Gmc C1500 pickup problems

General information about Gmc C1500 pickup
Gmc C1500 pickup years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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 C1500 pickup car production

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Gmc C1500 pickup model years

C1500 pickup 1994

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C1500 pickup 1988

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Common Gmc C1500 pickup problems

Common Problems with GMC C1500 Pickup Trucks

Alternator Failure: In older Sierras and Silverados, the alternator may eventually fail, causing the battery to die and potentially leading to an abnormal noise. This problem typically occurs around 125,000 miles and can cost $300 to $400 to fix.

Internal Distributor Faults: Numerous drivers have reported internal faults in the distributor, which can cause a squealing noise and rough engine performance or stalling. This issue may or may not trigger the check engine light. Replacing or overhauling the internal distributor is necessary to correct this problem, which typically occurs around 130,000 miles.

Failed Steering Wheel Position Sensor: A failed steering wheel position sensor can cause a service stability message in the Silverado or Sierra. This issue can occur intermittently or consistently and may require replacing the sensor, which can cost $200 to $300.

Windshield Wiper Motor Component Failure: Models made between 1990 and 1999 may experience intermittent windshield wiper failure due to a defective wiper motor control board. This issue can be resolved by replacing the control board, which may be covered under a recall for certain models.

Coolant Leaks or Oil Leaks from Intake Manifold Gaskets: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold gaskets can occur in models produced between 1988 and 1998. This issue can lead to engine damage and may require replacing the gaskets.

Four-wheel-drive transfer case position sensor/selector switch failure: Over 450 owners have reported this issue in the GMC Sierra 1500. This problem can lead to a diagnostic test costing $88 to $111, with potential repair costs for the selector switch.

A/C temperature and air delivery mode door actuator failure: Over 260 owners have reported this issue in the GMC Sierra 1500. This problem can affect the HVAC system's ability to deliver air to cool or heat the vehicle's cab, requiring a diagnostic visit and potential repair costs.

Fuel level sensor failure: Over 170 owners have reported this issue in the GMC Sierra 1500. This problem can cause the fuel level sensor to read the fuel level incorrectly, requiring replacement of the sensor or the entire fuel pump module on high-mileage models.

Climate System Issues: Owners have reported problems with the climate system, including issues with the AC compressor, blower (fan) motor, condenser, evaporator, heater system, automatic climate system, electrical failure, and refrigerant leakage. These issues can affect the vehicle's ability to maintain a comfortable temperature and may require costly repairs.

These common problems with GMC C1500 pickup trucks can lead to costly repairs and decreased vehicle performance. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these issues and extend the life of the vehicle.

What problems does the GMC Sierra 1500 have?

What years to avoid on Chevy 1500?

2012 and 2013 Silverado Years

Within the second generation, these two are among the worst years for the Silverado 1500. Complaints covered many topics with transmission, engine, and interior accessory problems at the top of the list.

What year GMC trucks are the most reliable?

Most Reliable GMC Sierra by Model Year

For the most reliable GMC Sierra 1500, look for model years 2021, 2016 to 2018, 2011 to 2012, and 2004. As you can see, the GMC Sierra's reliability goes back to 2004 due to its stout engine and good crash test results.

How long do Chevy 1500 engines last?

But how many miles can a Chevy Silverado 1500 last? Our team at Cable Dahmer Chevrolet of Kansas City has the data to answer that. How Long Do Chevy Trucks Last? Generally speaking, a Chevy truck that receives proper maintenance should be able to last well over 200,000 miles.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Gmc C1500 pickup years

We have researched Gmc problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Gmc C1500 pickup cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Gmc C1500 pickup model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Gmc C1500 pickup model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Gmc C1500 pickup years

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

Gmc C1500 pickup car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Gmc C1500 pickup , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Tires problems
Visibility problems
Seats problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Gmc C1500 pickup vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Gmc C1500 pickup . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Gmc C1500 pickup vehicles.

List of Gmc C1500 pickup complaints

Gmc C1500 pickup 1994

Date Of Incident: 2008-01-01
Date Complaint: 2008-03-28
VIN: 1GTEC19KXRE
Components: VISIBILITY
Summary: WHEN THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS ARE IN USE THEY WILL WORK INTERMITTENTLY, OR STOP WHAT YOU COMPLETELY, OR WILL NOT SHUT OFF. THERE IS A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM BUT GMC STATES HIS VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. ON THEIR INTERNAL WEBPAGE MY VEHICLE VIN IS WITHIN THE RANGE. CALLED GMC DIRECTLY BUT THEY WILL NOT REMEDY THE PROBLEM. *TR

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Gmc C1500 pickup 1988

Date Of Incident: 2007-08-14
Date Complaint: 2007-08-14
VIN: 2GTDC14K0J1
Components: TIRES
Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 GMC C1500. THE VEHICLE HAS FTS WESTLAKE TIRES, SIZE LT235/75R-15. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURED DATE FOR THE TIRES FALLS UNDER THE DATES MENTIONED IN THE RECALL. HE STATED THAT THE FTS HOTLINE NUMBER PROVIDES INFORMATION ABOUT THE RECALL, BUT DOES NOT MENTION THAT THERE IS A PRORATED COST TO HAVE THE TIRES MOUNTED AND BALANCED. ACCORDING TO THE RECALL, THE TIRES WILL BE REPLACED, MOUNTED, AND BALANCED AT NO COST TO THE OWNER. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE FTS HOTLINE INFORMATION DOES NOT CLARIFY IN DETAIL WHETHER OR NOT THIS CHARGE IS APPLICABLE. ALTHOUGH THERE HAD BEEN NO FAILURE TO DATE, THE CONTACT WOULD LIKE THE TIRES REPLACED BEFORE ONE OCCURS. HE ATTEMPTED TO HAVE THE TIRES REPAIRED ON AUGUST 14, 2007, HOWEVER, HE DID NOT DUE TO THE REPAIR FEES. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 273,759.

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Gmc C1500 pickup 1994

Date Of Incident: 2003-01-01
Date Complaint: 2006-07-28
VIN: 2GTEC19K4R1
Components: SEATS
Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE RECALL REMEDY REPAIR ON THE DRIVER'S SEAT FAILED TWO TIMES AFTER THE REMEDY REPAIR. THERE WERE NO ACCIDENTS ON EITHER OCCURRENCE. THE CONTACT EXPRESSED THE RECALL WORK SHOULD BE HONORED FOR THE LIFE OF THE WORK AND THE DEALER IS NO LONGER WILLING TO ASSIST IN THIS MATTER.

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Recalls Gmc C1500 pickup

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Gmc C1500 pickup.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Gmc C1500 pickup 1988
Report Received Date: 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).

Model: Gmc C1500 pickup 1994
Report Received Date: 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).