1995 GMC K3500
1995 GMC K3500
The 1995 GMC K3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The most popular engine was the 7.4L V8, which produced 290 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included the 6.5L V8 diesel and the 5.7L V8. The K3500 was also available with a variety of transmission options, including a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed manual, and a 6-speed manual.
Owners of the 1995 GMC K3500 generally praise the truck’s powerful engine, rugged construction, and towing capacity. However, there are some common issues that owners should be aware of.
Engine
7.4L V8
- Intake manifold gasket failure: The intake manifold gasket can fail, causing coolant and oil to leak. Symptoms include a loss of coolant, a rough idle, and a decrease in power. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
6.5L V8 Diesel
- Fuel injector failure: The fuel injectors can fail, causing the engine to run poorly or stall. Symptoms include a hard start, a rough idle, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the failed fuel injectors. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Torque converter failure: The torque converter can fail, causing the transmission to slip or shudder. Symptoms include a loss of power, a rough shift, and a burning smell. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $1,500 - $2,500
5-Speed Manual
- Clutch failure: The clutch can fail, causing the transmission to slip or shudder. Symptoms include a hard shift, a burning smell, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
6-Speed Manual
- No issues found
Suspension
Front suspension wear: The front suspension components, such as the ball joints, tie rods, and control arms, can wear out over time. Symptoms include a clunking noise, a loose steering wheel, and uneven tire wear. The solution is to replace the worn suspension components. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $2,000
Rear suspension wear: The rear suspension components, such as the leaf springs, shocks, and U-bolts, can wear out over time. Symptoms include a sagging rear end, a rough ride, and a loss of handling. The solution is to replace the worn suspension components. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $2,000
Electrical
Alternator failure: The alternator can fail, causing the battery to drain and the electrical system to malfunction. Symptoms include a dim or flickering headlights, a dead battery, and a loss of power. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
Starter failure: The starter can fail, preventing the engine from starting. Symptoms include a clicking sound when the key is turned, a no-start condition, and a burning smell. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000
Exterior
- Rust: The body of the K3500 can rust over time, especially in areas where salt is used on the roads. Symptoms include peeling paint, surface rust, and holes in the body. The solution is to repair the rust damage or replace the affected body panels. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $5,000+
Interior
- HVAC system failure: The HVAC system can fail, causing the air conditioner or heater to stop working. Symptoms include a lack of airflow, a strange smell, or a loud noise. The solution is to diagnose and repair the failed HVAC component. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $2,000
Summary
The 1995 GMC K3500 is a capable and reliable heavy-duty pickup truck. However, there are some common issues that owners should be aware of, such as intake manifold gasket failure, fuel injector failure, torque converter failure, and rust. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but it is important to be aware of them before purchasing a used K3500.