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GMC Sierra 1500: which year should you buy?

Across the 2011 to 2026 model years, the public record is strongest on the 2012 (92/100). Every year below is scored on its own NHTSA complaint and recall history. Pick the year, not just the nameplate.

Best years to target

2012 92 · 2013 90 · 2011 84 · 2025 82

Every model year, scored

Same math for every year (how we score). A neutral Unproven or Too New stamp means too few owner reports are on file to affirm the year, not that it’s clean.

202664/100
Too New

56 complaints · 2 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

202582/100
Buy

90 complaints · 1 recalls

202472/100
Buy

312 complaints · 1 recalls

202369/100
Buy

408 complaints · 3 recalls

202261/100
Caution

529 complaints · 6 recalls

202163/100
Caution

511 complaints · 7 recalls

202056/100
Caution

435 complaints · 12 recalls

201959/100
Caution

601 complaints · 10 recalls

201864/100
Caution

293 complaints · 7 recalls

201764/100
Caution

425 complaints · 5 recalls

201664/100
Caution

44 complaints · 7 recalls · ⚠ park-it recall

201558/100
Caution

809 complaints · 9 recalls

201459/100
Caution

856 complaints · 9 recalls

201390/100
Buy

167 complaints · 3 recalls

201292/100
Buybest year

48 complaints · 3 recalls

201184/100
Buy

365 complaints · 5 recalls

Zeroing in on the 2012?

The full year-by-year verdict is free. When you’re ready to inspect and negotiate one specific car, the Full Report turns the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500’s complaint breakdown and recall list into an inspection-ready, shareable PDF.

Recalls, complaint breakdown & inspection checklist, all in a shareable PDF

Cross-shopping a different nameplate? Compare the 2026 GMC Sierra 1500 head-to-head →

The fine print: each year’s verdict is computed from public NHTSA complaint and recall records for the GMC Sierra 1500 as a model, not for any individual car. A well-kept example of a weaker year can outlast a neglected strong one. Informational only, so always get a professional pre-purchase inspection.