Why 2015 Was an Embarrassing Year for GMC Trucks
GMC trucks are often considered “best in class” in many categories. Even die-hard enthusiasts who are loyal to competing brands can give a nod to GMC trucks’ features and options. However, every brand misses the mark sometimes. And GMC’s flop year may have been 2015. Here’s why GMC is embarrassed by its 2015 trucks.
The master list of GMC disappointments
HotCars featured the top 10 most disappointing cars GMC ever made. The index ranked a variety of models and included supporting details to describe why the reviews were so poor. A few vehicles that made the roster of disappointing rides include:
- 2001 GMC Jimmy: Ignition problems, fuel leaks, lower gear slippage, and rust
- 2003 GMC Savana: Semiconductor issues, hydraulic pump, and brake complaints
- 2004 GMC Envoy: Poor gas mileage, cluster gauge malfunction, and gas leaks
- 2011 GMC Terrain: High price tag for its class and competition, burning oil, and transmission issues
- 2015 GMC Yukon: Head and taillight complaints, transmission complications, and parts quality
By the initial looks of the list, one might assume that GMC struggles most with SUVs. But how did their trucks fair? You may be surprised to learn of a few models that made the list, causing GMC fans to hang their heads in embarrassment.
Setbacks across 2015 GMC vehicles
Looking back, 2015 may be categorized as a troublesome transmission year overall for GMC. Both the GMC Canyon and sister model Chevrolet Colorado received consumer complaints and recalls. The 2015 GMC Yukon, which also made this list of disappointments, experienced transmission troubles.
Transmission complaints transpired for the Sierra 1500, too. So, it’s easy to connect the dots and see that 2015 was not GMC’s best year under the hood.
The 2015 GMC Canyon falls short in reliability
The Canyon is generally revered as a hearty little truck and top performer. However, in 2015, it has the most overall complaints. Transmission issues plagued this model, and repair costs were higher than average. The No. 1 most common complaint involved the Canyon not shifting properly.
Additionally, 2015 GMC Canyon drivers had to deal with unsettling and unprovoked jerking and clanking. Others experienced power loss as there was a reported problem with the torque converter. This truck just couldn’t compete in reliability at all.
The 2015 GMC Sierra tops the disappointment list
Typically, the Sierra is a top-rated full-size truck. Many previous and current model years hold their own on review platforms. Looking back, 2014 seems to be the year with the most reported complaints. But 2015 was the worst for GMC Sierra trucks.
In addition to transmission problems, 2015 GMC Sierra drivers struggled with the A/C not working. Poor lighting patterns were a big issue as well. Visibility at night was horrendous, and lights would sometimes turn off involuntarily.
The significant difference between the 2014 and 2015 issues involved the overall higher costs associated with repairs. More problems arose at lower mileage points with the 2015 GMC Sierra, too.
It’s not uncommon for trucks to experience hiccups in design and features. But when there are a host of reported issues within the same model year, it’s easy to assume the automaker missed the mark altogether. For the GMC trucks, that year was 2015.
