Used GMC 3500HD Buying Guide

The Sierra 3500 HD is one of the best work trucks on the market. This is thanks to its features, raw power, and looks. If this sounds like something you'd like, then a used model might be for you. You'll get some of the best features for a price that is more agreeable than a new model. We'll go over which is the best year for a used GMC 3500HD.

Key Takeaways:

While the max towing capacity does change depending on the year and model, it'll be hard to find one that is much better than this.
If you're a tradesman looking for all the bells and whistles, then a 2025 model is the one to track down, as it comes with more standard gear.
With some added creature comforts, you'll be able to stay loose to and from the site.

Fifth Generation (2020-Present)

When this model hit the roads in 2020, the new generation saw sweeping changes to the lineup. This helped make it more appealing, making it more than just a barebones heavy-duty truck. Some features that you can find are an 8-inch screen, coming with phone connectivity. This makes it so that when you're heading to the site, you can stay connected and relaxed.

If you find yourself looking at a model with a larger screen, built-in navigation, a Bose audio system, SiriusXM satellite radio, and a rear-seat entertainment system. This adds some extra features for those who want the best of the best.

With a few engines to pick from, if you want the best towing capacity, then you'll want to look for models that are equipped with the Duramax diesel 6.6L V8. This is because the torque-rich engine makes 910 lb-ft of torque, while also making 445 horsepower. This unlocks a max tow rating of 35,500 pounds. This towing capacity is sure to make most tradesmen happy.

If you want some creature comforts, then you can look for things like a class-exclusive head-up display, a heated steering wheel, heated and cooled front seats, and wireless charging. This is perfect for those who get off from a long day at the site, helping you relax a bit on the way home.

To further drive home the fact that this model is made for work, you'll find that the tailgate comes packed with additional functions. These range from steps to stops, as well as a work surface and a bench, as noted by Car and Driver.

If you want something that is a bit more capable, as well as a bit safer, then you'll want a model that comes after 2021. This is because it saw a new jack-knife alert, and a trailer-length indicator that lets the driver know when nearby traffic might interfere with a connected trailer. The tailgate also now joins the SLE trim, making it more accessible to the line as a whole.

If you find yourself looking at a Denali trim, then you can enjoy things like a standard high-definition 360-degree camera and a bed-view camera.

Over the next few years, they didn't really see much change, but that stopped in 2024. This year saw a refresh, which saw more power for the diesel engine, now making 470 horsepower and 975 lb-ft of torque. This gives an even higher towing capacity, now able to tow 36,000 pounds. If you're someone who wants the absolute most, then it may be worth tracking a 2024 down.

The last set of changes came in 2025, and while these will be harder to track down right away, you may want to hunt for them. This saw the inclusion of a trailer-brake controller, regardless of trim. While in the years prior, you would've needed to spec into this feature, making it harder to find on the used market.

So, which year model GMC 3500 should I look for?

We think that the 2024 models are the best choice for those who want something with the most power. This is thanks to the added towing capacity, but the years before this are still formidable. With most of the changes being smaller technical features, we think that it's easier to see these in person. Come on down to a Jarrett location today!