The T1XX Sierra is the premium sibling to the Silverado — same platform, more refined interior, MultiPro tailgate. Same powertrain considerations apply: the 5.3L V8 AFM (Active Fuel Management) lifter failure is the main risk at 80k–120k miles. The Denali with the 6.2L V8 or the 2.7T are the smarter choices to avoid AFM concerns. Well-maintained T1XX Sierras are excellent used trucks.
Items to check
11
Open recalls
6
NHTSA complaints
310
Top concern
Engine (AFM) / Electrical
AFM Lifter Failure (V8)
5.3L EcoTec3 AFM lifter failure
High Risk at 80k+ on V8
AFM cylinder deactivation collapses lifters at highway cruise speeds. Failure sounds like a tick after warm-up. Very common at 80k–120k on unmodified 5.3L.
Warm engine fully. Listen at idle for any persistent tick post-warm-up. Ask if AFM has been disabled.
Est. cost: $2,500–$5,000 lifter replacementSource: GM AFM pattern
6.2L L87 — AFM present but less problematic
Monitor
The 6.2L also has AFM/DFM but at lower highway RPM it cycles less aggressively. Still recommend disabling.
Same tick check. Ask about AFM disable status.
Est. cost: $60 Range AFM device (preventive)Source: GM L87 pattern
MultiPro Tailgate
MultiPro tailgate mechanism
Low Risk
Test all six positions of the MultiPro tailgate. Latches should engage firmly in all positions.
Test all tailgate positions and inner gate fold functions.
Est. cost: $0–$300Source: GMC Sierra standard
Electrical
GMC infotainment / Bose system
Low Risk
Test infotainment and audio. Early T1XX had minor software bugs resolved by updates.
Test CarPlay, backup camera, and trailer reverse guidance if equipped.
Est. cost: $0 updateSource: GM infotainment standard
Documentation
Oil change records + AFM history
High Risk on V8 without
AFM lifter risk is directly tied to oil change frequency and usage patterns. Records are critical on V8 examples.
Request all oil change records. V8 without records = factor in $3,000 lifter risk premium.
Est. cost: n/aSource: AutoVetting editorial
NHTSA Recalls (verify completion via VIN)
25V-274
6.2L V8 Connecting Rod / Crankshaft - engine failure
2021-2024 Sierra 1500 built with the 6.2L V8 only: connecting-rod and crankshaft manufacturing defects can damage and destroy the engine. Dealer inspects and repairs or replaces it; trucks that pass get higher-viscosity oil, a new oil filler cap, a new filter and a revised owner's manual. On a 6.2L truck this is the one item that can cost more than the truck is worth - confirm by VIN that it was inspected or the engine replaced before any money moves. 5.3L and 3.0L trucks are not in scope, so the engine decides this, not the model year.
24V-797
Diesel Transmission Control Valve - rear wheels lock
2020-2022 Sierra 1500 with a diesel engine only: the transmission control valve can fail and lock the rear wheels. Dealer installs new transmission control module software, and GM covers the transmission repair where that software finds a defective valve. Gas trucks are outside the scope.
26V-083
Re-repair of 24V-797 - done wrong the first time
2020-2022 Sierra 1500 that may have been repaired incorrectly under 24V-797, leaving the control valve still able to fail and lock the rear wheels. A seller saying the transmission recall was done is answering for 24V-797 and not for this one - both have to read closed. VINs became searchable 2026-02-12, so a truck sold before that will not have had it.
25V-060
Chrome Front Grille Deflector Can Detach
2022 GMC Sierra 1500 fitted with the chrome front grille deflector: the attachments holding it can fracture and let it come off into traffic. 70,768 trucks, and this is the only campaign on this page that is Sierra-specific rather than shared across the GM full-size line. Only applies if the truck actually wears that deflector, so look at the grille before chasing it. Dealer reinforces or repairs every attachment point; owner letters went out 2025-03-17.
22V-903
Daytime Running Lights Stay Lit With Headlights
2022-2023 Sierra 1500 among eleven GM lines: body-control-module software can leave the daytime running lights on when the headlights are on, glaring oncoming traffic - an FMVSS 108 failure. Dealer or over-the-air software update.
22V-463
Accessory Sport Bar Blocks the High-Mount Brake Light
2022 Sierra 1500 and Silverado fitted with the accessory sport bar: the bar's own high-mounted brake light may not work and the bar can block the factory high-mount lamp - an FMVSS 108 failure. Only applies if the truck actually carries that bar, so look at the bed before chasing it. Dealer supplies the correct wiring.
Independent pre-purchase inspection — we arrange it and walk you through the findings.
Send us the listing and we reply within 1 business day. Nothing due until we confirm a mechanic and a time. Piloting in Phoenix; other US metros by arrangement.
The Vetting Report: this VIN’s full recall status, known-failure cost ranges, negotiation talking points, and inspection priorities — delivered within 24 hours.