1995 GMC P3500

Introduction:

The 1995 GMC P3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its powerful engine and rugged capabilities. It’s offered with two engine options: a 6.5L V8 diesel or a 7.4L V8 gasoline. The diesel engine delivers 190 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque, while the gasoline engine generates 230 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. The P3500 comes with a standard 5-speed manual transmission or an optional 4-speed automatic transmission.

Owners appreciate the truck’s strong performance, towing capacity, and spacious interior. However, some have encountered various issues over the years.

Engine

6.5L V8 Diesel

• Fuel Injector Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalls, hard starting, decreased fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace fuel injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Glow Plug Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather
  • Solution: Replace glow plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: N/A

7.4L V8 Gasoline

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, rough idle, decreased engine performance
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Distributor Cap and Rotor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, hard starting
  • Solution: Replace distributor cap and rotor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: N/A

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Master Cylinder Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch pedal becomes soft or spongy, difficulty shifting gears
  • Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
  • Recalls: N/A
• Transmission Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration while driving
  • Solution: Replace transmission mount
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: N/A

4-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slippage, shuddering, overheating
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Solenoid Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shifting problems, hesitation during gear changes
  • Solution: Replace solenoids
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Ball Joint Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises while turning, decreased steering stability
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per joint
  • Recalls: N/A
• Leaf Spring Breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear suspension sagging, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per side
  • Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drain, dim headlights, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Starter Solenoid Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the engine, clicking noises
  • Solution: Replace starter solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Headlight Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on, flickering
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Power Window Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not rolling up or down
  • Solution: Replace power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: N/A
• Dash Cluster Issues:
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working, warning lights staying on or flashing
  • Solution: Repair or replace instrument cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: N/A

Overall Summary:

The 1995 GMC P3500 has a range of issues that owners have reported over the years. The most common engine problems involve fuel injector failure and glow plug issues for the diesel. The automatic transmission is known to have torque converter and solenoid issues. Suspension components like ball joints and leaf springs have shown signs of premature failure. Electrical problems include alternator issues and starter solenoid failure. In the interior, electrical problems with power window switches and dash clusters are reported.

Overall, the severity of the issues varies from minor electrical problems to more expensive transmission and engine repairs. It’s important for owners to be aware of these potential issues and to address them promptly to avoid further damage and costly repairs.