Head-to-head reliability
GMC Sierra 1500 vs Toyota Camry
How the GMC Sierra 1500 and Toyota Camry compare on NHTSA complaints, recalls and crash reports — and which is the lower-risk used buy.
Based on NHTSA owner-complaint & recall records
GMC Sierra 1500 vs Toyota Camry: The Sierra 1500 has 4,049 complaints over 10 years (405/year) and 55 recalls, while the Camry has 2,056 complaints (206/year) and 31 recalls. Sierra owners report severe engine failures; Camry owners report hesitation and key issues. Source: NHTSA owner complaints.
The picture
Is the GMC Sierra 1500 or Toyota Camry more reliable?
A plain-English read on what the NHTSA record says about living with each vehicle.
GMC Sierra 1500
The GMC Sierra 1500 is a full-size pickup that sees heavy use, and its complaint pattern reflects that: over 4,000 complaints in 10 years, with engine and powertrain issues dominating. Owners frequently report serious failures like complete engine replacement and catastrophic powertrain breakdowns, often at low mileage. With 55 recalls and 52 injuries reported, living with this truck means staying on top of recalls and being alert to major mechanical problems.
Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry is a midsize sedan known for dependability, and its lower complaint rate—about 2,000 over 10 years—supports that reputation. However, owners still report notable issues, especially with the power train, such as hesitation, shuddering, and key removal problems. With 31 recalls and 171 crash-related complaints, it's not trouble-free, but the problems tend to be less catastrophic than the Sierra's.
The numbers
Side-by-side NHTSA record
Lower is better in every category. The highlighted cell is the stronger result.
| Category | GMC Sierra 1500 | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| Total complaintsAll model years combined | 4,049 | 2,056 Better |
| Safety recallsFederal recall campaigns | 55 | 31 Better |
| Crash reportsCrash-related complaints | 84 Better | 171 |
| Complaints per yearAveraged across model years | 404.9 | 205.6 Better |
| Reported injuriesTied to owner complaints | 52 Better | 158 |
| Reported deathsTied to owner complaints | 0 Better | 1 |
Source: NHTSA owner complaints & recall records.
What actually goes wrong
The problems owners report
The most-complained-about systems on each vehicle — what fails, and what owners say in their own words.
GMC Sierra 1500
- 01ENGINE1,713
- 02POWER TRAIN958
- 03ELECTRICAL SYSTEM573
- 04SERVICE BRAKES429
- 05UNKNOWN OR OTHER374
Owners of 2023 Sierra 1500s with the 6.2L L87 engine report complete engine failures, sometimes requiring full replacement under warranty. Some have experienced multiple catastrophic failures at low mileage, which is a major red flag for long-term reliability.
Complaints describe catastrophic powertrain failures, including engine and transmission issues that cause loss of power and require major repairs. These failures can happen suddenly and may leave the driver stranded.
Owners report multiple malfunction indicator lights, electrical failures that cause loss of power and reduced speed, and even inability to turn on hazard lights. These issues can compromise safety and make the truck unpredictable.
There are complaints about brake fluid low warning lamp issues and other brake-related problems. While not as frequently reported as engine issues, brake problems are critical for safety and should be inspected.
“I am a Canadian owner of a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 AT4 equipped with the 6.2L L87 engine. VIN: [XXX]. I purchased the vehicle new. I am reporting this because my experience appears directly relevant to NHTSA Engineering Analysis EA26005 concerning L87 engine fai…”
“I own a 2023 GMC Sierra 1500 Denali Ultimate equipped with the 6.2L L87 V8 engine. The vehicle previously experienced an engine failure that resulted in the complete replacement of the 6.2L engine by an authorized GMC dealership. The replacement engine was in…”
Toyota Camry
- 01POWER TRAIN385
- 02UNKNOWN OR OTHER323
- 03ENGINE315
- 04SERVICE BRAKES285
- 05ELECTRICAL SYSTEM237
Camry owners report intermittent defects like the ignition key becoming stuck and unable to be removed even when the car is in Park. Others describe hesitation and shuddering while driving, often accompanied by a check engine light.
Some owners experience delayed throttle response, where pressing the accelerator results in a several-second delay before the car moves. This can be dangerous when merging or pulling out into traffic.
Complaints include the electronic parking brake failing to disengage, requiring a tow, and clicking or vibrating noises from the brake pedal area that are attributed to the ABS system. These issues can be annoying and potentially costly.
Multiple system malfunctions are reported, including failures in stability control, power steering, blind spot monitoring, and lane keeping assistance. These electronic glitches can affect driver confidence and safety.
“My 2023 Toyota Camry has developed an intermittent defect where the ignition key becomes stuck and cannot be removed even though the dashboard shows the vehicle is in Park. The only way to remove the key is to disconnect the vehicle's battery, which is not a…”
“The contact owns a 2023 Toyota Camry. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle was hesitating and shuddering, and the check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, who diagnosed the vehicle…”
Official recalls
Safety recalls on record
Federal recall campaigns — the defect, the risk, and the fix. Confirm any open recall was completed before you buy.
GMC Sierra 1500 — 55 recalls
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2023 Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, 2023-2024 Chevrolet Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade, and Escalade ESV vehicles. The electronic brake control module software may fail to display a warning light when a loss of brake…
The 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.
The fix: 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-…
The defect: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020-2023 Cadillac CT4 and CT5; 2021-2023 Buick Envision; and 2022-2023 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles. The daytime running lights (DRLs) may not deactivate wh…
The risk: DRLs that do not deactivate as intended may result in a glare, reducing visibility, and increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: 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, Chev…
The defect: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021-2024 Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 1500, Suburban, and Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles equipped with a 6.2L V8 gas engine. The connecting rod and/or crankshaft engine components may have manufacturing d…
The risk: Engine failure increases the risk of a crash.
The fix: 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. Repai…
The defect: Rollx Vans (Rollx) is recalling certain GMC Yukon, Sierra, Chevrolet Express 2500, Ford Transit, E-250, Toyota Sienna, Sienna Hybrid, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Town and Country, Voyager, Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Ram Promaster vehicles equipped with QRT-Deluxe and QRT-Max wheelchair restrain…
The risk: An unsecured wheelchair can move during transit, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Rollx will work with Q'Straint to inspect and replace the retractors as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 5, 2026. Owners may contact Rollx's customer service at 1-800-956-6668.
Toyota Camry — 31 recalls
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The lug nuts that attach the wheels to the vehicle may be loose, which can result in wheel detachment.
The risk: A wheel that detaches from a moving vehicle can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix: Owners are advised not to drive their vehicles until the repair has been performed. Dealers will inspect and tighten the lug nuts, and replace any damaged components, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Avalon, Avalon Hybrid, Corolla, Highlander, Highlander Hybrid, RAV4, RAV4 Hybrid, Lexus ES350, Lexus RX350, Lexus RX450H, 2021 Sienna Hybrid, Lexus ES250, 2020-2022 Camry, Camry Hybrid, and ES300H vehicles. A short cir…
The risk: An air bag that does not deploy during a crash increases the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the sensor as necessary, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed in February 2024. Some final remedy owner letters were mailed October 31, 2024. Letters will continue…
The defect: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing (Toyota) is recalling certain 2023-2024 Camry and Camry Hybrid vehicles. The second-row center and right-side seats may have insufficiently welded head restraint brackets. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle…
The risk: A head restraint bracket that is insufficiently welded may not properly restrain an occupant during a crash, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix: Dealers will replace the 60% rear seat-back frame sub-assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed April 19, 2024. Owners may contact Toyota customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Toyota's numbers for this recall are 24TB0…
Buyer analysis
GMC Sierra 1500 or Toyota Camry: which should you buy?
The Toyota Camry has fewer issues per year (about 206 complaints) compared to the GMC Sierra 1500 (about 405 complaints). In practice, this means Camry owners report fewer problems overall, but both vehicles have notable failure patterns that buyers should investigate. The Sierra's issues tend to be more severe, such as engine failures, while the Camry's are often electronic or drivability annoyances.
Key differences
- The Sierra 1500 has roughly double the annual complaint rate of the Camry, with engine and powertrain failures being the most common and severe.
- Camry complaints often involve electronic glitches and drivability issues like hesitation, while Sierra complaints include catastrophic engine failures requiring replacement.
- The Sierra has 55 recalls versus 31 for the Camry, meaning more frequent trips to the dealer for safety fixes.
- Crash-related complaints are higher for the Camry (171) than the Sierra (84), but the Sierra has more injuries (52 vs. 158? Wait, data says Sierra 52 injuries, Camry 158 injuries—actually Camry has more injuries).
- Check for any signs of engine replacement or repair history, especially on 2023 models with the 6.2L L87 engine, as multiple owners report catastrophic failures.
- Test all electrical systems thoroughly, including lights, infotainment, and warning indicators, because electrical failures can cause loss of power and reduced speed.
- Test the ignition key removal and ensure it doesn't stick, as owners report the key becoming stuck even when in Park.
- Listen for clicking or vibrating noises from the brake pedal area and check that the electronic parking brake engages and disengages properly.
Before you buy
- Obtain a full vehicle history report and check for any open recalls on both models, using the NHTSA VIN lookup tool.
- For the Sierra, have a mechanic inspect the engine and transmission for any signs of failure or prior replacement, and scan for stored error codes.
- For the Camry, test drive at various speeds to check for hesitation or shuddering, and verify that all electronic safety systems function correctly.
- Ask the seller for maintenance records, especially for oil changes and any warranty work, to gauge how well the vehicle was cared for.
- During the test drive, pay attention to brake pedal feel and any unusual noises, and ensure the parking brake works smoothly.
Year by year
Which model years to avoid
Complaints per model year for both vehicles — lower is better. The spikes are the years to scrutinize.
| Year | GMC Sierra 1500 | Toyota Camry |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 66 | 0 |
| 2025 | 117 | 163 |
| 2024 | 365 | 50 |
| 2023 | 485 | 64 |
| 2022 | 588 | 61 |
| 2021 | 578 | 157 |
| 2020 | 469 | 274 |
| 2019 | 648 | 395 |
| 2018 | 304 | 744 |
| 2017 | 429 | 148 |
Check the actual car
Comparing models is smart. Checking the VIN is essential.
Brand averages tell you the trend. A VIN check tells you what's wrong with the specific GMC Sierra 1500 or Toyota Camry in front of you — accident history, open recalls and title records.
Go deeper
Full reliability reports
- Comparison
- GMC Sierra 1500 vs Toyota Camry
- GMC Sierra 1500 total complaints
- 4,049
- Toyota Camry total complaints
- 2,056
- GMC Sierra 1500 total recalls
- 55
- Toyota Camry total recalls
- 31
- GMC Sierra 1500 avg complaints/year
- 404.9
- Toyota Camry avg complaints/year
- 205.6
- More reliable overall
- Toyota Camry
- GMC Sierra 1500 top complaint area
- ENGINE
- Toyota Camry top complaint area
- POWER TRAIN