2002 GMC Sierra recalls and problems
The 2002 GMC Sierra has 4 safety recalls and 249 owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Recall repairs are free at any GMC dealer.
Recalls may cover only some 2002 GMC Sierra vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.
2002 GMC Sierra recalls
Recall 05V-379: Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Problem: Certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles may experience unwanted antilock brake system (Abs) activation. This condition is more likely to occur in environmentally corrosive areas. This recall will be launched in the "salt belt" states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maryland, massachusetts, maine, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin and the district of columbia only.
Risk: This can cause increased stopping distances during low-speed brake applications, which could result in a crash.
Fix: Dealers are to remove the wheel speed sensor and thoroughly clean the wheel speed sensor mounting surface on the bearing, apply rust inhibitor to the cleaned surface, grease the mounting surface, reinstall the wheel speed sensor, and check the peak-to-peak output voltage to ensure the wheel speed signal is within specifications. The recall began september 22, 2005. Owners may contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or gmc at 1-866-996-9463.
Recall 05V-161: Parking Brake
Problem: On certain pickup trucks equipped with manual transmissions and built with either pbr parking brake systems or trw parking brake systems, the parking brake friction linings may wear to an extent where the parking brake can become ineffective in immobilizing a parked vehicle.
Risk: If the parking brake does not hold, unintended vehicle movement could occur, which could result in a crash.
Fix: Dealers will install a low-force spring clip retainer for vehicles equipped with a pbr parking brake system. On vehicles equipped with the trw parking brake system, dealers will install a redesigned parking brake cable assembly. The recall began on july 29, 2005. Owners may contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or gmc at 1-866-996-9463.
Recall 04V-129: Structure
Problem: On certain pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, the galvanized steel tailgate support cables that retain the tailgate in the full open (Horizontal) position may corrode, weaken, and eventually fracture. If both cables fractured, the tailgate would suddenly drop and strike the top surface of the rear bumper.
Risk: Anyone sitting or standing on the horizontal surface of the tailgate when both cables fractured could be injured by falling from the tailgate. On vehicles that have had the bumper removed, the tailgate may drop even lower. Additionally, if there is cargo on the tailgate the cargo may fall off if the support cables fracture.
Fix: Dealers will replace the cables. Interim owner notification began on april 7, 20004. The recall began on september 24, 2004, when replacement parts were available, and will continue through october 29, 2004. Owners should contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or gmc at 1-866-996-9463, or visit www.mygmlink.com, and enter your vehicle identification number.
Recall 03V-435: Fuel System, Other
Problem: Some 2wd and 4WD pickup trucks, converted to either dedicated or bi-fuel compressed natural gas (Cng) fuel usage, were assembled with a throttle cable that can contact and rub through the flexible pressurized fuel line creating a pinhole leak of natural gas to the atmosphere.
Risk: A strong odor of natural gas may be detected from inside the vehicle, possibly accompanied by a hissing noise. If the natural gas were accidentally ignited, serious injury could result.
Fix: Dealers will secure the throttle cable to eliminate the possibility of contact with the CNG fuel line. The CNG fuel line, throttle cable, and cruise control cable are also to be inspected and replaced if necessary. Owner notification began on december 11, 2003. Owners should contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or gmc at 1-866-996-9463.
2002 GMC Sierra problems reported by owners
| Problem area | Reports | |
|---|---|---|
| Service Brakes, Hydraulic | 100 | |
| Service Brakes | 31 | |
| Engine and Engine Cooling | 22 | |
| Structure | 18 | |
| Power Train | 18 | |
| Parking Brake | 17 | |
| Suspension | 12 | |
| Steering | 12 | |
| Tires | 11 | |
| Visibility | 6 | |
| Electrical System | 6 | |
| Seat Belts | 4 |
Most reported parts
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 45
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor — 16
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine — 9
- Power Train › Automatic Transmission — 8
- Structure › Body › Tailgate › Hinge and Attachments — 7
- Engine and Engine Cooling › Engine › Gasoline — 6
- Suspension › Rear — 3
- Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Pads — 3
Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 40,490 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 2002 GMC Sierra complaints
Owner reports filed with NHTSA, as written (personal details removed). Complaints are not verified by NHTSA.
Other GMC Sierra years
Frequently asked questions
Does the 2002 GMC Sierra have any recalls?
Yes — NHTSA lists 4 recalls for the 2002 GMC Sierra: 05V-379 (service brakes, hydraulic), 05V-161 (parking brake), 04V-129 (structure), 03V-435 (fuel system, other). Not every vehicle is affected, so check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 GMC Sierra?
Owners report service brakes, hydraulic problems most often (100 reports), followed by service brakes (31). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 40,490 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.