Chevrolet K10 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.

photo of Chevrolet K10 car production

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Chevrolet K10 model years

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K10 1977
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K10 1975
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K10 1999
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K10 1998
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K10 1996
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K10 1995
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K10 1993
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K10 1992
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K10 1991
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K10 1987
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K10 1986
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K10 1985
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Common Chevrolet K10 problems

The Chevrolet K10 is a popular choice among truck enthusiasts, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the Chevrolet K10, based on complaints from owners:

  • Rust and corrosion: Another common problem with the K10 is rust and corrosion, particularly in older models. This can occur in any part of the truck, but it is most commonly found in the frame, body panels, and suspension components. Rust can weaken the structure of the truck and lead to expensive repairs, so it is important to address it as soon as possible. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent rust from becoming a major issue, but in some cases, rust may be so extensive that the only solution is to replace the affected parts.
  • Electrical issues: The K10's electrical system can also be a source of frustration for owners. Common electrical issues include blown fuses, dead batteries, and malfunctioning gauges or lights. In some cases, these issues can be traced to a faulty component, such as a bad alternator or a blown fuse. In other cases, the problem may be due to a wiring issue, such as a loose connection or a frayed wire. Electrical issues can be difficult to diagnose and repair, so it is often best to seek the help of a professional mechanic.
  • Fuel system issues: The K10's fuel system can also be prone to problems, particularly in older models. Common issues include clogged fuel filters, faulty fuel pumps, and bad fuel injectors. These issues can lead to a loss of power, poor fuel economy, or even a complete breakdown of the truck. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent fuel system issues from becoming a major problem, but in some cases, the only solution may be to replace the affected component.
  • Suspension problems: The K10's suspension can also be a source of problems, particularly in trucks that are used for off-roading or heavy towing. Common issues include worn-out shocks or springs, broken leaf springs, and damaged steering components. These issues can lead to a rough ride, poor handling, or even a loss of control of the truck. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent suspension problems from becoming a major issue, but in some cases, the only solution may be to replace the affected component.

In summary, the Chevrolet K10 is a popular and capable truck, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent many of these issues from becoming major problems, but in some cases, the only solution may be to replace the affected component.

Chevrolet K10

How much is a K10 Chevy worth?

A: The average price of a Chevrolet K10 - 3rd Gen is $28,374.

What does the K stand for in K10 Chevy truck?

four-wheel drive

Used for both the model branding and the internal model code, "C" denoted two-wheel drive, while "K" denoted four-wheel drive.

What does K10 mean for Chevy?

The main difference between the C10 and K10 is that the K10 is four-wheel drive, while the C10 is two-wheel drive. The K10 also has a slightly different suspension package and sits higher than the C10 due to the drivetrain configuration. As the K10 is a 4x4, it is more frequently used off-road compared to the C10.

What is the difference between K10 and K20?

A: I talked to Keen customer service directly about this. She said that the K10 is the basic show sole and is what comes in the boot/shoe from the factory. The K20 is an upgraded version of that sole. I really recommend the upgraded K20 sole, it is very comfortable even though it is a little more expensive.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet K10 years

We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet K10 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet K10 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet K10 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet K10 years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Chevrolet K10 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet K10 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Visibility problems
  • Seats problems
  • Fuel system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet K10 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by K10 model years

A total of 8 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by K10 model years

There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by K10 model years

There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by K10 model years

There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 66 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet K10 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet K10 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Chevrolet K10 1986
  • Date Of Incident: 2016-09-22
  • Date Complaint: 2016-09-27
  • VIN: 2GCEK14H6G1
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: I BOUGHT THE 1986 CHEVY K10 FROM [XXX] IN PARIS, KY ON 26AUG16. THE VEHICLE APPEARED TO HAVE BRAND NEW FIRESTONE FIREHAWK ATX P235/75R15 ON ALL FOUR WHEELS. LAST THURSDAY WHILE DRIVING HOME FROM WORK ON 75N OUTSIDE OF LEXINGTON, KY THE PASSENGER FRONT TIRE HAD A MALFUNCTION. THE TREAD COMPLETELY RIPPED OFF THROWING ME IN AN ALMOST ROLL AND DAMAGING THE ENTIRE UNDERCARRIAGE OF THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE TRUCK. I HAD TO HAVE THE VEHICLE TOWED. THE TOW TRUCK DRIVER NOTED THESE WERE THE TIRES THAT WERE RECALLED. I RESEARCHED THE RECALL INFO WHICH BRINGS ME HERE. I ATTEMPTED A PHONE CALL WITH FIRESTONE WHICH WAS COMPLETELY UNSUCCESSFUL AS THE INDIVIDUAL WAS THE WORST CUSTOMER ASSISTANT EVER. I ALSO KNOW NOW AFTER LOOKING UP THE TIRE DATA THESE TIRES WERE BORN IN 1995. THE DEALERSHIP NEVER DISCLOSED THE OVER 20 YR TIRES TO ME AS I WOULD HAVE REPLACED THEM IMMEDIATELY. I WAS SIMPLY THE UNSUSPECTING VICTIM WHO WAS UNDER THE ASSUMPTION THAT THE TIRES LOOKED BRAND NEW SO THEY MUST HAVE BEEN. THE FIRESTONE INDIVIDUAL WOULD NOT ASSIST ME IN WHEREVER OR NOT THESE WERE THE TIRES THAT WERE RECALLED. HOWEVER, THERE IS ALSO THE DEALERSHIP WHO SOLD ME THE VEHICLE AND NEVER MENTIONED ANYTHING IN REGARDS TO THEIR AGE OR POTENTIAL RECALL. I PLAN ON SPEAKING WITH THE DEALERSHIP TONIGHT IN REGARDS TO THE SITUATION. I THOUGHT IT BEST TO ALSO FILE A NOTE HERE. THANK YOU. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6). *TR
Chevrolet K10 1987
  • Date Of Incident: 1997-09-17
  • Date Complaint: 2011-09-19
  • VIN: N/A
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GAS TANKS RUSTED THROUGH, BOTH SIDES. PLASTIC SKID PLATES TRAP DIRT AND MOISTURE UP AGAINST TANKS, TANKS RUST THROUGH AND LEAK GASOLINE ALL OVER. TALKED TO CHEVY CUSTOMER SERVICE ABOUT FAILURE. NO WARNINGS SENT OUT. *KB
Chevrolet K10 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2010-11-06
  • Date Complaint: 2010-11-07
  • VIN: 1GCEK14V8XE
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: 1999 CHEVROLET SILVERADO C-10, FAILURE OF BRAKES, WHEN APPLYING BRAKES THE PEDAL SUNK TO THE FLOOR. HAD VERY LITTLE BRAKING, THIS HAS HAPPENED ON 2 PREVIOUS OCCASIONS. CAUSE IS CORRODED BRAKES LINES. *TR
Chevrolet K10 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2007-12-21
  • Date Complaint: 2008-04-02
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GCEK14V9XE
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 CHEVROLET K10. WHILE APPROACHING A STOP SIGN, THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES, BUT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO STOP. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKES FELT AS IF THEY WERE PUSHING BACK AT HIM. THE FAILURE CAUSED A CRASH WITH ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE BRAKES WERE PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED UNDER A RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE IS 38,000. UPDATED 04/22/08. *LJ
Chevrolet K10 1993
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-04-20
  • Date Complaint: 2004-03-25
  • VIN: 1GNEK18K7PJ
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BACK RECLINED BACKWARDS ONTO THE REAR SEAT. THIS OCCURRED WHILE THE TRUCK WAS AT A COMPLETE STOP AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT. THERE'S A RECALL 95V246000 FOR THIS ISSUE BUT THE VIN # IS OUTSIDE THE REMEDY SCOPE. *NM
Chevrolet K10 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-10-05
  • Date Complaint: 2003-10-08
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: MY WIFE HAD HER TIRE SEPARATED AT 60 MPH. I HAD CHECKED THE PRESSURE (40 PSI) 2 HOURS BEFORE THE INCIDENT. IT NEVER HAD PRESSURE LOSSES WITH THIS TIRE OR THE SET. THE OUTER SIDEWALL COMPLETELY SEPARATED, THE INNER SIDE HALF DIAMETER WAS ALSO SEPARATED. THE TIRE WAS A FIRESTONE WILDERNESS LE P265/70R16 DOT 8X72 WL2 3501, WHICH IS 2 YEARS OLD, AND HAS 25,000 MILES ON RIGHT REAR. *LA
Chevrolet K10 1986
  • Date Of Incident: 1994-09-20
  • Date Complaint: 2003-09-22
  • VIN: 1G8EK18H6GF
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: 1986 CHEVY FULL SIZE BLAZER HAS DEVELOPED RUST THROUGH OUT ENTIRE BODY. *JB
Chevrolet K10 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-07-08
  • Date Complaint: 2003-08-07
  • VIN: PLEASE FILL
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATED THES ABS SYSTEM HAD FAILED PREMATURELY. DEALER NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *PH
Chevrolet K10 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2002-07-26
  • VIN: 2GCEC19R0W1
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR DOOR CANNOT OPEN UNLESS THE PASSENGER SIDE FRONT DOOR IS OPENED FIRST. THERE IS NO HANDLE ON THE BACK DOOR. CONSUMER SPOKE WITH THE CHEVROLET REP. AND WAS INFORMED THAT THAT IS THE WAY THE VEHICLE IS DESIGNED. *JG
Chevrolet K10 1987
  • Date Of Incident: 2001-01-19
  • Date Complaint: 2002-01-17
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Number Of Deaths: 2
  • VIN: 1GCEV14K6HF
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: HIT AN EMBANKMENT AND THE SEAT BELTS DID NOT HOLD THE DRIVER, RESULTING IN DRIVER SLIDING UP UNDER THE STEERING WHEEL. PASSANGER WENT ALL THE WAY AGAINST THE DASHBOARD AND BREAKING THE WHINDSHIELD.
Chevrolet K10 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2001-10-24
  • VIN: 2GCEK19K1S1
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOP WORKING. WINDSHIELD WIPERS WILL WORK AND THEN THEY WILL QUIT, CONSUMER HAS TO TURN WINDSHIELD WIPERS OFF AND BACK ON AGAIN TO WORK. CONTACT DEALER AND DEALER STATED NO RECALL. *AK *SLC
Chevrolet K10 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2001-04-14
  • Date Complaint: 2001-04-15
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 2GCEK19R6T1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE WHILE PARKED IN GARAGE. UNKNOWN ORIGIN OTHER THAN SOMETHING ELECTRICAL LIKELY SHORTED AND STARTED FIRE. VEHICLE COMPLETELY GUTTED, ONLY METAL REMAINS. ALL OTHER PARTS BURNED/MELTED. FIRE DETECTED AT 12:30 AM ON 4/14/01 BUT LIKELY STARTED EARLIER. PROPERTY DAMAGE ALSO TO GARAGE/$19K DAMAGE VALUE IS ONLY FOR VEHICLE/$$ VALUE OF OTHER DAMAGE STILL UNDETERMINED.*AK
Chevrolet K10 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 2000-12-05
  • Date Complaint: 2001-01-23
  • VIN: 1GCEK14H2FJ
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Chevrolet K10 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2000-10-17
  • Date Complaint: 2000-10-21
  • VIN: 1GCEK14R8TZ
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY
Chevrolet K10 1986
  • Date Of Incident: 2000-08-05
  • Date Complaint: 2000-10-11
  • VIN: 2GCEK14H4G1
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: BRIDGESTONE RADIAL BAJA WIDETRACK M/S TIRE EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION. *SLC

Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet K10

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 15 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet K10.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Chevrolet K10 1992
  • Report Received Date: 1999-05-20
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: EXTENDED-CAB PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH HIGH-BACK BUCKET SEATS. THE SEAT RECLINER TO FRAME ATTACHING BOLTS CAN 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 CRASH.
  • 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.
  • Model: Chevrolet K10 1996
  • Report Received Date: 1996-05-07
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:LEAF SPRING ASSEMBLY:U-BOLT, LEAF SPRING TO AXLE
  • Summary: THE FOUR U-BOLTS NUTS ON EITHER SIDE OF THE REAR AXLE WERE UNDER-TORQUED.
  • Consequence: VEHICLE USAGE COULD CAUSE THE NUTS TO LOOSEN AND EVENTUALLY FALL OFF THE U-BOLT. THIS COULD RESULT IN SUDDEN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL CHECK THE U-BOLT NUT TORQUE AND RE-TORQUE ANY LOOSE U-BOLTS TO SPECIFICATION.
  • Model: Chevrolet K10 1995
  • Report Received Date: 1996-04-04
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THESE VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH THE THROTTLE CABLE CONTACTING THE DASH MAT WHICH COULD BIND THE THROTTLE. THIS DOES NOT MEET WITH THE MAXIMUM RETURN TIMES REQUIRED BY FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 124, "ACCELERATOR CONTROL SYSTEMS."
  • Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: THE ENGINE SPEED MAY NOT RETURN TO IDLE INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR ADEQUATE THROTTLE CABLE TO DASH MAT CLEARANCE, AND IF THERE IS INSUFFICIENT CLEARANCE, CUT OUT A PORTION OF THE DASH MAT TO PROVIDE PROPER CLEARANCE.
  • Model: Chevrolet K10 1996
  • Report Received Date: 1996-04-04
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: THESE VEHICLES WERE ASSEMBLED WITH THE THROTTLE CABLE CONTACTING THE DASH MAT WHICH COULD BIND THE THROTTLE. THIS DOES NOT MEET WITH THE MAXIMUM RETURN TIMES REQUIRED BY FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 124, "ACCELERATOR CONTROL SYSTEMS."
  • Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: THE ENGINE SPEED MAY NOT RETURN TO IDLE INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT FOR ADEQUATE THROTTLE CABLE TO DASH MAT CLEARANCE, AND IF THERE IS INSUFFICIENT CLEARANCE, CUT OUT A PORTION OF THE DASH MAT TO PROVIDE PROPER CLEARANCE.
  • Model: Chevrolet K10 1995
  • Report Received Date: 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.

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Chevrolet K10 photo