One problem related to front seat recliner has been reported for the 1998 GMC Sierra 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Driver's side seat tracks wear out every 3-4 months - causes loose seat - when stopping causes driver to slide forward makiing it difficult to control vehicle. The release levers on both sides of front seat have torn holes in sides of the seat. The passenger side seat belt continues to tighten up when going over bumps. . . So person released belt to put back on which can cause injury if an accident happens at this time. I was told that too bad this is a safety feature so if you want to put in a baby seat. Unless the belt is pulled all the way out it is not suppose to tighten up on its own. ,but rough roads will make this happen.