Three problems related to brake disc rotor have been reported for the 2001 GMC Sierra 1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below. Please also check out the statistics and reliability analysis of the 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 based on all problems reported for the 2001 Sierra 1500.
2001 GMC sierra crew cab truck was purchased pre-owned in July 2004. Vehicle at purchase had the front brakes replaced. Mileage was 28,410. In January 2006 with 35,904 miles front and rear brake rotors with pads were replaced due to "rusted brake rotors". In August 2006, rear brake backing plates were found to be rotted away and had to be replaced. Mileage at time was 39,846. Vehicle was repaired at all times by the dealer the vehicle was purchased through.
Brake failure.
My 2001 GMC sierra 4x4 pickup was designed with the rear brake calipers installed on the front of the rotors. Any road debris thrown-up by the front wheels causes the rear brakes to malfunction. The truck has 44600 miles on it. The front brake pads are in excellent shape. The rear pads, on the outside, are in excellent shape. The rear pads, on the inside, are worn to the metal. I complained about a noise in the rear end while it was under warranty. The rear brakes always hang when you stop, then make twin popping sounds when you start-off again. The problem was never found or fixed. This is not easy to detect and could lead to severe brake failure.