1999 GMC C3500
Introduction
The 1999 GMC C3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that offers a range of engine and transmission options. With its powerful performance and versatile capabilities, it’s popular among drivers who need a reliable workhorse. However, like any vehicle, the C3500 has its fair share of issues that owners may encounter over time.
The C3500 is available with several engine options, including the 6.0L V8, 7.4L V8, and 6.5L Turbo Diesel V8. Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual.
Engine
6.0L V8
- Blown Head Gasket
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking into engine oil, white smoke from exhaust, overheating engine
- Solution: Replace head gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
- Recalls: None Found
7.4L V8
- Fuel Injector Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine misfiring, rough idling, decreased fuel efficiency
- Solution: Replace fuel injector
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
6.5L Turbo Diesel V8
- Injection Pump Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, black smoke from exhaust
- Solution: Replace injection pump
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slipping
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping gears, delayed shifting, loss of power
- Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
- Recalls: None Found
5-Speed Manual
- Transmission Noise
- Description/Symptoms: Grinding or whining noise when shifting gears
- Solution: Replace transmission bearings or gears
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Front Suspension
- Ball Joint Wear
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise when turning, loose steering
- Solution: Replace ball joints
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Rear Suspension
- Leaf Spring Breakage
- Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven tire wear, poor handling
- Solution: Replace leaf springs
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Battery warning light on, difficulty starting, electrical problems
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Recalls: None Found
- Wiring Harness Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, blown fuses, check engine light on
- Solution: Repair or replace wiring harness
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Body Panels
- Description/Symptoms: Rust spots or patches on body panels, paint bubbling
- Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
Recalls: None Found
- Tailgate Corrosion
- Description/Symptoms: Rust and corrosion on tailgate, difficulty opening or closing
- Solution: Repair or replace tailgate
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight
- Solution: Replace dashboard or repair with a dashboard cover
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
Recalls: None Found
- Odometer Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Odometer display malfunctioning, inaccurate mileage readings
- Solution: Replace odometer cluster
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1999 GMC C3500 is a capable workhorse, but it’s not without its issues. Engine and transmission problems can be expensive to fix, and suspension and electrical problems can also be costly. Additionally, rust and corrosion can be a concern, especially on older models. While some of these issues can be relatively minor and inexpensive to address, others can be more severe and require extensive repairs. It’s important for potential buyers to be aware of these potential problems and factor them into their purchasing decision.