1990 GMC C6000
Introduction
The 1990 GMC C6000 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that is known for its powerful engine options and sturdy construction. It is powered by a 5.7L V8 engine that produces 210 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 7.4L V8 engine and a 6.2L diesel engine. The C6000 is available with a 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission.
People who like the C6000 appreciate its strong engine options, its rugged construction, and its spacious interior. However, some people have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical system.
Engine
5.7L V8 Engine
Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil leaks. Symptoms include a drop in coolant level, a burning smell, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
Valve cover gasket leak: The valve cover gasket can leak, causing oil leaks. Symptoms include a drop in oil level and a burning smell. The solution is to replace the valve cover gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500.
7.4L V8 Engine
Fuel injector failure: The fuel injectors can fail, causing engine misfires and a loss of power. Symptoms include a rough idle, hesitation during acceleration, and a decrease in fuel economy. The solution is to replace the fuel injectors. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $800.
Cylinder head cracks: The cylinder heads can crack, causing coolant leaks and a loss of compression. Symptoms include a drop in coolant level, a white smoke coming from the exhaust, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the cylinder heads. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $3,000.
6.2L Diesel Engine
Turbocharger failure: The turbocharger can fail, causing a loss of power and increased smoke from the exhaust. Symptoms include a decrease in boost pressure, a whistling sound from the engine, and a decrease in fuel economy. The solution is to replace the turbocharger. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500.
Fuel injection pump failure: The fuel injection pump can fail, causing the engine to stall or run poorly. Symptoms include a hard start, a lack of power, and a decrease in fuel economy. The solution is to replace the fuel injection pump. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000.
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic Transmission
Transmission slipping: The transmission may slip, causing a loss of power and difficulty shifting gears. Symptoms include a delay in gear engagement, a shuddering sensation while driving, and a decrease in fuel economy. The solution is to rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $3,000.
Torque converter failure: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to slip or shudder. Symptoms include a loss of power, a shuddering sensation while driving, and a decrease in fuel economy. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
5-Speed Manual Transmission
Clutch failure: The clutch can fail, causing the transmission to slip or shudder. Symptoms include a burning smell, difficulty shifting gears, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
Transmission bearing failure: The transmission bearings can fail, causing the transmission to make noise and vibrate. Symptoms include a whining or grinding noise from the transmission, difficulty shifting gears, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the transmission bearings. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000.
Suspension
Ball joint failure: The ball joints can fail, causing the front wheels to wobble and the vehicle to pull to one side. Symptoms include a clunking noise from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and a decrease in handling. The solution is to replace the ball joints. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
Shock absorber failure: The shock absorbers can fail, causing the vehicle to bounce excessively and handle poorly. Symptoms include a rough ride, a decrease in handling, and a loss of control over the vehicle. The solution is to replace the shock absorbers. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $800.
Electrical
Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to lose power and the vehicle to stall. Symptoms include a dim or flickering headlights, a loss of power, and a dead battery. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
Starter motor failure: The starter motor can fail, causing the vehicle to not start. Symptoms include a clicking sound when the key is turned, no response from the engine, and a dead battery. The solution is to replace the starter motor. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $800.
Exterior
Rust: The body of the C6000 can rust, especially in areas where the paint has been chipped or scratched. Symptoms include blisters in the paint, flaking paint, and holes in the metal. The solution is to repair the rust by sanding, priming, and painting the affected areas. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $2,000.
Headlight failure: The headlights can fail, causing the vehicle to be difficult to see at night. Symptoms include dim or flickering headlights, no response from the headlights, and a blown fuse. The solution is to replace the headlights. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200.
Interior
Dashboard cracks: The dashboard can crack, especially in areas that are exposed to sunlight. Symptoms include cracks in the plastic, peeling or fading paint, and a loss of structural integrity. The solution is to replace the dashboard. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
Seat belt failure: The seat belts can fail, causing the occupants of the vehicle to be unrestrained in the event of a collision. Symptoms include a torn or frayed seat belt, a seat belt that does not retract properly, and a seat belt that does not lock into place. The solution is to replace the seat belts. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500.
Summary
The 1990 GMC C6000 has a number of potential issues that can affect the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical system, exterior, and interior. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific issue and the condition of the vehicle. However, some of the most common issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure and transmission slipping, can be costly to repair.