1990 Chevrolet C10 problems

General information about Chevrolet-C10
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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 1990 Chevrolet C10 problems

Based on the information provided in the sources, here are common problems with the Chevrolet C/K 1500 (similar to the C10) from 1990 based on complaints from owners:

Engine Oil Leaks: Owners have reported oil leaks from components such as the oil pan gasket, front main seal, rear main seal, and oil filter adapter. These leaks can lead to oil seepage and potential engine damage if not addressed promptly. Replacing the affected gaskets and seals is necessary to resolve this issue.

Coolant Leaks or Oil Leaks from Intake Manifold Gaskets: Leakage from the intake manifold gaskets can lead to coolant or oil leaks, affecting the engine's performance and potentially causing overheating issues. Addressing these leaks promptly by replacing the faulty gaskets is essential to prevent further damage.

Alternator Failure: Alternator failure is another reported issue that can lead to battery drainage and abnormal noises in the vehicle. When the alternator fails, it needs to be replaced to ensure the proper functioning of the electrical system in the vehicle.

Internal Distributor Faults: Some owners have experienced internal faults in the distributor, leading to engine roughness, stalling, or unusual noises. Overhauling or replacing the internal distributor is necessary to rectify this issue and maintain the engine's performance.

These common problems with the Chevrolet C/K 1500 from 1990 highlight the importance of regular maintenance, timely diagnosis of issues, and proper replacement of faulty components to ensure the vehicle's optimal performance and longevity.

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 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.

How many miles can a Chevy C10 last?

On average, a well-maintained Chevy in Santa Clarita can last for over 200,000 miles or more. In fact, many Chevy trucks have been known to last for 300,000 miles or more with regular maintenance and proper care.

When did Chevy trucks get bad?

The 2008 model year competes with the 2014 model year as one of the worst ever produced. Due to its frequent engine problems and overuse of oil, which was repair that cost owners over $2,700 to fix, this problem continued onward from the 2007 into the 2009 model years.

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.

When did Chevy trucks get bad?

How many miles can a Chevy C10 last?

1990 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:

Service brakes problems
Hydraulic problems
Visibility problems
Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Chevrolet C10 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1990 Chevrolet C10 complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Chevrolet C10.

1999-08-05

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
VIN: 2GC2C14K6L1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THE FRONT BRAKES STOPPED, BUT THE BACK WHEELS KEPT SPINNING. DEALER COULDN'T FIX THE PROBLEM. *AK

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1996-01-03

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1993-01-03
VIN: 2GCEC19K8L1
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: HEATER DEFROSTER BECOMES INOPERATIVE WHILE DRIVING. THIS IS AN INTERMITTENT PROBLEM. TT

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1995-10-31

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 1995-10-31
VIN: 1JCDC14K5LZ
Components: POWER TRAIN
Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID OVERHEATS, GEARS DO NOT ENGAGED FULLY, CAN SMELL BURNT TRANMISSION FLUID, INVOLVED IN RECALL 93V016000 DEALER ONLY INPECTED PROBLEM

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1990 Chevrolet C10 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Chevrolet C10.

1993-02-01

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Summary: UNANTICIPATED HEAT IN THE TRANSMISSION CAN FORCE THE TRANSMISSION FLUID OUT OF THE VENT TUBE.
Consequence: THE VENTED TRANSMISSION FLUID CAN CATCH FIRE IF EXPOSEDTO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
Remedy: INSTALL A LONGER TRANSMISSION VENT HOSE ROUTED TO THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT OF THE VEHICLE.

1990-01-29

Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Summary: ON C AND K MODELS, FEED AND OR RETURN FUEL LINES CAN CONTACT THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION SHIFT LINKAGE CORDON SHAFT. IN ADDITION, ON K MODELS LINES MAY ALSO CONTACT FRONT PROPSHAFT. IN EITHER CASE THE FUEL LINES COULD BE DAMAGED RESULTING IN A FUEL LEAK.
Consequence: A HOLE COULD BE RUBBED THROUGH THESE FUEL LINES, ALLOWING FUEL LEAKAGE NEAR EXHAUST CROSSOVER PIPE; THIS COULD RESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE THAT COULD SPREAD TO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT.
Remedy: INSTALL NEWLY DESIGNED FUEL LINE ROUTING BRACKET TO PREVENT CONTACT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE FUEL LINES.