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2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.38
Based on 12 Owner Reviews â–¶
Drew B | March 31, 2025
The 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck, part of the first generation of the Sierra line introduced in 1999. It's available in regular, extended, and crew cab body styles. Key trims include the base, SLE, and SLT. New, prices ranged roughly from $25,000 to $35,000 depending on configuration. The Sierra 2500's ruggedness and towing capabilities make it a popular choice for work and recreational use, offering a blend of capability and relative comfort for a heavy-duty truck of its era.
The Good

The 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 boasts robust performance from its engine options, and a reputation for reliability that many truck owners appreciate. It offers a comfortable-enough ride for a heavy-duty pickup, and its classic design is still appealing. It delivers a strong value proposition for those seeking a capable and dependable work truck. Emotional buyers may appreciate its strong presence and off-road capabilities.

The Bad

Potential weaknesses of the 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 include potential rust issues, especially in colder climates where salt is used on roads. Watch out for transmission problems, particularly with the 4L80E automatic. Other areas of concern are the fuel pump, and the electrical system, especially related to the instrument cluster. Suspension components may also require attention due to wear and tear.

2003 GMC Sierra 2500: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options:
    • 6.0L Vortec V8: A gasoline engine producing around 300 horsepower.
    • 8.1L Vortec V8: A larger gasoline engine producing around 340 horsepower.
    • 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8: A diesel engine producing around 300 horsepower and 520 lb-ft of torque.
  • Horsepower: Ranging from 300 to 340 depending on the engine. The Duramax diesel had similar horsepower, but much higher torque.
  • Fuel Economy: Typically, the gasoline engines averaged around 12-15 MPG combined, while the Duramax diesel could achieve 15-18 MPG.
  • 0-60 Times: Varies significantly based on engine and drivetrain, but expect gas engines in the 8-9 second range, potentially longer with a heavy load. The diesel variant, while not as quick off the line, offered superior low-end torque.
  • Towing Capacity: Depending on configuration (engine, cab, and axle ratio), towing capacity ranged from approximately 8,000 to 12,000+ lbs. The Duramax diesel offered the highest towing capabilities.
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base: Included basic features like vinyl seats, AM/FM radio, and manual windows/locks.
    • SLE: Added features like cloth seats, power windows/locks, cruise control, and upgraded audio.
    • SLT: Included leather seats, dual-zone climate control, premium audio system, and other comfort and convenience features.

2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2003
Make GMC
Model Sierra 2500
Trim -
Style 2WD
Type Pickup Truck
Category Standard Pickup Truck
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City ROANOKE
Dimensions
Doors 2-Door
Curb Weight 4977 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 8600 pounds
Overall Height 74.20 inches
Overall Length 222.10 inches
Overall Width 78.50 inches
Wheelbase Length 133.00 inches
Standard Seating 3
Engine & Performance
Engine 6.0-L V-8 OHV 16V
Engine Size 6L
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 Recirculating
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $24,150
Invoice Price $21,131
Delivery Charges $815

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What Problems Does the 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Have?

The 2003 GMC Sierra 2500, like many vehicles of its age, has some frequently reported problems. Rust is a significant concern, especially in areas with road salt. This often affects the body panels, undercarriage, and brake lines. Transmission issues, particularly with the 4L80E automatic transmission, are another common complaint, sometimes requiring costly repairs or replacements. Fuel pump failures are also reported, leading to stalling or starting problems.
Electrical issues, such as problems with the instrument cluster, are also frequently noted. Some owners have reported issues with the climate control system and the four-wheel-drive system. The Duramax diesel engine, while generally reliable, can experience injector issues and high-pressure fuel pump failures, especially as it ages.
Recalls for this model year have addressed issues such as potential fuel leakage from the fuel tank filler pipe, which could increase the risk of a fire. Owners should check the NHTSA website to verify if their specific VIN is affected by any outstanding recalls. Long-term reliability concerns center around wear and tear on suspension components, ball joints, and steering linkages, common in heavy-duty trucks that see frequent use. Addressing these issues with timely maintenance is critical for long-term ownership satisfaction.

How long will the 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 last?

With proper maintenance, a 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 can easily exceed 200,000 miles, potentially reaching 300,000 or more. Years of service can extend beyond 20 years with consistent care. However, longevity heavily depends on maintenance habits. Neglecting oil changes, transmission services, or ignoring warning signs will significantly shorten its lifespan. Long-term weaknesses include rust, especially in colder climates, wear on suspension components (ball joints, tie rod ends), and potential transmission issues. Electrical gremlins can also become more prevalent as the vehicle ages. Addressing these proactively is essential for preserving its durability.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 features relatively basic tech and entertainment options compared to modern vehicles. Standard features typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player or optional CD player. Higher trims like the SLT offered upgraded audio systems. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems available in this model year. Safety features included standard front airbags and antilock brakes (ABS). Optional features varied by trim and could include items like OnStar communication system (subscription required), power-adjustable seats, and remote keyless entry.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) varied depending on the cab configuration. Regular and extended cab models generally received decent ratings for frontal crash protection, but side-impact protection was not as thoroughly tested. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) may have conducted limited testing on this generation of Sierra. It's important to note that safety technology has advanced significantly since 2003, so while the Sierra 2500 met safety standards at the time, it lacks modern features like electronic stability control, side curtain airbags, and advanced collision avoidance systems. Optional features such as fog lamps and heated mirrors were available to enhance visibility in adverse weather conditions.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Summit White
Onyx Black
Silver Birch Metallic
Dark Gray Metallic
Pewter Metallic
Arrival Blue Metallic
Dark Carmine Red Metallic
Light Autumnwood Metallic
Interior Colors
Sand Beige
Graphite

2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 ranged in price from approximately $25,000 to $35,000, depending on the trim level, cab configuration, and engine options. Current used market prices typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on condition, mileage, and location. Depreciation has been significant, as expected for a vehicle of this age. Factors affecting resale value include overall condition (rust, dents, interior wear), mileage, engine type (Duramax diesels command a premium), and maintenance history. Trucks with well-documented maintenance and low mileage tend to fetch higher prices. The demand for reliable work trucks also influences resale value.

2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Cost of Ownership

The 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 is generally considered moderately costly to own. Insurance premiums can be moderate, depending on driving record and coverage levels. Fuel economy is poor, particularly with the gasoline engines. Maintenance costs can be significant, especially as the truck ages, with potential repairs to the transmission, fuel system, and suspension. Rust repair can also add to long-term costs. While mechanically sound when properly maintained, the Sierra 2500's age means increased likelihood of repairs. Budgeting for these potential expenses is essential.

2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 34.00 gallons
City Mileage -
Highway Mileage -

2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Not Tested
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Recalls & Defects

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.
Steering
Recall date 2006-02-01
Recall no. 06e010000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Fabtech Aftermarket Replacement Pitman Arms, P/Nos. Fts71000 and Fts71001, Installed FOR USE ON Certain 2001-2006 GM C/K 2500 Pick UP Trucks and Sport Utility Vehicles. THE PIN Located Inside THE Pitman ARM CAN Shear OFF DUE TO A Reverse Bending Fatigue Condition, Resulting IN A Total Loss OF Steering Control.
Consequence Loss OF Steering Control Could Lead TO A Vehicle Crash With Potential Injury or Death.
Remedy Fabtech Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Pitman and Idler Arms Free OF Charge. THE Recall IS Expected TO Begin During February 2006. Owners MAY Contact Fabtech AT 909-597-7800.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Fabtech Replacement Pitman Arms and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON C/K 2500 Pick Ups, Suvs, and Hummer H2 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.
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.

2003 GMC Sierra 2500 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

2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Insurance

Insurance for a 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?

The 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 competed with trucks like the Ford F-250, Dodge Ram 2500, and Chevrolet Silverado 2500 (essentially the same truck as the Sierra). In terms of performance, the Sierra offered competitive engine options, particularly the Duramax diesel, which was well-regarded. Feature-wise, it was similar to its rivals, with basic amenities in lower trims and more luxurious options in higher trims. Reliability is comparable across these brands, with each having potential issues common to heavy-duty trucks of that era. Price-wise, the Sierra was generally in line with its competitors when new and remains competitively priced on the used market.
Alternatives to the 2003 Sierra 2500 include the Ford F-250, which offered a similar range of engines and features. The Dodge Ram 2500, known for its rugged styling, is another option. The Chevrolet Silverado 2500, being mechanically identical to the Sierra, offers similar performance and reliability. Whether one is "better" depends on individual preferences and specific needs. If diesel power and towing capacity are priorities, a well-maintained Duramax-equipped Sierra or Silverado might be preferable. If interior comfort is a key concern, the Ford F-250 might be worth considering. Given their age, careful inspection and a thorough understanding of their maintenance history are crucial when considering any of these trucks.

Ranks #453 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★)
453 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 a Good Pickup Truck?

The 2003 GMC Sierra 2500 is ideal for someone needing a capable and relatively affordable heavy-duty truck for work or recreational purposes. It's worth buying if you're aware of its potential weaknesses and are prepared to address them. It is strictly a used purchase at this point. Look for well-maintained examples with documented service history, paying particular attention to rust, transmission health, and engine condition. The Duramax diesel is desirable for its towing power, but comes with potentially higher maintenance costs. Lower trims are suitable for basic work needs, while higher trims offer more comfort features. Thoroughly inspect any potential purchase before committing.

2003 GMC Sierra 2500 Owner Reviews

4.38
Consumer Rating, Based on 12 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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George on April 24, 2021

Never again

I owned a 2003 GMC SLT crew cab 4x4 6.0. The truck was purchased mainly for towing a small cargo trailer and hauling a truck camper. Things that broke down were; dash gauges, tow haul switch, transfer case x2, windshield wiper arms, valve spring seats, exhaust manifold bolts, tail gate release and handle, axle bearings x2, front driver side CV axle, flaking dash paint, flaking body paint, continuous burnt out driving light bulbs. That was in a 4 year span and 50,000 miles.

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Jay on May 23, 2019

It's a Duramax, runs great.

Great truck, plenty of power, not too big. I use it for commuting to work and also for work. great for towing. Interior is creature friendly and can hold 6 people.

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cole on January 28, 2019

Best pick up out there!

This truck Hauls trailers like its job! strong running motor at 190k! the 6.0 is strong and perfect! bad gas mileage but ill take it! Cheap Reliable pick up truck

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Excellent on March 6, 2018

Really nice driving comfort

I drove this car for about 60 miles and I already loved it. It?s really comfortable to drive I had to sell it though because I?ve got the same model but a newer year.

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lnghnry on June 17, 2017

vary dependable, over 300000 miles now

Bought band new, wish they still offered the 8.1 l motor, I would not hesitate to buy same truck again

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Pete on December 9, 2014

Unbelievable problems

I have a 2003 GMC 2500HD SLE rwd. Worst truck I have ever owned. So many electrical problems and everything on the truck either is breaking or broke. IE wind clips and motors done, tail gate done, mirror defrost done, rear window defrost done, keyless entry done. I have had to put in a new mass air flow sensor, heating sensor, throttle positioning sensor, abs system, all brake lines, wheel bearings. Plus the truck goes into reduced engine power 2 to 3 times a day even after dumping almost 6000$ to all these sensor repairs and plugs/wires. I am so disappointed in this truck and will never buy a GM again.

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Eric on July 6, 2008

great truck for work or play

i have a gmc sierra 2500 hd and i am in love one of the best trucks out there hands down. I would never get rid of this truck if you are not sure then test drive one great hp , tourq and comfort, gas is not to bad for having one big v8

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George on April 24, 2021

Never again

I owned a 2003 GMC SLT crew cab 4x4 6.0. The truck was purchased mainly for towing a small cargo trailer and hauling a truck camper. Things that broke down were; dash gauges, tow haul switch, transfer case x2, windshield wiper arms, valve spring seats, exhaust manifold bolts, tail gate release and handle, axle bearings x2, front driver side CV axle, flaking dash paint, flaking body paint, continuous burnt out driving light bulbs. That was in a 4 year span and 50,000 miles.

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Jay on May 23, 2019

It's a Duramax, runs great.

Great truck, plenty of power, not too big. I use it for commuting to work and also for work. great for towing. Interior is creature friendly and can hold 6 people.

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1
0

cole on January 28, 2019

Best pick up out there!

This truck Hauls trailers like its job! strong running motor at 190k! the 6.0 is strong and perfect! bad gas mileage but ill take it! Cheap Reliable pick up truck

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Drew B

Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma