GMC Sierra 1500 Dashboard Warning Lights

The GMC Sierra 1500 pickup truck shares many similarities to the Chevrolet Silverado. GMC however, are aimed towards the luxury market. The following dashboard warning lights are for the GMC Sierra 1500. Each symbol has an explanation, along with the manufacturer’s recommended course of action. Dash displays may vary depending on model version.

If the oil pressure becomes low, it may affect engine lubrication and potentially result in damage. If driving, pull over and switch off the engine. Low engine oil levels can cause low engine oil pressure. Check oil levels and add oil if required. Only continue driving if the oil pressure returns to normal and/or the warning light goes off.

If this occurs, pull off the road and switch off the engine as soon as possible. Continued driving may damage the engine. Allow for several minute the engine to cool. Once cool, check engine coolant levels. Check also for coolant leaks. If there are no symptoms of overheating and coolant levels are optimal, there may be a problem with the coolant temperature sensor. For further information, see red engine coolant warning light on or flashing.

However, if the charging system light comes on (battery warning light), it means the vehicle is operating outside the normal operating range. This can occur when a large number of electrical accessories are operating in the vehicle and the engine is left idling for an extended period. This situation should correct itself when the engine speed is increased, or a number of electric system are switched off.

If the charging system warning light remains lit while driving, it may mean there’s a problem with the vehicle’s charging system. The engine may not continue operating for an extended period. If a short distance must be driven with the battery light on, be sure to turn off all accessories, such as the radio and air conditioner and make your way immediately to the nearest auto repair shop, or a safe place to stop. See why is my car battery warning light on for further information. The usual cause for a charging system fault is:

• Alternator
• Alternator drive belt
• Ageing battery
• Battery connections / wiring

If the engine light remains on while the engine is running, the onboard diagnostics system has detected a fault with the emissions control system. If the light is on (non-flashing), you can continue driving, but it’s advised that you have the vehicle serviced before the problem deteriorates. You may notice that the engine runs less smoothly and fuel economy worsens. Continued driving may result in repairs that are not covered by the vehicle’s warranty (if applicable).

Engine modifications, transmission, exhaust, intake or fuel system, along with tires that are not of the manufacturer’s original specification can cause the engine warning light to come on. Poor fuel quality can also be a contributing factor. Due to the many possible causes that can trigger the engine warning light, diagnostic tools are required to read fault codes. A fault code is usually generated and stored by the vehicle each time the engine light comes on. If the engine light is flashing, avoid high speeds and heavy loads. A flashing engine light may damage the emissions control system and may require an immediate service.

For more information on the common reasons for the check engine warning being illuminated, how to scan for Diagnostic Trouble Codes and what to do when the engine warning light comes on, see reasons why the engine warning light is on.

The illumination of the brake light may be a symptom of low brake fluid. Check fluid levels and top up as required using GM approved DOT 4 brake fluid. Brake fluid levels can also fluctuate depending on brake pad wear. It may also be a symptom of a fluid leak in the brake hydraulic system. If the warning light remains lit after adding fluid, there’s a problem with the vehicle’s braking system. If the brake booster if affected, the brake pedal will be much harder to press. Have the vehicle’s brake system serviced immediately.

If the ABS warning light remains lit, it means there’s a fault with the Anti-lock Braking System. ABS helps the driver to maintain control of the vehicle by preventing the wheels from locking during heavy braking. ABS is a separate system to the vehicle’s braking system and as such, the vehicle’s brake will be unaffected in the event of ABS failure.

Stopping the pickup truck, switching off the ignition, then restarting may resolve the issue. If the issue remains, the likely cause is one of the wheel speed sensors having been damaged.

If the Hill Decent Control light is flashing, it means the system is actively applying the vehicle’s brakes to maintain a set speed. HDC can maintain speeds between 1 and 14 mph on grades greater than or equal to 10% If HDC is use don grades greater than 25% for more than 3 minutes, the transfer case should be put into four-wheel drive low to reduce brake fade heat / fade.

When approaching a vehicle too quickly, FCA a red flashing warning alert on the windshield and audible alert and the driver’s seat pulses. A yellow FCA warning light illuminates indicating that you’re following another vehicle too closely. As with the vehicle ahead indicator, the system also utilizes a pedestrian ahead indicator that also uses a symbol of a pedestrian to warn the driver.

The StabiliTrak / ESC warning light will blink when the system is active. If there’s a fault with the system, the StabiliTrak light will remain constantly lit. The most common reason for a malfunctioning StabiliTrak / ESC system is due to a damaged wheel speed sensor. For more information, see What ESC is in Cars and How Does ESC Work in Cars.

The TPMS used in the GMC Sierra 1500 uses the ‘direct’ TPMS method, meaning that sensors inside the tires use radio waves to report pressure data to the vehicle’s ECU in real time. Each tire, including the spare (if applicable) should be pressure checked each month when tire pressures are cold.

Tire Fill Alert

Your GMC Sierra 1500 may be equipped with a Tire Fill Alert feature. This system provides a visual and audible alert outside of the pickup truck to help when inflating an underinflated tire to the recommended cold tire pressures. When the tire pressure warning light comes on:

1. Park the truck on a level ground and secure the parking brake
2. Place the truck in Park (P)
3. Add air to the underinflated tire
   • The turn signal will flash
   • When the recommended pressure is reached, the horn will sound
4. Repeat this procedure for all tires

Flashing Tire Warning Light

A flashing tire warning light means that the system has a fault, or that something is preventing the system from operating as normal. This can include:

• A sensor in one of the tires is missing
• A sensor has been damaged (often during tire change)
• The TPMS sensor matching process was not completed, or completed successfully are tire rotation
• Wheels or tires have been fitted that do not match the manufacturer’s original specification
• Electrical devices that interfere with the radio frequencies are nearby
• The battery inside the sensor is exhausted
• A non-approved tire sealant has been installed

The GMC Sierra 1500 makes use of a RKE (Remote Keyless Entry) transmitter key that should match the same frequency as the immobilizer unit in the truck. If the vehicle does not start, try using another key, or place the key in the transmitter pocket located in the center console. If the vehicle fails to start, check the fuses in the engine compartment fuse block.

Driving Modes

The GMC Sierra 1500 is equipped with various driving modes that enable better control of vehicle depending on the conditions and terrain.