2019 GMC Sierra Denali problems
Verdict · NHTSA data
One of the years to avoid
With 46 complaints filed to NHTSA — about 3.1 times the median Sierra Denali year — the 2019 model ranks #1 of 18 Sierra Denali years for complaint volume. It lands on the years-to-avoid list.
No single system dominates the record — complaints spread across electrical system (10), brakes (8), and steering (7), which usually points to general build quality rather than one defect.
46
NHTSA complaints
0
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
1
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
How does 2019 compare to other Sierra Denali years?
What are the most common 2019 GMC Sierra Denali problems?
| Component | Complaints | Share | vs prior year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical System | 10 | 22% | ▲ up |
| Brakes | 8 | 17% | ▲ up |
| Steering | 7 | 15% | ▲ up |
| Other | 6 | 13% | ▲ up |
| Engine | 5 | 11% | — flat |
| Transmission | 4 | 9% | ▲ up |
| Lighting | 2 | 4% | ▼ down |
| Visibility & Wipers | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Body & Structure | 1 | 2% | ▼ down |
| Driver Assistance | 1 | 2% | new |
| Tires & Wheels | 1 | 2% | — flat |
Consumer complaints filed with NHTSA
Representative excerpts, cleaned of personal information. These are consumer statements, not verified defects.
“ON JANUARY 23RD I STARTED THE GMC VIA THE GMC PHONE APP AND WHEN I GOT IN THE TRUCK PUSHED BRAKE AND START BUTTON AND THAT'S WILL GAUGES WENT CRAZY SAYING BRAKE MALFUNCTION .STEERING ,SPEED REDUCED TO 62 MPH AND BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR WITH LITTLE TO NO BRAKES AND STOPPED THE TRUCK TURNED IT OFF…”
“BRAKE SYSTEM FAILURE 62 MPH TOP SPEED; BRAKE WARNING LIGHT; CHECK ENGINE LIGHT; ABS LIGHT; TRACTION CONTROL LIGHT; STEERING ASSIST IS REDUCED - DRIVE WITH CARE; SERVICE TRAILER BRAKE SYSTEM.... LIGHTS ON DASH AS NOTED ABOVE. BRAKE PEDAL MAKES A CLICKING; POWER STEERING NON-EXISTENT; BRAKES WILL NOT…”
“ON JANUARY 23RD I STARTED THE GMC VIA THE GMC PHONE APP AND WHEN I GOT IN THE TRUCK PUSHED BRAKE AND START BUTTON AND THAT'S WILL GAUGES WENT CRAZY SAYING BRAKE MALFUNCTION .STEERING ,SPEED REDUCED TO 62 MPH AND BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR WITH LITTLE TO NO BRAKES AND STOPPED THE TRUCK TURNED IT OFF…”
“TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2019 GMC SIERRA DENALI. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE TONNEAU COVER DETACHED FORM THE BED OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 19E031000 (EQUIPMENT) ON MAY 11, 2019, THE SAME DAY AS THE COVER DETACHED FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS…”
“WHEN I PURCHASED MY TRUCK ON 08/17/2019. THE WINDOW STICKER SAID MY HEATER BLOCK WAS DISABLE. THE SERVICE DEPT. SAID THERE IS A RECALL ON THIS. I CANNOT GO IN COLD WEATHER UNTIL THIS IS RESOLVED. CAN YOU TELL ME WHEN IT WILL BE RESOLVED.”
2019 GMC Sierra Denali — common questions
Is the 2019 GMC Sierra Denali reliable?
NHTSA data argues against it: 46 complaints put the 2019 model at #1 of 18 Sierra Denali years. It is one of the Sierra Denali years to avoid.
What are the most common 2019 Sierra Denali problems?
According to NHTSA complaint data, the leading problem areas are electrical system (10 complaints), brakes (8 complaints), steering (7 complaints).
Does the 2019 GMC Sierra Denali have recalls?
No. NHTSA lists no recall campaigns for the 2019 GMC Sierra Denali.
Which GMC Sierra Denali years should you avoid?
Based on complaint rates and open investigations, the Sierra Denali years to avoid are 2019, 2016, 2011, 2015, 2014. The cleanest record among Sierra Denali years belongs to 2007.
Related
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.