1996 Chevrolet K3500

Introduction:

The 1996 Chevrolet K3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its durability and towing capabilities. It is available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:

• 6.5L V8 diesel (190 hp, 360 lb-ft of torque) with 4L80E four-speed automatic transmission
• 7.4L V8 gasoline (290 hp, 410 lb-ft of torque) with NV4500 five-speed manual transmission
• 6.5L V8 diesel (185 hp, 365 lb-ft of torque) with NV4500 five-speed manual transmission

Owners praise the K3500’s ruggedness and towing power, but some have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

6.5L V8 Diesel (4L80E Transmission)

• Injector Cup Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel leaks, loss of power, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace injector cups
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 98V078000
• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace cylinder head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L80E Four-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Lockup Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough shifting, slipping, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Output Shaft Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks, whining noise
  • Solution: Replace output shaft seal
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, rough ride
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500 per spring
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, loss of power, battery drain
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rear Tailgate Hinge Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate fails to open or close properly
  • Solution: Replace tailgate hinges
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows do not operate
  • Solution: Replace power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1996 Chevrolet K3500 is a generally reliable vehicle known for its durability. However, it has been reported to experience some common issues, particularly with the engine (especially the 6.5L V8 diesel) and transmission. These issues can be relatively expensive to repair, but the overall severity and cost of the problems are considered moderate.