The Good
The 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 offers strong performance with its engine options, a comfortable and refined ride, and a handsome design. Its reliability is generally good. For practical buyers, it boasts impressive towing capacity and payload. Emotionally, the Sierra provides a sense of capability and a touch of luxury, especially in higher trims. Its fuel efficiency is competitive for its class.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses of the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 include reported issues with the 8-speed automatic transmission, particularly rough shifting. Some owners have reported problems with the infotainment system and potential oil consumption in certain engines. Watch out for rust, especially in areas with harsh winters, and inspect the suspension for wear.
2016 GMC Sierra 1500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.3L V6: 285 horsepower, 305 lb-ft of torque
- 5.3L V8: 355 horsepower, 383 lb-ft of torque
- 6.2L V8: 420 horsepower, 460 lb-ft of torque
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 4.3L V6: 18 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
- 5.3L V8: 16 mpg city / 23 mpg highway (2WD)
- 6.2L V8: 15 mpg city / 21 mpg highway (2WD)
- Note: Fuel economy varies based on configuration (2WD/4WD) and driving habits.
- 0-60 Times (Approximate):
- 5.3L V8: Around 5.9-6.2 seconds
- 6.2L V8: Around 5.5-5.8 seconds
- Towing Capacity (Maximum):
- Up to 12,000 lbs (when properly equipped, varies by configuration)
- Trim Level Features:
- Sierra (Base): Vinyl or cloth seats, basic infotainment, steel wheels.
- SLE: Upgraded cloth seats, alloy wheels, touchscreen infotainment, rearview camera.
- SLT: Leather seats, dual-zone climate control, premium audio system, chrome exterior accents.
- Denali: Premium leather seats, adaptive suspension, unique exterior styling, advanced safety features.
- All trims offer various options packages to add features like navigation, advanced safety systems, and off-road capabilities.
2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2016 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Long Box 2WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | SILAO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 2142.32 kg |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 3039.07 kg |
| Overall Height | 186.69 cm |
| Overall Length | 569.98 cm |
| Overall Width | 203.2 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 337.82 cm |
| Standard Seating | 3 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.3-L V-6 OHV 12V |
| Engine Size | 4.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $34,095 USD |
| Invoice Price | $31,708 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $1,195 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
Check
Check
Check
Check
Listings
Recalls
Check
Analysis
What Problems Does the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Have?
How long will the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) gave the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab a 5-star overall safety rating. The IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) gave the Sierra 1500 Good ratings in several crash tests but Marginal in the small overlap front test. Higher trims often include additional safety features like automatic emergency braking. Base models have fewer tech and safety features than higher trims. Adaptive cruise control was available on higher trim levels. Remember that specific feature availability depends on the trim level and optional packages chosen.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Prices and Market Value
2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Cost of Ownership
2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Fuel Efficiency
2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Safety Rating
IIHS
2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Recalls & Defects
Suspension:front:control ARM
AIR Bags:frontal
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Seat Belts:pretensioner
AIR Bags:frontal
AIR Bags:frontal:sensor/Control Module-Inactive
Seat Belts:pretensioner
AIR Bags:side/Window:curtain:inflator
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:power Assist:vacuum
Electronic Stability Control (Esc)
Service Brakes, Hydraulic:antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip:wheel Speed Sensor
Service Brakes
AIR Bags:side/Window:curtain:inflator
2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
In terms of performance, the Sierra's engine options are competitive, but the 8-speed transmission can be a weak point compared to the rivals' transmissions. Feature-wise, the Sierra offers a good balance, especially in higher trims, though the F-150 may offer more advanced technology. While the Tundra is legendary for reliability, the Sierra's reliability is generally good but with potential transmission issues.
If reliability is your top priority, the Toyota Tundra might be a better choice. If you want the most advanced technology and fuel efficiency, the Ford F-150 is a strong contender. The Ram 1500 offers a more comfortable ride. The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a similar alternative if you're looking to save some money.
Ranks #356 Truck
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Tundra | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2022 Honda Ridgeline | (5.0★) |
| 3 | 2023 Ford E-Transit Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 4 | 2020 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Cab Chassis | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500HD | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Hyundai Santa Cruz | (5.0★) |
| 7 | 2023 Nissan Frontier | (5.0★) |
| 8 | 2024 GMC Sierra 2500HD | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram 4500 | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2022 Jeep Gladiator | (5.0★) |
| 11 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | (0.0★) |
| 12 | 2009 Mitsubishi Raider | (5.0★) |
| 356 | 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 a Good Pickup Truck?
Former GMC OWNER on May 1, 2024
Beautiful design , but the worst truck I’ve ever owned .Beautiful design , but the worst truck I’ve ever owned . First collapsed lifter from the crappy cylinder delete system and then needed a new transmission. All this with 68k miles!!!! xxx!!!!?? My 2005 had 300k and was still running strong. Traded in my 2016 for a tundra!
Lynn Morgan on August 13, 2023
TRANSMISSION SUCKS!!!!!I love our truck. The transmission i do not love. We had to spend 5600.00 on a new transmission We didn't even have 80,000 miles on our truck we also had an extended warranty but not two months after this run out the transmission went out. I believe according to other reviews I have read that GMC knew this transmission was trash and mass produce it anyway. i will therefore tell everyone that has one that they better watch out for the transmission. and even ask I will tell anyone not to buy this or anything GMC.
Teresa stapleton on December 2, 2022
TransmissionsWe have had our GNC 2016 Sierra 1500 for Less Than 3 years and we are going into our third transmission I think the transmission should have a recall on them
Cliff on August 8, 2022
My 2016 GMC Sierra 1500 SLT All Terrain - Love it!I've owned this GMC Sierra 1500 All Terrain since it was 8 months old. With the exception of two warranty issues (failing power brake vacuum pump and transmission electrical harness), I have been totally happy with this truck. Up until now, my 1996 Chevrolet K1500 Silverado with it's 5.7L Vortec engine was my favorite truck of all time, this GMC (5.3L LS engine, 8 speed automatice) has earned the top spot now of my all time favorite truck. It is comfortable to drive, and runs as good as the day I bought it over 5+ years ago. I've got 71.5K miles on it. My biggest issue is I wished it had the 6.2L engine for better towing capabilities. Other than that ... love this truck.
Benny on May 30, 2021
I've had the truck a month, and so far so good!It's exactly what I was looking for; used but not too used, low miles, good looking but not too many bells and whistles, and didn't need any work.
VanillaFace on December 12, 2020
Big and BeautifulI am a big fan of cupholders, this will make or break a deal for me. It could use more, but has a sufficient amount for the normal person. Beautiful body style and comfy.
J.W.M. Sierra owner on November 24, 2020
awesome trucklove this truck, color, styling, fuel economy,comfort and how quiet it is. I have owned many general motors vehicles and I only had 1 major issue. That being my 2005 GMC SIERRA. Transmission went, covered by the warranty. The 2016 is by far my favorite. Love the truck!!!
Pissed off purchaser on September 17, 2020
I don't know how good of a truck it is I haven't hThe truck was great just the people I dealt with were idiots was lied to on the truck for six months and they still have not produced a title a bunch of incompetent idiots
TheRobotech on August 2, 2020
First Lifted truck I've ever ownedThe truck I hope meets my needs. Sharp looking and appeared well maintained by previous owner(s). After having it only three days I do hope the few details I've noticed, the dealer is able to address them as not petty and fix them to satisfaction. I hope to get many years out of it though approaching 50k on the odometer. So far, all satisfied.
Austin on July 13, 2020
Awesome truck for the moneyIts a 4 door, 4x4, decently powered, full sized truck at a good price! What more can you ask for? That and its really comfortable...for a truck that is.