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GMC Sierra

The Sierra is one of the trucks GM has been quietly buying back because of engine noises that experts say are "piston slap," one of those things that only gets worse with time.

Richard of Walnut Creek CA (10/23/03):
I complained about ticking/knocking sound from engine. I have complained many times about this problem only to be told that the problem is not detrimental to the performance, reliability or durability of the engine. The noise does not have any effect on the longevity of any of the engine components.

My main concern other than the loud noise upon starting the engine is the resale value of my truck has been significantly decreased because no one would want a truck that has this defect. I have talked to Dianne Casey at GMC customer assistance 1 (800)222-1020 and she told me that GMC is not doing anything except on a case-by-case basis, stating that my truck is no longer in the manufacturer's warranty period. I told her that it was and that I have the extended warranty package. She did acknowledge that and told me that I had to contact GMBT at 1 (800)631-5990, a division of General Motors. She doubted that they would do anything.

Please refer to General Motors bulletin Document ID#816465 2001 GMC Truck GMC C Sierra. I feel that I wasn't told upon buying the truck that the value would be destroyed because of a factory defect and feel that there are grounds for a class action suit.

Darrell of St. Marys GA (6/3/02):
I purchased a 2002 GMC Sierra 2500HD truck with an 8.1l V-8 engine new. After 600 miles the engine began to clatter loudly on cold starts. Two dealers and GMC Customer No Service Hotline all thold me their engineers had determined the noise would have no effect on the life of the engine and it was "just a characteristic of that engine."

At 3,200 miles, I had a "check oil" light and the engine was 1 1/2 quarts low on oil. The engine has taken 1 quart every 1,600 miles ever since. I believe the engine clatter on cold starts is caused by the rings not seating properly and also is causing the oil consumption (there are no leaks).

Chris of Stetson ME (6/22/03):
I have a 1999 GMC Sierra that has a constant banging noise from the rear. I asked the dealer and many other garages and was told that GM knows about this problem. It's called spring slap on the rear suspension. But in order to fix it, I have to buy a $75 piece of rubber that goes between the springs. Why do i have to pay for this? $75 is a outrage to pay for a small piece of rubber. and I have to buy 4 to fix GM's defect?

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