2003 GMC Sierra 1500 recalls and problems

The 2003 GMC Sierra 1500 has 1 safety recall and 180 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any GMC dealer.

Recalls
1
Complaints
180
Crashes / fires
13 / 4
Injuries / deaths
9 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2003 GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2003 GMC Sierra 1500 recalls

Recall 04V-562: Equipment Adaptive/Mobility

Reported Nov 26, 2004 · 1,660 vehicles affected · MOBILITY WORKS

Problem: On certain vans equipped with sure-lok wheelchair securement systems, the sprocket teeth of the retractor assembly is out of alignment.

Risk: In the event of a vehicle crash, the wheelchair may not be adequately secured possibly resulting in injuries to a wheelchair occupant.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the wheelchair securement retractors as necessary. Sure-lok will handle the repairs for this campaign. Owners should contact sure-lock at 1-908-231-1804 or mobilityworks at 1-800-769-8267.

2003 GMC Sierra 1500 problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Service Brakes55
Service Brakes, Hydraulic50
Electrical System43
Steering15
Air Bags7
Power Train7
Fuel System, Gasoline5
Visibility4
Structure4
Engine and Engine Cooling3
Engine3
Unknown or Other2

Most reported parts

  • Electrical System › Instrument Cluster/Panel — 32
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 11
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings — 5
  • Steering › Gear Box › Shaft Sector — 3
  • Air Bags › Frontal — 2
  • Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 2
  • Structure › Frame and Members — 2
  • Structure › Body — 2

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 75,000 miles (median of owner reports).

Problems that are not covered by a recall are paid repairs; labor rates follow local mechanic pay — see what auto mechanics earn in each state.

Recent 2003 GMC Sierra 1500 complaints

Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.

Electrical System · reported Jun 11, 2023
An accident has not occurred yet, but it something I'm concerned deeply about. Awhile back there was a recall on the instrument cluster of the gmc Sierra 1500 (possibly othets on the list, im sure). I did wind up having the cluster replaced, there didn't seem to be any issues at the time. Now...the replacement cluster has gone haywire. I notice no issues with operations at this time. But the cluster doesn't register certain things or it fluctuates on and off, or doesn't read correctly at all. Is it possible that the replacement could have been bad as well?
Service Brakes · at 76,000 miles · reported Feb 2, 2019
76000 miles; issue ongoing beginning in november 2018 on dry pavement at low speed (Under 10 MPH) braking is compromised by ABS system engagement issue. Below 10 MPH, the ABS system engages causing dry pavement braking to be double or triple the normal distance to stop prior to the ABS issue. This is a safety issue since ABS system pulsing of the brakes at slow speeds on dry pavement is unexpected. At a stop sign/crosswalk, this has caused a very close encounter. Vehicle has less than 80000 miles and has been serviced routinely by a certified mechanic. Replacement/service of ABS speed sensors…
Service Brakes · at 203,000 miles · reported Jul 8, 2018
While driving approximately 35 MPH in town, the vehicle in front of me signaled to make a left hand turn. I began to slow down the vehicle and then I lost all brake pressure. I was unable to stop the truck to avoid an accident due to complete brake failure! There were no previous lights or warning signals notifying of a brake problem prior to this. The warning light came on after the accident. The brake fluid reservoir was full. After further investigation, it appears that the brake lines were corroded causing the brake failure.
Service Brakes · at 127,600 miles · reported Jun 5, 2018
The contact owns a 2003 gmc sierra 1500. While driving approximately 15 MPH in a parking lot, the contact slammed on the brake pedal to avoid another vehicle that abruptly pulled in front of his vehicle. The brake pedal traveled to the floor without stopping the vehicle immediately. There were no warning indicators illuminated. The dealer was not called; however, the contact spoke to a technician who stated that he could repair the failure by cutting out the rotted section of the brake line and replacing it with a new section. The failure was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was…
Service Brakes · at 82,000 miles · reported Apr 30, 2018
Loss of brakes due to rusted through brake lines. While pulling a trailer with pontoon boat, all of a sudden when stopping I suddenly had no brakes. Just came off the freeway but was going slow when the failure occurred. Need to replace now. Also, rusted through power steering lines. Already replaced. Also, rusted trans cooler lines. Will need to replace soon.

Other GMC Sierra 1500 years

Compare all GMC Sierra 1500 years · All GMC models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2003 GMC Sierra 1500 have any recalls?

Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2003 GMC Sierra 1500: 04V-562 (equipment adaptive/mobility). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.

What is the most common problem with the 2003 GMC Sierra 1500?

Owners report service brakes problems most often (55 reports), followed by service brakes, hydraulic (50). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 75,000 miles.

Are GMC recall repairs free?

Yes. Safety recall repairs are free at authorized GMC dealers, whether you are the first owner or bought the car used.