1983 GMC Sierra
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1982 | 1 |
| 1983 | 2 |
| 1987 | 1 |
| 1988 | 6 |
| 1989 | 16 |
| 1990 | 18 |
| 1991 | 12 |
| 1992 | 30 |
| 1993 | 72 |
| 1994 | 190 |
| 1995 | 261 |
| 1996 | 246 |
| 1997 | 238 |
| 1998 | 190 |
| 1999 | 600 |
| 2000 | 443 |
| 2001 | 264 |
| 2002 | 249 |
| 2003 | 206 |
| 2004 | 188 |
| 2005 | 117 |
| 2006 | 53 |
| 2007 | 59 |
| 2008 | 68 |
| 2009 | 37 |
| 2010 | 34 |
| 2011 | 43 |
| 2012 | 29 |
| 2013 | 39 |
| 2014 | 101 |
| 2015 | 53 |
| 2016 | 6 |
| 2017 | 61 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: suspension.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: structure.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
TRANSMISSION HAS EXPERIENCED SEVERAL LEAKS.
NHTSA ODI report, 19990129
1 of 2 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
ENGINE COMPARTMENT OVERHEATED, CAUSING FIRE. (OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT)
NHTSA ODI report, 19970527
1 of 2 total reports mentions: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
DASHBOARD INDICATOR FOR BATTERY CONTINUALLY MAKING NOISE.
NHTSA ODI report, 19990129
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1983 GMC Sierra — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 1983 GMC Sierra reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1983 GMC Sierra?
The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1983 GMC Sierra have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.