2003 GMC Sierra 1500 Research & Reviews

Overview & Reviews

Average Score

4.36/5 Average
65 Total Reviews
This Year's Model Updates:

The Sierra gets a revised look this year that includes a new front fascia, revised side moldings and an additional wheel design. Top-of-the-line models get power-folding heated mirrors with puddle lamps and turn signal indicators. Inside, the Sierra now offers a Bose stereo system and XM Satellite Radio. The instrument panel and center console have been redesigned, and GMC has added new seats, a more comprehensive driver information center, optional satellite steering wheel controls and a dual-zone climate control system. For increased safety, Sierras now feature a standard front-passenger-sensing system and dual-stage airbags. All 4.3-liter V6-equipped Sierras and California-emission V8s are now ULEV certified, while electronic throttle control is now standard on all V8 engines. Finally, the Autotrac four-wheel-drive system has been modified for less intrusiveness at low speeds, and the brake system received upgrades that provide better pedal feel and improved overall performance.

Pros:
  • Roomy extended-cab models, strong V8 engines, innovative features.
Cons:
  • Spotty fit-and-finish concerns, low-grade interior materials.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 65.00
  • 2003 GMC SLE - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    When I was looking for a truck that I really liked and one my wife could drive, the GMC fit the bill! I test drove every truck out there along with detailed research on all of them. The GMC won hands down. Its easily accessible to the bed and inside the vehicle. I have had a few minor problems, but were covered under warranty. While I have a V8, the fuel economy was a little disappointing. This truck is a regular cab short bed with the towing package. All in all I am very pleased with it, and I plan to purchase an extended cab in 2008.

  • Best Vehicle I have ever Owned - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    Bought truck new in 03,I have over 140K and have not had to spend $1 on repairs. Replace fluids and do proper maintenance and it runs as good as the day I bought it.Would like to buy a new truck but cannot justify replacing it as it is so reliable. I drive a lot of highway miles and get almost 19 MPG if I keep it around 70 MPH.

  • Great Truck - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    Cant say enought about this truck. I moved up from a 4cyl Toyota because I needed to be able to tow a ski boat. With a full bed of coolers and ski supplies and 6 passengers plus the boat, I cant even tell theres a boat back there. I drive 60 highway miles a day to work and have yet to find anything that rides as smooth. I had an issue with a low pressure sensor on the A/C but that was under warranty and fixed several years ago. Other than 3 sets of tires and a bunch of oil and filter changes I have had no reason to work on the truck Its fun to drive and has never let me down. Even in the Georgia heat the A/C will freeze you out.

  • Good Truck - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    I traded in a 2002 Z71 silverado for this 2003 Z71 Sierra(new). I was suprised to find the same annoying rattles that I had fixed on my 2002. The windshield rattles, which is because of the exterior window trim. The doors sqeaked, which is because GM is to cheap to oil their doors at the fatory. Other than the annoying issues that took one trip to the dealership I couldnt ask for a better looking,riding and performing truck. Hopefully GM doesnt decide to cheapen it up down the road!

  • Lovin my GMC - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    This is a great truck! The ride is smooth and comfortable with great pick- up. My average fuel mileage is around 15 mpg...not real great. Turning radius is wide (watch out in those parking lots). Very nice interior with comfortable seats. Controls are easy to reach and intuitive.

  • Experience - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    This vehicle is very fun to drive! Its comfortable. I drive a lot and all I have been doing is oil changes. I have 110,000 miles on this vehicle and nothing mechanical has happened to it

  • Best Truck on the market - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    Original owner. 130k miles. RELIABILITY-Ive only had 2 problems, and 1 (speedometer) was a recall. The catalytic converter went out at 115k, but other than that, no rattles, no squeaks, not even a brake job. Overall reliability is good, better than my Toyota Matrix. DRIVETRAIN-GM says this V6 has less HP than Fords, but this pickup (w/3.42 rear end) sure feels stronger than my brothers (w/3.55). No oil leaks at 130k, no slips in the tranny. INTERIOR-I like it, but most auto critics say it looks cheap. Seats are plush and ride is comfy. Overall reliability may belong to Honda/Toyota, but GMs powertrain sold me. None of the tranny problems typical of Hondas, better engines than Toyota.

  • happy owner - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    this is my 3nd 1500 serria I chose it over chev becouse of the different looks I pull a big bass boat a lot and could not be happyer, just hook it and go you cant tell its back there

  • Good truck - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    Truck.........Nothing else that I could ask for. Handles great, Drives like a car, but works like a truck.

  • 4WD forever - 2003 GMC Sierra 1500
    By -

    Great truck with Z71 package. I love the pushbutton 4WD. You can have it in auto 4WD for slippery conditions in snow or hit 4wd Hi or Low and have a full time 4WD with locking differentials. All 4 wheels will drive through mud and sand. Out performs Ford 4WD trucks every time. Fold away mirrors are great for car washes. I have black and looks sharp when clean. The 5.3 Vortec V8 has plenty of power and good gas mileage (18.3 mpg) in town.

GMC Sierra 1500 Reviews By Year:
Great Deals Near You
  • Loading cars...

Selected Edmunds.com visitor vehicle reviews

Edmunds.com Visitor Vehicle Ratings and Reviews are the property of Edmunds.com, and may not be reproduced or distributed without the consent of Edmunds.com. Edmunds© is a trademark of Edmunds.com, Inc. Edmunds.com, Inc. is not affiliated with this website or app.

Powered By Edmunds

× Estimated monthly payments based on 3.9% APR, 60 month financing, and 20% down payment. Tax, tags, title, administration fees, and license fees are not included in price or payment. Subject to approved buyer credit. Actual purchase terms may vary.

Payment calculations are sourced by EveryAuto.com and may not reflect actual dealer financing terms.

Send Us Feedback ×


Locating Vehicles In Your Area