1990 GMC V3500

Introduction: The 1990 GMC V3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its power and durability. It is available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including a 5.7L V8, a 6.5L V8 diesel, and a 7.4L V8. Both the 5.7L V8 and the 6.5L V8 diesel are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, while the 7.4L V8 comes with a 5-speed manual transmission. The V3500 has a spacious cabin and a comfortable ride, but it is also prone to several issues.

Engine

5.7L V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and rough idling. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Distributor cap and rotor failure: Symptoms include hard starting, misfiring, and poor engine performance. Solution: Replace the distributor cap and rotor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
• Fuel pump failure: Symptoms include loss of power, stalling, and difficulty starting. Solution: Replace the fuel pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Oxygen sensor failure: Symptoms include increased fuel consumption, poor engine performance, and illuminated check engine light. Solution: Replace the oxygen sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
• Ignition coil failure: Symptoms include misfiring, poor engine performance, and illuminated check engine light. Solution: Replace the ignition coil. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+

6.5L V8 Diesel

• Injection pump failure: Symptoms include hard starting, loss of power, and excessive smoke. Solution: Replace the injection pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Glow plug failure: Symptoms include hard starting and rough idling when the engine is cold. Solution: Replace the glow plugs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Fuel injector failure: Symptoms include increased fuel consumption, poor engine performance, and illuminated check engine light. Solution: Replace the fuel injectors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Turbocharger failure: Symptoms include loss of power and excessive smoke. Solution: Replace the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

7.4L V8

• Head gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust. Solution: Replace the head gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Valve train noise: Symptoms include a ticking or tapping noise from the engine. Solution: Adjust the valve lash or replace the valve lifters. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Carburetor problems: Symptoms include rough idling, stalling, and poor fuel economy. Solution: Rebuild or replace the carburetor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Exhaust manifold cracking: Symptoms include a loud exhaust noise. Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Transmission

4-speed automatic transmission

• Torque converter failure: Symptoms include shuddering, slipping, or loss of power when shifting. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Valve body failure: Symptoms include harsh shifting, delayed shifting, or slipping. Solution: Rebuild or replace the valve body. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
• Transmission fluid leaks: Symptoms include fluid leaking from the transmission. Solution: Replace the leaking seals or gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Bands or clutches slipping: Symptoms include loss of power or slipping when shifting. Solution: Replace the worn bands or clutches. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+

5-speed manual transmission

• Clutch failure: Symptoms include slipping, chatter, or difficulty shifting. Solution: Replace the clutch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Transmission mount failure: Symptoms include excessive vibration or noise from the transmission. Solution: Replace the transmission mount. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
• Synchro failures: Symptoms include difficulty shifting or grinding noises when shifting. Solution: Replace the worn synchros. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Output shaft seal leaks: Symptoms include fluid leaking from the transmission. Solution: Replace the output shaft seal. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+

Suspension

Front suspension

• Ball joint failure: Symptoms include clunking or rattling noises, vibration, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the ball joints. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Tie rod end failure: Symptoms include clunking noises, vibration, and difficulty steering. Solution: Replace the tie rod ends. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
• Strut failure: Symptoms include a rough ride, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the struts. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Sway bar link failure: Symptoms include clunking noises and poor handling. Solution: Replace the sway bar links. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+

Rear suspension

• Leaf spring failure: Symptoms include a sagging rear end, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Shock absorber failure: Symptoms include a rough ride, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• U-joint failure: Symptoms include vibration and clunking noises when accelerating or decelerating. Solution: Replace the U-joints. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim lights, difficulty starting, and a dead battery. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Starter failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting or no starting at all. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Battery failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, dim lights, and a dead battery. Solution: Replace the battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
• Wiring harness issues: Symptoms include electrical malfunctions, such as flickering lights, inoperative gauges, or power window problems. Solution: Repair or replace the affected wiring harness. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Lighting issues: Symptoms include dim or flickering headlights, taillights, or interior lights. Solution: Replace the bulbs or repair the wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Exterior

• Rust: Symptoms include peeling paint, bubbling paint, or visible rust on the body panels. Solution: Sand and repaint the affected areas. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Dent and ding repair: Symptoms include dents, dings, or creases in the body panels. Solution: Remove the dents and dings professionally. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Trim piece issues: Symptoms include loose or broken trim pieces, such as bumpers, side skirts, or grille. Solution: Replace or repair the affected trim pieces. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Interior

• Seat fabric wear and tear: Symptoms include worn, torn, or stained seat fabric. Solution: Replace the seat fabric or seat covers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Dashboard cracks: Symptoms include cracks or fading on the dashboard. Solution: Replace or repair the dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Climate control problems: Symptoms include inoperative air conditioning, heating, or ventilation. Solution: Repair or replace the affected climate control components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Power window failure: Symptoms include inoperative power windows. Solution: Repair or replace the power window motors or switches. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Instrument panel issues: Symptoms include dim or flickering gauges, inoperative warning lights, or a malfunctioning odometer. Solution: Repair or replace the affected instrument panel components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary: The 1990 GMC V3500 has a number of potential issues that can range from minor to severe. Engine issues, such as intake manifold gasket failure or fuel pump failure, can be costly to repair.