1985 Gmc K15 problems

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The Chevrolet C/K is a series of trucks that was manufactured by General Motors from the 1960 to 2002 model years. Marketed by both the Chevrolet and GMC divisions, the C/K series encompassed a wide range of vehicles. While most commonly associated with pickup trucks, the model line also included chassis-cab trucks and medium-duty trucks and served as the basis for GM full-size SUVs. Through its entire production, the model line competed directly against the Ford F-Series and the Dodge D series (later the Dodge Ram pickup).

Used for both the model branding and the internal model code, "C" denoted two-wheel drive, while "K" denoted four-wheel drive. Four generations of the C/K series were produced, including the GM monikered second-generation "Action Line" and third-generation "Rounded Line" vehicles (colloquially aka Square-Body trucks). For the fourth-generation (colloquially also known as OBS trucks), Chevrolet kept using the C/K designation while GMC revised its branding, changing to a singular GMC Sierra nameplate (C/K remained as an internal model code).

For South America, the model line was manufactured by General Motors de Argentina from 1960 to 1978, Sevel Argentina from 1986 to 1991, and General Motors Brazil, who produced versions of the model line for Brazil, Argentina, and Chile from 1964 to 2001.

As GM entered the 1990s, the company revised its truck ranges, replacing the medium-duty C/K trucks with the Chevrolet Kodiak/GMC TopKick for 1990. For 1999, GM replaced the fourth-generation C/K pickup trucks with an all-new model line; in line with GMC, Chevrolet dropped the C/K nameplate (in favor of a singular Chevrolet Silverado nameplate). Initially marketed with its successor, the final C/K pickup trucks were produced for the 2000 model year. From 2001 to 2002, the final vehicles of the C/K model line were medium-duty chassis cab trucks.

1985 Gmc K15

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Common 1985 Gmc K15 problems

Common Problems with the GMC K15 1985

  • Distributor Cap and Rotor Problems
    Another common issue with the 1985 GMC K15 is related to the distributor cap and rotor. One owner reported that after installing a new distributor cap, the truck wouldn't start and just spun over fast. The rotor and spark plug wires were checked, but the problem persisted. The continuity of the cap and rotor was also tested, and it was found that the truck cranked faster than before, indicating a possible timing issue.
  • Internal Distributor Faults
    Numerous drivers have reported internal faults in the distributor of their 1985 GMC K15 trucks. This problem may cause a squealing noise coming from the distributor, and the engine may run roughly or stall. The check engine light may or may not come on. Overhauling or replacing the internal distributor is necessary to correct this problem.
  • Excessive Oil Consumption
    One of the most common problems with the 1985 GMC K15 is excessive oil consumption. This issue is often experienced by owners of 2007-2013 GMC and Chevy trucks, but it may also affect older models. The problem occurs due to worn-out engine components, and it can cause the engine to run rough and consume more oil than usual.
  • Alternator Failure
    The alternator may eventually fail in the 1985 GMC K15, causing the battery to die and possibly an abnormal noise to occur. This problem may or may not cause a dash warning light to come on. If the alternator fails, it needs to be replaced, which typically costs around $300 to $400.
  • Transmission Cooling System
    The transmission cooling system is a common problem in many GMC trucks, including the 1985 K15. This issue can cause the transmission to overheat and fail, leading to costly repairs. Regular maintenance and replacement of the transmission cooler can help prevent this problem.
  • Steering Wheel Position Sensor
    If you get a service stability message in your 1985 GMC K15, it may be because of a failed steering wheel position sensor. This error may occur intermittently or more regularly, such as every time you start your truck or turn the wheel. Replacing the sensor should fix this issue, but it can cost around $200 to $300.

In conclusion, the 1985 GMC K15 is a reliable truck, but like any other vehicle, it can experience common problems. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help prevent these issues and ensure the longevity of the truck.

1985 Gmc K15 engine

1985 Gmc K15 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Gmc K15 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1985 Gmc K15 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1985 Gmc K15 complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1985 Gmc K15.

1995-10-18

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-10-17
  • VIN: 1GTCT14B5F2
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: CORRODED REAR DISC BRAKES, BACK PLATE HAS CORRODED. TT

1985 Gmc K15 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1985 Gmc K15.

1985-05-01
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
  • Summary: RIM INFORMATION MAY HAVE BEEN OMITTED ON CERTIFICATION LABEL INSTALLED ON THE LEFT FRONT DOOR. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THESE TRUCKS DO NOT CONFORM WITH FMVSS 120, TIRE SELECTIONS AND RIMS FOR VEHICLES OTHER THAN PASSENGER CARS.
  • Remedy: INSTALL NEW CORRECTED LABELS.
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