1985 GMC 1500
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 |
|---|---|
| 1985 | 3 |
| 1990 | 8 |
| 1994 | 29 |
| 1996 | 24 |
| 1997 | 0 |
| 1998 | 0 |
| 1999 | 0 |
| 2000 | 0 |
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: service brakes, hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
CONSUMER CALLED COMPLAINING ABOUT HYDRAULIC BRAKE PROBLEMS. THE CONSUMER HAD TAKEN THE WHEEL OFF AND THE PROBLEM WAS THE HOSE FROM THE HYDRAULIC BRAKES. THE MANUFACTURER OR DEALER WERE NOT CONTACTED AT THE TIME OF THIS CALL.
NHTSA ODI report, 20030826
1 of 3 total reports mentions: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
TRANSMISSION IS MAKING A LOUD NOISE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. VEHICLE WILL SHUT DOWN AND WILL NOT RESTART. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 20030910
1 of 3 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
WAS TURNING VEHICLE IN SNOW WHEN IT STALLED OUT. NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER HOOD. LIFTED HOOD & NOTICED FLAMES COMING FROM ENGINE AREA. THE CAB AREA OF THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19990315
1 of 3 total reports mentions: electrical system.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
WAS TURNING VEHICLE IN SNOW WHEN IT STALLED OUT. NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER HOOD. LIFTED HOOD & NOTICED FLAMES COMING FROM ENGINE AREA. THE CAB AREA OF THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19990315
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1985 GMC 1500 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for power train issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1985 GMC 1500 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 1985 GMC 1500?
The most-reported component is service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:hoses, lines/piping, and fittings, accounting for 33% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1985 GMC 1500 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.