1990 Chevrolet K3500
Only 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 3 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1988 | 1 |
| 1989 | 1 |
| 1990 | 3 |
| 1991 | 0 |
| 1992 | 3 |
| 1993 | 4 |
| 1994 | 6 |
| 1995 | 12 |
| 1996 | 13 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 3 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 3 total reports mentions: visibility, most commonly citing windshield wiper/washer.
Show complaint excerpts
INTERMITTENTLY WINDSHIELD WIPERS BECOME INOPERABLE, OBSTRUCTING VIEW OF DRIVER. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20001116
1 of 3 total reports mentions: suspension, most commonly citing wheel bearing.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AND THE ALTERNATOR CAUGHT ON FIRE . CONSUMER STATES THE BEARING ALSO LOCKED UP, THE ALTERNATOR CAUSED THE ABS BRAKE AND REGULAR BRAKE LIGHT FUSES TO BLOW. *SLC
NHTSA ODI report, 19961210
Also filed under ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
1 of 3 total reports mentions: structure, most commonly citing hinge and attachments.
Show complaint excerpts
CONSUMER STATES THAT THE PINS ON DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR HINGE HAVE WORN OUT AFTER TWO YEARS. CONSUMER STATES THE DOORS SWING OPEN AT ANY TIME. *AK *TS
NHTSA ODI report, 20030724
1 of 3 total reports mentions: electrical system, most commonly citing alternator/generator/regulator.
FIRESAFETY TIMELINE
TRUCKS CAN CONTAIN INCORRECT INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO PROPERLY ADJUST REAR SEAT LAP-SHOULDER BELTS AS REQUIRED BY FMVSS 209.
Remedy: PROVIDE OWNER'S MANUAL INSERT CONTAINING THE CORRECT REAR LAP-SHOULDER BELT INSTRUCTIONS.
Campaign 90V170000 — check if this car was fixed
CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURE
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
Campaign 06E043000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1990 Chevrolet K3500 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for visibility issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for structure issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 90V170000 (seat belts) has been completed.
- Verify recall 06E043000 (fuel system, gasoline) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1990 Chevrolet K3500 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1990 Chevrolet K3500?
The most-reported component is visibility, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1990 Chevrolet K3500 have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-09-16 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.