GMC C7 Recalls

The GMC C7 has 7 recalls covering the 1979–1990 production run, with the most serious on 1990 models involving front air brake hoses that can chafe against the inner fender and rupture, causing a sudden loss of front braking with no warning.

The 1985 model year has two recalls. The power steering assist cylinder mounting bracket bolts can loosen, allowing the cylinder to detach and both restrict steering and sever the front brake hose, cutting front axle braking. Separately, 1985 vehicles equipped with a transmission-mounted internal expanding parking brake may have a cracked actuating lever cam that gradually worsens, reducing the parking brake's holding force over time.

On 1983 models, brake chatter can crack the welds where the S-cam tube meets the front axle brake chamber mounting bracket; if the bracket fails, the vehicle loses front wheel braking and steering control can become restricted. The 1983 model year also has a recall for an incorrect check valve spring installed in the dual-compartment air reservoir that corrodes and can fail.

The 1980 model year, on vehicles fitted with a Bendix master cylinder and frame-mounted brake booster combination, can draw air past the seals and into the brake system, reducing braking effectiveness with no prior warning. Going back to 1979, certain vehicles sold to a fleet operator have a misrouted positive battery cable that can rub against the right front metal brake tube, damaging the tube and causing brake fluid loss.