Whether you rely on your GMC Sierra for work, off-roading, or family travel, it’s a truck that’s built to take on tough jobs and long drives. But even the most dependable trucks aren’t immune to wear and tear.
As the miles stack up, so do the chances of unexpected repairs, and that’s when an extended car warranty, also known as an auto protection plan, becomes more than just a good idea. It’s a smart investment in your peace of mind and financial security. If you’re wondering whether a protection plan is worth it for your GMC Sierra, here’s what you need to know.
Common Issues with GMC Sierras
GMC Sierras are well-built trucks, but like any vehicle, they come with their own set of common issues, many of which can be costly to repair. These are a few of the most frequently reported problems across various model years:
Transmission Problems
Many Sierra owners report issues with the 8-speed and 10-speed automatic transmissions. Symptoms include harsh shifting, slipping, or hesitation. A full transmission replacement can cost $3,000 to $5,000 or more.
Electrical and Infotainment System Glitches
From flickering dashboard lights to malfunctioning touchscreens, Sierras often experience electrical gremlins that are frustrating and expensive to diagnose. A replacement for an infotainment unit can run over $1,500.
Engine Oil Consumption
Some owners report excessive oil usage, particularly in 5.3L V8 engines. Left unchecked, this can lead to serious engine damage, which can cost upwards of $6,000 to repair or replace.
A/C System Failures
The air conditioning system in several Sierra model years has been known to leak or fail prematurely. These repairs can range from $1,000 to $2,500 depending on the component.
Brake and Suspension Wear
Premature wear in brake pads, rotors, and rear leaf springs can also be a concern, particularly if the truck is used for towing or heavy-duty applications.
While some of these issues may not appear until after 60,000–100,000 miles, they often arise just as your factory warranty expires, leaving you fully responsible for the repair bill.
What’s Not Covered in a Standard GMC Warranty?
When you purchase a new GMC Sierra, it comes with a limited factory warranty, which can include (check with GMC for the most up-to-date warranty coverage):
- Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty: 3 years or 36,000 miles
- Powertrain Warranty: 5 years or 60,000 miles
- Rust-Through Protection: 6 years or 100,000 miles
- Roadside Assistance: 5 years or 60,000 miles
While this seems comprehensive, there are some big gaps:
- Electrical and infotainment issues often fall into a gray area.
- Diagnostic labor, taxes, and shop fees often aren’t covered under manufacturer terms.
- Once the warranty ends, you’re responsible for everything, and the timing usually aligns with when the most expensive repairs start to surface.
How an Extended Auto Warranty Can Help Your GMC Sierra
An auto protection plan from Everything Breaks steps in where your factory coverage ends, providing financial protection and peace of mind well beyond the standard limits.
What Does an Auto Protection Plan Cover? Coverage Can Include:
- Engine and transmission repairs
- Electrical systems
- Air conditioning and heating
- Suspension components
- Infotainment systems
- Fuel system and cooling system
- Brake system components
In addition to core mechanical coverage, many plans from Everything Breaks also include:
- 24/7 roadside assistance
- Rental car reimbursement
- Trip interruption coverage
- Towing services
Whether your engine fails, your A/C stops working, or your display screen goes dark, an extended plan ensures you’re not footing the entire bill out of pocket.
It’s a Good Investment for Every Budget
If you’re watching your budget, paying for an extended protection plan might feel like a luxury, but in reality, it’s a way to protect yourself from financial surprises that could derail your budget completely.
Imagine this:
- Your transmission slips out of warranty and fails at 80,000 miles. The repair bill is $4,000.
- Your infotainment system freezes and needs replacement—that’s $1,800.
- A failed air conditioner during the summer adds another $2,000.
Even one of these repairs could wipe out your savings. But with an auto protection plan from Everything Breaks, you can pay a manageable monthly fee and reduce or eliminate those unexpected costs. It’s a smart move, especially if:
- You plan to keep your GMC Sierra for more than five years
- You drive long distances or use your truck for work
- You’re not ready to cover sudden major repairs out of pocket
- You want to avoid high-interest emergency credit card charges or repair loans
With month-to-month flexibility, no long-term contracts, and coverage tailored to your needs, Everything Breaks makes it easy to protect your investment without straining your wallet.
Get Peace of Mind for the Road Ahead
A factory warranty only takes you so far. When it ends, you’re left vulnerable to thousands of dollars in potential repair costs. But with a customized auto protection plan from Everything Breaks, you don’t have to worry about surprise breakdowns derailing your life or your budget.
Explore our Auto Protection Plans today and discover how easy it is to protect your Sierra, your wallet, and your peace of mind, mile after mile.
