Dealer visit checklist

2023 GMC Sierra 1500 checklist

Print it or keep it on your phone. Tick each item as you go so nothing gets missed.

Inspect the car

  • Check every panel gap and look for mismatched paint (signs of past accident repair)
  • Look at the tires: even wear, matching brands, at least 4/32" tread
  • Check under the car and engine bay for oil, coolant or other leaks
  • Start the engine cold; listen for knocks, ticks or squeals and watch for smoke
  • Test every window, lock, seat, light, the A/C, heat and infotainment
  • Test drive on city streets and highway: straight braking, smooth shifts, no pulling
  • Ask for the service records and a vehicle history report
  • Have an independent mechanic do a pre-purchase inspection (about $100–$200)

Known 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 problems to check

  • AFM/DFM cylinder deactivation system can cause excessive oil consumption and carbon buildup on 5.3L and 6.2L V8 engines — many owners disable it via a tune or AFM disabler device
  • Infotainment screen and connectivity glitches reported with the 13.4-inch diagonal display on higher trims, often requiring software updates or module resets
  • Transmission shudder or hesitation at low speeds has been documented on the 8- and 10-speed automatics, though updated TCM software often resolves it
  • Tailgate and MultiPro tailgate mechanisms add complexity and have produced latch and step rattle complaints over time
  • Paint quality and exterior trim fit complaints are more common than expected at this price point, particularly around door handles and chrome accents

Ask: have these recalls been fixed?

  • EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles.
  • SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:BRAKE FLUID LOW WARNING: LAMP: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Escalade ESV vehicles.
  • ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine.

Negotiate the price

  • Know the typical price: about $40,000 for this model year
  • Negotiate the out-the-door price, not the monthly payment
  • Get the full price with every fee listed in writing before you sign
  • Bring your own loan pre-approval so the dealer has a rate to beat
  • Say no to add-ons you didn't ask for (paint protection, VIN etching, nitrogen tires)
  • Negotiate your trade-in separately, after the car's price is agreed
  • Be ready to walk away; another listing is usually a click away