The Good
The 2012 Sierra 1500 offers a range of powerful engines for solid performance and towing capacity, appealing to practical buyers. Known for relative reliability compared to some competitors. Higher trims provide a comfortable ride and upscale interior. Its classic truck design is a visually appealing and emotionally satisfying choice. Decent value for the capabilities provided.
The Bad
The 2012 Sierra 1500 can suffer from the "Chevy shake," a vibration issue at highway speeds. Fuel economy, especially with the larger engines, is not its strong suit. Some owners report issues with the AFM (Active Fuel Management) system. Watch for rust, especially in areas with road salt. Interior plastics in lower trims can feel cheap.
2012 GMC Sierra 1500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.3L V6: Approximately 195 hp
- 4.8L V8: Approximately 302 hp
- 5.3L V8: Approximately 315 hp (iron block) or 326 hp (aluminum block)
- 6.2L V8: Approximately 403 hp
- Horsepower: Ranging from 195 hp to 403 hp depending on engine.
- Fuel Economy: Varies significantly by engine and drivetrain. Expect 15-20 mpg combined for V8s, potentially better with the V6.
- 0-60 Times: The 6.2L V8 could achieve 0-60 mph in around 6.5 seconds. Lower trims with smaller engines will be noticeably slower.
- Towing Capacity: Ranging from 5,000 lbs to over 10,000 lbs depending on engine, cab configuration, and options.
- Trim Level Features:
- Work Truck: Basic vinyl seating, AM/FM radio, manual windows and locks.
- SL: Adds cloth upholstery, air conditioning, and power windows/locks.
- SLE: Includes alloy wheels, upgraded audio system, keyless entry.
- SLT: Leather seating, dual-zone climate control, premium audio.
- Denali: Top-of-the-line with unique styling, premium leather, heated seats, navigation.
- Transmissions: Primarily a 4-speed automatic on lower trims and a 6-speed automatic on higher trims and with larger engines.
2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2012 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Extended Cab 4WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | SILAO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2422.63 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 3175.14 kg |
| Overall Height | 187.2 cm |
| Overall Length | 584.71 cm |
| Overall Width | 203.2 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 364.49 cm |
| Standard Seating | 6 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.8-L V-8 |
| Engine Size | 4.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $35,200 USD |
| Invoice Price | $32,736 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $995 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
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Listings
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Have?
How long will the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) and IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) vary depending on the cab configuration. The NHTSA gave the 2012 Sierra 1500 Crew Cab a 4-star overall safety rating. The IIHS gave the Sierra 1500 a "Good" rating in the moderate overlap front crash test. Optional features include Bluetooth connectivity and a rearview camera system. More advanced features like lane departure warning or blind-spot monitoring were not available on the 2012 model. The infotainment system is relatively basic compared to modern trucks. The Denali trim offers premium features such as a Bose audio system and heated seats.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Prices and Market Value
2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Cost of Ownership
2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Fuel Efficiency
2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Recalls & Defects
Equipment
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
AIR Bags:frontal:passenger Side:inflator Module
2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
In terms of performance, the Sierra's engine options are competitive, but the F-150's EcoBoost engines offered a compelling combination of power and efficiency. Features were generally comparable across the board, although the F-150 often had more advanced tech options. Reliability is a mixed bag; the Tundra generally outperforms the Sierra, while the Ram has had some reliability concerns. Price-wise, the Sierra is typically in the middle of the pack.
Alternatives to consider include the Ford F-150 for better fuel economy and features or the Toyota Tundra for superior reliability. The Silverado 1500 is a very similar alternative, often available at a slightly lower price point.
Ranks #386 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0β ) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0β ) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0β ) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0β ) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0β ) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0β ) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0β ) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0β ) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0β ) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0β ) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0β ) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0β ) |
| 386 | 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 | (5.0β ) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 a Good Pickup Truck?
Dan on January 1, 2023
The paint on this truck is peeling for no reasonI love this truck but the paint is pealing off the front clip and roof for no reason. I take very good care of it but the paint will keep me from ever buying another gm
Fisherman on May 31, 2021
ComfortableBought this truck used,I love the comfort. I used to have a ranger.I can fit my plywood in the bed and close it.It is a long bed.My 12 foot jon boat fits good,.better than the ranger and more comfortable
Trucker 21 on February 1, 2021
First truckLots of room for someone that is 6 foot 5. Love It. Interior is perfect and it runs great. I'm glad I bought this vehicle
Teddy on November 24, 2020
Best truck Iβve ever had but needed A 3/4 tonI hate to get rid of this truck I just donβt need 2 trucks. I would like to keep this truck because of al the work I Have done to it trying to keep it in good shape
Jayjizel79 on September 2, 2020
Good truck if taken care of.The vehicle is a good vehicle, but u need to take care of them and stay on top of changing fluids! But they will run for a awhile!
JAEW on August 12, 2020
So far so goodThe truck runs great. preformed exactly how I need it to. Has everything I wanted except wireless/Bluetooth an back up camera. But all that can be installed later.
B Rad on March 29, 2020
Good truck if you do the right thingsThe best thing about this truck is the fuel economy. Bought brand new in 2012 and when the truck hit 35000KM the fuel economy improved. I had heard about that before but didn't believe it. Beware, these trucks are known for transmission shutter and shifting problems like every GM product ever. Do not flush the transmission ever. Pull the pan and replace the oil three times every 40 of 50 KM. It costs a bit but the tranny will shift much better and last. The door handles are garbage. They cost 25 bucks on Amazon. Changed two now. Changed washer fluid sensor. Front breaks and rotors are cheap. Replace with high end aftermarket when they go...and they will. Over 200 Km on this vehicle now. Motor is strong and the truck is still holding up well. I would give it a 5 if GM would get their transmission issues fixed one day. A little higher quality front end parts would put them over the top. Good ride, roomy and comfortable.
mis4mars on February 18, 2020
155k miles and still drives like brand newIt looks new. It drives like new. It smells like new. It is strong, tight, clean, and crisp. Flex-fuel. v8-v4 Bought it at BidcarsBoston.com Great experience.
Jess.kelso on December 8, 2019
The most terrible car in my lifeBroken the engine at 100.000 miles for No reason just drive normally and start whit fanny noise I take to mechanic and I have to pay 3800 to fixed
Shps on October 10, 2019
Perfect pickup for my needs.It's a great truck period. It has a short enough wheelbase to turn in a short radius, plenty of power, very comfortable. Been looking for this truck for a long time.