1999 GMC P3500

Introduction

The 1999 GMC P3500 is a heavy-duty pickup truck with a reputation for reliability and durability. It is available with two engine options: a 6.0L Vortec 8100 V8 (300 horsepower and 360 lb-ft torque) and a 7.4L Vortec 8200 V8 (340 horsepower and 455 lb-ft torque) paired with a four-speed automatic transmission (4L80E).

Engine

• 6.0L Vortec 8100 V8
  • Intake manifold gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks from the intake manifold, overheating, rough idle
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket, and in some cases, the intake manifold
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 7.4L Vortec 8200 V8
  • No Issues Found

Transmission

• 4L80E
  • Overdrive unit failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of overdrive gear, slipping or shuddering in overdrive, check engine light
    • Solution: Replace the overdrive unit
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front coil springs
  • Sagging or broken
    • Description/Symptoms: Decreased ride height, uneven tire wear, rattling or clunking noises
    • Solution: Replace the coil springs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Rear leaf springs
  • Axle wrap
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear axle shifts forward under acceleration, causing driveline vibrations and handling issues
    • Solution: Install an anti-wrap bar or torque rod
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $250 - $500+

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, starting issues
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery
  • Premature failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, reduced electrical power
    • Solution: Replace the battery
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+

Exterior

• Headlights
  • Dim or flickering
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced visibility, intermittent operation
    • Solution: Replace the headlight bulbs or inspect for electrical issues
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
• Tailgate
  • Stuck or difficult to open
    • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate does not open or open smoothly
    • Solution: Lubricate the latch mechanism, inspect for damaged cables or hardware
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Interior

• Instrument cluster
  • Inaccurate or malfunctioning gauges
    • Description/Symptoms: Incorrect readings on the speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, etc.
    • Solution: Replace or repair the instrument cluster
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Dimming or flickering backlighting
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced visibility of the gauges at night
    • Solution: Replace the cluster’s backlighting bulbs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100+

Summary

The 1999 GMC P3500 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it has some common issues that can be costly to repair. The most severe issues are related to the transmission and suspension, which can lead to impaired performance and safety hazards. The cost of these repairs can range from a few hundred dollars to over $2,000. However, it is important to note that these issues are not always present in every P3500 and that the severity and cost of repairs may vary depending on the specific circumstances.