1990 GMC C5000

1990 GMC C5000

The 1990 GMC C5000 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 5.7L V8 that produced 210 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a 6.2L V8, a 7.4L V8, and a 6.5L turbocharged diesel. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed manual, and a 6-speed manual.

The C5000 was known for its rugged construction and powerful engines. However, it also had some issues that are common to all vehicles of its age.

Engine

• 5.7L V8
  • Head gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the head gasket, overheating, and loss of power
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 6.2L V8
  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold gasket, engine overheating, and loss of power
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• 7.4L V8
  • Valve stem seal failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke from the exhaust, oil consumption, and loss of power
    • Solution: Replace the valve stem seals
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• 6.5L Turbocharged Diesel
  • Turbocharger failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, black smoke from the exhaust, and increased oil consumption
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slipping gears, delayed engagement, and loss of power
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• 5-Speed Manual
  • Clutch failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, and slipping
    • Solution: Replace the clutch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
• 6-Speed Manual
  • Synchronizer failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, and popping out of gear
    • Solution: Replace the synchronizers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken or cracked leaf springs, sagging suspension, and loss of handling
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock absorber failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough ride, loss of handling, and increased stopping distance
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the engine, and electrical system problems
  • Solution: Replace the battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, difficulty starting the engine, and electrical system problems
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, grinding noises, and smoke from the starter
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the body panels, frame, and suspension components
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Instrument cluster failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inaccurate or flickering gauges, warning lights not working, and no readings on the display
  • Solution: Replace the instrument cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air conditioning failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No cold air, weak airflow, and refrigerant leaks
  • Solution: Repair or replace the air conditioning system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 GMC C5000 is a reliable and powerful truck. However, it does have some common issues that can be expensive to repair. The most serious issues include head gasket failure, turbocharger failure, and transmission slipping. While these issues can be costly to fix, they are not all that common. Overall, the C5000 is a good choice for those who need a heavy-duty pickup truck that can handle a variety of tasks.