ON Certain School Buses. (TO SEE THE School Bus Engine Sizes, Click ON "document Search" and Then "bus Applications"). THE Connector ON THE Fuel Filter WAS NOT Manufactured TO Honeywell's Specification. AS A Result, THE O-Ring MAY NOT Seat Correctly ON THE Fuel Line.
Consequence
This Condition MAY Cause AN Inadequate Seal AT THE Connection, Potentially Leading TO A Fuel Leak. IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, A Fire Could Occur.
Remedy
Honeywell Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Fuel Filters Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON October 18, 2006. Owners MAY Contact Fram Customer Service AT 1-800-890-2075 (Option 1).
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Fram Fuel Filters and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON THE Vehicles Listed.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment
Recall date
2007-10-24
Recall no.
07e088000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Honeywell Fram Racing Brand HP4 and HP8 OIL Filters That Were Manufactured From MAY 25, 2006, Through September 14, 2007, and Sold FOR USE AS Replacement Equipment FOR Vehicles List Above. THE Affected Filters ARE Marked With A Date Code A61451 Through A72571 Sequentially. THE Date Code and Part Number Appear ON THE Filter Housing. Fram Racing HP4 and HP8 OIL Filters NOT Bearing A Date Code IN This Range ARE NOT Affected BY This Recall. THE Gasket OF THE OIL Filter Becomes More Pliable Under High Temperatures and Pressures.
Consequence
This Condition MAY Cause Inadequate Sealing and Loss OF Engine Oil, Possibly Resulting IN A Fire.
Remedy
Honeywell Will Replace THE Affected OIL Filters Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began During November 2007. Owners CAN Contact Fram Customer Service Toll-Free AT 1-800-890-2075.
Notes
Customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Insurance
Insurance for a 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
The 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 competed directly with formidable rivals like the Ford F-150, Chevrolet Silverado (its sibling), and Dodge Ram. In terms of performance, the Sierra 1500, particularly with its available Vortec V8 engines (5.0L and 5.7L), offered strong hauling and towing capabilities that were competitive with the F-150 and Silverado. The Dodge Ram, especially with its distinctive styling, also offered potent V8 options. When it came to features, the Sierra 1500 was on par with its GM counterpart, the Silverado, offering a range of trims from utilitarian to more comfortable. The F-150 often provided a slightly more refined interior experience for its time, while the Dodge Ram stood out with its bold design and comfortable ride. Reliability was a strong suit for the Sierra and Silverado generations; they were built to last and often outlasted competitors in terms of sheer mechanical endurance, though rust was a common enemy for all trucks of this era. The 4L60E transmission was a point of contention for GM trucks, while Ford's transmissions also had their issues. Price-wise, the Sierra 1500 was typically positioned competitively, offering a good balance of capability and value, similar to the Silverado. The F-150 and Ram also offered various price points depending on configuration.
Alternatives:
For those seeking similar reliability and performance, the 1997 Chevrolet Silverado is the most direct alternative. If a slightly more refined interior is desired, the Ford F-150 is a strong contender. The Dodge Ram offers a different styling approach and ride quality.
Alternatives:
- 1997 Chevrolet Silverado 1500: Essentially the same truck as the Sierra 1500, offering identical performance and reliability with minor styling differences. A very similar alternative.
- 1997 Ford F-150: Known for its strong modular V8 engines (like the 4.6L and 5.4L Triton) and a reputation for durability. It offered a slightly more car-like ride and interior comfort in higher trims.
- 1997 Dodge Ram 1500: Praised for its distinctive styling, comfortable suspension, and powerful Magnum V8 engines. Could be a good alternative if styling and ride comfort are prioritized.
For those seeking similar reliability and performance, the 1997 Chevrolet Silverado is the most direct alternative. If a slightly more refined interior is desired, the Ford F-150 is a strong contender. The Dodge Ram offers a different styling approach and ride quality.
Final Verdict: Is the 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 a Good Pickup Truck?
The 1997 GMC Sierra 1500 is ideal for individuals and families seeking a robust, reliable, and capable full-size pickup truck for work, hauling, or general utility without the high cost of a new vehicle. It is particularly well-suited for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize mechanical soundness and practicality over advanced technology.
It is absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle, provided it has been reasonably well-maintained and inspected thoroughly for rust and transmission health. Buying a specific trim like an SLE or SLT with the 5.7L V8 engine and 4WD offers a good balance of power, comfort, and capability. Avoid examples with significant rust or known transmission issues unless you are prepared for substantial repair costs. As a new vehicle purchase, it's obviously no longer an option, but its legacy as a dependable truck makes it a strong contender in the used market for those who value simplicity and durability.
It is absolutely worth buying as a used vehicle, provided it has been reasonably well-maintained and inspected thoroughly for rust and transmission health. Buying a specific trim like an SLE or SLT with the 5.7L V8 engine and 4WD offers a good balance of power, comfort, and capability. Avoid examples with significant rust or known transmission issues unless you are prepared for substantial repair costs. As a new vehicle purchase, it's obviously no longer an option, but its legacy as a dependable truck makes it a strong contender in the used market for those who value simplicity and durability.
Jovan
Jovan specializes in interpreting vehicle records and making sense of VIN data. With over 10 years of experience in the automotive data industry, his work ensures that every report is clear, accurate, and useful for car buyers.