Gmc R1500 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 R1500 car production

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Gmc R1500 model years

gmc r1500 1991 photo
R1500 1991
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gmc r1500 1989 photo
R1500 1989
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Common Gmc R1500 problems

The 1991 GMC R1500 Suburban is known for several common problems, as reported by car owners. These issues include extreme idle speed, stuck windows, and difficulty starting.

  1. Extreme Idle Speed

A common issue with the 1991 GMC R1500 Suburban is extreme idle speed. This problem can be caused by various factors, such as vacuum leaks, faulty sensors, and ignition system issues. If the engine idles too high, it can lead to increased fuel consumption, reduced performance, and excessive wear and tear on the engine.

In the case of a 1987 GMC R1500 with a 5.0L engine and HEI ignition system, a high idle speed can be caused by a faulty ESC module, overhauled TBI and ECU, or a distributor and/or ignition module. The ignition system components can cause a slow cranking engine, which can lead to difficulty starting the vehicle. In this case, the owner reported that the engine idles at around 2000rpm, which is significantly higher than the specified idle speed. The owner also mentioned that the engine cranks slowly, indicating a problem with the ignition timing.

  1. Stuck Windows

Another common problem with the 1991 GMC R1500 Suburban is a stuck window. This issue can be caused by a faulty window motor, a broken window regulator, or a problem with the window's electrical system, such as a fuse or relay. When a window won't go up or down, it can be inconvenient and lead to reduced visibility while driving.

The most common reasons for a stuck window in a 1991 GMC R1500 Suburban are a faulty window motor or a broken window regulator. These components can wear out over time and cause the window to stop functioning properly. In some cases, a window may get stuck in the up or down position, which can be a significant safety hazard.

  1. Difficulty Starting

The 1987 GMC R1500 Suburban with a 5.7 ltr, tbi engine can have difficulty starting. This issue can be caused by various factors, such as a faulty fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter, a weak battery, or a problem with the ignition system. When a vehicle has difficulty starting, it can be frustrating and lead to reduced reliability.

In the case of a 1987 GMC R1500 with a 5.7 ltr, tbi engine, the owner reported having a hard time getting it started. The engine turns over and over, but it doesn't start. This issue can be caused by a faulty fuel pump, a clogged fuel filter, or a weak battery. The owner also mentioned that the engine cranks slowly, indicating a problem with the ignition system.

To address these common problems, it is essential to maintain the vehicle regularly and address any issues promptly. Regular maintenance, such as tune-ups, oil changes, and battery replacement, can help prevent these issues from occurring. If a problem does arise, it is crucial to diagnose and repair it as soon as possible to avoid further damage and reduce repair costs.

Gmc R1500

Percentage distribution of complaints by Gmc R1500 years

We have researched Gmc problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Gmc R1500 cars and compiled the top 2 most problematic Gmc R1500 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Gmc R1500 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Gmc R1500 years

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

Gmc R1500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Gmc R1500 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Fuel system problems
  • Gasoline problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Gmc R1500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Gmc R1500 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Gmc R1500 vehicles.

List of Gmc R1500 complaints

Gmc R1500 1991
  • Date Of Incident: 2005-02-24
  • Date Complaint: 2005-04-30
  • VIN: 1GKER16K4MF
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: GM ISSUED A RECALL FOR 2000-2001 SUBURBANS TO REPAIR A FAULTY ELECTRIC WIRE ON THE FUEL PUMP WHICH CAUSED STALLING. I HAD TO PAY $85 DIRECTLY AND APPROXIMATELY $500 IN CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGE TO REPAIR THE EXACT SAME WIRE WHICH FAILED IN MY 1991 GMC SUBURBAN. GM REFUSED TO REIMBURSE DIRECT COSTS OF REPAIR. THIS WAS A VERY DANGEROUS CONDITION AS IT COULD OCCUR WHILE DRIVING, ENTAILING COMPLETE LOSS OF POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES.*AK
Gmc R1500 1989
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2000-06-15
  • VIN: 1GTDK14Z7KZ
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKE SYSTEM NOT ADEQUATE FOR THE VEHICLE SIZE. YH

Recalls Gmc R1500

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the Gmc R1500.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

  • Model: Gmc R1500 1989
  • Report Received Date: 2007-10-24
  • Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.
  • Model: Gmc R1500 1991
  • Report Received Date: 2007-10-24
  • Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
  • Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
  • Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.

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