1987 Gmc S15 problems

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The Chevrolet S-10 is a compact pickup truck produced by Chevrolet. It was the first domestically-built compact pickup of the big three American automakers. When it was first introduced as a "quarter-ton pickup" in 1981 for the 1982 model year, the GMC version was known as the S-15 and later renamed the GMC Sonoma. A high-performance version of the latter was released in 1991, called "Syclone." The pickup was also sold by Isuzu as the Hombre from 1996 through 2000, but only in North America. There was also an SUV version, the Chevrolet S-10 Blazer/GMC S-15 Jimmy. An electric version was leased as a fleet vehicle in 1997 and 1998. These models are sometimes internally referred to as the S/T series to denote two and four wheel drive models respectively (similar to the full size Chevrolet C/K trucks) despite all versions being badged with 'S' nomenclature.

In North America, the S-series was replaced by the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Isuzu i-Series in 2004.

The S-Series ended production in Brazil in 2012, being replaced by the Chevrolet Colorado, but still with the name S-10.

1987 Gmc S15

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Common 1987 Gmc S15 problems

The 1987 GMC S15 Jimmy is a popular choice among car enthusiasts, but like any other vehicle, it has its share of common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners of this car:

1. Fuel Injectors Not Firing

One of the most common problems reported by GMC S15 Jimmy owners is that the fuel injectors are not firing. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a clogged fuel filter, a faulty fuel pump, or a bad ECM (Engine Control Module) B fuse. To diagnose this problem, it's recommended to check the fuel pressure and inspect the fuel injectors for signs of damage or wear.

If the fuel pressure is low, it may be necessary to replace the fuel pump or the fuel filter. If the fuel injectors are clogged or damaged, they may need to be cleaned or replaced. Additionally, if the ECM B fuse is blown or damaged, it may need to be replaced.

2. 4x4 Engagement Problems

Another common issue reported by GMC S15 Jimmy owners is that the 4x4 system is not engaging properly. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty vacuum switch, a damaged front drive actuator, or a problem with the transfer case.

To diagnose this problem, it's recommended to check the vacuum lines and the vacuum switch for signs of damage or wear. If the vacuum switch is not functioning properly, it may need to be replaced. Additionally, if the front drive actuator is damaged or not functioning properly, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

3. Transmission Problems

Transmission problems are also common in the GMC S15 Jimmy. These can range from issues with the torque converter clutch to problems with the transmission itself.

If the torque converter clutch is not disengaging when the brake is stepped, it may be necessary to replace the clutch or the transmission. Additionally, if the transmission is not shifting properly or is making unusual noises, it may be necessary to replace the transmission or the solenoids.

4. Rear Differential Problems

Rear differential problems are also common in the GMC S15 Jimmy. These can be caused by a variety of issues, including worn-out gears or a damaged differential cover.

To diagnose this problem, it's recommended to check the differential for signs of damage or wear. If the gears are worn out or damaged, they may need to be replaced. Additionally, if the differential cover is damaged or not properly sealed, it may need to be replaced or repaired.

5. Electrical Problems

Electrical problems are also common in the GMC S15 Jimmy. These can range from issues with the wiring to problems with the ignition system.

To diagnose this problem, it's recommended to check the wiring for signs of damage or wear. If the wiring is damaged or not properly connected, it may need to be repaired or replaced. Additionally, if the ignition system is not functioning properly, it may be necessary to replace the ignition coil or the distributor cap and rotor.

In conclusion, the GMC S15 Jimmy is a reliable and durable vehicle, but like any other car, it has its share of common problems. By being aware of these issues and taking steps to prevent or repair them, GMC S15 Jimmy owners can ensure that their vehicles remain in good working order for years to come.

1987 Gmc S15 engine

1987 Gmc S15 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Gmc S15 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Electrical system problems
  • Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1987 Gmc S15 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1987 Gmc S15 complaints

The NHTSA has received 4 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1987 Gmc S15.

1999-03-04

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-12-20
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: NO SUMMARY
1998-11-19

STEERING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1998-11-01
  • VIN: 1GTDT14RXH2
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: A FEW MONTHS AGO I NOTICED A NOISE FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AT LOW IDLE,I CHECKED IT OUT AND FOUND THE SUPPORT BRACKET FOR THE POWER STEERING PUMP WAS LOOSE.THE 2 BOLTS THAT SECURE IT TO THE ENGINE HAD BOTH SHEARED OFF,THIS CAUSED CONSIDERABLE VIBRATION TO OCCURE FROM THE POWER STEERING PUMP.
1998-04-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GTBS14E7H2
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: HEAD GASKET FAILURE ON SEVERAL OCCASSIONS.
1997-12-01

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GTBS14E7H2
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: CYLINDER HEAD GASKET FAILED THREE TIMES.

1987 Gmc S15 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1987 Gmc S15.

2006-05-24
  • Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
  • Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
  • Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
2006-03-23
  • Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
  • Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
  • Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
1987-02-25
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: INNER TIE ROD TO RELAY ROD NUTS ON STEERING LINKAGE MAY BE IIMPROPERLY TORQUED AND NOT CRIMPED.
  • Consequence: LOSS OF ONE OR BOTH NUTS COULD LEAD TO INNER TIE RODDISENGAGEMENT, WHICH COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL AND A TRUCKCRASH.
  • Remedy: REPLACE STEERING LINKAGE ASSEMBLY.
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