The 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 is part of the GMT800 generation, known for its robust construction and capability. This full-size pickup truck offered a variety of body styles including regular cab, extended cab, and crew cab configurations. Key trims included the base Sierra, SL, SLE, and the upscale SLT. Pricing when new varied significantly by trim and options, typically ranging from the mid-$20,000s to over $35,000. Its popularity stems from its reputation for durability and strong V8 engine options, making it a workhorse for both commercial and personal use.
The Good
The 1998 Sierra 1500 boasts strong V8 performance for towing and hauling, legendary mechanical reliability, and a surprisingly comfortable ride for its class. Its rugged, timeless design appeals to those seeking a classic truck look, while its solid value proposition makes it a practical choice for budget-conscious buyers.
The Bad
Potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as transmission problems, particularly with the 4L60-E automatic, rust on the rocker panels and wheel wells, and possible electrical gremlins. Some owners report issues with the HVAC blower motor resistor and premature wear on suspension components.
1998 GMC Sierra 1500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.3L V6 (Vortec 4300)
- 5.0L V8 (Vortec 5000)
- 5.7L V8 (Vortec 5700)
- 7.4L V8 (Vortec 7400 - typically for 2500/3500, but worth noting for capability context)
- Horsepower:
- 4.3L V6: Approximately 200 hp
- 5.0L V8: Approximately 220 hp
- 5.7L V8: Approximately 255 hp
- Fuel Economy: (EPA estimates, varies by drivetrain and engine)
- 4.3L V6 (2WD): Around 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
- 5.7L V8 (2WD): Around 13 mpg city / 17 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times: (Approximate, varies by engine and configuration)
- 4.3L V6: 9-10 seconds
- 5.7L V8: 7.5-8.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: (Highly dependent on configuration, rear-end ratio, and options)
- Can range from approximately 5,000 lbs for basic configurations up to 8,000+ lbs for properly equipped 1500 models. Check specific RPO codes for exact ratings.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sierra (Base): Vinyl seats, black grille, basic audio system, manual windows and locks.
- SL: Cloth seats, power windows and locks, chrome grille, AM/FM stereo with cassette/CD.
- SLE: Dual-zone climate control, cruise control, tilt steering wheel, upgraded interior trim, power mirrors, optional alloy wheels.
- SLT: Leather seating (optional), premium audio system, keyless entry, more aggressive styling cues, often bundled with higher towing packages.
- Drivetrain: 2WD or 4WD.
- Transmission: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic (4L60-E for V6/5.0L V8, 4L80-E for heavier duty applications and some V8s).
1998 GMC Sierra 1500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| 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 | 3949 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) | $16,525 |
| Invoice Price | $14,459 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 Have?
The 1998 GMC Sierra 1500, while generally considered reliable, has some frequently reported issues that owners should be aware of. One of the most common concerns revolves around the 4L60-E automatic transmission. These transmissions can be prone to overheating, solenoid failures, and premature wear, especially under heavy use or if not properly maintained. Regular fluid changes are crucial to prolong their life.
Rust is another significant concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters or high humidity. The rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel well areas are common spots for corrosion. Inspecting these areas thoroughly is vital for potential buyers.
Other reported problems include issues with the HVAC system, specifically the blower motor resistor, which can fail, leaving the fan only working on certain speeds or not at all. The instrument cluster can also develop issues, with gauges failing to work or the entire cluster going dark.
Engine-related concerns are less common but can include intake manifold gasket leaks on some V8 engines, leading to coolant or vacuum leaks. The ABS system can also be a source of trouble, with wheel speed sensors or the ABS module failing.
While specific model year issues are not as distinctly categorized for this generation as some others, general wear and tear common to older vehicles will be present. For instance, suspension components like ball joints and bushings will naturally wear out over time and mileage. The power steering pump can also develop leaks or become noisy.
Recalls for the 1998 model year, if any, would need to be checked against specific VINs through official GM recall databases. However, the primary long-term reliability concerns focus on transmission longevity, rust mitigation, and the upkeep of electrical and HVAC components.
Rust is another significant concern, particularly in regions with harsh winters or high humidity. The rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel well areas are common spots for corrosion. Inspecting these areas thoroughly is vital for potential buyers.
Other reported problems include issues with the HVAC system, specifically the blower motor resistor, which can fail, leaving the fan only working on certain speeds or not at all. The instrument cluster can also develop issues, with gauges failing to work or the entire cluster going dark.
Engine-related concerns are less common but can include intake manifold gasket leaks on some V8 engines, leading to coolant or vacuum leaks. The ABS system can also be a source of trouble, with wheel speed sensors or the ABS module failing.
While specific model year issues are not as distinctly categorized for this generation as some others, general wear and tear common to older vehicles will be present. For instance, suspension components like ball joints and bushings will naturally wear out over time and mileage. The power steering pump can also develop leaks or become noisy.
Recalls for the 1998 model year, if any, would need to be checked against specific VINs through official GM recall databases. However, the primary long-term reliability concerns focus on transmission longevity, rust mitigation, and the upkeep of electrical and HVAC components.
How long will the 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 last?
With diligent maintenance, a 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 can achieve 200,000 to 300,000 miles or more. Many owners report these trucks lasting well over 15 years. The long-term durability is a strong suit, thanks to their robust chassis and relatively simple mechanical designs. However, the transmission (especially the 4L60-E) can be a weak point requiring rebuilds around the 150,000-200,000-mile mark if not meticulously maintained. Rust remains a significant factor in longevity, especially in corrosive environments, often dictating the ultimate lifespan in certain regions.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 GMC Sierra 1500, being from an era before widespread advanced automotive technology, offers a relatively basic suite of features, focusing more on utility and core functionality.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically consisted of an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Optional upgrades often included a single-disc CD player. Higher trim levels, like the SLE and SLT, might have featured upgraded speaker systems. Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreens, and satellite radio were not available.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent. Cruise control was available, especially on higher trims, and was a significant convenience for highway driving. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a standard or optional safety feature, providing improved stopping control under hard braking.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included front airbags for the driver and passenger. Seatbelt pretensioners were also standard. Side airbags were not an option. The truck's body-on-frame construction provided a robust structure, but its higher center of gravity and older safety designs meant crash performance would not compare to modern vehicles.
Optional Features: Beyond the entertainment upgrades, optional features often focused on comfort and utility. These could include power windows and locks (standard on higher trims), power mirrors, a tilt steering wheel, intermittent windshield wipers, and a heavy-duty trailering package. Some models offered a rear-seat entertainment system for extended cab configurations, though this was less common.
Crash-Test Ratings: Official crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS for the 1998 model year are not as readily available or standardized as they are today. However, general assessments of trucks from this era indicate they offered decent frontal crash protection for their time due to their substantial construction, but lacked the advanced crumple zones and restraint systems found in contemporary vehicles. Side impact protection was generally less robust.
Entertainment: Standard entertainment typically consisted of an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. Optional upgrades often included a single-disc CD player. Higher trim levels, like the SLE and SLT, might have featured upgraded speaker systems. Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreens, and satellite radio were not available.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance features were virtually non-existent. Cruise control was available, especially on higher trims, and was a significant convenience for highway driving. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a standard or optional safety feature, providing improved stopping control under hard braking.
Safety Features: Standard safety equipment included front airbags for the driver and passenger. Seatbelt pretensioners were also standard. Side airbags were not an option. The truck's body-on-frame construction provided a robust structure, but its higher center of gravity and older safety designs meant crash performance would not compare to modern vehicles.
Optional Features: Beyond the entertainment upgrades, optional features often focused on comfort and utility. These could include power windows and locks (standard on higher trims), power mirrors, a tilt steering wheel, intermittent windshield wipers, and a heavy-duty trailering package. Some models offered a rear-seat entertainment system for extended cab configurations, though this was less common.
Crash-Test Ratings: Official crash-test ratings from organizations like the NHTSA or IIHS for the 1998 model year are not as readily available or standardized as they are today. However, general assessments of trucks from this era indicate they offered decent frontal crash protection for their time due to their substantial construction, but lacked the advanced crumple zones and restraint systems found in contemporary vehicles. Side impact protection was generally less robust.
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.
1998 GMC Sierra 1500 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 typically ranged from approximately $22,000 for a base model to upwards of $35,000 for a fully loaded SLT. Like most trucks, the Sierra 1500 experienced significant depreciation in its initial years. However, its resale value has stabilized considerably over time, making it a relatively good value proposition on the used market. Factors affecting current used prices include mileage, condition, trim level, engine choice, and maintenance history. Trucks with lower mileage, minimal rust, and the desirable 5.7L V8 engine tend to command higher prices. Well-maintained examples can still fetch between $3,000 and $8,000 depending on these variables.
1998 GMC Sierra 1500 Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 is generally considered economical for a full-size truck, especially when purchased used. Insurance costs are moderate, varying by coverage and driver. Fuel economy, particularly with V8 engines, is a significant consideration; expect around 13-17 MPG. Routine maintenance is straightforward and parts are widely available. However, repair costs for components like the transmission can be substantial if major work is needed. Overall, its durability and lower initial purchase price on the used market help offset some of the fuel and potential repair expenses, making it a cost-effective choice for many.
1998 GMC Sierra 1500 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
25.00 gallons
City Mileage
14 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
19 miles/gallon
1998 GMC Sierra 1500 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1998 GMC Sierra 1500 Recalls & Defects
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:foundation Components:disc:rotor
Recall date
1998-02-17
Recall no.
98v033000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Vehicle Description: Light Duty Pickup Trucks and Multi-Purpose Passenger Vehicles. ONE or Both Front Brake Rotor/Hubs Were Built With AN Out-Of-specification Gray Iron That CAN Fail During THE Life OF THE Vehicle.
Consequence
IF A Driver Continues TO Drive With A Cracked Rotor, THE Cracks Could Continue Around THE Wheel Mounting Bolt Circle and Ultimately Result IN A Wheel Separation.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect THE Rotors FOR A Core Date OF "287" And, IF Found, Replace THE Rotor.
Notes
Owner Notification IS Expected TO Begin During March 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: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.
1998 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
1998 GMC Sierra 1500 Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 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 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
The 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 competed directly with its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, offering nearly identical performance and reliability due to shared platforms and powertrains. Other key rivals included the Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram 1500.
Performance: The Sierra 1500's available V8 engines, particularly the 5.7L, provided strong towing and hauling capabilities, generally on par with the F-150 and slightly edging out some base Ram configurations. The Ram offered a distinctive coil-spring rear suspension that some preferred for ride quality.
Features: Features on the Sierra 1500 were comparable to its rivals. The F-150 often boasted more modern interior designs and slightly more sophisticated options at the time. The Ram's interior could feel a bit more utilitarian. All offered a range of cab sizes and bed lengths.
Reliability: The Sierra 1500 and Silverado 1500 are renowned for their mechanical robustness and powertrain reliability, particularly the V8 engines. The Ford F-150 also had a strong reputation, though specific transmissions could be a concern. The Dodge Ram had some electrical gremlins and transmission issues reported.
Price: Pricing was competitive across all models. On the used market, the Sierra 1500 often represents excellent value due to its strong reliability and capability.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Sierra 1500's available V8 engines, particularly the 5.7L, provided strong towing and hauling capabilities, generally on par with the F-150 and slightly edging out some base Ram configurations. The Ram offered a distinctive coil-spring rear suspension that some preferred for ride quality.
Features: Features on the Sierra 1500 were comparable to its rivals. The F-150 often boasted more modern interior designs and slightly more sophisticated options at the time. The Ram's interior could feel a bit more utilitarian. All offered a range of cab sizes and bed lengths.
Reliability: The Sierra 1500 and Silverado 1500 are renowned for their mechanical robustness and powertrain reliability, particularly the V8 engines. The Ford F-150 also had a strong reputation, though specific transmissions could be a concern. The Dodge Ram had some electrical gremlins and transmission issues reported.
Price: Pricing was competitive across all models. On the used market, the Sierra 1500 often represents excellent value due to its strong reliability and capability.
Alternatives:
- Similar: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (virtually identical).
- Slightly Older but Capable: Ford F-150 (1997-2003 generation) offers strong performance and a well-regarded platform.
- Different Ride: Dodge Ram 1500 (1994-2001 generation) is known for its distinctive styling and more comfortable ride due to its rear coil springs, though some reliability aspects might lag behind the GM trucks.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 a Good Pickup Truck?
The 1998 GMC Sierra 1500 is ideal for individuals and businesses seeking a durable, capable, and no-nonsense full-size pickup truck that prioritizes utility and longevity over cutting-edge technology. It's an excellent buy for those on a budget looking for a used truck that can still handle work or heavy hauling.
It is absolutely worth buying if you find a well-maintained example, especially with the 5.7L V8 engine and lower mileage. Focus on inspecting for rust and checking the transmission's service history. New examples are obviously unavailable. Used buyers should prioritize trims like the SL or SLE for a good balance of features and value. The SLT offers more luxury but comes at a higher price point. For its intended purpose, it remains a strong contender in the used truck market.
It is absolutely worth buying if you find a well-maintained example, especially with the 5.7L V8 engine and lower mileage. Focus on inspecting for rust and checking the transmission's service history. New examples are obviously unavailable. Used buyers should prioritize trims like the SL or SLE for a good balance of features and value. The SLT offers more luxury but comes at a higher price point. For its intended purpose, it remains a strong contender in the used truck market.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.