Dec 26, 2025

When considering a GMC Sierra for your next truck purchase near Morton, IL, understanding the safety features and packages available is crucial. The GMC Sierra Safety Plus package extends the capabilities of the standard Pro Safety suite with enhanced driver assistance systems that improve awareness and help prevent accidents. Whether you’re navigating busy streets in Peoria or towing heavy loads near Pekin, these packages provide peace of mind with cutting-edge technology. At Lighthouse Buick GMC, located at 100 W Jackson St, Morton, IL 61550, and reachable at (309) 938-4190, we’re here to help you explore these advanced safety options in depth.

Table of Contents


What Is the Sierra Safety Plus Package?

The Sierra Safety Plus package is an enhanced safety suite tailored for the GMC Sierra that extends the standard GMC Pro Safety features with critical additions aimed at improving driver visibility and parking ease. This package is typically available on mid- to higher-level trims such as the Elevation and SLT.

Core Features of the Sierra Safety Plus Package

  • Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert: Utilizes radar sensors to monitor adjacent lanes, alerting the driver via visual warnings in the side mirrors if a vehicle is detected in the blind spot during lane changes. This feature is essential for highway driving near East Peoria or Morton where multi-lane roads are common.
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Assists when reversing by detecting vehicles or pedestrians crossing behind the truck, providing audible and visual alerts. This is particularly helpful in crowded parking lots, such as those in downtown Peoria or near local shopping centers.
  • Rear Park Assist: Uses ultrasonic sensors to measure the distance between the rear of the vehicle and obstacles, giving audio cues that help drivers park more confidently in tight spaces.

Integration with GMC Pro Safety

The Safety Plus suite complements core systems like:

  • Forward Collision Alert: Detects potential front-end collisions and warns the driver in advance.
  • Automatic Emergency Braking: Applies the brakes automatically if a collision is imminent and the driver fails to respond.
  • Lane Keep Assist: Helps steer the vehicle back into its lane if it begins to drift unintentionally.
  • Front Pedestrian Braking: Identifies pedestrians in your path and can automatically brake to prevent accidents.
  • Following Distance Indicator: Displays the time gap to the vehicle ahead to maintain safe spacing.
  • IntelliBeam® Auto High Beams: Automatically adjusts headlights for optimal visibility without blinding other drivers.

This combination of features creates a comprehensive protective network, making everyday driving in Morton, Peoria, or Pekin safer and less stressful.


What Is the GMC Pro Safety Plus Package?

The GMC Pro Safety Plus package builds upon the foundational Pro Safety suite with added radar-based monitoring and parking technologies. While Pro Safety forms the baseline for accident prevention, Pro Safety Plus enhances situational awareness, especially during lane changes, reversing, and in congested environments.

Advanced Features in Pro Safety Plus

  • Blind Spot Monitoring: Radar sensors scan blind spots continuously, alerting you with LED indicators on side mirrors to vehicles approaching from behind or alongside.
  • Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Provides warnings about cross-traffic movement behind the vehicle when backing out of parking spots.
  • Rear Park Assist: Detects obstacles during low-speed maneuvers, reducing parking stress in tight urban or suburban settings.

These features are particularly valuable for drivers who frequently navigate highways or busy parking lots around Morton and surrounding areas. Pro Safety Plus is often included or available as an upgrade on trucks like the Sierra, Yukon, and Acadia.


What Is Included in the GMC Pro Safety Package?

The GMC Pro Safety package is a set of six core safety technologies designed to help prevent accidents before they occur. This package is standard or available on many GMC models and delivers vital assistance in everyday driving conditions.

Breakdown of Pro Safety Features

  • Lane Keep & Departure Warning: Monitors lane markings and gently nudges the vehicle back if it drifts unintentionally without signaling.
  • IntelliBeam® Auto High Beams: Automatically switches between high and low beams depending on traffic and lighting conditions, enhancing night driving safety.
  • Forward Collision Alert: Uses cameras to detect vehicles or objects ahead, alerting the driver to potential collisions.
  • Following Distance Indicator: Helps maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead by showing the time gap in seconds.
  • Front Pedestrian Braking: Detects pedestrians crossing in front and can apply brakes if the driver does not respond.
  • Automatic Emergency Braking: Engages the brakes automatically in critical situations to avoid or mitigate collisions.

These features work synergistically to reduce accident risk and provide drivers with intuitive alerts and interventions.


Difference Between GMC Pro Safety and Pro Safety Plus

Understanding the differences between the two safety packages helps you choose the right level of protection for your driving habits.

FeaturePro SafetyPro Safety Plus
Forward Collision Alert
Automatic Emergency Braking
Lane Keep Assist
Following Distance Indicator
Front Pedestrian Braking
IntelliBeam® Auto High Beams
Blind Spot Monitoring
Rear Cross Traffic Alert
Rear Park Assist

Key Insight:
Pro Safety Plus adds blind spot detection, rear cross-traffic alerts, and rear park assist to the baseline Pro Safety features, making it ideal for drivers who want enhanced monitoring especially in urban or highway settings. Those who regularly engage in highway commuting near Morton or park in tight spaces will find Pro Safety Plus particularly valuable.


What Is the Highest Package for GMC Vehicles?

The ultimate in GMC luxury and technology is represented by the Denali and Denali Ultimate trims. These top-tier packages combine advanced safety, premium materials, and sophisticated design for a truly upscale driving experience.

Denali Trim Highlights

  • Luxurious Interior: Leather-appointed heated and ventilated seats, real wood and aluminum accents, and high-end stitching details.
  • Advanced Safety: Includes Pro Safety Plus features along with additional driver assistance systems.
  • Powerful Engines: Available 6.2L V8 with up to 420 horsepower, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
  • Signature Styling: Distinctive chrome grille, 20-inch wheels, and refined exterior detailing.

Denali Ultimate Trim Features

  • Exclusive Styling: Vader Chrome grille and badging, unique 22-inch machined wheels.
  • Premium Materials: Full-grain leather with plaited stitching, authentic Paldao wood accents with laser-etched topographical maps.
  • Technology: Super Cruise® hands-free driver assistance technology with a 3-year OnStar plan, advanced infotainment, and Bose premium audio.
  • Comfort: 16-way power-adjustable massaging front seats, multi-zone climate control.

These trims are available on models like the Sierra 1500, Sierra HD, Yukon, and Acadia, representing the pinnacle of GMC’s craftsmanship and technology.


Which GMC Trim Level Is Most Luxurious?

For drivers seeking the highest level of comfort, technology, and style, the Denali and Denali Ultimate trims stand out as the most luxurious options in the GMC lineup.

  • Denali Trim: Offers a harmonious blend of powerful performance, refined interiors, and advanced safety features. With heated and ventilated leather seats, premium sound systems, and upscale materials, it elevates the driving experience.
  • Denali Ultimate: Takes luxury a step further with exclusive exterior accents, enhanced seating comfort including massage features, and state-of-the-art technology like Super Cruise, enabling hands-free highway driving on compatible roads near Morton and beyond.

These trims are ideal for those who want a commanding vehicle that combines rugged capability with refined elegance.


Which GMC Trucks to Avoid and Reliability Concerns

When choosing a GMC truck, especially on the used market, it’s important to be aware of model years and trims known for reliability issues. Certain vehicles have been reported to have mechanical, electrical, or transmission problems.

GMC Trucks and Model Years to Approach with Caution

  • 2001-2003 & 2005-2007 Sierra 1500: Known for engine reliability concerns and electrical issues.
  • 2014-2018 Sierra 1500: Frequently cited for transmission problems, including shuddering and harsh shifting with 8-speed automatic transmissions, as well as headlight failures.
  • 2019-2021 Sierra 1500: Some 6.2L V8 engines had lifter and bearing wear issues.
  • 2014-2016 Yukon: Reports of infotainment system glitches and sensor errors.
  • Affected Transmission Models: 8-speed (2015-2019) and 10-speed (2020-2022+) automatics have been linked to valve body leaks, rear wheel lock-ups, and software recalls.

Practical Tips for Buyers

  • Obtain a full vehicle history report including recalls and service records.
  • Schedule thorough test drives, paying attention to transmission performance and electronic system function.
  • Confirm that any recall work, especially related to the 10-speed transmission, has been completed.

At Lighthouse Buick GMC, we can assist you in selecting reliable GMC trucks and offer professional maintenance to keep your vehicle in optimal condition. Contact us at (309) 938-4190 or visit us at 100 W Jackson St, Morton, IL 61550 for expert advice.


What Is the Most Reliable GMC Pickup Truck?

Reliability is a critical factor for truck owners, especially those using their vehicles for work or long-distance travel across Illinois and surrounding states.

Top Reliable GMC Trucks

  • GMC Sierra 1500: Particularly models from 2016 to 2018, 2020, and 2021 have been recognized for strong reliability, robust engines, and solid build quality.
  • GMC Canyon: The mid-size Canyon is praised for durability, especially with the Duramax diesel engine option, capable of surpassing 200,000 miles with proper care.
  • Sierra 2500HD: Diesel variants equipped with the Duramax 6.6L Turbo-Diesel engine have earned reputations for longevity and dependability.

Reliability Factors

  • Regular maintenance such as timely oil changes, transmission fluid checks, and adherence to manufacturer service schedules can extend vehicle life.
  • Models built after 2010 benefit from advanced manufacturing techniques and improved component quality.

Choosing a reliable GMC pickup from Lighthouse Buick GMC ensures you receive a vehicle that aligns with your demands for performance and longevity on the roads around Morton, Peoria, and beyond.


Comprehensive Safety and Reliability: The Lighthouse Buick GMC Promise

Choosing a GMC Sierra equipped with the Safety Plus or Pro Safety packages means investing in your safety and driving confidence. Paired with selecting reliable model years and trims, you can enjoy the rugged capability and luxury GMC trucks are known for, without compromise.

Our dealership at 100 W Jackson St, Morton, IL 61550, offers expert guidance on the latest GMC safety technology and can help you find a Sierra or other GMC truck tailored to your needs. Contact us at (309) 938-4190 to schedule a test drive or consultation.

Experience GMC’s commitment to safety, luxury, and reliability firsthand with Lighthouse Buick GMC.


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