Why does the check engine light in my C3500 turn on when I start my car?

Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your C3500 firing up its circuits. The light should turn off in a bit, but come see us if it doesn't.

Why does my GMC engine sound different?

Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your GMC C3500 engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.

What could damage my GMC C3500 engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.

Can I use water in my GMC C3500 radiator?

While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your C3500 radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.

What can cause a C3500 engine to suddenly stop?

If your C3500 car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.

Who repairs GMC C3500 engines?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert C3500 engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.

Engine Repairs for Your 1996 GMC C3500

Learn about

1996 GMC C3500 Trim Options

Select your GMC C3500 trim level to learn more about GMC-recommended engine repair. Use the following chart to find information.

V8/5.7L

V8/6.5L

V8/7.4L

GMC C3500 Repairs and Services

Stuff wears out. Even your GMC C3500's many parts and pieces. When something breaks or fails, we’re ready to help. Click on a repair below to learn more about 1996 GMC C3500 repairs.

We’re Trained to Care for GMC C3500 Engines

GMC C3500 engines are known for their reliability. You may have even been thinking about that when you bought it. However, even your trustworthy engine is subject to wear and tear. Things can go wrong on the road. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1996 GMC service center — quick! That's when it's time to head to Firestone Complete Auto Care. We've serviced more than 500 million vehicles since 1926, and our technicians know GMC C3500 engines. If you think something’s wrong with your engine, schedule an appointment at your convenience. Firestone Complete Auto Care offers both trustworthy and affordable engine repairs.

Check Engine Light on 1996 GMC C3500

An illuminated check engine light on your GMC C3500 is one of the first signs it's time to 'brake' for engine service. A steady or flashing check engine light could signal a serious issue with your vehicle's ignition, Potential causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, worn spark plug, issues with your catalytic converter, or a leaking engine vacuum, to name a few potential sources. Stop by your local Firestone Complete Auto Care to get your C3500 issues diagnosed and our expert techs will get the root of the problem. Other signs it's time for GMC C3500 engine service might include oil leaks, or engine misfiring.

GMC C3500 Engine Repair

If your 1996 GMC C3500 needs engine repair, our technicians will make sure you understand what’s going on before they start working on your engine. We don't start working until we have your approval. If a service can wait, we’ll make sure you know. If it's necessary for your safety, we'll make sure you understand that, too. We want to provide you with the information you need to make an informed engine repair decision. Choose Firestone Complete Auto Care for GMC C3500 engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use GMC-approved parts and components like the timing belt, motor oil seal, fuses, or other parts.

Engine Q&A 1996 GMC C3500

Why does the check engine light in my C3500 turn on when I start my car? Generally, your check engine light turning on upon ignition is not a bad thing. It’s just your C3500 firing up its circuits. The light should turn off in a bit, but come see us if it doesn't.
Why does my GMC engine sound different? Strange under-the-hood noises can point to problems within your GMC C3500 engine. Knocking or tapping could be a symptom of low oil. Whistling sounds could mean you have an intake leak or misaligned belt. Squealing can indicate a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
What could damage my GMC C3500 engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' revving the engine while still in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Steer clear of these habits to help protect engine performance and efficiency.
Can I use water in my GMC C3500 radiator? While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your C3500 radiator in emergencies. Normally, you should only use a 50/50 mix of coolant and water or a pre-mixed coolant. However, if you are completely out of coolant and must continue driving, it’s better to have water in your coolant reservoir than nothing.
What can cause a C3500 engine to suddenly stop? If your C3500 car engine suddenly stops, it could be due to overheating, low fuel, a faulty ignition system, sensor problems, electrical system trouble, or mechanical issues.
Who repairs GMC C3500 engines? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care has you covered with expert C3500 engine repair. Schedule an appointment today and see us at one of our thousands of locations.