1989 Gmc C3500 pickup problems
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).
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Common 1989 Gmc C3500 pickup problems
The 1989 GMC C3500 pickup truck is known for several common problems that owners have reported. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Transmission Overheating: One of the most common problems with the 1989 GMC C3500 is transmission overheating, which can occur if the truck is driven for more than half an hour. This issue can cause the transmission to shift poorly, and in some cases, it can even lead to complete transmission failure. To address this problem, many owners have installed auxiliary transmission coolers, which can help keep the transmission at a safe temperature.
- Distributor Issues: The distributor is a critical component of the 1989 GMC C3500's ignition system, and it can cause a range of problems if it fails. Some of the most common distributor issues include cracked wheels and faulty ignition modules, which can cause intermittent spark or no spark at all. To prevent these problems, it's important to keep up with regular maintenance, including replacing the cap and rotor, plugs, and wires.
- Coolant Leaks or Oil Leaks from Intake Manifold Gaskets: Many 1989 GMC C3500 owners have reported coolant leaks or oil leaks from the intake manifold gaskets. These leaks can cause a range of problems, including overheating, poor engine performance, and even engine failure. To fix this issue, many owners have replaced the intake manifold gaskets, which can be a challenging and time-consuming process.
- ABS Problems: The 1989 GMC C3500's anti-lock braking system (ABS) can also cause problems. Some of the most common ABS issues include faulty sensors, damaged wiring, and blown fuses. These problems can cause the ABS warning light to come on, and they can also cause the brakes to malfunction. To fix these issues, many owners have replaced the faulty sensors, repaired the damaged wiring, and replaced the blown fuses.
- Door Handle Issues: The 1989 GMC C3500's door handles can also cause problems. Some of the most common door handle issues include broken handles, worn-out pivots, and damaged linkages. These problems can make it difficult to open and close the doors, and they can also cause the doors to rattle and shake while driving. To fix these issues, many owners have replaced the broken handles, replaced the worn-out pivots, and repaired the damaged linkages.
In summary, the 1989 GMC C3500 pickup truck is known for several common problems, including transmission overheating, distributor issues, coolant leaks or oil leaks from intake manifold gaskets, ABS problems, and door handle issues. By staying on top of regular maintenance and addressing these issues promptly, owners can help ensure that their trucks remain safe, reliable, and enjoyable to drive.
Does GMC Sierra have engine problems?
The 2022 GMC Sierra engine issues are one of the largest GMC scandals in recent years. It is more than likely that customers will be dissuaded from buying this truck in the near future but hopefully, General Motors will manage to address all the issues quickly.
Where are GMC 3500 trucks made?
Roanoke, Indiana
GMC Sierra: The GMC Sierra lineup, including 1500, 2500HD, and 3500HD models are manufactured at the Fort Wayne assembly plant in Roanoke, Indiana.
Is the GMC Sierra reliable?
Yes, GMC trucks are among the most reliable pickups on the market. Year after year, the J.D. Power Dependability Study has ranked the Sierra 1500 and Sierra 2500HD in the top five of their respective segments.
How much horsepower does a 1991 GMC Sierra 1500 5.7 V8 have?
Specifications for GMC Sierra K1500 Regular Cab 5.7 V8 4WD Hydra-Matic, 213hp, 1991.
Are GMC pickups reliable?
GMCs can last for years if you take care of them. Most GMC Sierra 1500s last about 200,000 to 300,000 miles, though some are on the road for longer.
What generation is a 2001 GMC Sierra?
Sierra 2nd Generation
GMC Sierra 2nd Generation 1999 - 2002.
Are GMC engines reliable?
GMC Overall Reliability and Maintenance Costs
According to RepairPal, one of the foremost sources for vehicle maintenance and reliability, GMC as a brand scores a 3 out of 5 for overall reliability, which is considered above average compared to other brands.
What year GMC trucks are the most reliable?
Overall, the GMC Sierra 1500 is worth it if you're willing to keep up with regular maintenance for the machine. We recommend 2004, 2011, 2012, 2016, 2017, and 2018 options as your top picks on the market.
1989 Gmc C3500 pickup car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Gmc C3500 pickup problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Gmc C3500 pickup vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1989 Gmc C3500 pickup complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Gmc C3500 pickup.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-20
- 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
1989 Gmc C3500 pickup recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1989 Gmc C3500 pickup.
- 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).
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1989 Gmc C3500 pickup problems:
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