1997 GMC K1500

The 1997 GMC K1500 is a full-size pickup truck that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The standard engine was a 5.7L V8 that produced 250 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options included a 5.0L V8, a 6.5L diesel V8, and a 7.4L V8. The K1500 was also available with a variety of transmission options, including a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed manual, and a 6-speed manual.

People who like the 1997 GMC K1500 often praise its powerful engines, spacious interior, and towing capacity. However, the K1500 also has some common problems.

Engine

5.7L V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, rough idle Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

• Vortec 5700 engine lifter failure Description/Symptoms: Tapping or ticking noise from the engine, loss of power, engine damage Solution: Replace lifters Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, rough idle Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

6.5L diesel V8

• Head gasket failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, white smoke from exhaust Solution: Replace head gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ Recalls: None Found

• Injection pump failure Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, loss of power, black smoke from exhaust Solution: Replace injection pump Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found

7.4L V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, engine overheating, rough idle Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed automatic

• Transmission slippage Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, loss of power, slipping gears Solution: Replace transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+ Recalls: None Found

• Torque converter failure Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, loss of power, transmission overheating Solution: Replace torque converter Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found

5-speed manual

• Clutch failure Description/Symptoms: Grinding or slipping noise when shifting gears, difficulty shifting gears, loss of power Solution: Replace clutch Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

6-speed manual

• Transmission noise Description/Symptoms: Whining or grinding noise from transmission, difficulty shifting gears Solution: Replace transmission Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+ Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front suspension wear and tear Description/Symptoms: Loose or worn ball joints, tie rods, or bushings, excessive play in steering, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace worn or damaged suspension components Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+ Recalls: None Found

• Rear suspension sagging Description/Symptoms: Sagging or drooping rear end, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace rear springs or shocks Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery failure Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, slow or weak starting, dim headlights Solution: Replace battery Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found

• Alternator failure Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering headlights, loss of electrical power, battery not charging Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

• Starter failure Description/Symptoms: Engine will not start, clicking noise from starter Solution: Replace starter Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: None Found

Exterior * No Issues Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard Solution: Replace dashboard Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

• Power window failure Description/Symptoms: Power windows will not operate, windows may become stuck in the up or down position Solution: Replace power window motor or switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found

• Door lock failure Description/Symptoms: Door locks will not operate, doors may become stuck in the locked or unlocked position Solution: Replace door lock actuator or switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 GMC K1500 is a reliable and capable pickup truck with a number of engine and transmission options to choose from. However, it does have some common problems, including engine intake manifold gasket failure, transmission slippage, and suspension wear and tear. The severity and cost of these issues can vary depending on the specific engine and transmission option, as well as the age and condition of the vehicle. Overall, the 1997 GMC K1500 is a good choice for drivers who need a powerful and versatile pickup truck.