Everything You Need to Know About the Used GMC Sierra 1500 Trucks

Built by General Motors since 1988, the Sierra 1500 is sometimes mistaken for the Chevy Silverado 1500. The two trucks have a lot of things in common, including being built on the same chassis and include many of the same features. However, the Sierra 1500 is its own model and stands out from the Silverado by offering a higher level of comfort and style. If you have been thinking about purchasing a used GMC truck, then a used Sierra 1500 is a great model to cut your teeth on. Affordable and loaded with features that you actually want, you can tackle all of the hard jobs with one of these beasts. So, let’s explore the history of the Sierra 1500, walking through the different generations of used models so that you know what you can expect when you visit our dealership.

Second Generation

While the first-generation Sierra 1500 was a great truck for its day, even the newest first-generation models are now over 20 years old and are an increasingly rare sight in even our large inventory of used GMC trucks. That is why we will instead be starting our overview with the second-generation model, which was introduced in 1999. Although these trucks also are on the older side and lack the modern tech features you will find in a newer used truck, they still drive like a modern truck and have all the capability you need to get the job done. Available with a regular, extended, or crew cab with three different bed lengths to choose from, there is a second-generation Sierra configuration for virtually any driver. Whether you need something that can double as a family car or are looking for a long-bed work truck, the Sierra 1500 can meet your needs.

As for the powertrains, you will notice that there are three options available throughout the first generation, although the exact power outputs varied slightly depending on the model year. The standard 4.3-liter Vortec V6 is the most common option and puts out around 195-200 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. The second most common powertrain that you will come across is the 4.8-liter Vortec V8. This engine option started out at 255 hp and 285 lb-ft of torque for the 1999 model year, gradually increasing in output up to 285 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque for the 2004 and later models.

The third powertrain option is the 5.3-liter Vortec V8. This engine also saw a noticeable increase in output, ramping up from 270 hp and 315 lb-ft of torque in 1999 to 310 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque in 2005. However, while GMC continually improves its vehicles and engines over time, it is generally not worth worrying too much about relatively small changes in horsepower and torque. Instead, focus on finding the used GMC truck with the features and capabilities that you need.

Third Generation

The improved third-generation trucks hit the market in 2007, with production finally ending in 2013. These models make up the bulk of the used GMC trucks that you will find at any dealer and represent the sweet spot for both cost and features. This generation is easily distinguished by its unique single-piece stacked headlights, which give it something of a retro-modern look. The best options from this generation are the refreshed 2009 model year and later. Not only do these trucks offer an improved six-speed automatic transmission, but high-tech equipment was also beginning to show up at this time. Bluetooth connectivity became standard on many trims, and there is even an available navigation system.

Let’s discuss the powertrain options from the second generation of used GMC Sierra 1500 models. The 4.3-liter Vortec V6 carried over from the previous generation with the same 195 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. While this is an affordable and reliable option, it is a little underpowered compared to modern trucks. A 4.8-liter Vortec V8 is also available again, although the third-generation 4.8-liter makes more power, delivering 295-302 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque depending on the model year. The final engine shared with the second-generation Sierra is a 5.3-liter Vortec V8, pushing out 315 hp and 338 lb-ft of torque.

But if you want even more power, then the third-generation trucks also have the option of either a 6.0-liter or 6.2-liter Vortec V8. The 6.0-liter is available on trucks from 2007 to 2009 and produces 367 hp and 375 lb-ft of torque. It was then replaced by the 6.2-liter for 2009 to 2013, with the top-of-the-line engine delivering 403 hp and 417 lb-ft of torque. These large V8 engine options give the third-generation trucks a significant advantage over the older used GMC models if you need a bit more muscle in your vehicle.

Fourth Generation

Used GMC Sierra 1500 pickups from 2014 until 2019 make up the fourth generation. These are the models we highly recommend when you are shopping for a pre-owned truck and are interested in getting more modern features. While the third generation had some basic connectivity and available navigation, the fourth generation introduced a modern infotainment system housed on an eight-inch central touchscreen. This goes a long way towards giving you an up-to-date driving experience and allows you to stay connected on the road. If you look for a used Sierra from 2016 or later, you can even enjoy the convenience of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to integrate your smartphone with the truck’s infotainment system for seamless media playback and navigation.

GMC also updated the powertrains, replacing the older Vortec designs with its more efficient and powerful Ecotec family. It also simplified the lineup, giving you three options to look out for on the used market. The first and most common engine is a 4.3-liter Ecotec V6 that generates 285 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque. While this engine is the same displacement as the old 4.3-liter Vortec V6, it generates the same amount of power as the 4.8-liter Vortec V8, making it a solid option for any truck owner.

The second engine you will find is a 5.3-liter Ecotec V8. While the power improvements are not as dramatic as with the 4.3-liter, it does push out 355 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. That makes it roughly equivalent to the old 6.0-liter Vortec. From 2016 until 2018, this powertrain was also offered with eAssist, further improving fuel economy and low-end torque. Finally, the most powerful motor in the third-generation lineup is the 6.2-liter Ecotec V8. Pumping out 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque, this is the most robust engine option in the history of the GMC Sierra 1500 and continues to be the top engine even on the brand-new 2021 model.

Find a Used GMC Sierra 1500

Here at Rick Hendrick GMC Duluth, we offer the best selection of used GMC trucks in the area. If you are looking for a used GMC Sierra 1500, you can count on finding a high-quality example here on our lot. Every vehicle that we sell is checked over by our skilled technicians and is ready to provide you with years of reliable service. But keep in mind that our pre-owned inventory changes daily – if there is a particular model in our inventory that has caught our eye, contact us right now!