Are GMC Trucks Reliable? [Debunking the Myth]
I am a serial entrepreneur and a consumer advocate. When I’m not helping car buyers, I love working on ventures that have a positive impact.
I run a cause marketing agency and serve on the board of Vayu Global Health where we are disrupting the medical industry and preventing the needless deaths of mothers and babies during childbirth.
Are GMC trucks reliable enough to handle everything you throw at them?
Yes, GMC trucks are some of the most reliable on the market, with a JD Power reliability rating of 84 out of 100 and a RepairPal rating of 3 out of 5.
Comparing GMC to other SUVs and trucks, they’ve always lived up to their reputation. This includes handling off-road driving conditions and providing optimal functionality for light and heavy-duty trucks.
Let’s explore some of the major reasons why GMC trucks are reliable.
Table of Contents
Why GMC Trucks Are Considered Reliable?
Here are the five reasons why GMC trucks are considered reliable:
1. Overall Design
GMC trucks feature a rugged look. These trucks come with bold tires, big active grille structures that provide enhanced aerodynamics, and easy flow of air to the radiator.
The active grille fitting contributes to the truck’s fuel economy, retains engine heat, and reduces aerodynamic drag on the truck. The design across different GMC truck models will always differ, but they all pass the same message: “Master every task like a pro.”
GMC trucks come in four categories: light-duty trucks, heavy-duty trucks, mid-size trucks, and EV trucks. These four categories are designed to offer power and efficiency according to the driver’s needs.
This includes improved horsepower, towing capacity, reinforced tailgates, and a transparent trailer view for improved visibility. This is not without mentioning the new six-function MultiPro tailgate with advanced features that adapts to your needs.
GMC trucks have an amazing payload capacity. Compared to the most popular trucks in the market, GMC trucks are good at carrying heavy loads. You can always use a GMC truck to haul a fully loaded trailer. These trucks will always deliver.
2. Strength and Performance
When we talk about GMC’s strengths, we refer to its engine power, towing capacity, and overall performance. GMC trucks vary in strength and performance. You must choose the right truck that fits the type of work that you wish to do.
For instance, the GMC Sierra 1500 has a towing capacity of 13,000 pounds, but the GMC Sierra HD has a towing capacity of 36,000 pounds. The Mid-size GMC trucks have a towing capacity of 7,500 to 7,700 pounds.
These trucks run with engines ranging from Turbo-Diesel V8 engine 6.6L – 3.6L V6 engine. You’ll need to see these trucks in action, dragging through mud and dirt.
The horsepower for GMC trucks runs between 420 to 460 HP, with the GMC canyon achieving 308 HP. Heavy-duty GMC trucks (GMC HD) come with a 10-speed transmission. They are not just the first HD trucks with such innovation but also the best in cargo bed volume.
3. Driver Assistance Features
GMC trucks come with a lot of driver assists and control technology that makes it easy to trust the truck while you are on the road. GMC driver’s assistance features include a rear camera mirror, hill descent assistance, driver shift control, and advanced traction control.
This includes the transparent trailer view that easily gives you a clear view of what’s happening behind, in front, and around you by simply switching cameras.
Do you have plans to take a mud ride on the mountains or do some dare-devil stunts? You can always rely on your GMC truck to deliver.
4. Brake Technology
GMC features an advanced brake system that supports the safety of users. This unique truck features different brake technologies to give users a wide range of options to choose from like auto electric parking brake assist, hill hold assist, and park brake hold assist. As an additional feature, there is a hitch view and guidance to give you firm controls and support.
The park brake hold assist puts your truck at a firm stop even on an 8% decline or incline (or above). You don’t have to worry about your vehicle rolling over.
GMC trucks have a superb braking system that anyone can rely on. There is a brake pad life monitor that helps you monitor the health and performance of your brake life.
5. Suspension Design
Most GMC trucks like the 2021 Silverado have an independent rear suspension. This includes the air suspension on GMC trucks like the GMC Yukon. GMC employs other suspension technologies to assure drivers of their safety and comfort.
The coil-over-shock suspension in GMC sierra offers a smooth ride just as the independent rear suspension offers in Silverado.
These suspension technologies make it easier for these trucks to handle rough terrain, achieve improved cornering, and increase ground clearance for easy maneuvering of obstacles.
Final Verdict
A lot of times, the standard for reliability depends on the driver. It might not just be which truck is reliable but which truck is built to suit your needs.
Some statistical reviews place GMC trucks as less reliable brands compared to Toyota and Subaru trucks. This does not mean that GMC trucks are below standard, but their offerings greatly differ from what other brands represent.
