Gmc C3500 pickup 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 C3500 pickup car production

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Gmc C3500 pickup model years

gmc c3500 pickup 1994 photo
C3500 pickup 1994
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gmc c3500 pickup 1989 photo
C3500 pickup 1989
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Common Gmc C3500 pickup problems

The GMC Sierra 3500, a heavy-duty pickup truck, is known for its power and versatility. However, like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems. These issues are often related to specific components and systems, which can affect the overall performance and reliability of the vehicle. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common problems with the GMC Sierra 3500, based on complaints from owners and reports from mechanics.

  • Inner Tie Rod Ends: The GMC Sierra 3500 can also have problems with the inner tie rod ends. These components are responsible for connecting the steering rack to the front wheels and providing steering stability. If the tie rod ends are worn out or damaged, they can cause the steering to feel loose or unstable. To fix this issue, the tie rod ends may need to be replaced.

In conclusion, the GMC Sierra 3500 is a powerful and capable pickup truck that can handle various tasks and applications. However, like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems that can affect its performance and reliability. By understanding these issues and addressing them promptly, GMC Sierra 3500 owners can ensure that their vehicles remain safe, reliable, and functional for years to come.

Gmc C3500 pickup

What years to avoid Sierra 3500?

Sierra 3500 Generations

The Sierra 3500 has 4 generations, each with their own issues. Using the same PainRank™ system we've determined that you're better off avoiding the 1st generation (1992–2006).

Is the GMC 3500 diesel reliable?

The GMC Sierra 3500 HD Reliability Rating is 2.5 out of 5.0, which ranks it 11th out of 17 for fullsize trucks. The average annual repair cost is $1,121 which means it has poor ownership costs. The frequency of repairs is average, but when issues do arise, they are more likely to be severe than with other models.

What is the most common problem with GMC?

The GMC Acadia

The Acadia model has had a total of 5,629 reported problems. The most common issues are related to the powertrain, service brakes, and engine cooling system. The models from 2017 and 2019 have had the most issues.

What is the best year for GMC 3500?

The Best Model Years to Buy a GMC Sierra 3500HD

With the 2022, you would only pay, on average, 100% of the price as new, with 100% of the vehicle's useful life remaining. The 2021 and 2013 model years are also attractive years for the Sierra 3500HD, and provide a relatively good value.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Gmc C3500 pickup years

We have researched Gmc problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Gmc C3500 pickup cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Gmc C3500 pickup model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Gmc C3500 pickup model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Gmc C3500 pickup years

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

Gmc C3500 pickup car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Gmc C3500 pickup , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Tires problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Diesel problems
  • Electrical system problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Gmc C3500 pickup vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Gmc C3500 pickup . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Gmc C3500 pickup vehicles.

List of Gmc C3500 pickup complaints

Gmc C3500 pickup 1994
  • Date Of Incident: 2012-01-31
  • Date Complaint: 2012-02-01
  • VIN: 1GTHC39F4SE
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: STANADYNE ELECTRONIC DIESEL PUMP MOUNTED DRIVER FAILED WHILE DRIVING IN HEAVY TRAFFIC AT 50 MPH. HAD DIFFICULT TIME MANEUVERING TO SIDE OF ROAD WITH NO POWER STEERING AND LIMITED BRAKING ALMOST CAUSING ACCIDENT. PMD FAILURES ARE VERY COMMON AND SOMETHING SHOULD BE DONE ABOUT IT. *TR
Gmc C3500 pickup 1989
  • Date Of Incident: 2009-06-20
  • Date Complaint: 2009-07-03
  • VIN: 2GTHC39N6K1
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: HAVE TWO PEP BOYS DAKOTA LT FUTURA LOAD RANGE D 225/75R 16 TRUCK TIRES BOUGHT FEBRUARY 2005.TRUCK IS ONLY USED FOR LOCAL TRIPS AND AVERAGE MILEAGE IS 600 MILES PER YEAR! TIRES HAVE LESS THAN 4000 MILES ON THEM AND BOTH FRONT TIRES WITHIN 2 WHEELS OF EACH OTHER HAD THE TREAD BLOW OFF THEM! I KEEP CONTINUAL MAINTENANCE ON EVERYTHING AND MONTHLY MAKE SURE THEY ARE AT 65 PSI. I HAVE THESE TIRES ON THE BACK ALSO THAT ARE LARGER IN SIZE AND HOPE THEY ARE NOT GOING TO BLOW THE TREAD OFF! THE FIRST FRONT TIRE CAME APART AT FREEWAY SPEED WHERE THE SECOND TIRE WITH NO SIGN OF BOUNCING ETC. TO INDICATE A PROBLEM THE TREAD CAME OFF AT 30 MPH IN TOWN HERE AT APACHE JUNCTION! THEY ARE VIRTUALLY NO TREAD WEAR FROM NEW AND ACTUAL LESS THAN 3000 MILES BY MY YEARLY FIGURES IN MY MAINTENANCE BOOK! *TR

Recalls Gmc C3500 pickup

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Gmc C3500 pickup.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Gmc C3500 pickup 1989
  • 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 C3500 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).

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Gmc C3500 pickup photo