2011 GMC Sierra 1500: Knocking sound
Common wear/failure (not a recall)
Symptoms
Owners of the 2011 Sierra 1500 report: knocking sound. CarComplaints.com lists 6 owner complaints, average mileage 114,650 miles.
NHTSA has 26 owner complaints for the 2011 Sierra 1500 in this area. Examples:
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11372326 (filed 10/30/2020): “My truck has problems with stability control running on the freeway in the dash came stability control services and second reduce power and the stop mu truck go slow from 65 to 20 in the middle of the freeway car behind my truck…”
- NHTSA complaint ODI #11339003 (filed 07/13/2020): “Tl* the contact called on behalf of her customer who owns a 2011 gmc sierra 1500. the contact stated that while driving, the vehicle jerked and shuddered while downshifting. the stability trac and traction control warning lights were illuminated. the vehicle w…”
Likely causes
Sources do not establish a single root cause; diagnosis is needed. Owner-reported fixes are listed below.
Fix, in plain English
Most common owner-reported solutions on CarComplaints.com: none clearly reported. Check for open recalls and extended warranty coverage with a dealer before paying out of pocket.
DIY difficulty: Pro
Internal engine work (lifters, oil consumption, fuel dilution diagnosis) requires engine teardown or dealer software/tests. (Our assessment.)
Cost
CarComplaints.com owners report a typical repair cost of about $2,500 (owner-reported average, not a quote).
Typical parts (search links, no affiliate codes)
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