MotorCaliberNHTSA Safety Index

NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED

2023 GMC Sierra 1500

Federal crash-test performance, recalls, and complaints, scored into one NHTSA Safety Index.

3Recalls
404Complaints
3Investigations
ABOUT THE GMC SIERRA 1500

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.

VERDICT

The 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 earns an NHTSA Safety Index of 76 out of 100, an average result driven by its federal crash-test stars and its recall record. It has 3 recalls on record, reflected in the score.

WHO IT IS FOR
  • urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
WHAT REVIEWERS SAY

Reviewers 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.

NCAP // CRASH TESTCrash-test breakdown

Overall
Frontal
Side
Rollover
Rollover risk 19.8%

Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 18278

Index breakdown

Crash protection61/70
Avoidance tech2/10
Defect record13/20
Forward collision warning: Standard & OptionalLane departure warning: Standard & OptionalStability control: Standard

NHTSA // RECALLSRecall record

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:HARD PARTS INTERNAL/MECHANICAL25V274000

Risk: Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the engine, and as necessary, repair or replace the engine. For vehicles that pass inspection, dealers will add higher viscosity oil, install 6 oil fill cap, replace the oil filter, and update the owner's manual. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed June 18, 2025. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, Chevro

Reported 2025-04-24

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:BRAKE FLUID LOW WARNING: LAMP24V674000

Risk: Without a warning light, the vehicle may be driven with low brake fluid, which can reduce braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.

Remedy: The Electronic Brake Control Module (eBCM) software will be updated through an over-the-air (OTA) update or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 25, 2024. Owners can contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N242447990.

Reported 2024-09-12

EXTERIOR LIGHTING:LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE22V903000

Risk: DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: The body control module software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 23, 2023. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N222386380. This recall expands previous

Reported 2022-12-08

NHTSA // COMPLAINTSOwner complaints

404 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.

5reported crash
2reported fire
2reported injuries
0reported deaths
Most-reported systemsEngine 178Power Train 78Structure 59Electrical System 54Unknown Or Other 43Fuel/Propulsion System 25

Other Sierra 1500 years

Rivals in Sedan (2023)

Last verified 2026-07-03. Sources: NHTSA SafetyRatings (VehicleId 18278), recallsByVehicle, complaintsByVehicle for GMC Sierra 1500 2023. Class rank 81 of 92 in Sedan 2023. Methodology · Disclosure