The Good
The 2021 Sierra 1500 boasts strong performance with multiple engine options. Practically, it offers impressive towing capacity and a comfortable ride. Emotionally, the Denali trim provides a luxurious experience, while the AT4 offers off-road capability. Reliability is generally good, and the design is both functional and stylish. Overall a well-rounded truck.
The Bad
Some owners have reported issues with the 8-speed and 10-speed automatic transmissions, experiencing rough shifting. The interior, while improved in higher trims, can feel dated in lower trims compared to rivals. Fuel economy, especially with larger engines, can be a concern. Watch out for potential electronic glitches and ensure proper maintenance history.
2021 GMC Sierra 1500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 2.7L Turbocharged I4: 310 hp, 348 lb-ft of torque
- 4.3L V6: 285 hp, 305 lb-ft of torque
- 5.3L V8: 355 hp, 383 lb-ft of torque (with/without Active Fuel Management)
- 6.2L V8: 420 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque
- 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel I6: 277 hp, 460 lb-ft of torque
- Horsepower: Ranging from 277 to 420 hp, depending on the engine.
- Fuel Economy (EPA Estimated):
- 2.7L Turbo: Up to 20 mpg city / 23 mpg highway
- 5.3L V8: Around 16 mpg city / 21 mpg highway (varies with AFM)
- 3.0L Diesel: Up to 23 mpg city / 30 mpg highway
- 0-60 Times:
- 6.2L V8: Approximately 5.4 - 6.0 seconds
- 3.0L Diesel: Around 7.0 - 7.5 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 11,800 lbs (depending on configuration and engine).
- Trim-Level Features:
- Sierra (Base): Standard safety features, basic infotainment.
- SLE: Upgraded infotainment, available convenience packages.
- Elevation: Black exterior accents, unique styling.
- SLT: Leather seats, advanced safety features, premium sound.
- AT4: Off-road suspension, skid plates, four-wheel drive.
- Denali: Premium leather, adaptive ride control, exclusive styling, advanced technology.
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2021 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Crew Cab 4WD |
| Type | Truck |
| Category | Standard Pickup Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Mexico |
| Manufacturing City | SILAO |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 3628.74 kg |
| Overall Height | 192.02 cm |
| Overall Length | 583.18 cm |
| Overall Width | 206.25 cm |
| Wheelbase Length | 354.58 cm |
| Standard Seating | 3 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.3-L V-8 |
| Engine Size | 5.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 6-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 6-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $31,295 USD |
| Invoice Price | $30,137 USD |
| Delivery Charges | $1,595 USD |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Have?
Recalls for the 2021 model have included issues related to potential fuel pump failures, which could lead to stalling. It's crucial to check the NHTSA website for any open recalls affecting a specific vehicle's VIN. Long-term reliability concerns primarily stem from the transmission issues. While some have been resolved with software updates, others require more extensive repairs. Rust can be a concern in regions with heavy salt usage during winter, so undercarriage inspections are recommended. Overall, while the 2021 Sierra 1500 is generally reliable, the transmission issues warrant careful consideration and inspection before purchase. Regular maintenance, especially transmission fluid changes, can help mitigate potential problems.
How long will the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 last?
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Optional tech features include a multi-color head-up display, a surround-view camera system, and the innovative MultiPro tailgate with six different configurations. For safety, the 2021 Sierra 1500 received good crash-test ratings from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety), though specific ratings vary depending on the cab configuration. The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) also provides safety ratings, typically awarding four or five stars overall. These ratings take into account frontal, side, and rollover crash tests. The Sierra's safety features and solid crash-test performance contribute to its appeal as a safe and reliable family vehicle and work truck.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Prices and Market Value
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Cost of Ownership
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Fuel Efficiency
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Safety Rating
NHTSA
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Recalls & Defects
Tires
Seat Belts
Seat Belts:critical Fasteners
Seat Belts
Seat Belts:critical Fasteners
Tires:temporary/Emergency Spare Tire
Power Train:automatic Transmission:control Module:software
Power Train:automatic Transmission:fluid/Lubricant:valves/Valve Body
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 Compare to Other Truck?
Price-wise, the Sierra is generally competitive. If reliability is a top priority, the Toyota Tundra might be a better alternative. For a more luxurious experience, the Ram 1500 is a strong contender. The Ford F-150 offers a wider range of configurations and innovative features. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. Considering the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 might be worthwhile due to it being similar while perhaps offering a better value.
Ranks #308 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★) |
| 308 | 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 | (5.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 a Good Truck?
Oleidy on September 27, 2024
No recomiendo a nadie comprar GMC Denali antes de 70000No recomiendo a nadie comprar GMC Denali antes de 70000 millas se daña el motor y antes de 80000 millas se daña las transmisión y el diferencial son pura belleza pero es un problema te cobran 14000 por el motor solo
Arvonia McWilliams on May 8, 2024
This truck has a jerk when changing gears sometimes.This truck has a jerk when changing gears sometimes. I enjoy the truck overall easy to handle and comfortable. Drive with ease sight is good when driving.
Mike on February 23, 2024
GMC 1500 2018Rims crack 8 speed automatic horrible ,motor oil pump ,on the 3 motor 5.3 fuel pump issues Tron body sensor issue oil pressure sensor seats bad o
Ernie on October 17, 2023
Brake Pad Monitor2021 GMC sierra 1500, 5.3, crew cab 4x4, 21000 miles. brakepad monitor lites up. dealership says needs brakes and rotors in back. one mo. on warranty. our rural roads dirty up the monitor. Needs new monitor. brakes look great to me. No noises. dealer says parts on order GM strike. Can't replace myself cause of computer...
W.S. on August 27, 2023
I would buy it again…Bought a 2021 (new in April 2021) GMC Sierra 1500 SLE with the 3.0 liter, 6 cylinder Duramax diesel engine. My truck is a 4 wheel drive so I get slightly less fuel (NOT gas) economy. I get between 22 and 24 MPG in the city and my best for highway was 33.7. I am pleased with the performance and tow capabilities. I like the look and styling. I got the SLE with the X31 package because I needed the bench seat since we are a family of 6. I would buy it again!
Bob King on May 14, 2023
Fun but not safeI paid a premium for my used 2021 because they were hard to find in my area. It was my first GMC. I loved the way the 6.2L engine performed, and still do. The problem is all of the “safety “ features. After two months of driving I had a list of thirteen different safety issues. Like the adaptive cruise control not slowing the truck as it approached other vehicles, automatic stop control slamming on the brakes on a turnpike with no vehicles around, etc. My dealer spent three days running down all thirteen issues. The result was twenty five pages of oddball reasons all the safety devices don’t work all the time. Nothing was actually found. I have been driving for three more months still dealing with the same issues. The reasoning used by GMC means you can’t trust the truck to help you out of unseen troubles. And that includes the automatic door locks not locking every time you park.
Mark on April 13, 2023
Early brake pad failure with normal useBrake pads needed to be replaced at just over 10,500 mi. Dealer said it was due to dirt roads and winter salt on the roads and that it was a common problem. First truck, btu neer had such problems on my Audi, Subaru, Volvos, Jeeps, and Toyotas. Brake pad replacement due to standard road conditions is not "Professional Grade" compared to other vehicles. Apparently brakes are a problem for GMC - look online at all of the recalls - and this is not covered under the warranty. Caveat Emptor!
NoMoreGM4me on January 22, 2023
Good looking truck, and that's about itHave the 3.0 with about 20k miles. First 6 months drove great, good MPG around 23 average. Now lucky to get 17, they have had to replace the NO2 cat converter, HVAC controls, door seals, updated radio software numerous times because the infotainment will sporadically shut off and go black. Bigger issues are the low gas mileage and it has slowly lost coolant since brand new. 2 years later and I have to fill coolant tank with about 20-30 ounces every couple months. The Def fluid usage is all over the place, sometimes use 2.5gal in less than 1,000 miles, other times get over a couple thousand. Have been to 3 dealerships, say nothing is wrong with it because no check engine codes. Now in contact with GM through BBB autoline, but that is a mess. Stay away from the 3.0 would be my recommendation, and maybe GM altogether. A lifelong GM customer and fan no more, this will be the last one I ever own.
Kevin on January 18, 2023
2021 gmc sierra, nothing but headaches.2021 sierra, truck only has 5800 miles on it. Been to the dealer twice for repairs. First time it took them 3 tries to fix it. It still wasn't fixed. Took it to another dealership. Took them a month to fix it. Drove it home then to work the next day. While returning home that day check engine light came on. Back to the dealership it went. Now it's a different problem. I have driven the truck maybe 200 miles in 4 months. The rest of the time it's been at a dealership either waiting on parts or for someone to have the time to fix it. I just sold it to the dealership where it is, waiting to be fixed. I'm done with GM vehicles.
AnneMarie Wilson on January 5, 2023
Looking for Recall on TransmissionIm very concerned because the vehicle has barely 20,000 miles on it and it is having transmission issues. I have heard from other vehicle owners that they are having issues as well. I was looking for a recall but apparently GM hasn't done that yet!