1979 Chevrolet C10 problems

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The Chevrolet C/K is a series of trucks that was manufactured by General Motors from the 1960 to 2002 model years. Marketed by both the Chevrolet and GMC divisions, the C/K series encompassed a wide range of vehicles. While most commonly associated with pickup trucks, the model line also included chassis-cab trucks and medium-duty trucks and served as the basis for GM full-size SUVs. Through its entire production, the model line competed directly against the Ford F-Series and the Dodge D series (later the Dodge Ram pickup).

Used for both the model branding and the internal model code, "C" denoted two-wheel drive, while "K" denoted four-wheel drive. Four generations of the C/K series were produced, including the GM monikered second-generation "Action Line" and third-generation "Rounded Line" vehicles (colloquially aka Square-Body trucks). For the fourth-generation (colloquially also known as OBS trucks), Chevrolet kept using the C/K designation while GMC revised its branding, changing to a singular GMC Sierra nameplate (C/K remained as an internal model code).

For South America, the model line was manufactured by General Motors de Argentina from 1960 to 1978, Sevel Argentina from 1986 to 1991, and General Motors Brazil, who produced versions of the model line for Brazil, Argentina, and Chile from 1964 to 2001.

As GM entered the 1990s, the company revised its truck ranges, replacing the medium-duty C/K trucks with the Chevrolet Kodiak/GMC TopKick for 1990. For 1999, GM replaced the fourth-generation C/K pickup trucks with an all-new model line; in line with GMC, Chevrolet dropped the C/K nameplate (in favor of a singular Chevrolet Silverado nameplate). Initially marketed with its successor, the final C/K pickup trucks were produced for the 2000 model year. From 2001 to 2002, the final vehicles of the C/K model line were medium-duty chassis cab trucks.

1979 Chevrolet C10

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Common 1979 Chevrolet C10 problems

Common Problems with the Chevrolet C10 1979

Based on the search results, the Chevrolet C10 1979 has several common problems that owners have reported. These issues include engine problems, rust, and transmission issues.

  1. Engine Problems

The engine is one of the most critical components of a car, and the Chevrolet C10 1979 is no exception. One of the most common engine problems reported by owners is that the engine died at 130,000 miles, requiring a rebuild. This issue can be expensive to fix, and it's essential to keep up with regular maintenance to prevent it.

Another engine problem reported is that the truck struggles to start, especially after it has been parked for an extended period. This issue can be caused by various factors, including faulty ignition switches, fuel pumps, or even the distributor. In some cases, the engine may start but only run for a few seconds before dying again.

  1. Rust

Rust is a common problem with older vehicles, and the Chevrolet C10 1979 is no exception. Owners have reported that the truck is very rusty and needs a new bed. Rust can be a significant issue, as it can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle and lead to more severe problems down the line.

Rust is particularly common in areas with high humidity or salt on the roads. It's essential to check for rust regularly and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.

  1. Transmission Issues

Transmission issues are another common problem reported by owners of the Chevrolet C10 1979. One of the most common transmission issues is that the truck won't shift out of first gear. This issue can be caused by various factors, including the vacuum modulator valve, the governor in the transmission, or possibly incorrect fluid level.

Transmission issues can be challenging to diagnose and fix, and it's essential to have a qualified professional inspect the vehicle to identify the root cause of the problem.

In conclusion, the Chevrolet C10 1979 is a great work truck that is very reliable, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Engine problems, rust, and transmission issues are the most commonly reported issues by owners. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues can help prevent more severe problems down the line and ensure the vehicle remains reliable and safe to drive.

1979 Chevrolet C10 engine

What year is the most desirable C10?

Q: What is the most sought after square body Chevy? A: The 1987 Chevy C10 is often considered the most sought after square body Chevy. This year marked the end of the third generation C/K series, making it a favorite among collectors.

Are Chevy C10s reliable?

Chevy C10s are some of the most reliable classic pickups out there, and the great news is that there are a lot of them.

How much horsepower does a 1979 C10 have?

Specifications for Chevrolet C10 Suburban 4.1 132hp, 1979.

What is the mpg on a 1979 C10 350?

Based on data from 7 vehicles, 125 fuel-ups and 22,059 miles of driving, the 1979 Chevrolet C10 gets a combined Avg MPG of 12.41 with a 1.03 MPG margin of error.

Are Chevy C10s reliable?

Chevy C10s are some of the most reliable classic pickups out there, and the great news is that there are a lot of them.

What year is the best C10?

Q: What year C10 is the most popular? A: The 1973-1987 models, known as the "Square Body" generation, are often considered the most popular among enthusiasts. These models are known for their rugged design, reliability, and ease of modification, making them a favorite among restorers and custom builders.

How much horsepower does a 1979 C10 have?

Specifications for Chevrolet C10 Suburban 4.1 132hp, 1979.

Are Chevy C10 easy to work on?

Chevrolet C10

A basic C10 from the first or second generation is a relatively easy vehicle to work on, as, like the Ford, it's a simplistic thing, and there's little that can go wrong.

1979 Chevrolet C10 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet C10 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems
  • Structure problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1979 Chevrolet C10 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1979 Chevrolet C10 complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1979 Chevrolet C10.

2002-03-26

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-03-19
  • VIN: CCU44921430
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES THE FRAME BEHIND THE STEERING GEAR BOX HAVE CRACKS SEVERELY, IT CAUSES THE GEAR BOX TO DISCONNECT FROM THE WALL AND THE VEHICLE LOSS STEERING CONTROL WHILE DRIVING. NLM
1997-03-11

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-03-11
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: PASSENGER SIDE FUEL TANK FAILED.
1996-11-19

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-06-28
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS TANK MOUNTED TO FRAME WHICH BUCKLED, ALLOWING TANK TO CONTACT ROAD SURFACE. *AK
1996-09-25

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: WHEN TANK IS HALF WAY FILLED WITH GAS, THE FUEL TANK LEAKS. PLEASE DESCRIBE.*AK

1979 Chevrolet C10 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1979 Chevrolet C10.

2007-10-24
  • Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.
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