1994 GMC G3500

Introduction

The 1994 GMC G3500 is a ¾-ton pickup truck that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 5.7L V8 with 210 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included the 6.5L V8 diesel with 185 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, and the 7.4L V8 with 230 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a 3-speed automatic.

People who like the GMC G3500 praise its powerful engines, towing and hauling capabilities, and spacious interior. However, some people have reported issues with the vehicle’s engine, transmission, and other components.

Engine

• 5.7L V8
  • Cracked intake manifold: This issue can cause a loss of power, a rough idle, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the intake manifold. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Blown head gasket: This issue can cause a loss of coolant, white smoke from the exhaust, and a rough idle. The solution is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Oil pump failure: This issue can cause a loss of oil pressure, which can lead to engine damage. The solution is to replace the oil pump. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+
• 6.5L V8 Diesel
  • Fuel injector failure: This issue can cause a loss of power, a rough idle, and a black smoke from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the fuel injectors. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Turbocharger failure: This issue can cause a loss of power and a whistling noise from the engine. The solution is to replace the turbocharger. Estimated cost to fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Glow plug failure: This issue can cause difficulty starting the engine in cold weather. The solution is to replace the glow plugs. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
• 7.4L V8
  • Intake manifold gasket failure: This issue can cause a loss of power, a rough idle, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500+
  • Distributor failure: This issue can cause a loss of spark and a no-start condition. The solution is to replace the distributor. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
  • Water pump failure: This issue can cause a loss of coolant and a seized engine. The solution is to replace the water pump. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $700+

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Grinding gears: This issue can make it difficult to shift gears. The solution is to replace the synchros. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Leaking transmission fluid: This issue can cause the transmission to slip and lose power. The solution is to replace the transmission fluid and seals. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
  • Clutch failure: This issue can cause the transmission to slip and lose power. The solution is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1000+
• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Slipping gears: This issue can make it difficult to accelerate or maintain speed. The solution is to replace the transmission fluid and filter. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
  • Leaking transmission fluid: This issue can cause the transmission to slip and lose power. The solution is to replace the transmission fluid and seals. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
  • Torque converter failure: This issue can cause the transmission to slip and lose power. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $1000 - $2000+
• 3-Speed Automatic
  • Shifting problems: This issue can make it difficult to shift gears. The solution is to replace the transmission fluid and filter. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
  • Leaking transmission fluid: This issue can cause the transmission to slip and lose power. The solution is to replace the transmission fluid and seals. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+
  • Overheating: This issue can cause the transmission to slip and lose power. The solution is to replace the transmission cooler. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500+

Suspension

• Front suspension:
  • Ball joint failure: This issue can cause a clunking noise from the front of the vehicle. The solution is to replace the ball joints. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $700+ per side
  • Tie rod failure: This issue can cause the vehicle to wander or pull to one side. The solution is to replace the tie rods. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+ per side
• Rear suspension:
  • Leaf spring failure: This issue can cause the rear of the vehicle to sag. The solution is to replace the leaf springs. Estimated cost to fix: $400 - $800+ per side
  • Shock absorber failure: This issue can cause the rear of the vehicle to bounce excessively. The solution is to replace the shock absorbers. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400+ per side

Electrical

• Battery:
  • Battery failure: This issue can cause the vehicle to lose power and not start. The solution is to replace the battery. Estimated cost to fix: $100 - $200+
• Alternator:
  • Alternator failure: This issue can cause the vehicle to lose power and not start. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $500+
• Starter:
  • Starter failure: This issue can cause the vehicle to not start. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500+

Exterior

• Body:
  • Rust: This issue can cause the body of the vehicle to rust and deteriorate. The solution is to repair or replace the rusted parts. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the severity of the rust
• Paint:
  • Chipped or faded paint: This issue can make the vehicle look less attractive. The solution is to touch up or repaint the chipped or faded areas. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the severity of the damage
• Headlights:
  • Headlight failure: This issue can make it difficult to see at night. The solution is to replace the headlight bulbs. Estimated cost to fix: $20 - $100+ per bulb
• Taillights:
  • Taillight failure: This issue can make the vehicle less visible to other drivers at night. The solution is to replace the taillight bulbs. Estimated cost to fix: $20 - $100+ per bulb

Interior

• Dashboard:
  • Cracked or faded dashboard: This issue can make the interior of the vehicle look less attractive. The solution is to replace or repair the dashboard. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the severity of the damage
• Seats:
  • Torn or stained seats: This issue can make the interior of the vehicle look less attractive. The solution is to repair or replace the seats. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the severity of the damage
• Carpet:
  • Torn or stained carpet: This issue can make the interior of the vehicle look less attractive. The solution is to repair or replace the carpet. Estimated cost to fix: Varies depending on the severity of the damage

Summary

The 1994 GMC G3500 is a reliable and capable ¾-ton pickup truck. However, it is not without its problems. Some of the most common issues reported by owners include engine intake manifold leaks, transmission leaks, and front suspension ball joint failure. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific vehicle and the severity of the problem.