1990 GMC C1500

The 1990 GMC C1500 is a full-size pickup truck that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 4.3L V6 with 160 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a 5.0L V8 with 170 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque, a 5.7L V8 with 210 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, and a 7.4L V8 with 230 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual, a 6-speed manual, a 3-speed automatic, and a 4-speed automatic.

People who like the 1990 GMC C1500 praise its powerful engines, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some people have reported issues with the vehicle’s reliability, fuel economy, and braking.

Engine

• 4.3L V6 – Intake manifold gasket failure — Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, rough idle — Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket — Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 — Recalls: 90V107000
• 5.0L V8 – No Issues Found
• 5.7L V8 – No Issues Found
• 7.4L V8 – No Issues Found

Transmission

• 5-speed manual – No Issues Found
• 6-speed manual – No Issues Found
• 3-speed automatic – No Issues Found
• 4-speed automatic – No Issues Found

Suspension – Front suspension — Lower ball joint failure —- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise when turning, uneven tire wear —- Solution: Replace lower ball joints —- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600 — Recalls: None Found_ – _Rear suspension_ — _Leaf spring failure_ —- _Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, poor handling_ —- _Solution: Replace leaf springs_ —- _Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700_ — _Recalls: None Found

Electrical – Battery failure — Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting — Solution: Replace battery — Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $150 — Recalls: None Found – Alternator failure — Description/Symptoms: Dim lights, flickering electronics, battery warning light on — Solution: Replace alternator — Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 — Recalls: None Found

Exterior – No Issues Found

Interior – HVAC system failure — Description/Symptoms: No heat or air conditioning, blower motor not working — Solution: Repair or replace HVAC system components (blower motor, compressor, etc.) — Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700 — Recalls: None Found – Power window failure — Description/Symptoms: Windows do not open or close, window switches not working — Solution: Repair or replace power window motor or switch — Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 — Recalls: None Found

Summary The 1990 GMC C1500 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it does have some potential issues. The most common problems are with the intake manifold gasket, lower ball joints, and HVAC system. These issues can be costly to fix, but they are not typically major safety concerns. Overall, the 1990 GMC C1500 is a good choice for people who need a powerful and spacious pickup truck.