2000 GMC W3500 Forward

The 2000 GMC W3500 Forward is a cab-over-engine (COE) medium-duty truck popular for its maneuverability and relatively compact size, making it suitable for urban delivery and service applications. In 2000, the W3500 was primarily offered with a 5.7L Vortec V8 gasoline engine producing approximately 190 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. While a diesel option was available in other years, it was not available for the 2000 model. Users generally appreciate the truck’s tight turning radius and ease of operation in congested areas. Some common complaints include the truck’s older design and associated maintenance demands.

Engine

5.7L Vortec V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak externally (often seen dripping near the rear of the engine), rough idle, and potential overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket with an updated version.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, difficulty starting. The distributor can wear out, causing timing issues and poor performance.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor cap, rotor, or entire distributor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Transmission

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sag/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The leaf springs, particularly in the rear, are prone to sagging over time, especially when regularly loaded near the vehicle’s GVWR. This can lead to a reduced ride height, poor handling, and bottoming out.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Consider upgrading to heavy-duty springs if the vehicle frequently carries heavy loads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ (depending on spring type and labor)
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll during cornering.
  • Solution: Replace the shocks/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion and brittle wiring are common in older vehicles. This can lead to various electrical problems, including intermittent lights, sensor failures, and starting issues.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair or replace damaged sections of the wiring harness.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the extent of the damage)
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, slow cranking, battery light illumination on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust, especially in areas prone to salt exposure.
  • Solution: Treatment, repair, or replacement of rusted body panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+ (depending on severity)

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The blower motor stops working, resulting in no airflow from the vents. Often the blower motor resistor also fails.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor and resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400

Summary

The 2000 GMC W3500 Forward, while a capable work truck, is prone to several common issues due to its age. The most prevalent issues revolve around the 5.7L Vortec engine, suspension wear, electrical problems, and rust. The severity of these issues can range from minor annoyances to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these potential problems and factor repair costs into their purchasing decision.