Gmc 1500 problems

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The fourth generation of the C/K series is a range of trucks that was manufactured by General Motors. Marketed by the Chevrolet and GMC brands from the 1988 to the 2002 model years, this is the final generation of the C/K model line. In a branding change, GMC adopted the GMC Sierra nameplate for all its full-size pickup trucks, leaving the C/K nomenclature exclusive to Chevrolet.

Internally codenamed the GMT400 platform, GM did not give the model line a word moniker (e.g., "Rounded-Line series" for its predecessor). After its production, the model line would informally become known by the public as the "OBS" (Old Body Style), in reference to its GMT800 successor. In starting a different tradition, the model line overlapped production with both its predecessor and successor; the model line again shared body commonality with GM medium-duty commercial trucks.

Over nearly a 14-year production run, the fourth-generation C/K was assembled by GM in multiple facilities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. After the 2000 model year, the fourth-generation C/K was discontinued and was replaced by the GMT800 platform (introduced for 1999); the C3500HD heavy-duty chassis cab model remained in production through 2002. In line with the GMC Sierra, Chevrolet subsequently adopted a singular Chevrolet Silverado nameplate for its full-size truck line (which remains in use).

photo of Gmc 1500 car production

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Gmc 1500 model years

gmc 1500 1996 photo
1500 1996
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25

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  • 1
gmc 1500 1994 photo
1500 1994
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29

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  • 1
gmc 1500 1990 photo
1500 1990
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8

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gmc 1500 1985 photo
1500 1985
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3

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Common Gmc 1500 problems

GMC 1500 cars, like any other vehicles, can experience a range of issues based on owner complaints. Here are some of the most common problems:

  • Transmission Problems: Transmission issues are another common complaint among GMC 1500 owners. Drivers have reported difficulty shifting, engine lights, and stalling.
  • A/C and HVAC Issues: GMC 1500 owners have reported problems with the air conditioning and heating systems, including leaks, faulty blowers, and refrigerant leakage. These issues can affect the comfort and safety of the vehicle, especially in extreme temperatures.
  • Poor Lighting and Headlight Visibility: Some GMC 1500 owners have reported poor lighting and headlight visibility, which can affect the safety of the vehicle, especially during nighttime driving.
  • Four-Wheel Drive Problems: GMC Sierra 4-wheel drive models have experienced problems with the selector switch, which can fail and trigger 4-wheel drive service alarms. This issue can affect the off-road capabilities of the vehicle and may require a switch replacement.
  • Front Airbag Deployment: In some cases, GMC 1500 owners have reported issues with front airbag deployment, which can affect the safety of the vehicle during a crash. This issue has been recalled and may not cost extra to fix if the vehicle meets the criteria.
  • Brake Assist Issues: GMC 1500 owners have reported problems with brake assist, including unintentional braking and vacuum pump issues that can reduce brake assist and increase the pressure needed to stop the vehicle. These issues can affect the safety of the vehicle, especially in emergency situations.
  • Fuel Pump Problems: GMC 1500 owners have reported problems with the fuel pump, which can affect the performance and fuel efficiency of the vehicle.
  • Flickering Lights: Some GMC 1500 owners have reported flickering lights, which can affect the visibility and safety of the vehicle, especially during nighttime driving.
  • Exhaust Leaks: GMC 1500 owners have reported exhaust leaks, which can affect the performance and safety of the vehicle.
  • Excessive Oil Consumption: Some GMC 1500 owners have reported excessive oil consumption, which can affect the performance and maintenance costs of the vehicle.
  • Stability Control System Malfunctions: GMC Terrain owners have reported stability control system malfunctions, which can affect the safety and handling of the vehicle.
  • Takata Airbag Recalls: Some GMC models are part of the Takata airbag recalls, which can affect the safety of the vehicle during a crash.

It is important to note that not all GMC 1500 owners will experience these issues, and some problems may be more common in certain model years or trims. If you are considering purchasing a GMC 1500, it is recommended to research the specific model year and trim to understand any common issues or recalls.

Gmc 1500

Percentage distribution of complaints by Gmc 1500 years

We have researched Gmc problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Gmc 1500 cars and compiled the top 4 most problematic Gmc 1500 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Gmc 1500 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Gmc 1500 years

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

Gmc 1500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Gmc 1500 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Visibility problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Gmc 1500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by 1500 model years

A total of 5 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 1500 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 1500 model years

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

The NHTSA has received 65 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Gmc 1500 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Gmc 1500 vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Gmc 1500 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2017-04-23
  • Date Complaint: 2017-06-19
  • VIN: 2GCEC19Z9R1
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: MY BRAKE LIGHTS DON'T WORK IVED TRIED EVERY THING TO FIX THEM AND I CANT SEEMED TO FIND THE PROBLEM I WAS WONDERING IF THE WIREING OR BRAKE SWITCH WERE RECALLS
Gmc 1500 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-02-14
  • Date Complaint: 2005-09-08
  • VIN: 2GTEK19W1T1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE SYSTEM OPERATED NORMALLY FOR SOME TIME AND THEN AT OR AROUND 2/14/2005 I BEGUN TO EXPERIENCE IN ALL WEATHER CONDITIONS AT SLOW SPEED STOPPING THE ABS WOULD ENGAGE AND OVER RIDE THE NORMAL BRAKING SYSTEM CAUSING MUCH LONGER STOPPING DISTANCES. IT CAUSED AT LEAST 10 NEAR COLLISIONS WITH THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME, AND SEVERAL TIMES I SWERVED OFF THE ROAD TO AVOID CONTACT. TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM, I DISABLED THE ABS SYSTEM BY REMOVING THE ABS FUSE, THIS WAS SUGGESTED BY A LOCAL TIRE AND REPAIR SHOP. *JB
Gmc 1500 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-05-14
  • Date Complaint: 2005-05-16
  • VIN: 3B7HC13Y9TM
  • Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,AIR BAGS
  • Summary: DT: CONSUMER BOUGHT A VEHICLE "AS IS", AND FOR THE FIRST TIME I DROVE IT, 3 HOURS AFTER I BOUGHT IT, THE RADIATOR BLEW. THE GARAGE THAT SERVICED THE VEHICLE SAID THE BALL JOINTS WERE READY TO FALL APART. THE STEERING WAS VERY DANGEROUS AND THE REAR END MADE A HUMMING NOISE. IN ADDITION, THE ENGINE LIGHT AND AIR BAG LIGHT CAME ON. HE SAID THE VEHICLE SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ON THE ROAD. THE SELLER WILL NOT REPAIR OR REIMBURSE FOR ANY OF THE DEFECTS. *TT
Gmc 1500 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-03-11
  • Date Complaint: 2005-03-14
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GTEK14K4SZ
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A FRONT COLLISION AT 60 MPH. UPON IMPACT, AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY. CONSUMER WILL NOTIFY THE MANUFACTURER.*AK
Gmc 1500 1990
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-10-25
  • Date Complaint: 2004-10-25
  • VIN: 2GTEC19K5K1
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING A LOUD NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE FRONT. CONSUMER PULLED OVER , AND SAW THAT THE PASSENGER'S SIDE REAR TIRE TREAD SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE. CONSUMER CHANGED THE TIRE, AND DROVE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. FIRESTONE, FR480, P235/75R15, #DOT NUMBER HDHL1PA066.*AK
Gmc 1500 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-10-07
  • Date Complaint: 2004-10-07
  • VIN: 2GTEK19KXR1
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: 1994 GMC SIERRA PICKUP ([XXX]) GM HAS 2 RECALLS FOR WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR PROBLEMS ON 1994 AND NEWER PICKUPS AND SUVS (RECALL 98043 AND SPECIAL POLICY ADJUSTMENT 02054A). MY VEHICLE HAS THE SAME PROBLEM NOTED IN THE RECALLS: INTERMITTENT WIPER OPERATION RESULTING FROM CRACKED SOLDER JOINTS ON THE WIPER MOTOR CONTROL'S PRINTED CIRCUIT BOARD AT ITS CONNECTION TO THE WIRING HARNESS. BUT, BECAUSE MY VIN DOES NOT MATCH THOSE IN THE RECALL, I AM LEFT TO DEAL WITH THIS PROBLEM ON MY OWN. I HAVE BEEN LIVING WITH THIS FOR A FEW YEARS BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE THE TIME OR MONEY TO FIX IT. AND, MY BRIEF INTERNET RESEARCH REVEALS NUMEROUS OTHER GM OWNERS IN THE SAME SITUATION ... THE SAME PROBLEM IDENTIFIED IN THE RECALL BUT LEFT IN THE COLD BY GM BECAUSE OF VIN NUMBER EXCLUSIONS. MY CALL TO GM REVEALED THAT THE RECALL WAS LIMITED TO VEHICLES MANUFACTURED AT CERTAIN PLANTS, BECAUSE ONLY THOSE PLANTS USED PARTS FROM "DEFECTIVE BATCHES." THE ROOT CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM (BAD SOLDER JOINTS) SEEMS TO ME A DESIGN ISSUE (FAILURE TO MITIGATE VIBRATION, TOO RIGID A CONNECTION BETWEEN THE WIRING CONNECTOR AND PCB?), NOT A MANUFACTURING DEFECT (BAD BATCH OF MATERIAL, IMPROPERLY SOLDERED JOINT?). SAME SYMPTOMS RESULTING FROM THE SAME FAILURE ON THE SAME PART WITH THE SAME PART NUMBER? WHEN I PRESSED THE CUSTOMER SERVICE REP. ON THIS QUESTION (VIN NUMBER AND PARTS BATCH ARE IRRELEVANT IF IT IS A DESIGN FLAW, WHICH I THINK IT IS), I GOT THE PROVERBIAL RUN-AROUND. AND, MY WIPERS STILL DON'T WORK. *NM UPDATED 07/24/2012 *JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Gmc 1500 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-09-30
  • Date Complaint: 2004-09-30
  • VIN: 1GTEC19M8VE
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: CONSUMER COMPLAINED ABOUT WINDSHIELD WIPERS WORKING INTERMITTENTLY. TOOK VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND HAD THEM REPAIRED. HE THEN SHOWED THE DEALER THAT THERE WAS A RECALL. HE WAS TOLD BY THE MECHANIC THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT ON RECALL, AND ADVISED CONSUMER TO CONTACT THE MANUFACTURER. CONSUMER THEN CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER, AND WAS TOLD THE SAME THING. CONSUMER FELT SINCE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WERE NOT WORKING DURING RAINY TIMES IT WAS A SAFETY HAZARD. ALSO, CONSUMER WAS TOLD THAT THE PROBLEM WAS A CRACKED SOLDER JOINT ON THE CONTROL BOARD. CONSUMER INSISTED ON BEING REIMBURSED. *AK
Gmc 1500 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-08-25
  • Date Complaint: 2004-08-25
  • VIN: 1GTEK19R7VE
  • Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL,VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING STEERING WHEEL WANDERED FROM SIDE TO SIDE. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. FOLLOWING THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WOULD COME ON AND OFF INTERMITTENTLY IN INCLEMENT WEATHER. THIS CAUSED POOR VISIBILITY. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE POWER SENSOR SWITCH , AND THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
Gmc 1500 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-07-12
  • Date Complaint: 2004-08-20
  • VIN: 1GTDC14Z1RZ
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS RUN INTERMITTENTLY SEVERELY LIMITIING VISIBILITY WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH. GMC NOTIFIED ME THAT MY VEHICLE VIN NUMBER WAS NOT PART OF THE WIPER MOTOR REPLACEMENT RECALL EVEN THOUGH I AM EXPERIENCING THE SAME PROBLEM.*AK
Gmc 1500 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-07-22
  • Date Complaint: 2004-08-05
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT ANY SPEED VEHICLE JERKED. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT TRANSMISSON FAILED. *AK
Gmc 1500 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-01-24
  • Date Complaint: 2004-06-08
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE IN THE RAIN WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAILED. THIS CAUSED THE DRIVER TO PULL OFF THE ROAD. CONSUMER CONTACTED DEALERSHIP, BUT PROBLEM RECURRED. *AK
Gmc 1500 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-03-15
  • Date Complaint: 2004-03-17
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS FAILED INTERMITTENLY. A RECALL WAS ISSUED. HOWEVER, THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED DUE TO VIN. *AK
Gmc 1500 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 1998-12-29
  • Date Complaint: 2003-12-07
  • VIN: 1GTEC14Z6RZ
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: WIPERS ON MY 1994 GMC PICK-UP DO NOT WORK AT ALL TIMES WHEN REQUIRED. THIS IS A DEFINITE SAFETY ISSUE. THIS PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED ROUTINELY FOR THE LAST SEVERAL YEARS. GMC ACKNOWLEDGED OTHER COMPLAINTS OF THIS NATURE; HOWEVER, MY VEHICLE IS NOT COVERED UNDER THEIR RECALL ORDERS, MY CONTACT WITH GMC PRODUCED NEGATIVE RESULTS. *LA
Gmc 1500 1985
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-08-24
  • Date Complaint: 2003-09-23
  • VIN: 2GTDC14H7F1
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: CONSUMER CALLED COMPLAINING ABOUT HYDRAULIC BRAKE PROBLEMS. THE CONSUMER HAD TAKEN THE WHEEL OFF AND THE PROBLEM WAS THE HOSE FROM THE HYDRAULIC BRAKES. THE MANUFACTURER OR DEALER WERE NOT CONTACTED AT THE TIME OF THIS CALL. *AK AGE AND HEAT MAY HAVE CAUSED THE HOSE TO EXPAND INWARD BECAUSE OF THE CLAMP SUPPORT AROUND IT, BECAUSE IT DID NOT EXPAND OUTWARD WHICH SHUT OFF THE NORMAL FLOW OF BRAKE FLUID. THE VEHICLE DID NOT BRAKE EVENLY FOR THREE YEARS PRIOR TO THE PROBLEM , BUT NOW WITH THE NEW HOSES, THE VEHICLE NOW BRAKES AS DESIGNED. *SCC *JB
Gmc 1500 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-07-25
  • Date Complaint: 2003-09-10
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHEN TRYING TO APPLY THE BRAKES BRAKE PEDAL WILL GO TO THE FLOOR, CAUSING VEHICLE TO HAVE EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE. *AK

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