Most common 2002 GMC Pickup problems
Share of the 5 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 2002 GMC Pickup owners say
Brakes
I found that the parking brake would not hold the vehicle when it was set while launching my boat on the slope of a boat ramp. This could cause injury or damage if the vehicle rolled while someone was behind the vehicle when it began rolling. The local dealers mechanic checked the parking brake shoes and found that the left one was extremely worn while the right one was in good shape. This indicates that the parking brake was not accidentally left on while driving because both brakes would be worn. I was told by the manufacturer's representative that this was considered normal wear and tear and that nothing could be done to compensate me or make modifications since there are no recalls on this model truck even though other models have been recalled with the same type problem. The vehicle is currently in the shop at this time to have the brake shoe replaced.
Brakes failed while driving at 70 MPH. Brake lines rubbed against the steering column and ruptured. This resulted in loss of brake fluid.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2002 GMC Pickup a good car?
Based on 5 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2002 Pickup rates better than average: 57% fewer complaints than a typical year of the Pickup at the same age. It is one of the best Pickup years by this measure. 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 2002 GMC Pickup?
The brakes — 3 complaints, 60% of all complaints for this model year, most often about foundation components › hoses, lines/piping, and fittings. Next are the steering (1) and seat belts (1).
How many recalls does the 2002 GMC Pickup have?
NHTSA lists no recalls for the 2002 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 2002 GMC Pickup problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 32,000 miles; 100% 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.