1989 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.

1989 Gmc S15

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Common 1989 Gmc S15 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1989 GMC S15, several common problems have been reported:

  1. Coolant Sensor Signal Voltage Low or Shorted (Code 14):
    • This issue can lead to rough engine performance and stalling. It is crucial to address this problem promptly to prevent further engine damage and ensure proper cooling system function.
  2. CAM Sensor Circuit Problems, Park/Neutral Switch (Code 31):
    • Problems with the CAM sensor circuit and the Park/Neutral switch can cause issues with starting the vehicle and affect its overall performance. Addressing these issues is essential for the proper functioning of the engine.
  3. EGR Valve Diagnostic Switch, MAP Sensor Signal (Codes 32 and 33):
    • Malfunctions in the EGR valve diagnostic switch and MAP sensor signal can lead to poor fuel efficiency and engine performance. These issues should be diagnosed and repaired to optimize the vehicle's operation.
  4. ESC Circuit Problems, EST Low Voltage (Code 43):
    • ESC circuit problems and low voltage in the EST system can result in rough engine operation and reduced power output. Resolving these issues is crucial to ensure smooth driving and engine efficiency.
  5. Computer Problem, Faulty PROM or ECM/PCM (Code 51):
    • A faulty computer system can cause various issues with engine management and overall vehicle performance. Addressing this problem is essential to prevent further complications and ensure proper functioning of the vehicle.
  6. Fuel Pump Circuit Fault, ECM Fault (Code 54):
    • Issues with the fuel pump circuit and ECM can lead to fuel delivery problems and engine performance issues. Proper diagnosis and repair of these components are necessary to maintain optimal vehicle operation.
  7. Oxygen Sensor Circuit Fault (Code 55):
    • A faulty oxygen sensor can result in incorrect fuel-air mixture, leading to decreased fuel efficiency and engine performance. Addressing this issue is crucial for maintaining proper combustion and reducing emissions.

By addressing these common problems reported by owners of the 1989 GMC S15, you can ensure the optimal performance and longevity of your vehicle. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to keeping your car running smoothly and efficiently.

1989 Gmc S15 engine

1989 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
  • Exterior lighting problems
  • Seats problems
  • Equipment problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1989 Gmc S15 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1989 Gmc S15 complaints

The NHTSA has received 11 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1989 Gmc S15.

2005-01-24

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-12-01
  • VIN: 1GTC514E6K2
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: CONSUMER HAD VEHICLE SERVICED SEVERAL TIMES FOR THE FRONT LEFT BLINKER. FOR SOME REASON THE OUTSIDE BLINKER STOPPED WORKING EVEN THOUGH THE INSIDE SIGNAL ON DASHBOARD STILL WORKED. *AK *NM
2004-05-23

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-05-23
  • VIN: 1GKCT18Z0K0
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: I BOUGHT A 1989 JIMMY S15 LAST YEAR. DROM THE REPAIR BILLS THAT CAME WITH THE TRUCK THE PREVIOUS OWNER HAD THIS TRUCK IN THE SHOP COUNTLESS TIMES FOR SURGING. WHENEVER I AM STOPPED AT A LIGHT ETC- THE TRUCK SURGES FORWARD. I AM AFRAID OF AN ACCIDENT, ESPECAILLY WITH MY MY GRANDCHILDREN IN THE TRUCK.*AK
2002-07-10

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-11-18
  • Number Of Injuries: 1
  • Number Of Deaths: 1
  • VIN: 1GTDT19Z6K2
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: THE CONSUMER (WHO IS NOW DECEASED HAROLD BRIDGES) WAS DRIVING WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN HE WAS REAR ENDED BY ANOTHER MOTORIST WHO WAS DRIVING RECKLESSLY, THE CONSUMERS SEAT ADJUSTER RAILING FAILED, WHICH ATTRIBUTED TO SEVERE INJURIES IN WHICH THE CONSUMER WAS KILLED, HOWEVER THE MOTHER, ROSA LEYVA IS WRITING IN ON BEHALF OF HER SON EDWARDO LEYVA WHO WAS CHARGED WITH MANSLAUGHTER IN THE INCIDENT BELIEVES IF GMC WOULD HAVE TAKEN RESPONSIBILTY FOR THE DEFECTIVE SEAT RAILING OF CONSUMERS VEHICLE, HER SON WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN CHARGED WITH MANSLAUGHTER.*JB
1999-10-14

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-07-26
  • VIN: 1GTCT14Z0K2
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: THERMOSTAT FAILED CAUSING VEHICLE TO OVERHEAT. MJS
1999-10-14

EQUIPMENT PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-08-30
  • VIN: 1GTCT14Z0K2
  • Components: EQUIPMENT
  • Summary: AIR CONDITION FAILED DUE TO FAULTY BLOWER MOTOR ASSEMBLY. MJS
1999-10-14

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1999-09-01
  • VIN: 1GTCT14Z0K2
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: FAILURE OF THE HEATER CORE RESULTED IN POOR VISIBILITY AND NEAR ACCIDENT WHEN A THICK YELLOW STICKY GAS/FLUID CAME OUT OF VENTS AND COATED THE INSIDE OF THE WINDSHIELD WHILE TRYING TO DEFROST. MJS
1996-02-08

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-02-08
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: REAR SUSPENSION REPLACED. *SD
1995-06-07

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-04
  • Number Of Deaths: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GTBS14E6K2
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: SEAT BELT RELEASED DURING AN ACCIDENT,DRIVER WAS THROWN APPROXIMATELY 50 FEET FROM VEHICLE, RESULTING IN A FATALITY. *AK
1995-06-07

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1995-06-04
  • Number Of Deaths: 1
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GTBS14E6K2
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BRAKES LOCKED UP, CAUSING VEHICLE TO LOSE CONTROL/SKID. *AK
1995-03-24

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-04-01
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE FAILED. *AK
1995-02-08

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1994-12-19
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1GTDK14K7KE
  • Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
  • Summary: VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE WHILE DRIVING, UNDER THE HOOD FIRE, EA94-029 ACTIVE WILL PROVIDE INFORMATION. TT

1989 Gmc S15 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 1989 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.
1993-01-14
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
  • Summary: THE ENGINE COOLING FAN BLADES BREAK AS A RESULT OF FATIGUE AND/OR VEHICLE INDUCED STRESS.
  • Consequence: IF THE BLADE BREAKAGE OCCURS WHILE THE HOOD IS OPEN, APERSON WORKING UNDER THE HOOD OR IN THE VICINITY OF THE VEHICLE COULD BE STRUCKAND INJURED BY THE BLADE SEGMENT.
  • Remedy: INSTALL A NEWLY DESIGNED FAN ASSEMBLY.
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