1988 International Harvester School BUS
Only 6 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 6 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 |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1981 | 0 |
| 1982 | 0 |
| 1986 | 2 |
| 1987 | 6 |
| 1988 | 6 |
| 1989 | 1 |
| 1991 | 6 |
| 1992 | 2 |
| 1993 | 1 |
| 1994 | 7 |
| 1995 | 10 |
| 1996 | 1 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 6 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
5 of 6 total reports mention: power train.
Show complaint excerpts
AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION TORQUE CONVERTER FAILED.
NHTSA ODI report, 19980407
TRANSMISSION FAILED. *SD
NHTSA ODI report, 19960628
1 of 6 total reports mentions: engine and engine cooling.
Show complaint excerpts
WATER PUMP SHAFT BROKE, CAUSING COOLANT LEAK. (SECOND VEHICLE ON 503980) *DH
NHTSA ODI report, 19960628
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1988 International Harvester School BUS — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for power train issues (5 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine and engine cooling issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1988 International Harvester School BUS 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 1988 International Harvester School BUS?
The most-reported component is power train:automatic transmission:torque converter, accounting for 83% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1988 International Harvester School BUS 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.