Why does the check engine light in my K3500 turn on when I start my car?

It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is just your K3500 testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.

Why does my GMC engine sound different?

Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your GMC K3500. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.

What could damage my GMC K3500 engine?

Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.

Can I use water in my GMC K3500 radiator?

While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your K3500 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 the engine in my K3500 to suddenly stop?

If your K3500 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 can repair my GMC K3500 engine?

Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers GMC K3500 engine repair. Schedule an appointment today at one of our thousands of locations nationwide!

Engine Repairs for Your 1983 GMC K3500

Learn about

1983 GMC K3500 Trim Options

Select your GMC K3500 trim level to learn more about GMC-recommended engine repair. Even GMC K3500 parts will get older and change.

L6/4.8L

V8/5.7L

V8/6.2L

V8/7.4L

Repairs for Your 1983 GMC K3500

Nothing lasts forever. Even your GMC K3500’s engine parts and components will change. When something breaks or fails, we’re ready to help. Select a service or repair below to learn more about what we can do for your 1983 GMC K3500.

We Know GMC K3500 Engines

GMC K3500 engines are known for their reliability. That might be why you bought it in the first place. Even so, pieces and parts can break down over time. Things can go wrong on the road. If they do, you’ll have to find a dependable 1983 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 K3500 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.

My 1983 GMC K3500 Check Engine Light Is On

An illuminated check engine light on your GMC K3500 is one of the first signs it's time to 'brake' for engine service. A check engine light that’s on or flashing could be a symptom of a serious problem in your car’s starter, Causes may include a faulty oxygen sensor, bad spark plug, a clogged catalytic converter, or an engine vacuum leak, but that's only a few of the possible causes. Bring your K3500 to Firestone Complete Auto Care to get computerized diagnostics and we'll determine exactly why your check engine light is on. engine pinging noises, essential fluid leaks, or a sinking feeling that something’s wrong.

1983 K3500 Engine Services

When your GMC K3500 engine needs repairs, our technicians will provide you with a thorough explanation beforehand. We never do any work without your sign-off. 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 give you all the details you need to make an informed decision about your engine repairs. Turn to Firestone Complete Auto Care for your 1983 K3500 engine repairs and you can feel confident knowing that we use GMC-approved parts and components like the cambelt, oil gasket, ignition coil, or other parts.

1983 GMC K3500 Engine Q&A

Why does the check engine light in my K3500 turn on when I start my car? It’s usually normal for your check engine light to turn on upon ignition. This is just your K3500 testing its circuits. The dash light shouldn't stay on. If it does, you might want to bring your vehicle in for service.
Why does my GMC engine sound different? Strange engine sounds can be a sign something’s off in your GMC K3500. Tapping or knocking could mean you need an oil change. Whistling could mean a belt is misaligned or there's an intake leak. Squealing may be caused by a loose fan belt, and grinding might be coming from the brakes, not the engine.
What could damage my GMC K3500 engine? Certain driving habits can damage your engine and should be avoided. These habits include 'running on fumes,' flooring the gas pedal while the car is in Park, or pushing 'the pedal to the metal' before the engine has warmed up. Protect your engine’s performance and efficiency by distancing yourself from these habits.
Can I use water in my GMC K3500 radiator? While it’s not recommended, you can use water in your K3500 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 the engine in my K3500 to suddenly stop? If your K3500 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 can repair my GMC K3500 engine? Your local Firestone Complete Auto Care offers GMC K3500 engine repair. Schedule an appointment today at one of our thousands of locations nationwide!