MODEL
GMC Sierra 1500 Safety
NHTSA safety across every GMC Sierra 1500 model year we cover.
Across the 8 model years of the GMC Sierra 1500 we cover (2019 to 2026), the strongest crash-test showing is the 2026 at 91 on the NHTSA Safety Index, and the lowest is the 2019 at 67. 42 recalls have been issued across those years.
The GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size pickup truck, not a sedan, competing in one of America's most contested segments against rivals like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500. It targets buyers who want a capable, professional-grade hauler with a premium edge. From the 2019 model year through 2025, MotorCaliber has tracked its safety record closely, and the picture is mixed enough to deserve a careful look before you sign.
The 2025 GMC Sierra 1500 achieves a 'Strong' Safety Index score of 81 out of 100, marking a significant improvement for the model. This peak performance follows earlier model years that rated 'Average' and 'Below Average,' indicating a progression in the vehicle's safety profile. The federal crash-test results for the 2025 model align with this positive trend, earning 4 out of 5 stars for frontal protection, 5 out of 5 stars for side impact, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover resistance. These are competitive ratings for a full-size pickup, a vehicle class where rollover risk is a constant design consideration. However, the Sierra 1500 generation, spanning from 2019 to 2025, has accumulated 40 recalls, a high figure. Owner complaints total 2,863, including 51 alleged crashes, 22 alleged fires, and 37 reported injuries. The reports of fires warrant specific attention. While the 2025 Sierra 1500 demonstrates a genuine advance in safety, the high number of recalls and the volume of owner complaints across its generation mean prospective buyers should verify the recall status for their specific model year through NHTSA before purchase.
WHAT REVIEWERS SAYReviewers generally regard the Sierra 1500 as a well-appointed, capable full-size pickup that competes strongly on interior quality and towing refinement within its segment. Most acknowledge that GMC positions it as the premium alternative to the Chevrolet Silverado, though some note that the breadth of powertrain and trim choices can make cross-shopping complicated for buyers focused on value.
- Safety performance varies significantly by model year: the Sierra 1500 ranges from 'Below Average' to 'Strong' on the NHTSA Safety Index across 2019 to 2025, so checking the specific year you are considering is essential rather than assuming the 2025 peak score applies.
- Forty recalls across six model years is a high count for any vehicle. Shoppers should run their VIN through the NHTSA recall database before purchase and confirm all open recalls have been completed by a dealer.
- The 2,863 owner complaints include 22 alleged fire incidents, which are unverified but worth noting. Prospective buyers should review the specific complaint categories tied to their target model year on the NHTSA website.
- The Sierra 1500's best crash-test result includes a 5 out of 5 stars in side impact, which is a meaningful strength, but the 4 out of 5 rollover rating is a reminder that all tall, body-on-frame trucks carry elevated rollover risk compared to lower-profile passenger vehicles.
Most-recalled year on record: 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 with 12 recalls.