The GMC Sierra 1500 diesel is a popular choice for truck owners who need serious torque and towing muscle. With the efficiency and low-end power of a diesel engine, the GMC Sierra 1500 diesel can confidently haul heavy trailers, boats, campers, equipment and more while saving money at the pump.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the capabilities of the Sierra 1500 diesel, its impressive tow ratings, and how to get the most out of your diesel-powered truck.
Overview of the GMC Sierra 1500 Diesel
GMC introduced the Sierra 1500 diesel for the 2019 model year, offering it as an alternative to the traditional gas engines. It’s a 3.0L Duramax turbo-diesel inline 6-cylinder engine, providing atow rating up to 9,300 pounds when properly equipped.
Here are some key specs and benefits of the GMC Sierra 1500 diesel:
- 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque – Great low-end torque for towing and hauling
- Up to 33 MPG highway – Excellent fuel efficiency saves money on long trips
- 9,300 pound max towing capacity – Can confidently haul heavy trailers and loads
- Quiet and smooth operation – Utilizes advanced solenoid fuel injection, a variable-vane turbocharger, and a lightweight aluminum alloy block for smooth power
- Max payload of 1,870 pounds – Haul hefty cargo with the diesel’s strength
- 5 year/100,000 mile powertrain warranty – Gives peace of mind for buying a modern diesel engine
The Sierra 1500 diesel pairs this stout drivetrain with your choice of cabs and beds in higher trims like the SLT, AT4, and Denali. You’ll get premium interiors and technology along with the diesel’s brute force.
Towing Capacity of the Sierra 1500 Diesel
The true highlight of the Sierra 1500 diesel is its impressive towing capabilities. Here’s a detailed look at exactly how much the GMC Sierra 1500 diesel can tow:
Maximum towing capacity: 9,300 pounds
This maximum tow rating applies to Sierra 1500 diesel models properly equipped with:
- 3.0L Duramax diesel engine
- Double Cab standard box 2WD
- 20″ wheels
- Max Trailering Package
With this configuration, you can haul a variety of heavy loads including:
- Large travel trailers (up to 30 feet)
- Fifth wheel campers (up to 25 feet)
- Enclosed utility trailers
- Heavy equipment on a trailer
- Multiple vehicles on a car hauler
Regular Cab long box 2WD: 8,900 pounds
Going with the biggest bed you can get expands the possibilities for what you can tow and haul. The Regular Cab long box diesel provides:
- Up to 8,900 pounds of towing capacity
- Abundant truck bed space, great for cargo and fifth wheel hitch setups
Crew Cab short box 4×4: 8,800 pounds
Opting for four-wheel drive along with the roomy Crew Cab provides:
- Up to 8,800 pounds max towing
- Confident traction off-road or in poor conditions
- Comfortable seating for up to 5 or 6 passengers
As you can see, there are several configurations that allow you to customize towing abilities to your needs. Carefully select the best model for your intended cargo.
Towing Features of the Sierra 1500 Diesel
To get the highest, max tow rating, GMC outfits the Sierra 1500 diesel with a range of trailering technologies. Here are some of the key towing features:
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Max Trailering Package – Includes an auto-locking rear differential, enhanced cooling system, redesigned rear suspension, an integrated trailer brake controller, Hitch Guidance with Hitch View, and more. This package is essential for achieving 9,300 pound towing.
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ProGrade Trailering System – Provides easy trailer hookup and towing with a trailering app, trailer light test, trailer tire pressure/temperature monitoring, trailer theft detection, and more.
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Hitch Guidance with Hitch View – Provides visual guidance when lining up to a hitch using the rear camera. Helps you hook up solo without a spotter.
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Integrated trailer brake controller – Conveniently integrated into the dash, it provides smooth, responsive electric trailer brake control.
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Auto-locking rear differential – Maximizes traction by splitting torque between the rear wheels. Essential when towing at max capacity.
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Advanced Trailering System – Includes an in-vehicle trailering app, trailer profiles, maintenance reminders, trailer light checks, trailer security alerts and more.
Taking advantage of these trailering technologies ensures you have control over heavy loads. They take the stress out of towing at capacity.
Towing Tips for Sierra 1500 Diesel Owners
If you own or are considering a GMC Sierra 1500 diesel, keep these smart towing practices in mind:
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Know your exact tow rating – Confirm your truck’s specific rating based on configuration to stay within limits.
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Use a weight distribution hitch – These transfer tongue weight to the front axle for smoother towing.
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Balance the load – Distribute weight appropriately between the truck and trailer to avoid overload.
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Inspect all hitches/connections – Confirm all hitches, balls, chains, electrical, couplings, pins, bolts, etc. are rated for the load and undamaged.
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Check trailer tire pressure – Inflate trailer tires to maximum pressure listed on the sidewall for stability.
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Adjust tow mirrors – Extend and angle mirrors to provide optimal rear visibility when towing.
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Allow extra stopping distance – Increase following distance from other vehicles when hauling heavy loads.
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Take wide turns – Swing wide on turns to allow trailer clearance without hitting curbs, signs, etc.
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Watch transmissions temperature – Keep an eye on transmission temp when towing in high heat and adjust your speed or take breaks as needed.
Following towing basics like these will keep you and your cargo safe and give you the best towing experience.
Diesel Maintenance Tips
To keep your Sierra 1500 diesel running smoothly for years of service, follow these maintenance practices:
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Change the oil regularly – Follow the recommended oil change intervals to remove deposits and prevent wear. Use only approved diesel engine oil.
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Replace fuel filters – Clogged fuel filters can rob power and starve the engine. Promptly swap them when due.
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Check air and oil filters – Replace air and oil filters as scheduled or sooner if dirty.
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Top off diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) – Maintain adequate DEF levels for proper emissions system operation. Refill between service visits if the DEF gauge drops to low levels.
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Change transmission fluid – New transmission fluid keeps things shifting smoothly when towing near capacity.
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Inspect batteries and connections – Clean corrosion, tighten connections, and replace old batteries that won’t hold a charge.
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Examine tire tread – Worn tread reduces grip needed for towing heavy loads. Replace as required.
Performing preventative maintenance helps avoid being stranded with dead batteries or other issues when you need to haul important cargo.
Finding the Best GMC Sierra 1500 Diesel Deals
The GMC Sierra 1500 diesel provides heavy-duty towing capabilities and fuel efficiency in a comfortable, modern package. To find available deals on a new or used Sierra 1500 diesel:
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Check manufacturer incentives – GMC often offers incentives that can save thousands when buying or leasing a new Sierra 1500 diesel.
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Ask about diesel discounts – Some dealerships provide discounts specific to the diesel-powered models to clear out inventory.
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Compare finance rates – Shop around among lenders including banks, credit unions, and dealers to find the best interest rate.
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Consider used diesels – Expand options by looking at certified pre-owned Sierra 1500 diesel trucks which can cost significantly less than new.
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Time end-of-model-year sales – Look for remaining new inventory being cleared out ahead of the next model year.
With some shopping savvy, you can secure an excellent deal on the Sierra 1500 diesel with its best-in-class torque and top-tier towing abilities.
Take Control With a GMC Sierra 1500 Diesel
If your lifestyle or work requires moving heavy cargo, the GMC Sierra 1500 diesel provides an optimal blend of power and efficiency. Properly equipped models can tow over 9,000 pounds securely thanks to specialized trailering packages, advanced technologies, and potent low-end torque. Maintain your diesel truck diligently, stay within tow ratings, and you’ll be equipped to trailer boats, RVs, equipment and large loads for years to come.
