The GMC Sierra 1500 III, specifically the Crew Cab Short Box configuration with the 5.3-liter Vortec V8 engine, 4WD, and automatic transmission, was a prominent full-size pickup truck produced from 2010 to 2013. Representing the third generation of the Sierra 1500 (GMT900 platform), this variant occupied a sweet spot in the lineup, offering a balance of capability, comfort, and affordability for buyers seeking a versatile and powerful truck. It was positioned as a step up from the base models, providing more features and a larger cabin, while remaining more accessible than the top-tier Denali trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | GMC |
| Model | Sierra 1500 |
| Generation | Sierra 1500 III (GMT900) Crew Cab Short Box |
| Type (Engine) | 5.3 Vortec V8 (315/326 Hp) 4WD Automatic FlexFuel |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 6 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.7 l/100 km (15 US mpg, 18 UK mpg, 6.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Power | 315 Hp @ 5200 rpm |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 326 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Torque | 458 Nm @ 4400 rpm (337.8 lb.-ft. @ 4400 rpm) |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 475 Nm @ 4400 rpm |
| Maximum engine speed | 6000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LMG, LC9 |
| Engine displacement | 5328 cm3 (325.13 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.01 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 91.95 mm (3.62 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt, 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 14.1 l (14.9 US qt, 12.41 UK qt) |
| Max. weight | 3175 kg (6999.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1506 l (53.18 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 98 l (25.89 US gal, 21.56 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 4309 kg (9499.72 lbs.) |
| Length | 5844 mm (230.08 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2031 mm (79.96 in.) |
| Height | 1880 mm (74.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 3645 mm (143.5 in.) |
| Front track | 1732 mm (68.19 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1702 mm (67.01 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 229 mm (9.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 14.4 m (47.24 ft.) |
| Approach angle | 15.5° |
| Departure angle | 23.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 19.6° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Hydra-Matic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Rigid axle suspension, Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 295×60 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/70 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Sierra 1500 variant lies the 5.3-liter (325 cubic inch) Vortec 5300 V8 engine. Designated with the engine codes LMG or LC9 depending on specific calibration and year, this engine is a member of the GM Small-Block family. It features a cast iron block with aluminum cylinder heads, and utilizes a traditional overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain. The engine employs multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly to each cylinder. A key feature of the Vortec 5300 is its Active Fuel Management (AFM), or cylinder deactivation system, which shuts down four cylinders during light-load cruising to improve fuel economy. The Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission was the standard pairing for this engine. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting and durability, offering a wide gear ratio spread for both towing and fuel efficiency. The 4WD system is a traditional part-time system, allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive as needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 5.3L V8 with the 6-speed automatic provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a performance-oriented setup, the engine delivered ample torque for everyday driving and towing. The automatic transmission was well-tuned, providing smooth and predictable shifts. Compared to the available 4.8L V8, the 5.3L offered a noticeable increase in power and towing capacity. Against the 6.2L V8, it traded some outright power for improved fuel economy. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for both acceleration and highway cruising. The 4WD system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather or off-road conditions. However, the truck’s size and weight meant it wasn’t particularly agile, and handling was best described as comfortable rather than sporty.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Crew Cab Short Box 5.3L 4WD typically came standard with features like air conditioning, power windows and locks, a CD player with auxiliary input, and cloth upholstery. Higher trim levels added features such as leather seats, a Bose sound system, a navigation system, and heated front seats. Optional extras included a sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and various towing packages. The interior design was functional and durable, prioritizing practicality over luxury. The Crew Cab configuration offered spacious seating for up to six passengers, making it a popular choice for families.
Chassis & Braking
The Sierra 1500 III utilized a body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform. The front suspension consisted of independent coil springs, while the rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup. This configuration prioritized load-carrying capacity and durability. The braking system featured disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard. The truck’s relatively high ride height provided good ground clearance for off-road use. Steering was rack-and-pinion with power assist.
Market Reception & Comparison
The GMC Sierra 1500, and this 5.3L V8/automatic combination specifically, was well-received by critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and strong towing capabilities. Fuel economy was considered adequate for a full-size pickup, especially with the AFM system. Compared to competitors like the Ford F-150 and Ram 1500, the Sierra 1500 offered a compelling blend of features and value. The 5.3L engine struck a good balance between power and efficiency, making it a popular choice for buyers who didn’t need the extra power of the 6.2L V8 but wanted more than the base 4.8L offered.
Legacy
The GMT900 Sierra 1500, particularly the 5.3L V8 models, have proven to be relatively reliable vehicles. The Vortec 5300 engine is known for its durability, and the 6L80 transmission is generally considered to be a robust unit. Common issues include oil leaks, sensor failures, and occasional transmission problems, but these are typically not major concerns. Today, these trucks are readily available on the used car market at affordable prices, making them a popular choice for buyers seeking a capable and dependable pickup truck. Their continued presence on the road is a testament to their build quality and enduring appeal.
