1999 GMC Sierra Engine cooling Problems
- Complaints
- 17about this part
- Share
- 3%of 600 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 49,900miles
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 17 complaints about the engine cooling of the 1999 GMC Sierra, 3% of the 600 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 49,900 miles.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“Two broken manifold bolts in rear drivers side of engine on 5.3 vortec engine, exhaust leak from where manifold has separated form head. Carbon buildup and discoloration visible. High temp exhaust being released under the hood. Appears to be a very common complaint on many GM vehicles and model years.”
NHTSA complaint #10447249, filed 2012-02, 70,000 miles“While driving at 30 MPH the consumer applied the brakes and the pedal went to the floor, resulting in extended stopping distance. The dealer replaced the rotors and pads twice, however the problem recurred. The vehicle also had tailgate and engine problems. The tires were replaced due to thread cracks.”
NHTSA complaint #10061755, filed 2004-04, 49,900 miles“Truck had complete loss of oil pressure. Mechanic said engine appeared to have been run without oil. Knowing that this did not occur the failure had to be caused by a defect in the engine. I have been unable to get any cooperation.”
NHTSA complaint #10068784, filed 2004-01, 44,000 miles“Repeated ABS brake failure. This has not been corrected despite numerous attempts to repair problem(s). Heater motor malfunction, repeated wiper arm replacement, tailgate handle malfunction.”
NHTSA complaint #10129881, filed 2005-07, 46,000 miles“I experienced a sudden onset of a hissing noise coming from under the dashboard. The noise only starts above 1400 RPM and when warm. I have taken it to 2 Gmc dealers and 1 independent service shop. All have stated that the noise is water going through the heater core. 1 dealer said that the coolant must have broken down and gelled or scaled into the heater core; therefore, it must be replaced. Gmc owners manual states change coolant at 150000 mile or 5 years, if so, why did the coolant break down? This appears to be a major issue and I have read of similar cases. Please help. Dt”
NHTSA complaint #770366, filed 2002-12Related service bulletins
- 10037933Jan 1, 2011Gm: the service engine soon light is on, there is also a misfire or engine noise. There are multiple possible causes.
- 10021021Feb 22, 2007Service vme. Supplement to 00-02-35-003l. Update on new I-shaft.
- 10019426Mar 15, 2006Generation iii v8 engine piston repairs.
- 10017155Oct 26, 2005Diagnostic trouble code p0128 or engine will not reach operating temperature.
- 10014870May 11, 20051999 - 2005 gen ii cold engine misfire at idle with possible p0171 and/or p0174.
- 10014959Mar 1, 2005Replacement of connector when replacing fuel tank module/fuel pump module.
- 10012703Feb 1, 2004Diagnostic information for intermittent vehicle no crank dead battery.
Engine cooling: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | 1 | 2% |
| 2012 | 1 | 3% |
| 2011 | 1 | 2% |
| 2010 | 1 | 3% |
| 2009 | 1 | 3% |
| 2007 | 2 | 3% |
| 2006 | 1 | 2% |
| 2005 | 9 | 8% |
| 2004 | 4 | 2% |
| 2003 | 9 | 4% |
| 2002 | 22 | 9% |
| 2001 | 22 | 8% |
| 2000 | 21 | 5% |
| 1999 | 17 | 3% |
| 1998 | 11 | 6% |
| 1997 | 15 | 6% |
| 1996 | 11 | 4% |
| 1995 | 6 | 2% |
| 1994 | 6 | 3% |
| 1993 | 7 | 10% |
| 1992 | 1 | 3% |
| 1990 | 1 | 6% |
| 1989 | 1 | 6% |
Other parts of the 1999 GMC Sierra
338 complaintsSuspension
39 complaintsVehicle speed control
39 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
37 complaintsTires
31 complaintsBody and structure
30 complaintsFuel system
26 complaintsSeats
23 complaintsSteering
18 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
18 complaintsSeat belts
15 complaintsAir bags
12 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1999 GMC Sierra
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 28, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology