2017 Sierra running hot when towing?

GMC Lee · July 9, 2018

I'm not sure if this is normal on my 2017 Sierra with a 5.3 but I've noticed what I'm towing only around 3,500 lb my temp gauge going past 210. When I hooked up my scanner and watch the data stream the actual temp would get to 223 degrees and then come back down to 212 degrees. I've talked to the dealership and they cannot tell me if it's normal or not. Looking for any help thanks.

Supreme Pizza · July 10, 2018

Seems OK to me. You could install aftermarket cooling improvements, but I do not think it is necessary. Leaving the "Towing Mode" off may produce less heat, as the RPMS would be lower.

Jon A · July 10, 2018

That's very normal and those temps are nothing to worry about. If you do want it to run cooler (especially if towing heavier loads is in the future) and want to see what a couple cheap mods can do to help, look at this thread:

ozws6 · July 10, 2018

Very normal. My 16 Denali would run the same temps with the stock thermostat.

Another option to reduce coolant temps is to install the stock thermostat from a 14+ Vette or 16+ Camaro. It's a direct bolt on and is about 20 degrees cooler. The cooling fan settings need to be lowered in the tune to get the most out of it, but it's an easy upgrade. My truck runs 190 to 200F with the car thermostat.

GMC Lee · July 11, 2018

Thanks for the replies it's been helpful. I'm having a hard time deciding whether to keep this rig or get the 2019. I have only had this truck since September of last year after trading in my 16 that I bought at the end of 2016. GM basically lemoned out my 16 because of a bunch of issues with it. I'm honestly pretty pissed off this is the first new vehicle I ever bought and GM is already replacing this body style. I don't see much different in the styling of the new truck but I hate to see the value of my current truck Drop Like a Rock because it's the outgoing body style.