GMC Z-71 Problems by Year

We compared every GMC Z-71 model year from 1997–1999 using 19 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, 0 recalls and federal defect investigations. No Z-71 year stands out with an unusual number of complaints.

2model years
19complaints
0recalls
—worst years
—best years

Complaints by model year

19971999811
Owner complaints per model year, GMC Z-71. Colour = our verdict for that year (red: avoid, orange: caution, green: better than average, blue: too new).
YearComplaintsvs. typical*RecallsTop problemVerdict
199911——BrakeLimited data
19978——BrakeFew

* Complaints compared with the median Z-71 year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.

Most common GMC Z-71 problems

  • Brakesworst: 1999
    1158%
  • Windows, wipers & sunroofworst: 1999
    316%
  • Steeringworst: 1997
    211%
  • Transmission & drivetrainworst: 1997
    15%
  • Fuel & propulsion systemworst: 1997
    15%
  • Engine & coolingworst: 1997
    15%
  • Body & structureworst: 1999
    15%
  • Wheels & tiresworst: 1999
    15%

Frequently asked questions

What years of the GMC Z-71 should you avoid?

None of the GMC Z-71 years has an unusually high number of complaints compared with the others at the same age.

What are the most common GMC Z-71 problems?

Across all years, owners report the most problems with the brakes (11), windows, wipers & sunroof (3) and steering (2). Brake complaints peak in the 1999 model year.

How many recalls has the GMC Z-71 had?

0 recalls across 1997–1999.

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.