The 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size pickup truck, part of the second generation (1999-2007). Available in regular, extended, and crew cab configurations with various bed lengths, it offered a blend of capability and comfort. Key trims included the SL, SLE, and SLT. Pricing ranged from around $20,000 to $35,000 when new. Its popularity stemmed from its robust engine options, handsome styling, and reputation for durability, making it a favorite for both work and personal use.
The Good
The 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 offers a compelling mix of advantages. Practically, it boasts strong performance from its various engine options and good reliability for its age. Aesthetically, its classic truck design is appealing. While not the most fuel-efficient, its solid value proposition makes it attractive. Emotionally, owners appreciate its dependable nature and rugged capabilities.
The Bad
Common weaknesses of the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 include potential issues with the instrument cluster (specifically the stepper motors), rust, and some transmission problems. Oil leaks can also occur. Owners should inspect for these issues, especially the instrument cluster, and be prepared for age-related repairs. Rust, particularly in northern climates, is a significant concern.
2004 GMC Sierra 1500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.3L V6: Producing around 200 horsepower.
- 4.8L V8: Ranging around 285 horsepower.
- 5.3L V8: Offering approximately 295 horsepower.
- 6.0L V8 (available in some models): Generating around 300-345 horsepower.
- Horsepower: Varies from 200 to 345 hp depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy (estimated):
- V6: 15-17 mpg city / 20-22 mpg highway
- V8: 14-17 mpg city / 18-21 mpg highway (dependent on engine and configuration)
- 0-60 Times: Estimated range:
- V6: 8-9 seconds
- V8: 6.5-8 seconds (dependent on engine and configuration)
- Towing Capacity: Ranging from approximately 4,000 lbs to 9,000 lbs depending on configuration, engine, and options. Towing package is essential for higher capacities.
- Trim-Level Features:
- SL: Base model; typically includes vinyl or cloth seats, basic AM/FM radio, and standard safety features.
- SLE: Mid-range; often features upgraded cloth seats, CD player, power windows and locks, cruise control, and alloy wheels.
- SLT: Top-tier; usually includes leather seats, premium audio system, dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable seats, and chrome exterior accents.
- Configurations: Regular cab, Extended cab, and Crew cab options available. Bed lengths vary depending on the cab configuration.
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2004 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Long Bed 2WD 4-Speed Automatic |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | PONTIAC |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4286 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 6400 pounds |
| Overall Height | 71.00 inches |
| Overall Length | 224.50 inches |
| Overall Width | 78.50 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 133.00 inches |
| Standard Seating | 3 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.3-L V-8 OHV 16V FFV |
| Engine Size | 5.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $21,480 |
| Invoice Price | $19,439 |
| Delivery Charges | $850 |
Vehicle History Report
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Analysis
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Have?
The 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 has some frequently reported problems. A prevalent issue involves the instrument cluster, where the stepper motors controlling the gauges often fail, leading to inaccurate or non-functional readings. Transmission issues, such as hard shifting or slipping, are also reported. Oil leaks, particularly around the oil pan gasket and rear main seal, are common as the vehicle ages. Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh winters, affecting body panels, undercarriage components, and brake lines.
Recalls for the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 included issues related to the fuel system, where a faulty fuel pulse damper could potentially leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire. Check the NHTSA website for specific recall information related to your VIN.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the aforementioned issues. The instrument cluster, transmission, and rust are the primary areas of concern. Some owners have reported issues with the four-wheel-drive system, particularly the encoder motor. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and rust prevention measures, can help mitigate some of these issues. However, given the vehicle's age, these problems are fairly common and should be expected.
Recalls for the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 included issues related to the fuel system, where a faulty fuel pulse damper could potentially leak fuel, increasing the risk of a fire. Check the NHTSA website for specific recall information related to your VIN.
Long-term reliability concerns center around the aforementioned issues. The instrument cluster, transmission, and rust are the primary areas of concern. Some owners have reported issues with the four-wheel-drive system, particularly the encoder motor. Regular maintenance, including fluid changes and rust prevention measures, can help mitigate some of these issues. However, given the vehicle's age, these problems are fairly common and should be expected.
How long will the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 last?
The 2004 GMC Sierra 1500, with proper maintenance, can easily exceed 200,000 miles or provide 20+ years of service. Regular oil changes, transmission fluid services, and addressing minor repairs promptly are crucial. However, long-term durability is often affected by rust, particularly in colder climates. The instrument cluster and transmission issues mentioned earlier can shorten lifespan if neglected. Well-maintained examples are known for their robust engines and overall dependability, making them capable workhorses for many years.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 offered a relatively basic level of technology compared to modern vehicles. Entertainment features typically included an AM/FM radio with a CD player; higher trims could have a premium sound system with a cassette player or CD changer. There were no built-in navigation systems or advanced infotainment screens in this model year. Driver-assistance features were limited, primarily consisting of cruise control on higher trim levels.
Safety features included standard front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and daytime running lights. Some models might have included optional features like fog lamps or side airbags. Electronic Stability Control was not widely available on this model year.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) vary depending on the cab configuration. Generally, the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 received mixed ratings. While frontal crash protection was typically adequate, side-impact protection was often lower. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings should be checked for specific configurations and models.
Optional features available on higher trim levels included OnStar (emergency assistance and concierge services), power-adjustable seats, and automatic climate control. While these features were considered advanced for their time, they are basic compared to today's standards. The overall tech and safety offerings were functional but not cutting-edge.
Safety features included standard front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), and daytime running lights. Some models might have included optional features like fog lamps or side airbags. Electronic Stability Control was not widely available on this model year.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) vary depending on the cab configuration. Generally, the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 received mixed ratings. While frontal crash protection was typically adequate, side-impact protection was often lower. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) ratings should be checked for specific configurations and models.
Optional features available on higher trim levels included OnStar (emergency assistance and concierge services), power-adjustable seats, and automatic climate control. While these features were considered advanced for their time, they are basic compared to today's standards. The overall tech and safety offerings were functional but not cutting-edge.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Onyx Black
Summit White
Arrival Blue Metallic
Pewter Metallic
Dark Gray Metallic
Redfire Metallic
Sport Red Metallic
Sand Beige Metallic
Dark Green Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Gray
Dark Charcoal
Tan
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 ranged from approximately $20,000 to $35,000, depending on the trim level, cab configuration, and options. Currently, used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been significant due to age. Resale value is primarily affected by condition (rust-free examples command higher prices), mileage, and whether it's a desirable configuration (crew cab, 4x4). Well-maintained trucks with low mileage and popular options like the 5.3L V8 hold their value better.
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Cost of Ownership
Long-term ownership costs for a 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 can be moderate. Insurance costs are generally reasonable, but fuel economy is not great, especially with the V8 engines. Maintenance can be affordable, but repairs, particularly age-related issues like transmission problems or rust repair, can add up. While generally reliable, potential repair costs and fuel consumption make it neither the most economical nor the most costly vehicle to own. Careful maintenance and rust prevention are essential for keeping ownership costs in check.
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
34.00 gallons
City Mileage
15 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
19 miles/gallon
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Recalls & Defects
Tires:temporary/Emergency Spare Tire
Recall date
2004-05-17
Recall no.
04v240000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
THE Spare Tire and Wheel Assembly That WAS Provided ON Certain Conversion Vehicles Will NOT FIT ON THE Front Wheel HUB DUE TO Offset OF THE Wheel. However, IT Will FIT ON THE Rear Wheels.
Consequence
IF Someone HAS A Flat Tire ON THE Front Wheel, They Will NOT BE Able TO Install THE Provided Spare Tire.
Remedy
Dealers Will Install A Spare Wheel With THE Correct Offset. Owner Notification Began ON June 11, 2004. Owners Should Contact Regency AT 1-800-989-4727.
Notes
Customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236)
Equipment Adaptive/Mobility
Recall date
2004-11-26
Recall no.
04v562000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Vans Equipped With Sure-Lok Wheelchair Securement Systems, THE Sprocket Teeth OF THE Retractor Assembly IS OUT OF Alignment.
Consequence
IN THE Event OF A Vehicle Crash, THE Wheelchair MAY NOT BE Adequately Secured Possibly Resulting IN Injuries TO A Wheelchair Occupant.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Wheelchair Securement Retractors AS Necessary. Sure-Lok Will Handle THE Repairs FOR This Campaign. Owners Should Contact Sure-Lock AT 1-908-231-1804 or Mobilityworks AT 1-800-769-8267.
Notes
Sure-Lok Recall NO. 04e-058.customers CAN 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.
Service Brakes, AIR
Recall date
2006-06-06
Recall no.
06e050000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Federal-Mogul National and Carquest Aftermarket HUB Assemblies, P/N 515058, Sold FOR USE ON 2001-2006 General Motors 1500 and 2500 4WD Trucks. ON THE Subject HUB Assemblies, THE ABS Sensor Cord Departs From THE HUB Assembly AT A 90 Degree Angle. AS A Result, There IS A FIT Issue With THE Brake Rotor Dust Shield Interfering With THE ABS Sensor Cord. IF THE HUB Assembly IS Installed Despite This Interference, THE GAP Between THE ABS Sensor and THE Tone Wheel MAY BE Altered. This MAY Weaken THE Output OF THE ABS Sensor. Diminished Output Could Result IN AN Unwanted ABS Activation AT Low Speeds and Stopping Distance Could BE Affected.
Consequence
IF Stopping Distance IS Limited, A Vehicle Crash Could Occur.
Remedy
Federal-Mogul Will Notify ITS Owners and Will Either Credit THE Customers Account or Replace THE Unit. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During June 2006. Owners CAN Contact Federal-Mogul Customer Service AT 1-800-563-8507 EXT 3530.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket National and Carquest HUB Assemblies and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors.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.
Wheels:hub
Recall date
2007-12-17
Recall no.
07e106000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Certain Federal-Mogul Replacement Wheel HUB Assemblies With THE Brand Names: National, Carquest P/Nos. 515020, 515021, 515025, 515053, 515054, 515059, and 515060, Shipped Between January 23, 2006, and December 20, 2007, Sold FOR Light Duty and Medium Duty Trucks. THE Inboard Retention NUT Used TO Maintain HUB Bearing Assembly CAN Loosen Resulting IN AN ABS Light Indication, Noise, And/Or Wheel Separation.
Consequence
Wheel Separation CAN Result IN A Vehicle Crash.
Remedy
Federal-Mogul Will Notify Customers and Will Replace THE HUB Assembly Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON February 7, 2008. Owners CAN Contact Federal-Mogul Toll-free AT 877-489-6659.
Notes
This Recall Only Pertains TO Replacement National, Carquest Wheel HUB Assemblies and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors or Ford.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.
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining
Expired
2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Insurance
Insurance for a 2004 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 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
The 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 competes directly with the Ford F-150, Dodge Ram 1500, and Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (its corporate cousin). In terms of performance, the Sierra's engine options were comparable to its rivals, offering similar horsepower and towing capabilities. Feature-wise, the Sierra and Silverado were generally similar, while the F-150 offered slightly more advanced features at the time. The Dodge Ram stood out with its distinctive styling and available Hemi engine.
Reliability is a key factor, and the Sierra 1500 is generally considered to be on par with the F-150 and Silverado. However, as with any older vehicle, condition and maintenance history play a significant role. The Dodge Ram had a slightly lower reputation for long-term reliability during this period.
Price-wise, the Sierra 1500 was competitive with its rivals when new, and used prices reflect this. A well-maintained Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a very similar alternative, given that it shares many of the same components. The Ford F-150 is another comparable option, offering a similar blend of performance and features. Choosing between these trucks often comes down to personal preference regarding styling and specific features available on individual vehicles. If looking for something slightly different, a Toyota Tundra of similar vintage might be considered for its reputation for reliability, though it may be priced higher on the used market.
Reliability is a key factor, and the Sierra 1500 is generally considered to be on par with the F-150 and Silverado. However, as with any older vehicle, condition and maintenance history play a significant role. The Dodge Ram had a slightly lower reputation for long-term reliability during this period.
Price-wise, the Sierra 1500 was competitive with its rivals when new, and used prices reflect this. A well-maintained Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a very similar alternative, given that it shares many of the same components. The Ford F-150 is another comparable option, offering a similar blend of performance and features. Choosing between these trucks often comes down to personal preference regarding styling and specific features available on individual vehicles. If looking for something slightly different, a Toyota Tundra of similar vintage might be considered for its reputation for reliability, though it may be priced higher on the used market.
Final Verdict: Is the 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 a Good Pickup Truck?
The 2004 GMC Sierra 1500 is a good choice for someone seeking a reliable and capable used truck for work or personal use, especially if budget is a concern. It's ideal for those who need a truck for occasional towing, hauling, or general utility. Whether it's worth buying depends heavily on its condition and price. A well-maintained, rust-free example, preferably with the 5.3L V8 and a clean maintenance history, would be the most desirable. Avoid trucks with significant rust or signs of neglect. Given its age, buying from a private seller who can provide detailed maintenance records is often preferable. It's not a modern vehicle with advanced tech, but a solid, dependable truck for the right price.
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.