A Guide to Universal Joint Replacement for the 2007-2010 GMC Sierra
Addressing the common clunks, squeaks, and vibrations from your truck's driveline.
- Listen for squeaks at low speeds and clunks when shifting, as these are the first signs of U-joint failure.
- A vibration that gets worse with speed is a very common and serious symptom.
- For a balance of quality and price, aftermarket brands like GMB are a suitable choice for these trucks.
- It is strongly recommended to replace all U-joints on the driveshaft at the same time to prevent future issues.
Is Your Sierra Making Strange Noises? It Could Be the U-Joints.
A failing U-joint is a common issue that gives clear warning signs. The earliest symptom is often a high-pitched squeaking or chirping sound at low speeds (under 10 mph), which indicates the joint is losing its internal grease. As the wear gets worse, you'll likely hear a loud "clunk" or a metallic ringing sound when you shift from drive to reverse. This is caused by excessive play in the worn-out joint. Another very common symptom is a vibration you can feel through the floor or seats, which gets worse as you speed up. Don't ignore these signs; a complete failure can cause the driveshaft to disconnect from the truck, leading to a loss of control and major damage.
A Note on "Clunking" Noises
While U-joints are a frequent cause of clunking, these 2007-2010 Sierra models are also known for a similar clunking or grinding noise that comes from the driveshaft's slip yoke. This specific issue is often caused by old grease on the splines and can sometimes be fixed by cleaning and re-greasing the slip yoke 🎬 Watch this video to learn how to grease your slip yoke., which is a different procedure than replacing the U-joints. It's important to correctly diagnose the source of the noise before buying parts.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket U-Joint
When replacing U-joints, you have a choice between OEM and aftermarket parts. For a vehicle of this age, a quality aftermarket part offers a great balance of performance and value. Brands like GMB are known to be a reliable and affordable option for U-joints. While some forum discussions from many years ago noted inconsistencies, more recent feedback suggests they are a solid choice for daily driving and standard use. For heavy-duty use, some owners prefer premium brands like Spicer, which is often the original equipment supplier.
You will also see two main types of U-joints:
- Greasable: These joints have a zerk fitting that allows you to add new grease periodically. This can extend their life if maintained properly, but if you forget to grease them, they can fail quickly.
- Non-Greasable (Sealed): These are sealed from the factory, much like the original parts. They are often stronger because the main body (cross) is solid steel and require no maintenance, making them a popular "install-and-forget" option.
Pro Tip: Replace in Sets
Your truck has multiple U-joints. A typical 2WD model has two on the rear driveshaft, while a 4WD model has those plus more on the front driveshaft. If one U-joint has failed, the others have likely been subjected to the same amount of stress and wear. It is highly recommended to replace all the U-joints on a driveshaft at the same time to ensure a smooth, balanced driveline and prevent having to do the job again in the near future.
Expected Costs for Universal Joint Replacement
The cost can vary depending on how many U-joints are replaced and local labor rates. Aftermarket U-joints themselves are quite affordable.
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket U-Joint (e.g., GMB) | $18.90 - $34.75 per joint |
| Shop Labor (per driveshaft) | $160 - $235 |
| Total Professional Replacement (One Joint) | $177 - $518 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many U-joints does my 2007-2010 Sierra have?
It depends on your truck's configuration. A 2-wheel drive model typically has two U-joints on the rear driveshaft. A 4-wheel drive model will have those two, plus additional U-joints on the front driveshaft. Some long-bed models may have a two-piece driveshaft with a center support bearing and a third U-joint. Always inspect all of them when one shows signs of failure.
Is replacing a U-joint a DIY job?
It can be, but it requires specific tools. Removing the old U-joint and pressing in the new one without damaging the new joint's needle bearings requires a ball joint press or a large bench vise. While some people use hammers, it is not recommended as it can easily damage the part or the driveshaft. If you don't have access to a press, this job is often best left to a professional.
🎬 See how to replace the U-joints on your Sierra yourself.Are there any recalls for this issue?
There are no specific recalls for universal joints on the 2007-2010 GMC Sierra. However, it is always a good practice to check for any open recalls on your vehicle using your VIN on the NHTSA website.
What happens if a U-joint fails completely?
A complete failure is dangerous. The U-joint breaks, and the driveshaft disconnects, falling to the ground. This will cause an immediate loss of power. If you are moving at speed, the loose driveshaft can dig into the pavement, potentially causing you to lose control, or it can flail around and destroy other parts under your truck like the exhaust, fuel tank, and transmission housing.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 12471502 12479126 26042371
Configurations vary. 2WD models typically use two U-joints on the rear driveshaft. 4WD models use additional joints for the front driveshaft. Some long wheelbase models may use a two-piece driveshaft with three U-joints. Always verify part numbers for your specific truck configuration before purchase.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- GMC Sierra: