2003 GMC Sonoma
This year had at least 30% fewer complaints than this model's typical year.
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.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1984 | 1 |
| 1990 | 1 |
| 1991 | 29 |
| 1992 | 25 |
| 1993 | 58 |
| 1994 | 227 |
| 1995 | 214 |
| 1996 | 148 |
| 1997 | 111 |
| 1998 | 156 |
| 1999 | 57 |
| 2000 | 136 |
| 2001 | 89 |
| 2002 | 57 |
| 2003 | 39 |
| 2004 | 0 |
| 2005 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Percentages can add to more than 100% -- a complaint can name more than one system.
18% of complaints: power train — 7 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing differential unit and floor shift assembly.
15% of complaints: structure — 6 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hinge and attachments and underbody shields.
13% of complaints: service brakes — 5 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing hydraulic.
CRASH INJURY13% of complaints: latches/locks/linkages — 5 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing latch.
10% of complaints: equipment — 4 distinct reports on file, most commonly citing labels.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
MY 2003 GMC SONOMA JUST QUIT STARTING(STANDARD), SO I PUSHED IT TO GET IT HOME, I WENT TO A FRIENDS HOUSE THE NEXT DAY( IT STARTED), WHEN I GOT READY TO LEAVE THE TRUCK WOULDN'T START AGAIN AND I SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING, (MY WIFE HAD KEPT TELLING...
NHTSA ODI report, 20050711
SAFETY TIMELINE
CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH CORRECT LABELS AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 4, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.
Campaign 04V132000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
2003 GMC Sonoma — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (7 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (6 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 04V132000 (equipment) has been completed.
OTHER YEARS OF THIS MODEL
BEST YEARS
WORST YEARS
FAQ
Is the 2003 GMC Sonoma reliable?
Based on NHTSA complaint volume compared to this model's typical year, the 2003 GMC Sonoma is rated "better than typical".
What are the most common problems with the 2003 GMC Sonoma?
The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 18% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 2003 GMC Sonoma have?
1 recall on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.