Gmc W3500 problems

General information about Gmc W3500
Gmc W3500 years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Isuzu Elf (Japanese: いすゞ・エルフ, Isuzu Erufu) is a medium duty truck produced by Isuzu since 1959. Outside Japan it is known as N series and Q Series. The range was originally mainly available in Japan and other Asian countries. Australia was another important market for the Elf and N series – to the extent that it was manufactured there from the 1970s using many local components. Since the early 1980s, it has also been sold and built in the United States (under the Chevrolet and GMC brands as a W-Series), and also as the Isuzu N-Series. Only North America receives the wide-cab version.

For the common Andinian market (including Chile and Peru), the truck has been assembled in the GM-Colmotores assembling plant in Bogotá, Colombia since 1991, with annual quantities already of 20,000 up to 60,000 units. Local assembly has been increasing because of increasing demand in the Colombian and neighboring markets. It carries "Tecnología Isuzu" (with Isuzu Technology) lettering.

In Indonesia, Philippines and several other countries, the Elf is not only used as a truck, but also converted into microbuses by local body makers. The lighter four-wheeled models are commonly used as an intercity Angkot or Jeepney (share taxis), as a school bus, or as an employee bus. Indonesian conversions typically use car-style hinged doors and usually resemble a high-roof van, while most conversions in Kenya, and newer ones in the Philippines often resemble a minibus, with a folding door on the side for passengers, and standing room.

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Common Gmc W3500 problems

The GMC W3500 is a popular model among truck owners, but like any vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the GMC W3500, based on complaints from owners of this car.

Power Loss: Another common problem with the GMC W3500 is power loss. Owners have reported losing power at certain times and being unable to go over 30 mph. This issue can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty mass air flow meter, vacuum leaks, or turbo leaks. One possible solution is to check the butterfly valve for the exhaust brake, which is located in the intake just as you take off the turbo line. Disconnecting the vacuum line on the actuator that goes to that valve can help determine if this is the problem. If the engine is blowing out black smoke, this could also indicate a problem with the turbo.

Fuel Leaks: The GMC W3500 is also prone to fuel leaks, particularly in the 2006-2008 model years. This issue is caused by a Tankcraft-made fuel tank that might corrode and leak fuel. Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America has issued a recall for this issue, affecting 13,671 Isuzu NPR, Isuzu NPR-HD, Chevrolet W3500, Chevrolet W4500, GMC W3500, and GMC W4500 gasoline trucks in the 2006-2008 model years. Dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge, to address this issue.

Water in Fuel Filter: Owners of the GMC W3500 have also reported water in the fuel filter. This issue can cause the engine light to come on and can lead to engine problems. Changing the fuel filter and checking for water in the fuel can help address this issue.

In conclusion, the GMC W3500 is a reliable and popular truck model, but like any vehicle, it is not without its common problems. Transmission issues, power loss, fuel leaks, and water in the fuel filter are among the most frequently reported issues with this model. If you own a GMC W3500, it is important to stay up-to-date on recalls and maintenance to ensure that your vehicle remains safe and reliable.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Gmc W3500 years

We have researched Gmc problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Gmc W3500 cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Gmc W3500 model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Gmc W3500 model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Gmc W3500 years

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

Gmc W3500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Gmc W3500 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Unknown or other problems
Tires problems
Fuel system problems
Other problems
Steering problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Gmc W3500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

The NHTSA has received 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Gmc W3500 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Gmc W3500 vehicles.

List of Gmc W3500 complaints

Gmc W3500 2004

Date Of Incident: 2023-04-16
Date Complaint: 2023-08-02
VIN: 1GDHG31U241
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: To whom it may concern, Last month in California I purchased an automotive hardware/software tool from an Indiana based company through Amazon which connects to the OBD port. After using the tool, the airbags were disabled on two of my vehicles requiring replacement. At first, I didn't realize that the tool caused the error, but when I moved my cellular telephone holder, I noticed the error light. Then I drove the other auto and realized that it was no coincidence that both airbags were disabled. After leaving bad reviews, the company finally contacted me and paid a portion for the correction, but then reneged on paying for the replacement part. It costs approximately $1,000 per vehicle to repair. Please kindly direct me and assist in obtaining a correction and reimbursement. JXXX PXXXXXXX XXX-XXX-XXXX

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Gmc W3500 2007

Date Of Incident: 2018-09-14
Date Complaint: 2018-09-14
VIN: 4KDB4B1U67J
Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,WHEELS
Summary: AT HIGHWAY SPEED, ANY SLIGHT BUMP IN ROAD MAY CAUSE THE VEHICLE TO START VIOLENTLY SHAKING. I HAVE HEARD IT REFERENCED AS A "DEATH WOBBLE" AND THAT IS SO ACCURATE. I HAVE REPLACED ALMOST EVERYTHING - TIRES, SHOCKS, TIE ROD ASSEMBLY, TOE-IN SET, ETC. PROBLEM STILL OCCURS. PROBLEM DOESN'T HAPPEN DAILY - BUT IT HAPPENS SUDDENLY AND IS FRIGHTENING. THIS IS A BOX TRUCK CARRYING A LOAD AND WHEN THE VIOLENT SHAKING OCCURS , YOU HAVE TO HOLD TIGHTLY TO THE WHEEL AND TRY TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE FROM HIGHWAY SPEED 55 - 70MPH DOWN TO ABOUT 30MPH BEFORE THE SHAKING WILL STOP. THIS IS A SERIOUS ISSUE THAT THE MANUFACTURER MUST ADDRESS!

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Gmc W3500 2008

Date Of Incident: 2010-10-24
Date Complaint: 2010-11-23
Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
Summary: WE RENTED A 16 FOOT BOX TRUCK IN ILLINOIS TO TRAVEL TO MA FROM BUDGET RENTAL TRUCKS AKA AVIS. WE CALCULATED THE TIME OF THE TRIP TO BE APPROXIMATELY 18 HOURS. WE HAD LEFT CHICAGO AT 3:00PM AND DECIDED TO DRIVE TILL AROUND MIDNIGHT. WE HAD DRIVEN 9 HOURS. WE SPENT THE NIGHT AT A HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS IN OHIO. WE HAD 9 MORE HOURS THE FOLLOWING DAY TO DRIVE. WE HAD BEEN DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 7 HOURS WHEN OUR TRUCK WENT INTO A TERRIBLE CONDITION, AND THE BRAKES FAILED VIOLENTLY AND WE WERE LOSING CONTROL GOING DOWN A 4% GRADE OF 5 MILES OF A MOUNTAIN TO GET SAFELY OFF THE ROAD. THEY SENT OUT A SERVICE COMPANY 30 HOURS LATER TO TELL US IT WAS THE MASTER CYLINDER AND HE COULD NOT FIX IT. WE WOULD BE BETTER OFF DRIVING ANOTHER BUDGET TRUCK. WE THEN RECEIVED ANOTHER TRUCK AFTER THEY UNLOADED THE FIRST TRUCK AND THEN LOADED THE NEW TRUCK. MY BROTHER NOTICED WHEN WE PULLED OVER TO A TA STATION THAT THE CAR WAS NO LONGER ATTACHED TO THE TRAILER THAT WE WERE PULLING. THEREFORE THE MOVERS THEY SENT OUT DID NOT KNOW HOW TO PROPERLY ATTACH A CAR TO A TRAILER THAT COULD OF LED TO US LOOSING THE VEHICLE ONTO AN INTERSTATE WITH TRAFFIC AND CAUSING SERIOUS ISSUES FOR OTHER COMPUTERS ON THE ROAD. *TR

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Gmc W3500 2006

Date Of Incident: 2006-04-03
Date Complaint: 2006-04-03
Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Summary: RECEIVED RECALL ON WEIGHT LOAD LIMITS WHICH MAKES MY VEHICLE NOT MEET EXPECTED STANDARDS WHEN PURCHASED. *JB

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Gmc W3500 2000

Date Of Incident: 2003-12-01
Date Complaint: 2004-12-14
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
Summary: FUEL GAUGE DID NOT WORK. CONSUMER EXPERIENCED THIS PROBLEM WITH OTHER GM VEHICLES HE OWNED. THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM HAD NOT YET BEEN DETERMINED.*AK

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Gmc W3500 1999

Date Of Incident: 2001-01-15
Date Complaint: 2001-03-29
VIN: J8DG4B143X7
Components: TIRES
Summary: 2 YOKOHAMA TIRES LT (P215/85R16) HAVE EXPERIENCED TREAD SEPARATION. FIRST TIRE WAS DRIVER'S INTERIOR TIRE, AND SECOND TIRE WAS PASSENGER'S EXTERIOR TIRE. WHILE TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 50 MPH THIS OCCURRED.*AK DOT# B088B02R. *SLC

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Latest 5 recalls Gmc W3500

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 11 recalls for different components of the Gmc W3500.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Gmc W3500 2008
Report Received Date: 2017-05-17
Manufacturer: Isuzu Technical Center of America, Inc.
Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
Summary: Isuzu Technical Center of America, Inc. (Isuzu) is recalling certain model year 2008-2009 and 2012-2013 Isuzu NPR and NPR HD vehicles and 2008-2009 GMC W3500 and GMC W4500 vehicles. The affected vehicles, equipped with a gasoline-powered engine, have a throttle pedal that may get stuck under the steel stopper bolt, causing the pedal to remain in the full throttle position.
Consequence: A stuck open accelerator pedal may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.
Remedy: Isuzu will notify owners, and dealers will remove and replace the stopper bolt with a flanged plate, to prevent lateral movement of the throttle, free of charge. The recall began on June 23, 2017. Owners may contact Isuzu customer service at 1-866-441-9638.

Model: Gmc W3500 2006
Report Received Date: 2015-10-26
Manufacturer: Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Summary: Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America (Isuzu) is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 Isuzu NPR and NPR-HD and Chevrolet W3500 and W4500 trucks manufactured March 16, 2005, to August 13, 2008 and 2006-2008 GMC W3500 and W4500 trucks manufactured July 18, 2005, to August 13, 2008. The affected vehicles have a fuel tank that may corrode and leak fuel.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Isuzu will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. Isuzu issued an interim notification to owners on December 18, 2015. The recall began on April 8, 2016. Owners may contact Isuzu customer service at 1-866-441-9638.

Model: Gmc W3500 2007
Report Received Date: 2015-10-26
Manufacturer: Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Summary: Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America (Isuzu) is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 Isuzu NPR and NPR-HD and Chevrolet W3500 and W4500 trucks manufactured March 16, 2005, to August 13, 2008 and 2006-2008 GMC W3500 and W4500 trucks manufactured July 18, 2005, to August 13, 2008. The affected vehicles have a fuel tank that may corrode and leak fuel.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Isuzu will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. Isuzu issued an interim notification to owners on December 18, 2015. The recall began on April 8, 2016. Owners may contact Isuzu customer service at 1-866-441-9638.

Model: Gmc W3500 2008
Report Received Date: 2015-10-26
Manufacturer: Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Summary: Isuzu Manufacturing Services of America (Isuzu) is recalling certain model year 2006-2008 Isuzu NPR and NPR-HD and Chevrolet W3500 and W4500 trucks manufactured March 16, 2005, to August 13, 2008 and 2006-2008 GMC W3500 and W4500 trucks manufactured July 18, 2005, to August 13, 2008. The affected vehicles have a fuel tank that may corrode and leak fuel.
Consequence: A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire.
Remedy: Isuzu will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. Isuzu issued an interim notification to owners on December 18, 2015. The recall began on April 8, 2016. Owners may contact Isuzu customer service at 1-866-441-9638.

Model: Gmc W3500 2006
Report Received Date: 2010-12-15
Manufacturer: ISUZU MANUFACTURING SERVICES OF AMERICA
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Summary: ISUZU IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2006-2007 ISUZU NPR, NQR, NRR, GMC W3500, W4500, W5500, AND CHEVROLET W3500, W4500, AND W5500 VEHICLES. THE OIL PIPE BOLTS WERE NOT TIGHTENED PROPERLY DURING THE VEHICLE PRODUCTION PROCESS. IF NOT ADEQUATELY TIGHTENED, THE BOLT MAY LOOSEN AFTER PROLONGED VEHICLE OPERATION, WHICH CAN RESULT IN OIL SEEPAGE OR LEAKAGE FROM THE PACKING SEALS. IN GENERAL, AS OIL IS LOST, THE OIL WARNING LAMP WILL ILLUMINATE, AND THERE MAY BE ABNORMAL ENGINE NOISE AND LOSS OF OIL CAN CAUSE ENGINE SEIZURE.
Consequence: IF THE ENGINE SEIZES WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN, THE VEHICLE MAY EXPERIENCE SUDDEN DECELERATION LEADING TO AN INCREASED RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE PACKING SEALS WITH NEW ONES AND THE BOLT WILL BE TIGHTENED WITH A SPECIFIED TORQUE. THIS SERVICE WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JANUARY 28, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT ISUZU AT 1-800-255-6727.