Most common 1997 GMC Pickup problems
Share of the 22 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
GMC Pickup complaints by model year
Best Pickup years: 2002, 2001, 1996. Years to avoid: 1999, 1997. Compare all years →
What 1997 GMC Pickup owners say
Windows, wipers & sunroof
Windshield wipers failed to wipe after brief rainstorm . Once the truck dried, the wipers would work. The left and right rear turn signal electrical assemblies failed within 2 weeks of each other and further diagnosis revealed an open circuit in each assembly which caused the turn signal to fail to flash. Bulb tested good. The personal at the auto parts store stated they had a lot of these assemblies being requested for replacement. I have never had a wreck with my vehicle. I believe this is a manufacturing defect by GM supplier because the brake light portion would continue to work. **dimsii ivoq entry posted after 12/12/02 cut-over to artemis*764581
While driving front windshield wipers failed intermittently. Recall 03V159000 was issued on this problem. However, dealership would not repair because this vehicle was not included in the recall due to VIN.
Steering
Intermittent surge or boost in power steering assitance. Has occurred over the past 1+ yrs . Loose steering .
If the transducer fails the steering appears to lock up or the car wanders , steering is erratic.
Brakes
Brake pads prematurally wear out. The dealer has replaced the pads two times. Owner states that the pads need to be replaced again.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 1997 GMC Pickup a good car?
Based on 22 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 Pickup rates use caution: 1.7× as many complaints as a typical year of the Pickup at the same age. It is one of the Pickup years we suggest avoiding. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 1997 GMC Pickup?
The windows, wipers & sunroof — 6 complaints, 27% of all complaints for this model year, most often about windshield wiper/washer › motor. Next are the steering (4) and brakes (3).
How many recalls does the 1997 GMC Pickup have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 1997 GMC Pickup. You can still confirm with your VIN using our VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the GMC Pickup?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2002, 2001 and 1996. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 1999 and 1997. See the full GMC Pickup years comparison.
At what mileage do 1997 GMC Pickup problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 40,000 miles; 60% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.