Summary
The GMC C6 has 5 recalls spanning the 1983–1995 production run, with the most serious being a 1993 model year steering shaft assembled with loose or missing pinch bolts that can separate, leaving the driver with no steering control.
The 1993 model year recall affects the intermediate steering shaft, where loose or absent fasteners allow the shaft to separate entirely at the coupling, eliminating all steering input without warning. On 1995 models, three separate issues exist. The transmission oil cooler hose can rupture and drain fluid to the point where the transmission stops sending power to the rear wheels, potentially stranding the vehicle or causing a sudden loss of drive. The 1995 seat frames can have incomplete welds on the left-side seat back, allowing the seat to collapse in a crash rather than holding the occupant in position. There is also a reverse signal switch on 1995 vehicles that can leak and lose electrical contact, disabling both the backup lights and audible warning system when the transmission is in reverse. Going back to the earliest production, 1983 models have front air brake hoses that can rub against the inner fender on either side, wear through, and lose air pressure during braking, reducing stopping ability without warning.
