Market Position:
Full-size pickup truck designed for work, towing, and personal use. Competed with Ford F-150, Dodge Ram, and Toyota Tundra.
Competitive Analysis:
The 2004 Sierra, as part of the GMT800 platform, was known for its comfortable ride (especially for a truck of its era), powerful V8 engine options, and relatively modern interior for its time. GMC positioned itself as the 'Professional Grade' truck.
Key Features:
Robust GMT800 platform, wide range of engine and drivetrain configurations, available Denali trim with enhanced luxury and performance, spacious cabin, and proven durability.
Coverage Areas:
Introduction, Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Lights, Driver Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints, Driving, Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. only), Cleaning, Maintenance and Specifications, Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s), Part Numbers, Refill Capacities, Lubricant Specifications, Accessories
Page Count:
Unknown (PDF download, actual page count varies by specific factory manual revision)
Manual Type:
Owner's Manual
Systems Covered:
Instrument Panel and Gauges, Audio System Operation, Climate Control Systems (HVAC), Exterior and Interior Lighting Functions, Power Windows and Mirrors, Door Locks and Remote Keyless Entry, Seat Adjustments, Airbag Systems, Seatbelt Operation and Care, Starting and Operating the Vehicle, Towing Information, Routine Inspections, Fluid Levels and Types, Battery Maintenance, Fuel System Basics, Air Intake System, Lubrication Requirements, Accessory Installation Guidelines
Procedures Included:
Locating and identifying dashboard indicators, Operating the radio and sound system, Adjusting temperature and fan speed, Using headlights, taillights, and interior lights, Adjusting power seats and mirrors, Using the keyless entry system, Fastening and adjusting seatbelts, Understanding airbag deployment, Proper starting and driving techniques, Checking and topping off engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, Battery jump-starting and maintenance, Identifying correct fuel grade, Replacing the engine air filter, Understanding refill capacities for all fluids, Identifying recommended lubricants
Technical Depth:
Owner-level information for operation, basic maintenance, fluid checks, and safety features. Does not include detailed diagnostic procedures or component-level repair instructions typically found in a Service Manual.
Primary Engine:
4.8L Vortec 5000 V8
4.8L V8 Horsepower:
Approximately 285 hp @ 5200 rpm
4.8L V8 Torque:
Approximately 295 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
Fuel System:
Sequential Fuel Injection (SFI)
Engine Options:
4.8L Vortec V8, 5.3L Vortec 5300 V8, 6.0L Vortec 6000 V8 (Denali)
Engine Codes:
LM7 (5.3L), LQ4 (6.0L), LV3 (4.8L)
Wheelbase Std:
143.5 inches (Standard Cab 8ft Bed)
Wheelbase Ext:
153.0 inches (Extended Cab 6.5ft Bed)
Bed Length Short:
6.5 feet
Bed Length Long:
8.0 feet
Curb Weight Approx:
4,600 - 5,200 lbs (Varies by configuration)
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 10,000+ lbs (with proper equipment and configuration)
NHTSA Driver Front Test Result 2004:
5-Star
NHTSA Passenger Front Test Result 2004:
5-Star
IIHS Frontal Offset Test Rating 2004:
Good
Active Safety Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Available Traction Control
Passive Safety Features:
Driver and front passenger airbags, Available side-impact airbags (on certain models/trims), Seatbelt pretensioners
Infotainment System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player and cassette tape. Available Bose premium audio system. OnStar telematics system available on certain trims/packages.
Driver Assistance Features:
Limited by modern standards. Primarily ABS, with available traction control on some models. No advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS).
Connectivity Features:
Basic connectivity via audio system. OnStar provides emergency and vehicle assistance services through cellular and GPS technology.
Instrument Cluster Details:
Includes speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, engine temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, voltmeter, and various warning lights for critical systems (e.g., check engine, ABS, airbag).
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type specified in the manual.
Tire Rotation Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles
Engine Air Filter Replacement:
15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Engine Oil Specification:
API Certified SAE 5W-30 Synthetic (or as specified for specific engine variant, e.g., Dexos is not applicable for this year)
Coolant Specification:
GM Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water.
Transmission Fluid Specification:
Dexron III (or Dexron-VI if available and compatible, though Dexron III is standard for this era)
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Power Steering Fluid Specification:
GM Power Steering Fluid or equivalent
Engine Oil Filter Example Part Number:
ACDelco PF44 or equivalent (e.g., Fram PH3500, WIX 51042)
Engine Air Filter Example Part Number:
ACDelco A3036C or equivalent (e.g., WIX 49174)
Known Issues:
Possible issues include front hub bearing failure, cracked dashboard (especially in hot climates), HVAC blend door actuator failure, and potential for intake manifold gasket leaks on some V8 engines. Transmission issues can arise with high mileage or heavy use.
Brand Heritage:
GMC (General Motors Truck Company) has a long history of producing trucks, vans, and SUVs, established in 1902. Known for its focus on commercial and heavy-duty vehicles before expanding into consumer markets.
Model Evolution:
The 2004 Sierra is part of the second generation of the Sierra pickup truck line, which began in 1999. This generation saw significant updates in styling, comfort, and technology compared to its GMT400 predecessors.
Production Period:
1999-2006 (GMT800 platform)
Manufacturing Locations:
United States (e.g., Fort Wayne, Indiana; Silao, Mexico)
