2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD
Recalls and owner complaints reported to NHTSA
About NHTSA's data for this year: For 2008, NHTSA files heavy-duty Silverado and Sierra trucks together with the half-ton models, so we can't show accurate recall and complaint numbers for this truck. Check recalls for a specific truck with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
What owners should know
Covers 2007–2010 · 6.6L Duramax LMM diesel and 6.0L V8 gas · Updated 2026-10-01
The Chevy Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD are mechanically the same trucks, so these notes cover both, in 2500HD and 3500HD. Engines are the 6.6L Duramax LMM diesel and the 6.0L V8 gas, with the Allison 6-speed automatic on diesels.
2007 was sold in two versions: the older-style "Classic" body and the new body style. These notes are about the new body. If you're looking at a 2007, check which one it is.
We counted 708 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for 2007, 2009 and 2010. For 2008, NHTSA files these trucks together with the half-ton Silverado and Sierra, so we can't separate their complaints and recalls. For a 2008, check recalls with the VIN at nhtsa.gov. Complaint counts show what owners report most often, not how many trucks have a problem.
At a glance
- Airbag recalls are the top complaint topic. Several passenger airbag recalls cover these years.
- Steering wear (idler arm, pitman arm, tie rods) is the most commonly discussed problem on owner forums.
- The Duramax LMM is generally well regarded. DPF clogging, EGR and transmission cooler line leaks are the commonly reported repairs.
- Cracked dashboards are very commonly reported.
Airbag recalls
Airbags come up in about 4 in 10 complaints (208 of 483 from identified engines), often from owners waiting on recall parts. GM recalled 2007–2008 trucks because the passenger airbag inflator can absorb moisture and rupture when it deploys (recalls 15V324000 and 20V011000), with more inflator recalls on 2009–2010 trucks. These are serious. Check that every one shows as completed.
Steering and front end
These trucks use independent front suspension with torsion bars, not a solid axle, so "death wobble" is rarely reported. Owners on diesel forums very commonly report worn idler arms, pitman arms and tie rods, which show up as loose or wandering steering and clunks. Lifted trucks or trucks with the torsion bars cranked up wear them faster.
When buying: have a helper turn the steering wheel back and forth with the engine running while you watch the idler and pitman arms for play.
6.6L Duramax LMM
Repair sources commonly report DPF clogging, EGR carbon buildup, transmission cooler line leaks at the radiator connections, and glow plug problems. The Allison transmission has a strong reputation. Ask whether the emissions system has been removed ("deleted"), which can cause inspection and legal problems.
Other things to check
- Cracked dashboard, especially around the passenger airbag and gauges
- Trucks with an auxiliary battery were recalled for a fusible link that can melt (recall 14V407000)
- Rust on rocker panels, cab corners, wheel arches, frame and brake lines
Before you buy
- Check open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls with the VIN, especially the airbag recalls.
- Get a pre-purchase inspection that includes the steering linkage.
- Bring our used truck inspection checklist.
Researched from owner forums and NHTSA complaints and written by Know Your Truck. These are patterns in what owners report, not a guarantee about any particular truck.
Sources (5)
- NHTSA owner complaints and recalls database (our count of 2007–2010 Silverado HD / Sierra HD complaints)
- Diesel Power Products: 2007.5–2010 LMM Duramax buyer's guide
- XDP: 2007.5–2010 GM 6.6L Duramax LMM buyer's guide
- BD Diesel: Duramax LMM common issues
- Diesel Place forum: pitman arm and idler arm problems
Common failures & how to fix them
Parts and video buttons search for your 2008 GMC Sierra 3500HD. Always confirm a part fits using your VIN. Brakes, steering, fuel and airbag work affects your safety, so if you're not sure, have a qualified mechanic do it.
Worn idler arm and pitman arm
Moderate DIYSigns: Loose, wandering steering, clunks, play in the steering wheel.
Fix: Replace the idler arm and pitman arm, and check tie rods. Many owners add an idler arm support brace. Get an alignment afterward.
Passenger airbag inflator recall
Dealer (recall)Signs: No warning. The inflator can rupture in a crash.
Fix: Covered by GM recalls. A dealer replaces the airbag for free.
May be covered free by recall 15V324000 / 20V011000. Check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Transmission cooler line leaks (diesel)
Moderate DIYSigns: Transmission fluid dripping near the radiator, low fluid.
Fix: Replace the cooler lines, usually where the rubber hose meets the metal crimp.
Cracked dashboard
Easy DIYSigns: Cracks across the dash top, especially near the passenger airbag.
Fix: Cover it with a molded dash cover or replace the dash pad. Make sure a cover doesn't block the airbag.
Rusted brake lines
Hard DIYSigns: Heavy scale or swelling on the steel lines along the frame, a soft pedal, or a fluid leak.
Fix: Replace rusted lines with pre-bent lines or copper-nickel line, then bleed the brakes. Do the whole run, not just the bad spot.
Owner's manual
Get the free official owner's manual from GMC's manuals and guides page. Choose 2008 Sierra 3500HD. It covers maintenance schedules, fluids, towing limits and warning lights. Older years may not be listed online.
Recall and complaint numbers aren't available for this year. Check a specific truck's recalls with its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Safety ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings from government crash tests. Ratings can differ by cab style and 2WD/4WD.
NHTSA hasn't published star ratings for this truck. Many heavy-duty pickups aren't included in NHTSA's crash-test program, so this doesn't mean the truck is unsafe.