2005 GMC Sierra 1500 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.48/5 Average
67 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

Quadrasteer is no longer available on 2WD models, standard wheel sizes have been bumped up to 17 inches and, on extended and crew cab models, a power sunroof that includes HomeLink and a deluxe overhead console in now optional. GMC takes a step backward this year with the return of rear drum brakes, as opposed to last year's four-wheel disc setup. Big changes for the Denali this year -- Quadrasteer is no longer available, and the Denali is now a crew cab model only. A gasoline/electric hybrid model is also introduced this year. Basically a "mild" hybrid, the system provides no power boost, but does allow for automatic engine startup and shutdown at stops. This truck also comes with four 120-volt AC power outlets and is the only Silverado with rear disc brakes this year. The hybrid truck is only available in Western states and Florida.

Pros:
  • Roomy extended and crew cab models, strong V8 engines, innovative features, slick hybrid electric option.
Cons:
  • Lags the competition in terms or refinement and power, spotty fit and finish, low-grade interior materials.

User Reviews:

Showing 51 through 60 of 67.00
  • Not good for towing - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    Have you ever wondered why GM truck owners have to turn their hitches upside down. Even with Z-71, the suspension and trailering provisions are too soft and too low. Also the standard rear-end is going to be a 3.42. Great for milage, not so good for loading. Even with the 5.3 the engineers have turned up the computer trying to hide the small rear end. Posi-trac, not so good. One slick boat ramp and you will glad for 4WD. Even empty on the highway using cruise, the drivetrain cannot maintain enough power on hills to keep from down shifting and raising the RPMs. I pull three trailers ranging from 900 to 5100 pounds. All will wag this truck around easily. Brakes/rotors are on 3rd set.

  • My 5th and last GMC - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    Air conditioner took three dealer visits to repair. Drive train problems have been present in this truck since the first 700 miles. Lack of towing power and loud whining noise has been present when towing a small boat. And to top it all off, the service manager at the dealership refuses to give me a necessary third visit so I can file a Lemon Law complaint. I have had 5 full size GMC(all from the same dealer) and this one will be my last.

  • 2005 Sierra Denali - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    The power and acceleration are unbelievable. Handling is very good for a pickup. I only have 1000 miles on it so far, but very satisfied overall. I previously had an 01 Tahoe with the 5.3 engine, and the Sierra Denali with the 6.0 is getting slightly better mileage (if I keep a light foot on the gas). For some reason I could never average better than 13.5 with the Tahoe around town, and am getting just under 14 with the Sierra. I think the ethanol fuels around here are partly to blame for lower mileage. The tonneau cover that came with the truck is OK, but I think an Access brand cover would be better - easier to roll up than the GMC model. The all wheel drive is very smooth.

  • GMC, you can and must do better - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    I have been driving this truck for almost 2 years, so I know all of its little nuances. Unfortunately, I am not impressed. I have had many GM vehicles and this has been one of the worst. Warranty issues include: new radiator, new brake rotors, power seat motor, tranny problems, etc. I can only attribute this stuff to the fact that GM is rabidly seeking the cheapest suppliers on the globe, which has to hurt quality. I must admit that I use my truck heavily, but what good is a pickup truck that cant handle a little beating? Considering the msrp on this thing was around $39000, GMC must do better with its 2007 model. If not, Tundra and Titan will have Sierra for lunch!

  • Not happy for a few years - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    When I purchased my truck almost 5 years ago, it has had a popping sound coming from the front end. It has been to the dealership 3 times, parts replaced each time. Worked well for the last couple of years, than it has started the popping again. Driver side door sounds like it is falling apart for the last 4 years. Had that repaired before and after a couple of years it is again sounding like its falling apart. For the last 12 years Ive owned 2 GMC Trucks and have enjoyed them. Since this is my second truck and I do enjoy it besides the repeating problems I wouldnt mind owning a 3rd, however the window stickers are a little out of my range now.

  • first time truck buyer - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    i recently traded in a 2003 cadillac, for the new 2005 gmc sierra, and what a vehicle. It rides better than than the cadillac, and is usefull, for more things, (obviously). what a great truck, gas mileage is okay, what do you expect for a v8. i would suggest anyone to buy a gmc, what a great vehicle.

  • Mostly electrical problems - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    I bought this truck new in 2005, have put 67k miles on it in 5 years. This is a very comfortable truck. I took it on many 300 mile trips without a rest stop, feeling like I had only driven to town. However the many electrical problems has me wondering about the quality of gmc. Less than 5k the instrument display showed "electrical malfunction". The dealership repaired and did not give me reason. Other problems are evap solenoid, power door lock, brake master cylinder, bumping in steering column, 4wd transfer case switch, speedometer would go to 0, seat heater shorted out, headlights and dash lights flicker anytime you hit brakes or use Windows. The dealer gave an extra 2 yr warr for free due to the issues

  • This is a solid truck! - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    This vehicle is at the top of its class. The seats and interior are the most comfortable and roomy for any truck Ive been in. Its a solid built truck. It was put together right. It is dependable, and has plenty of power to get me where I need to go, not to mention a few thousand pounds of whatever I want to haul.

  • Great, but in need of some perf options - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    Highest quality of any GM pickup Ive ever owned (74, 87, 89, 92). Not a rattle/buzz anywhere. HO 5.3L runs better than the 454 in that 74 shortbed 2wd, though Ive had the PCM custom tuned and running 4.10 gears. I also changed the OEM alloys with 265/70s for 20x9.5" & 305/50 Avons. Handling astonishingly improved and quieter!

  • Lovin every minute of it - 2005 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    Love this rig. I am a GM technician and have a great love for the GM trucks. Love the style and the right amount of chrome. Never let me down yet. I live in the maritimes in Canada and love the flawless 4wd system and my truck auto 4wd mode. Fuel mileage is OK, but could be better. Very quiet ride but could use some better quality to rectify the little body creaks, rattles, and squeaks.

GMC Sierra 1500 Reviews By Year:
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