Chevrolet K20 problems
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.
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Chevrolet K20 model years
Common Chevrolet K20 problems
The Chevrolet K20 is a popular choice for those seeking a classic pickup truck with modern conveniences and reliability. However, as with any vehicle, there are common problems and faults that owners may encounter. This article will discuss some of these issues based on complaints from K20 owners.
- Differential Gear Ratios: When considering a K20 as a daily driver or everyday truck, it is crucial to ensure that the differential gear ratios are suitable for your use.
- Breakage of 3D Printed Components: For those who enjoy building 3D printed models, the K20 can present issues with the breakage of 3D printed components, particularly in the transmission and axles.
- Fuel Gauge Sensor Issues: Mechanically, the K20 is generally sturdy, but one common issue is faulty fuel gauge sensors.
- Rough Idling and Knocks: The K20 engine may experience rough idling or knocking noises, which can be caused by various factors such as worn-out spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors. Regular maintenance and timely replacement of these components can help prevent these issues and maintain the engine's performance.
- Oil Seal Issues: Another common problem with the K20 engine is oil seal leaks, which can result in oil loss and potential engine damage. Regular inspections and timely replacement of worn-out oil seals can help prevent these issues and maintain the engine's longevity.
In conclusion, while the Chevrolet K20 is a reliable and stylish classic pickup truck, it is essential to be aware of common problems and faults that owners may encounter. Regular maintenance, timely replacement of worn-out components, and careful consideration of differential gear ratios can help ensure a pleasant and trouble-free driving experience.
What is the mpg on a 1983 Chevy K20?
Based on data from 2 vehicles, 51 fuel-ups and 5,957 miles of driving, the 1983 Chevrolet K20 gets a combined Avg MPG of 10.26 with a 0.46 MPG margin of error.
What is a K20 Chevy truck?
This is a four-wheel drive 3/4 ton Stepside pickup built on a 127 inch wheelbase with a ladder type frame. Unlike today's 4x4 trucks, manual front locking hubs and a two speed transfer case were standard. These trucks borrowed heavily from military vehicles and were very rugged.
How many miles per gallon does a 1975 K20 get?
Based on data from 3 vehicles, 29 fuel-ups and 4,661 miles of driving, the 1975 Chevrolet K20 gets a combined Avg MPG of 9.04 with a 0.68 MPG margin of error.
How many miles per gallon does a 1977 K20 get?
Based on data from 3 vehicles, 461 fuel-ups and 59,292 miles of driving, the 1977 Chevrolet K20 gets a combined Avg MPG of 8.08 with a 0.08 MPG margin of error.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet K20 years
We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet K20 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet K20 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet K20 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet K20 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chevrolet K20 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet K20 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Visibility problems
- Seat belts problems
- Power train problems
- Seats problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet K20 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by K20 model years
A total of 1 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 K20 model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 26 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet K20 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet K20 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chevrolet K20 1974
- Date Of Incident: 2007-03-09
- Date Complaint: 2010-05-12
- Components: VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1974 CHEVROLET 3 1/4 TON K20. THE VEHICLE HAS TRIPLE EDGE WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES MANUFACTURED BY JAMAK FABRICATIONS. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A CONTINUOUS BUILDUP OF SILICONE ON THE FRONT WINDSHIELD WIPER BLADES. THIS WOULD CAUSE THE WINDSHIELD TO BECOME EXTREMELY CLOUDY, SIMILAR TO DRIVING THROUGH A DEEP FOG. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ADVISED THAT THE BUILDUP WAS NORMAL AND COULD EASILY BE WASHED FROM THE WINDSHIELD. THE CONTACT'S INSURANCE ADJUSTER ADVISED THE BUILDUP WAS A SAFETY ISSUE AND SHOULD BE ADDRESSED ACCORDINGLY.
Chevrolet K20 1980
- Date Of Incident: 1999-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2000-01-11
- VIN: CKM24A11511
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: STEERING HOUSING CRACKED CAUSING POOR STEERING ABILITY. *YC
Chevrolet K20 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1999-10-28
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WORK INTERMITTENTLY, CAUSING POOR VISIBILITY. RECALL ISSUED ONVARIOUS MAKES AND MODELS. HOWEVER, THIS VEHICLE VIN NOT INCLUDEDDUE TO VIN. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
Chevrolet K20 1993
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Date Complaint: 1999-07-26
- VIN: 2GCGK29NXP1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS UNRELIABLE. PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT. SEEMS TO BE CENTERED IN THE WIPER MOTOR CONTROLS UNDER THE HOOD.
Chevrolet K20 1996
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-01
- Date Complaint: 1999-07-22
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GCGK29R3TE
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE BRAKES ON THIS VEHICLE IN MY OPINION DO NOT WORK PROPERLY. I HAVE NUMEROUS INCIDENTS WHERE THE TRUCK FAILS TO STOP IN A TIMELY FASHION OR DISTANCE. ONE OF THESE INCIDENTS HAS RESULTED IN AN ACCIDENT WHERE I REAR ENDED A VEHICLE SOON AFTER I BOUGHT THE TRUCK. I HAVE COMPLAINED TO THE DEALER AND BROUGHT THE TRUCK TO INDEPENDENT MECHANICS SEEKING RESOLUTION. THE LATEST OF THESE INCIDENTS OCCURRED WITH MY FAMILY IN THE TRUCK AND A CAR BACKED OUT AND STOPPED FORCING ME TO USE TWO FEET ON THE BRAKE TO TRY TO STOP THE VEHICLE, IF THE CAR HAD NOT MOVED I WOULD HAVE DEFINITELY HIT HIM. I BELIEVE THIS VEHICLE IS UNSAFE . I HAVE SAID AS MUCH IN A SATISFACTION QUESTIONARE TO CHEVY AND ASKED FOR A WRITTEN RESPONSE AND HAVE NEVER RECEIVED ONE. I AM DISMAYED TO NOT FIND MY VEHICLE IN THE RECALL OF GM VEHICLES. I AM CONCERNED FOR MY SAFETY AND THAT OF THOSE AROUND ME WHEN I AM OPERATING THIS VEHICLE. I HOPE THE PROBLEM WITH THIS TRUCK IS RESOLVED BEFORE SOMEONE IS HURT. *AK
Chevrolet K20 1988
- Date Of Incident: 1997-06-15
- Date Complaint: 1999-04-15
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I FEEL THE PAINT USED ON 1988 CHEYENNE PICKUP TRUCKS WAS INFERIOR. I HAVE SEEN SEVERAL TRUCKS OF THE SAME MAKE, MODEL, YEAR WITH THE SAME PROBLEM.
Chevrolet K20 1987
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-05
- Date Complaint: 1999-04-06
- VIN: 1GCGV24KXHS
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE SEAT BELT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE IS STUCK IN THE RETRACTOR. THE DEALER IS AWARE OF PROBLEM. PROBLEM HAS NOT BEEN CORRECTED. THE SEAT BELT UNIT IS NO LONGER BEING MANUFACTURED. *AK *ML
Chevrolet K20 1994
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-16
- Date Complaint: 1998-12-30
- VIN: 1GCGK29N6RE
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE WINDSHIELD WIPER BECAME VERY IRRATIC AND EVENTUALLY QUIT IN NOV 96. WARRANTEE WOULD NOT COVER IT SO I REPLACED IT AT MY OWN EXPENSE. THE SECOND WINDSHIELD WIPER IS CURRENTLY DOING THE SAME AS THE FIRST, VERY IRRATIC AND QUITS ALL OF A SUDDEN, PUTTING MY LIFE IN A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION. MY 95 BLAZER HAD A RECALL ON THE SAME EXACT WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE THAT I HAVE REPLACED. I HAD THE CHEVROLET DEALERSHIP CHEC THE PART NUMBER ON MY 94 CHEV PU, AND IT'S THE EXACT SAME AS FOR THE BLAZER, YET CHEVROLET SAYS THE VIN # ON MY PU IS NOT ON THE RECALL LIST. THE VIN NUMBER HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE WIPER MOTOR OPERATION IF THEY ARE THE SAME P/N. CHEVROLET STILL WILL NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. CHEVROLET GIVE ME A CASE # OF 980818166. ANY ASSISTANCE WOULD BE APPREICATED BEFORE SOMEONE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM GETS HURT OR KILLED BECAUSE THEY CAN'T SEE DURING A SNOW OR RAIN STORM.
Chevrolet K20 1982
- Date Of Incident: 1997-12-02
- Date Complaint: 1998-01-13
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1GCGK24J5CJ
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE TRUCK BETWEEN 50-60 MPH, DRIVER HEARD A WINDING NOISE, BY TIME DRIVER PULLED OVER TO SHOULDER SAFELY, THE TRUCK WAS ON FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE TRUCK WAS TOTALLED. *AK
Chevrolet K20 1996
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-07
- Date Complaint: 1998-01-07
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: INTERMITTENT FAILURE OF THE WINDSHIELS WIPERS. GENERALLY HAPPENS IN A RAIN STORM AND AFFECTS VISIBILITY.
Chevrolet K20 1998
- Date Of Incident: 1997-10-19
- Date Complaint: 1997-11-12
- VIN: 1GCGK29J9WE
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE SERPENTINE BELT BROKE WHICH MADE THE VEHICLE UNABLE TO BE STEERED, AND CAUSED A TOTAL LOSS OF BRAKING ABILITY. DEALER FIXED. *AK CONSUMER STATES THAT A PIECE OF TENSION PULLEY THAT TIGHTENS THE BELT BROKE AND CUT THE SERPENTINE BELT IN HALF. *SLC
Chevrolet K20 1993
- Date Of Incident: 1997-05-04
- Date Complaint: 1997-05-05
- VIN: 1GCGK29F3PE
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL FILLER REPLACEMENT INSTRUCTIONS IN OWNERS MANUAL, IF FOLLOWED ACCORDING TO MANUAL, COULD CAUSE INJURY OR FIRE, CONTACTED MANUFACTURER, THEY DO NOT UNDERSTAND PROBLEM, OWNER WILL PROVIDE MORE DETAILED INFORMATION. *AK
Chevrolet K20 1985
- Date Of Incident: 1996-11-12
- Date Complaint: 1997-02-20
- VIN: 1GCGK24M2FU
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: UNIROYAL LAREDO TIRE BLEW OUT, CAUSING THE TREAD TO COMPLETLEY SEPARATE AND FLY OFF THE TIRE BASE. (23585R16)
Chevrolet K20 1993
- Date Of Incident: 1995-08-01
- Date Complaint: 1996-03-25
- VIN: 2GCEK19K8P1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER SEATBACK BROKE TWICE AND PASSENGER SIDE BROKE ONCE. *AK
Chevrolet K20 1993
- Date Of Incident: 1996-03-19
- Date Complaint: 1996-03-19
- VIN: 2GCEK19KXP1
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: 60/40 SPLIT SEAT HAS NO LATCH ON THE CENTER PASSENGER SIDE OF THE SEAT, CAUSING TO SEAT TO ROCK BACK AND FORTH. *AK
Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet K20
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 29 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet K20.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chevrolet K20 1985
- Report Received Date: 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.
- Model: Chevrolet K20 1974
- Report Received Date: 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.
- Model: Chevrolet K20 1982
- Report Received Date: 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.
- Model: Chevrolet K20 1980
- Report Received Date: 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.
- Model: Chevrolet K20 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.
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet K20?
