1986 Chevrolet El camino problems

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

The Chevrolet El Camino is a coupé utility vehicle that was produced by Chevrolet between 1959–60 and 1964–1987. Unlike a standard pickup truck, the El Camino was adapted from the standard two-door Chevrolet station wagon platform and integrated the cab and cargo bed into the body.

Introduced in the 1959 model year in response to the success of the Ford Ranchero coupé utility, its first run, based on the Biscayne's B-body, lasted only two years. Production resumed for the 1964–1977 model years based on the Chevelle platform, and continued for the 1978–1987 model years based on the GM G-body platform.

Although based on corresponding General Motors car lines, the vehicle is classified in the United States as a pickup. GMC's badge engineered El Camino variant, the Sprint, was introduced for the 1971 model year. Renamed Caballero in 1978, it was also produced through the 1987 model year.

Social links

Common 1986 Chevrolet El camino problems

Based on the information provided in the sources, here is a list of common problems with the 1986 Chevrolet El Camino reported by owners:

Idle Increase and Overheating: Owners have reported issues with the idle increasing significantly after the car warms up, leading to overheating problems. This can be accompanied by difficulties in shutting off the engine, with symptoms like dieseling. Possible causes include issues with the carburetor, malfunctioning gauges, and a faulty oil pressure gauge. The overheating may be linked to a noisy water pump or potential head gasket problems.
Electrical Problems: The Chevrolet El Camino, especially older models, is known for experiencing various electrical issues. These can manifest as faulty alternators, erratic gauge readings, and non-functional components like the oil pressure gauge. In some cases, the OBD-1 scanner may fail to establish a connection, hinting at potential ECM issues.
Transmission Problems: Transmission issues in the 1986 Chevrolet El Camino can present as shifting delays, grinding or jumping during acceleration, shaking at any speed, or unusual sounds like whistling or burning smells. Ignoring these issues can lead to reduced fuel efficiency or complete transmission failure. Regular inspection and maintenance of the transmission system are recommended.
Engine Smoking: Owners have reported thick white smoke coming from the engine, not the exhaust, indicating potential issues. Despite replacing valve cover gaskets, the smoking persists, suggesting underlying problems like carbon buildup in the cylinder heads. This issue requires thorough diagnosis to identify the root cause and prevent further damage.
Gauge Malfunctions: Gauges in the 1986 Chevrolet El Camino may exhibit erratic behavior, such as reading high values or bouncing around. This can affect the driver's ability to monitor critical vehicle parameters accurately, leading to potential safety concerns. Addressing gauge malfunctions promptly is essential to ensure the vehicle's proper functioning.

By addressing these common issues promptly through proper diagnosis and repair, owners of the 1986 Chevrolet El Camino can maintain the performance and reliability of their vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely intervention can help prevent more severe problems and ensure a smoother driving experience.

What was the best year for the El Camino?

El Caminos from 1968 to 1973 are considered the best-looking models and are cult classics among many car enthusiasts. The Ford Ranchero got discontinued in 1979, while Chevrolet continued producing new models.

What year El Camino is worth the most?

The most valuable El Camino, is the 1965 model with the 350-horsepower, 327ci 4bbl L79, with a #1 value of $50,200. Despite being at the intersection of muscle car and pickup, two hot segments of the collector car market, the El Camino has remained a relatively affordable entry point.

What generation is a 1986 El Camino?

Fifth generation (1978–1987)

Fifth generation
1978 El Camino
Overview
Model years	1978–1987

What year was the most powerful El Camino?

A few select 1970 El Caminos received the LS6 454 cubic inch engine, which was Chevrolet's most powerful engine and was rated up to 450 hp.

What is the most common problem with Chevy?

Brake System Issues

Brake system problems, including squealing brakes, soft brake pedals, or brake fluid leaks, are common in Chevrolet vehicles. It's important to keep a close eye on your brakes to ensure they're functioning properly.

What was the best year for the El Camino?

What generation is a 1986 El Camino?

Fifth generation (1978–1987)

Fifth generation
1978 El Camino
Overview
Model years	1978–1987

What year El Camino is worth the most?

1986 Chevrolet El camino car problems categorized by type of issue

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

Seat belts problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Chevrolet El camino vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1986 Chevrolet El camino complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Chevrolet El camino.

2003-11-05

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2003-10-10
VIN: 3GCCW80H1GS
Components: SEAT BELTS
Summary: PASSENGER'S SEAT BELT RETRACTOR FAILURE. DEALER DIDN'T CARRY PART ANY MORE. CONSUMER POSED A QUESTION, SINCE IT WAS A SAFETY ITEM, WAS THE GOVERNMENT RESPONSIBLE TO FORCE MANUFACTURER TO SUPPLY CONSUMER PARTS? *AK *PH

Add Complaint

1986 Chevrolet El camino recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1986 Chevrolet El camino.

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.

2006-05-19

Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).