1994 Chevrolet C20 problems

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The third generation of the C/K series is a range of trucks that was manufactured by General Motors from the 1973 to 1991 model years. Serving as the replacement for the "Action Line" C/K trucks, GM designated the generation under "Rounded Line" moniker. Again offered as a two-door pickup truck and chassis cab, the Rounded Line trucks marked the introduction of a four-door cab configuration.

Marketed under the Chevrolet and GMC brands, the Rounded Line C/K chassis also served as the basis of GM full-size SUVs, including the Chevrolet/GMC Suburban wagon and the off-road oriented Chevrolet K5 Blazer/GMC Jimmy. The generation also shared body commonality with GM medium-duty commercial trucks.

In early 1987, GM introduced the 1988 fourth-generation C/K to replace the Rounded Line generation, with the company beginning a multi-year transition between the two generations. To eliminate model overlap, the Rounded Line C/K was renamed the R/V series, which remained as a basis for full-size SUVs and heavier-duty pickup trucks. After an 18-year production run (exceeded only in longevity by the Dodge D/W-series/Ram pickup and the Jeep Gladiator/Pickup), the Rounded Line generation was retired after the 1991 model year.

From 1972 to 1991, General Motors produced the Rounded Line C/K (later R/V) series in multiple facilities across the United States and Canada. In South America, the model line was produced in Argentina and Brazil, ending in 1997.

1994 Chevrolet C20

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Common 1994 Chevrolet C20 problems

The Chevrolet C20 1994, a popular choice among truck owners, has been reported to have several common problems that can affect its performance and reliability. This article will discuss some of these issues in detail, based on complaints from owners of this vehicle.

  • Engine Performance Issues: Some owners of the 1994 Chevrolet C20 have reported engine performance issues, such as poor fuel economy, reduced horsepower, and difficulty starting. These problems can be caused by various factors, including faulty sensors, clogged fuel injectors, or a dirty air filter. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues from occurring.
  • Suspension and Steering Problems: The 1994 Chevrolet C20 can also experience suspension and steering problems, such as excessive play in the steering wheel, uneven tire wear, or a bumpy ride. These issues can be caused by worn-out bushings, loose steering components, or damaged suspension parts. Regular inspections and maintenance can help identify and address these problems before they become severe.
  • Electrical System Issues: Electrical system issues, such as blown fuses, corroded wiring, or malfunctioning switches, can also affect the 1994 Chevrolet C20. These problems can cause various symptoms, including dimmed headlights, intermittent electrical failures, or a dead battery. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent these issues from occurring.

In conclusion, the 1994 Chevrolet C20 is a reliable and capable truck, but like any vehicle, it can experience common problems that can affect its performance and reliability. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues from occurring, but if they do, it is essential to address them promptly to ensure the safety and longevity of the vehicle.

1994 Chevrolet C20 engine

Where is the ECM on a 1994 Chevy Silverado?

Inside passenger compartment, under RH end of I/P behind glove box. CAUTION: The ignition must be "OFF," when disconnecting or reconnecting the control module connector, to prevent internal damage to the control module.

Why is my cruise control not working on my Chevy G20?

The most common reasons a Chevrolet G20 cruise control isn't working are failed control module, sensor or switch issues, or throttle actuation problems.

What is the symptoms of a bad ECM?

These symptoms are the most typical indicators of a malfunctioning ECM:

  • Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) illumination.
  • Poor performance.
  • Hard starting and/or stalling.
  • Increased emissions.
  • Poor fuel economy.

How do you know if you have a bad ECM?

One of the most common and noticable ECM problem is engine's lack of power to accelarate or shaking and difficulty in changing gears. It may not always be the case but it is one thing to look out for since usually misfires turns on the engine light but you know your engine is in good condition.

1994 Chevrolet C20 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet C20 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Tires problems
  • Seats problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1994 Chevrolet C20 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1994 Chevrolet C20 complaints

The NHTSA has received 13 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1994 Chevrolet C20.

2010-09-01

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2010-07-16
  • Number Of Injuries: 4
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: 1994 CHEVROLET C20, LEFT REAR TIRE BLEW OUT. DRIVER LOST CONTROL AND WENT OFF THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ROAD, STRIKING THE CONCRETE MEDIAN WALL. *BF ACCORDING TO THE POLICE REPORT, THE TIRES SHOWED SUFFICIENT TREAD, BUT SHOWED SIGNS OF DRY ROT AND CRACKING. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0469-90) *JB UPDATED 09/13/10*BF
2002-02-27

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GBEG25Z9RF
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: CONSUMER FEELS THERE IS INSUFFICIENT SPACE BETWEEN THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE ENGINE COVER (THIS IS A VAN WITH THE ENGINE COVER LOCATED BETWEEN THE FRONT PASSENGER AND DRIVERS SEAT). WHEN THE DRIVER REMOVES HIS FOOT FROM THE GAS PEDAL IT WILL OCCASIONALLY GET CAUGHT UNDER THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THIS IS A DESIGN DEFECT. *YH
2002-02-27

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GBEG25Z9RF
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: CONSUMER FEELS THERE IS INSUFFICIENT SPACE BETWEEN THE BRAKE PEDAL AND THE ENGINE COVER (THIS IS A VAN WITH THE ENGINE COVER LOCATED BETWEEN THE FRONT PASSENGER AND DRIVERS SEAT). WHEN THE DRIVER REMOVES HIS FOOT FROM THE GAS PEDAL IT WILL OCCASIONALLY GET CAUGHT UNDER THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THIS IS A DESIGN DEFECT. *YH
2001-08-14

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-05
  • VIN: 1GBEG25K7RF
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE WINDSHIELD HAS AN IRREGULARITY, THIS CAUSES DRIVER'S VIEW TO BE OBSTRUCTED, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT'S RAINING. AREA IS NOT ABLE TO BE CLEANED WHEN WIPER IS IN USE. ROAD IS HARD TO DISCIPHER WHEN THE WEATHER IS CLEAR AND SUNNY.*AK *JB
2001-02-08

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-08-01
  • VIN: 1GBEG25K6RF
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: AT ANY SPEED WHEN APPLYING BRAKES BRAKING DISTANCE IS NOT WHAT IT SHOULD BE. REAR BRAKES NOT WORKING PROPERLY, LOCK UP. FRONT BRAKES REPLACED TWICE. *AK BRAKES ARE REAL BAD ON WET OR ICY ROADS. *YH
1999-03-29

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1997-11-12
  • VIN: 1GCEC19K2RE
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOPPED FUNCTIONING FOR NO APPARENT REASON AND HAVE INTERMITTENT OPERATION. POSSIBLE TO RESTART WIPERS BY TAPPING ON MOTOR HOUSING AND/OR MOVING WIRES THAT PLUG INTO WIPER MOTOR. *AK
1998-06-22

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ANTI LOCK BRAKES LOCKED UP SEVERAL TIMES, TWO ACCIDENTS FROM LOCK UP.
1996-04-01

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-04-01
  • VIN: 2CCCK19K7R1
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: DRIVERS SEAT BRACKET THAT SECURES THE FRAME BROKE. *AK THE BRACKET BROKE ON TH BACK SEAT, HAD A ROCKING MOTION WHICH FELT VERY UNSAFE PARTICULARY IF THERE WOULD BE AN ACCIDENT, CONSUMER CONTACTED DEALERSHIP AND THEY REPAIRED IT.*JB
1995-12-26

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THE CAR IDLES AT 1100 TO 1500 RMP WHEN YOU RELEASE THE PEDAL. HAS TAKEN THE CAR BACK TO DEALERS SEVEN TIMES NOTHING HAPPENED. TT
1995-04-17

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GBEG25Z2RF
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE, WILL LOCK UP UNEXPECTEDLY. TT
1995-04-10

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-09-25
  • VIN: 1GBEGZ5K5RF
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE STALLS WITHOUT WARNING WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED, PE94-091 ACTIVE. TT
1995-03-03

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-26
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GBEG25K2RF
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: APPLIED BRAKES TO STOP VEHICLE, HELD THEM DOWN, WOULD NOT STOP VEHICLE, RESULTING IN AN ACCIDENT. TT
1995-03-03

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-02-26
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GBEG25K2RF
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: HAD A FRONTAL COLLISION, AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. TT

1994 Chevrolet C20 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 10 recalls for different components of the 1994 Chevrolet C20.

1999-02-05
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PICKUP TRUCKS, CREW CABS, UTILITY TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH THE POLARITY OF THE WIRING FOR THE ZERO ADJUST BRAKE SWITCH REVERSED FROM WHAT WAS SPECIFIED ON THE SWITCH DRAWING. WITH THE REVERSED POLARITY, THE CONTACTS IN THE BRAKE SWITCH CAN WEAR OUT PREMATURELY. THE BRAKE SWITCH WILL PERFORM NORMALLY UNTIL THE BRAKE SWITCH CONTACTS WEAR OUT, RESULTING IN LOSS OF THE BRAKE LAMPS WITHOUT ANY WARNING TO THE DRIVER.
  • Consequence: THIS WOULD FAIL TO WARN A FOLLOWING DRIVER THAT THE VEHICLE IS BRAKING AND COULD LEAD TO A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE SWITCH AND REVERSE THE WIRING.
1996-03-25
  • Manufacturer: VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE SEAT RECLINER TO SEAT FRAME ATTACHING BOLTS ON THESE VEHICLES COULD LOOSEN, FATIGUE AND FRACTURE, ALLOWING THE SEAT BACK TO SUDDENLY RECLINE.
  • Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR TO THE DRIVER'S SEAT, THIS COULD RESULT IN A SUDDEN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE ALL FOAM AND/OR FABRIC SANDWICHED BETWEEN THE RECLINER ASSEMBLY AND THE SEAT FRAME, INSTALL WASHERS BETWEEN THE SEAT RECLINER AND THE SEAT FRAME AT EACH ATTACHMENT POINT, AND INSTALL NEW ATTACHING BOLTS TORQUED TO A HIGHER SPECIFICATION. THESE CORRECTIONS WILL BE MADE TO BOTH THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SEATS.
1995-12-21
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE SEAT RECLINER TO SEAT FRAME ATTACHING BOLTS ON THESE VEHICLE COULD LOOSEN, FATIGUE AND FRACTURE, ALLOWING THE SEAT BACK TO SUDDENLY RECLINE.
  • Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR TO THE DRIVER'S SEAT, THIS COULD RESULT IN A SUDDEN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE ALL FOAM AND/OR FABRIC SANDWICHED BETWEEN THE RECLINER ASSEMBLY AND THE SEAT FRAME, INSTALL WASHERS BETWEEN THE SEAT RECLINER AND THE SEAT FRAME AT EACH ATTACHMENT POINT, AND INSTALL NEW ATTACHING BOLTS TORQUED TO A HIGHER SPECIFICATION. THESE CORRECTIONS WILL BE MADE TO BOTH THE DRIVER'S AND PASSENGER'S SEATS.
1995-12-13
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
  • Summary: THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH FRONT SEAT BELT SYSTEMS WITH NO ENERGY MANAGEMENT LOOPS AND MAY NOT MEET THE HEAD INJURY CRITERIA REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
  • Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANTS OF THESE SEATS MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE RETRACTOR PORTION OF THE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY(S) WITH ONE HAVING THE NEWLY DESIGNED ENERGY-MANAGEMENT TWIN-LOOP SYSTEM.
1995-12-13
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
  • Summary: IF BOTH THE LAP-BELT AND SHOULDER-BELT ENERGY MANAGEMENT LOOPS ON THE FRONT SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES RELEASE AT OR NEAR THE SAME TIME, ACCELERATION FORCES CAN CAUSE THE BUCKLE RELEASE MECHANISM TO ACTIVATE AND ALLOW THE BUCKLE TO SEPARATE FROM THE LATCH.
  • Consequence: IF THE BUCKLE RELEASED, THE SYSTEM WOULD FAIL TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE OCCUPANT RESTRAINT PROTECTION.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE STITCHING THAT CREATES THE ENERGY MANAGEMENT LOOP IN THE SHOULDER BELT(S).
1994-12-13
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:DIESEL
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS, VANS AND MOTORHOMES EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRONICALLY FUEL INJECTED 6.5L DIESEL ENGINE. THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION PART 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. THE CAMPAIGN WILL IMPROVE THE OVERALL DRIVEABILITY OF THESE VEHICLES.
  • Consequence: CERTAIN VEHICLES CAN EXHIBIT SOME DRIVEABILITY CONCERNS SUCH AS POOR THROTTLE RESPONSE, STALLING, MISFIRE, POOR HOT OR COLD STARTING, EXTENDED CRANKING OF A HOT ENGINE, OR STALLING AFTER START. TRUCKS WITH MANUALTRANSMISSIONS CAN EXHIBIT POOR ACCELERATION FROM START OR COULD STALL DURING DECELERATION.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL SOME RECENTLY DEVELOPED ENHANCEMENTS WHICH WILL IMPROVE THE OVERALL DRIVEABILITY OF THESE VEHICLES.
1994-10-26
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
  • Summary: THE WINDSHIELDS WERE INSTALLED WITH INCORRECT WINDSHIELD OPENING PINCH-WELD-FLANGE PRIMER. THIS PRIMER WILL NOT PROPERLY ETCH THE PAINTED SURFACE OF THE FLANGE, ALLOWING THE WINDSHIELD TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE DURING A COLLISION. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 212, "WINDSHIELD MOUNTING."
  • Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: THE SEPARATION OF THE WINDSHIELD FROM THE VEHICLE DURING COLLISION INCREASES THE RISK OF INJURY FOR ALL PERSONS INVOLVED.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE WINDSHIELD AND REINSTALL IT USING THE CORRECT PRIMER.
1994-04-05
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
  • Summary: TRUCKS WERE ASSEMBLED WITH THE LEFT-HAND LOWER CONTROL ARM TO FRAME REAR NUT TIGHTENED BELOW THE SPECIFIED TORQUE. LOW TORQUE ON THIS NUT MAY ALLOW THE ATTACHMENT BOLT TO LOOSED AND SUBSEQUENTLY FATIGUE AND BREAK. THE BOLT BREAKAGE CAN CAUSE THE LEFT HAND CONTROL ARM TO SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME.
  • Consequence: IF THIS OCCURS, A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND A CRASH COULD RESULT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL TIGHTEN THE LEFT-HAND LOWER CONTROL ARM TO FRAME REAR NUT TO THE PROPER TORQUE SPECIFICATION.
1993-12-14
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE SEATS HAVE BEEN ASSEMBLED WITHOUT BOLTS THAT CONNECT THE UPPER SLAVE HINGE TO THE SEAT BACK FRAME, OR WITHOUT BOLTS THAT CONNECT THE SEAT TO THE SEAT ADJUSTER. IN EITHER CASE, THE VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO FNVSS NO. 207, "SEATING SYSTEMS."
  • Consequence: THE MISSING BOLTS MAY CAUSE THE DRIVER'S SEAT TO BECOMELOOSE AND IN A SUDDEN STOP OR ACCIDENT MAY SUBJECT THE OCCUPANT TO INCREASEDRISK OF INJURY.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT SEATS FOR MISSING BOLTS AND INSTALL BOLTS IF REQUIRED.
1993-09-15
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
  • Summary: THE BRAKE PEDAL PUSH ROD RETAINER IS MISSING, MISPOSITIONED OR NOT PROPERLY SEATED.
  • Consequence: BRAKE PEDAL PUSH ROD PROBLEMS CAN CAUSE THE STOP LAMPSWITCH AND THE BRAKE BOOSTER PUSH ROD TO DISCONNECT FROM THE BRAKE PEDAL,RESULTING IN LOSS OF BRAKE OPERATION, AND A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR WITHOUTPRIOR WARNING.
  • Remedy: INSPECT VEHICLES TO ASSURE THE BRAKE PEDAL PUSH ROD RETAINER IS PRESENT AND FULLY SEATED IN ITS CORRECT POSITION.
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