These instructions apply to the GMC Sierra 1500 Mk3 (K2XX) 2014-2018.
For other models, please choose your vehicle here.
Any electrical repair on a 2014–2018 GMC Sierra 1500 starts with pulling the 12 V battery. The order matters: negative first on the way out, negative last on the way back, so a wrench can’t bridge the live post to the body. GMC locates the battery exactly as Chevrolet does on the Silverado.
- Ignition off, key out, doors shut a minute or two so the modules power down. Wear eye protection; never disconnect with the ignition on.
- Pop the hood — the battery sits in the engine bay on the driver’s side.
- Slacken and lift off the negative (−, black) clamp first; fold it away from the post.
- Now take off the positive (+, red) clamp.
- Carry out your work. Expect the clock, presets and a few personal settings to clear.
- Refit positive first, negative last and tighten both clamps firmly.
- Switch on, scan for warning lights, and reset the clock and radio.
FAQ
Which clamp first?
Negative off first, negative on last — it stops a slipped tool arcing the live positive to ground.
What will I have to reset?
The clock and radio presets, mostly; most other settings restore themselves.
Is a memory saver worth it?
It keeps presets alive but leaves the system energized, so keep tools clear of the terminals if you use one.
Anything to relearn afterward?
Not on the K2XX Sierra — just the clock and presets. A light that stays on means read the code first.
The GMC Sierra 1500 is mechanically identical to the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, so this procedure is the same on both trucks — see our Chevrolet Silverado 1500 guides.
If your Sierra logs a trouble code with the warning light, decode it on autodtcs.com.
Independent guide — not affiliated with GMC. Always follow your official service manual and safety precautions. Read our full disclaimer.