2016 Gmc Sierra Safety Report

2016 GMC Sierra: Frequent engine and brake complaints, critical fuel pump failures, and airbag recall despite unrated crash tests.

123Complaints
2Recalls
45/100Reliability Score
6Crash Reports
2Fire Reports
7Injuries
Most reported components: Steering (17)Service Brakes (14)Engine (9)Fuel/Propulsion System (8)Power Train (7)Electrical System (6)Unknown Or Other (6)Engine,Fuel/Propulsion System (5)Tires (5)Air Bags (4)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2016 Gmc Sierra

The 2016 GMC Sierra presents a mixed safety picture, with a notable number of complaints despite a lack of specific NHTSA crash test ratings for this model year. With 123 total complaints, including 6 crashes, 2 fires, and 7 injuries, there are clear areas of concern. The most frequently reported issues revolve around the STEERING (17 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (14 complaints), and ENGINE (9 complaints). A significant pattern within the engine complaints points to failures of the CP4 fuel pump, often leading to sudden engine shutdown while driving, loss of power steering, and substantial repair costs, as evidenced by multiple detailed complaints. This issue is particularly concerning given its potential to cause accidents, as described in several submissions where drivers narrowly avoided collisions. Recall history for the 2016 GMC Sierra includes two significant campaigns. One recall addresses an ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE issue where the radio may fail to provide an audio warning when the key is left in the ignition, increasing the risk of injury for an unbelted driver in a crash. The second recall pertains to AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE, specifically affecting trucks manufactured on October 13-14, 2015. This recall highlights a potential fracture in the Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) housing, which could lead to water intrusion and hinder proper airbag deployment during a crash. Several complaints directly reference airbag non-deployment during crashes, which could be related to this recall or other underlying issues. While specific NHTSA crash test ratings (Overall, Frontal, Side, Rollover) are not available for the 2016 GMC Sierra, the complaint data provides critical insights. The recurring themes of sudden engine failure due to the CP4 fuel pump, brake system malfunctions leading to hard pedals and loss of braking power, and instances of airbag non-deployment during crashes are serious safety concerns. The high number of steering complaints also suggests potential issues with vehicle control. Buyers should be aware of these documented problems and the associated recalls.

Reliability Score

The 2016 Gmc Sierra receives a reliability score of 45 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2016 Gmc Sierra

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2016 Gmc Sierra:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Cp4 Fuel Pump Failure
High-pressure fuel pump failure leading to sudden engine shutdown while driving, loss of power steering, and extensive fuel system damage (e.g., $14,500-$17,000 repairs). Multiple complaints describe near-accident scenarios.		 High Common 70000-100000+ miles
Brake System Malfunction
Hard brake pedal with loss of braking power, often at low speeds or during parking maneuvers, nearly causing collisions. Also, 'service trailer brake' and 'service stabilitrac' messages with erratic braking.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Airbag Non-Deployment
Airbags failing to deploy during crashes, despite significant front-end damage. This aligns with a recall for SDM housing fracture potentially hindering deployment.		 High Occasional unknown miles
Transmission Malfunction
Transmission not working correctly, leading to complete failure and rendering the vehicle unsafe for road use, as reported by one complaint.		 High Rare unknown miles
Rear Window Shattering
Rear windshield spontaneously exploding, often when the defroster is activated, with reports of water in the third taillight.		 Medium Rare unknown miles
Frame Rust/Structural Failure
Severe frame rust and structural failure, with the bed touching the cab, indicating significant safety compromise.		 High Rare unknown miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2016 Gmc Sierra:

Steering 13% of complaints

17 complaints related to steering issues, though specific patterns are not detailed in the provided samples beyond general mentions.

Service Brakes 11% of complaints

14 complaints, including instances of hard brake pedal, loss of braking power, and 'service trailer brake' messages causing erratic braking.

Engine 7% of complaints

9 complaints, with a significant pattern of CP4 fuel pump failures leading to sudden engine shutdown and loss of power.

Fuel/Propulsion System 6% of complaints

8 complaints, often related to the CP4 fuel pump failure and subsequent loss of motive power.

Power Train 5% of complaints

7 complaints, including reports of transmission malfunction and complete failure.

Electrical System 4% of complaints

6 complaints, including issues like inoperable horn and potential software-related problems addressed by a recall.

Air Bags 3% of complaints

4 complaints, specifically mentioning airbags failing to deploy during crashes, aligning with a recall for the SDM module.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2016 Gmc Sierra

Is the 2016 GMC Sierra safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2016 GMC Sierra has 123 total complaints, including 6 crashes and 7 injuries. While specific crash test ratings are unavailable, there are serious recurring issues like CP4 fuel pump failures leading to sudden engine shutdowns, brake malfunctions, and airbag non-deployment, which are significant safety concerns. Two recalls address electrical system warnings and potential airbag deployment issues.

What are common problems with the 2016 GMC Sierra?

The most reported issues for the 2016 GMC Sierra are related to STEERING (17 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (14 complaints), and ENGINE (9 complaints). A critical and common problem within the engine category is the failure of the CP4 fuel pump, which can cause the vehicle to stall unexpectedly while driving.

Are there any recalls for the 2016 GMC Sierra?

Yes, there are two recalls for the 2016 GMC Sierra. One recall (ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:SOFTWARE) addresses an intermittent radio failure to provide an audio warning when the key is left in the ignition. The second recall (AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE) concerns a potential issue with the airbag's Sensing and Diagnostic Module (SDM) housing, which could prevent proper airbag deployment.

What should I know about the engine problems in the 2016 GMC Sierra?

Several complaints highlight a serious issue with the CP4 fuel pump in the 2016 GMC Sierra, particularly in diesel models. This failure can cause the engine to shut down suddenly while driving, leading to a loss of power steering and brakes, and often requires very expensive repairs (e.g., $14,500-$17,000) to the entire fuel system.

How reliable are the brakes on the 2016 GMC Sierra?

The 2016 GMC Sierra has 14 complaints regarding its SERVICE BRAKES. Issues reported include a hard brake pedal with a loss of braking power, especially at low speeds, and 'service trailer brake' messages accompanied by erratic and violent pulling during braking. These indicate potential reliability concerns with the braking system.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Given the significant safety concerns like CP4 fuel pump failures, brake malfunctions, and airbag non-deployment complaints, thoroughly investigate service history and consider a pre-purchase inspection, especially for diesel models, to mitigate risks.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2016 Gmc Sierra

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2016 Gmc Sierra. The data includes 123 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 2 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 6 reported crashes, 2 fire incidents, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.