1985 Chevrolet C10 problems
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.
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Common 1985 Chevrolet C10 problems
The 1985 Chevrolet C10 is known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues, along with their causes and possible solutions.
- Electrical System Issues: The 1985 Chevrolet C10 can also experience electrical system issues, such as problems with the battery, alternator, or wiring. Symptoms of electrical system issues may include difficulty starting the engine, dim headlights, or intermittent electrical failures. To address these issues, you may need to replace the battery or alternator, repair or replace damaged wiring, or diagnose and repair any other electrical system problems.
- Suspension and Steering Issues: The 1985 Chevrolet C10 can experience suspension and steering issues, such as worn-out bushings, loose steering components, or damaged suspension components. Symptoms of suspension and steering issues may include difficulty steering, uneven tire wear, or poor handling. To address these issues, you may need to replace worn-out bushings, tighten loose steering components, or replace damaged suspension components.
- Transmission Issues: The 1985 Chevrolet C10 can also experience transmission issues, such as slipping, hard shifting, or leaking. Symptoms of transmission issues may include difficulty shifting, delayed engagement, or fluid leaks. To address these issues, you may need to replace the transmission fluid, adjust the shift linkage, or repair or replace damaged transmission components.
- Engine Issues: The 1985 Chevrolet C10 can experience engine issues, such as overheating, misfiring, or poor performance. Symptoms of engine issues may include difficulty starting the engine, poor acceleration, or decreased fuel efficiency. To address these issues, you may need to replace worn-out engine components, repair or replace damaged engine components, or diagnose and repair any other engine problems.
- Braking System Issues: The 1985 Chevrolet C10 can experience braking system issues, such as worn-out brake pads, leaking brake lines, or damaged brake components. Symptoms of braking system issues may include difficulty stopping the vehicle, squeaking or grinding noises when braking, or fluid leaks. To address these issues, you may need to replace worn-out brake pads, repair or replace damaged brake lines, or replace damaged brake components.
In summary, the 1985 Chevrolet C10 is known for several common problems, including fueling system issues, rust and corrosion, electrical system issues, suspension and steering issues, transmission issues, engine issues, and braking system issues. By addressing these issues promptly and taking preventative measures, you can help ensure the longevity and performance of your 1985 Chevrolet C10.
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.
What size engine is in the 1985 Chevy C10?
The truck is powered by a 4.3 V6 cylinder engine, 4-speed overdrive automatic transmission and rear wheel drive.
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.
1985 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:
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Chevrolet C10 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1985 Chevrolet C10 complaints
The NHTSA has received 8 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Chevrolet C10.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-06
- VIN: 1GCDC14H4FS
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1985 CHEVROLET C10. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED BY THE EMISSIONS STATION THAT THE REAR BRAKES ON HIS VEHICLE DO NOT OPERATE. HE STATED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDS AN AXLE BRAKE ASSEMBLY. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,000 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. UPDATED 02/01/08. *LJ THE CONSUMER STATED THE BRAKE SYSTEM HAS NOT WORKED PROPERLY SINCE THE YEAR HE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE AND WILL NOT BE DRIVEN UNTIL MANUFACTURER CAN REMEDY THE DEFECT. UPDATED 02/01/08 *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-20
- VIN: 1GCDC14N1FS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CONSUMER HAS SMELLED GAS FUME ODORS OUTSIDE VEHICLE, AND NOTICED TANK WAS LEAKING FUEL FROM SIDE SADDLE TANK DUE TO COVER WHICH WAS NOT MOUNTED TO TANK, ALLOWING FOREIGN OBJECTS TO ENTER TANK AND CAUSING TANK TO RUST OUT. TWENTY GALLON TANK. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GCDC14H2FS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE REPLACED SEVEN COILS, FOUR IGNITION MODULES, AND 1 COMPLETE DISTRIBUTOR, ALSO I HAVE REPLACED THE CAP AND ROTOR THREE TIMES. THE TRUCK HAS LEFT ME AND MY ELDERLY PARENTS STRANDED SEVERAL TIMES AND HELPED IN CAUSING AN ACCIDENT THAT COULD HAD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY. I HAVE PUT A LARGE SUM OF MONEY INTO THIS VEHICLE, BESIDE THE TIME IT TOOK TO WORK ON IT,PLUS THE TIME I MISSED AT WORK. I AM IN CONSTUCTION AND WHEN MY TRUCK DON'T I USSUALLY CAN'T WORK EITHER/.I FEEL THAT CHEVROLET CORP. SHOULD FIX THIS PROBLEM OR IN THE VERY LEAST NOTIFY THEIR VEHICLE OWNERS SO WE CAN SOLVE THE DEFECTS OURSELVES. OR NOT EVEN BUY THEM. I ENJOYED MY 1978 CHEVROLET PICKUP UP TO THE DAY IT WAS STOLEN. NOW I AM NOT SO SURE I CAN ENDORSE CHEVROLET AN MORE. I MUST ALSO STATE THAT OWNER BEFORE MY FATHER BOUGHT THE TRUCK HE ALSO HAD PROBLEMS WITH IT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GCDC14H2FS
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE REPLACED SEVEN COILS, FOUR IGNITION MODULES, AND 1 COMPLETE DISTRIBUTOR, ALSO I HAVE REPLACED THE CAP AND ROTOR THREE TIMES. THE TRUCK HAS LEFT ME AND MY ELDERLY PARENTS STRANDED SEVERAL TIMES AND HELPED IN CAUSING AN ACCIDENT THAT COULD HAD CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY. I HAVE PUT A LARGE SUM OF MONEY INTO THIS VEHICLE, BESIDE THE TIME IT TOOK TO WORK ON IT,PLUS THE TIME I MISSED AT WORK. I AM IN CONSTUCTION AND WHEN MY TRUCK DON'T I USSUALLY CAN'T WORK EITHER/.I FEEL THAT CHEVROLET CORP. SHOULD FIX THIS PROBLEM OR IN THE VERY LEAST NOTIFY THEIR VEHICLE OWNERS SO WE CAN SOLVE THE DEFECTS OURSELVES. OR NOT EVEN BUY THEM. I ENJOYED MY 1978 CHEVROLET PICKUP UP TO THE DAY IT WAS STOLEN. NOW I AM NOT SO SURE I CAN ENDORSE CHEVROLET AN MORE. I MUST ALSO STATE THAT OWNER BEFORE MY FATHER BOUGHT THE TRUCK HE ALSO HAD PROBLEMS WITH IT.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-24
- VIN: 1GCDC14H8FS
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: PE00 020; WAS TRAVELING ABOUT 65MPH ON HIGHWAY AND THERE WAS NO NOISE TIRE TREAD SEPARATED. CONTINENTAL GENERAL P235/75 R15 AND DOT # ACHL2V7077. FRONT RIGHT TIRE EXPLODED. SECOND TIRE WAS THE LEFT FRONT.*AK DURING THE FIRST TREAD SEPARATION, THE VEHICLE WENT OUT OF CONTROL CAUSING DAMAGE TO FENDER AND DOOR. THE SECOND TREAD SEPARATION OCCURED AGAIN WHILE TRAVELLING BUT THERE WAS NO DAMAGE TO THE VEHICLE. *YH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER HOOD, FOUND AREA NEAR CARBURETOR ON FIRE. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1996-02-17
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL TANKS ARE BUILT OUTSIDE THE FRAME, CAUSING SERIOUS RISK OF FIRE IN CASE OF BEING HIT FROM THE SIDE. *DSH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-04
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2GCDC14H1F1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: UNDER VEHICLE CARRIAGE FIRE, CATALYTIC CONVERTER SUSPECTED OF CAUSING FIRE. TT AFTER SUDDEN EXPLOSION THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE FROM UNDERNEATH THE REAR. THE POWER DOOR FAILED TO WORK AND THE CONSUMER IN TRYING TO GET OUT HAD HIS HAIR ON FIRE BUT PUT IT OUT BY ROLLING ON THE GROUND. *YH
1985 Chevrolet C10 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1985 Chevrolet C10.
- 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.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
- Summary: IMPROPER SIZE REAR BRAKE ASSEMBLIES WERE INSTALLED.
- Consequence: TRUCKS COULD EXCEED THE MAXIMUM STOPPING DISTANCEPERMITTED BY FMVSS 105, HYDRAULIC BRAKE SYSTEMS, CREATING THE POTENTIAL FOR AVEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: REPLACE REAR AXLE BRAKE ASSEMBLIES WITH PROPER SIZE ASSEMBLIES.
Other years of Chevrolet C10
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