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2002 GMC Sonoma recalls and problems

There are no safety recalls for the 2002 GMC Sonoma, but owners have filed 57 complaints with NHTSA.

Recalls
0
Complaints
57
Crashes / fires
2 / 1
Injuries / deaths
2 / 0

Recalls may cover only some 2002 GMC Sonoma vehicles. Check your VIN at NHTSA ↗ to see open recalls for your exact car.

2002 GMC Sonoma problems reported by owners

Problem areaReports
Service Brakes, Hydraulic15
Structure13
Electrical System8
Engine and Engine Cooling5
Unknown or Other5
Exterior Lighting5
Latches/Locks/Linkages5
Power Train4
Fuel System, Gasoline3
Steering2
Service Brakes, Air2
Parking Brake2

Most reported parts

  • Structure › Body › Tailgate › Hinge and Attachments — 6
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip — 5
  • Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery — 2
  • Steering › Column — 2
  • Power Train › Transfer Case (4-Wheel Drive) — 2
  • Power Train › Clutch Assembly — 2
  • Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip › Abs Warning Light — 2
  • Exterior Lighting › Turn Signal › Switch — 2

Typical mileage at the time of the problem: 49,300 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 Sonoma complaints

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

Unknown or Other · reported Jul 30, 2025
During an oil change I noticed unusual wear on the front passenger side tire. Upon investigation my mechanic found that the chassis was cracked which pushed the tire causing it to rub. Very concerned this could have caused a very bad accident.
Structure · at 194,000 miles · reported Oct 14, 2015
The 3rd door on ext cab. The door does not open. Was told by dealer this is major complaints for these 3rd models. Have to replace pins or something, but it keeps happening. This a a life & death hazard & defect. Why hasn't this been recalled? In an accident, (Rear ended) the door could not be opened.
Structure · at 200,000 miles · reported May 4, 2015
The contact owns a 2002 gmc sonoma. While driving at approximately 25 MPH, the spare tire wire cable hoist assembly fray snapped and the spare tire fell onto the road. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 200,000.
Electrical System · at 72,000 miles · reported Jan 30, 2015
The contact owns a 2002 gmc sonoma. The contact stated that the ignition key disengaged from the ignition switch when in the on position. In addition, the contact stated that when the key was in the off position, the vehicle remained powered on. As a result, the battery became inoperable. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 72,000. Updated 03/30/15 updated 6/22/2015
Structure · at 92,000 miles · reported Dec 4, 2013
The contact owns a 2002 gmc sonoma. The contact stated that the driver's side interior extended cab door handle became fractured while the contact was attempting to exit the vehicle. The contact took the vehicle to the dealer and the defect was remedied. The contact stated the same door handle fractured a second time. The failure was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted. The failure mileage was 92,000.

Other GMC Sonoma years

20042003200220012000

Compare all GMC Sonoma years · All GMC models

Frequently asked questions

Does the 2002 GMC Sonoma have any recalls?

No. NHTSA has no safety recalls for the 2002 GMC Sonoma as of this update. Check your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls for the latest status.

What is the most common problem with the 2002 GMC Sonoma?

Owners report service brakes, hydraulic problems most often (15 reports), followed by structure (13). The typical mileage when problems were reported is about 49,300 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.