Model year

2003 GMC C4500

diesel, 4x2, built in United States. Owner complaints on file from Mar 19, 2003 to Apr 12, 2010.

Recall campaigns covering this model year1952 vehicles or units across those campaigns
Owner complaints66.0 times the median 2003 vehicle
Severity index0.0Crash, fire, injury or death per 100
First 24 months1Complaints in its first two years
Complaints over time

Complaints about the 2003 GMC C4500 peaked in 2005, with 2 filed

Owner complaints about this model year, by the year they were filed with NHTSA.

00.511.522003200522007200920112013201520172019202120232026
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. The lighter column runs through October.
Components

33% of complaints about the 2003 GMC C4500 name powertrain

Owner complaints by component. Hover or focus a bar for the crash, fire, injury or death count.

Powertrain
2
Brakes
2
Engine and cooling
1
Lighting
1
Tires
1
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file. A complaint can name more than one component; it is counted under the first.
Recalls

One recall campaign covers the 2003 GMC C4500

Check a specific vehicle by VIN on NHTSA's site: a campaign may cover only part of a model year's production.

Recall campaigns for the 2003 GMC C4500
CampaignFiledSubjectComponentVehiclesRemedy
02V-202Jul 26, 2002Certain medium duty trucks equipped with 11,000 lb. rear axle have a condition where the rear axle anchor plate may fractureSuspension952Repair or modification
Source: NHTSA ODI recalls file.
Owner complaints

What owners reported about the 2003 GMC C4500

The full text of every complaint filed with NHTSA about this model year, newest first. Complaints are filed by owners and are not verified by NHTSA; NHTSA removes personal details before publishing.

6 complaints on file, page 1 of 1.

  1. Filed Apr 12, 2010Failure Apr 11, 2010240,000 milesOsseo, MITires

    PURCHASES TIRES IN JUNE 2009 -- UPON INSPECTION THIS WEEKEND 4/11/2010 WE NOTICED LARGE CRACKS IN THE TIRES ALMOST LIKE IT WAS SEPARATING. WE BROUGHT THEM TO THE DEALER AND THEY CHARGED US $100 TO REPLACE THEM AFTER ADMITTING THAT THE TIRES HAD FAILED AND WERE DEFECTIVE. *TR

    NHTSA complaint 10325038
  2. Filed Oct 5, 2006Failure May 10, 2006180,000 milesLakeside, 00Power train

    THROW BEARING WEARS OUT EVERY 40,000 KM. BELL HOUSING GONE AT 180,000 KM'S, REAR END WORE OUT AT 182,000 KMS AND FORTH GEAR GONE IN TRANSMISSION AT 183,000, DASH CLUSTER GONE AT 188,000. MANUFACTURE OR DEALER WOULD NOT COVER ANYTHING. *NM

    NHTSA complaint 10170034
  3. Filed Mar 10, 2005Failure May 3, 2004Beaver, OKEngine and engine cooling

    VEHICLE EXPERIENCED SUDDEN STALLING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS WHEN ON THE ROAD. TAKEN TO THE DEALER 10 TIMES FOR CHECKUP, BUT THE CAUSE WAS STILL UNDETERMINED.*AK

    NHTSA complaint 10114889
  4. Filed Mar 8, 2005Failure Jan 5, 20053,300 milesLA Crescenta, CADifferential unit, Service brakes, Caliper

    VEHICLE WAS EXPERIENCING A PROBLEM WITH GREASE FROM THE REAR END LEAKING ONTO THE LEFT REAR WHEEL BRAKING SYSTEM. THIS CAUSED LOSS OF BRAKING IN THAT WHEEL. DEALER REPLACED THE GREASE SEAL WITH AN UPGRADED SEAL SIX TIMES, PROBLEM RECURRED. *AK REAL GREASE SEAL WAS REPLACED. THE DRIVER SIDE BRAKE CALIPER BOLT FELL OUT CAUSING THE CALIPER TO RUB THE INSIDE OF THE INNER DUAL WHEEL CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE CALIPER AND WHEEL. *TC

    NHTSA complaint 10111189
  5. Filed Oct 17, 2004Failure Oct 1, 200479,000 milesHouston, TXService brakes, Hydraulic

    MY ENGINE STALLED DUE TO CONTAMINATED FUEL. WITH THE KEY STILL IN THE ON POSITION, I ATTEMPTED TO STOP. I PRESSED THE SERVICE BRAKE PEDAL. THE BACKUP BRAKE SYSTEM DID NOT OPERATE. I REPEATED PRESSING THE BRAKE PEDAL TWO MORE TIMES. I UNDERSTOOD. I WAS CLOSING THE DISTANCE BETWEEN MY VEHICLE AND THE ONE IN FRONT OF ME APPROACHING THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL, RED. THE BRAKE PEDAL SWITCH FAILED TO INITIATE THE RELAYS AND PUMP. CONSEQUENTLY, THE VEHICLE HAD PRACTICALLY NO BRAKES OTHER THAN THE DRUM BRAKE BY HAND BRAKE HANDLE. I APPLIED THE HAND BRAKE. GOOD THING I WAS ONLY TRAVELING AT LESS THAN 30 MILES PER HOUR, WITHOUT CARGO, AND HAD MORE THAN 400 FEET TO STOP. I ALMOST HIT THE VEHICLE IN FRONT AT THE RED LIGHT. THE HAND BRAKE WORKED. AT HIGHER SPEED, THE TRUCK WOULD HAVE KILLED PEOPLE. THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN NO ENGINE BRAKE EFFECT BECAUSE THE ENGINE HAD STOPPED. GOING DOWNHILL AFTER FUELING AND THEN PULLING MY TRAILER AS WELL IF IT HAD BEEN LOADED, WOULD THE RESULTS HAD BEEN THE SAME AT THE RED LIGHT AT THE BOTTOM OF A HILL OR RAIL ROAD TRACK BRIDGE? SOMEONE WOULD HAVE DIED. THERE NEEDS TO BE A BYPASS SWITCH INSTALLED NEAR THE STEERING WHEEL TO MANUALLY TURN THE PUMP ON. AND THE SWITCH ON THE PEDAL NEEDS TO BE A MECHANICAL ONE LIKE THE ONES THAT HAVE OPERATED TAILLIGHTS FOR THE LAST FIFTY YEARS. STICK WITH WHAT WORKS. *JB

    NHTSA complaint 10095888
  6. Filed Mar 19, 2003Flagstaff, AZHeadlights

    WHEN THE VEHICLE REACHED A SPEED OF 50 MPH, THE HEAD LIGHTS DIMMED. *JB WHEN THE LIGHTS ARE ADJUSTED PROPERLY, THEY DO NOT ALLOW THE PROPER LIGHT ON THE ROAD AT SPEEDS GREATER THAN 50 MPH. DEALER DID NOT SEE THE PROBLEM. SCC

    NHTSA complaint 10012110
Source: NHTSA ODI complaints file.
Investigations

NHTSA has not opened an investigation on this model year

Source: NHTSA ODI investigations file.
Service bulletins

94 manufacturer communications cover this model year

Technical service bulletins and other notices the manufacturer sent to dealers. A bulletin is not a recall; the 60 most recent are listed.

  • PIP5601C Jul 18, 2025 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.
  • 03-06-01-023I Dec 18, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
  • 03-06-01-023H Oct 7, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
  • PIT3271P Sep 6, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in …
  • General Communication Aug 26, 2024 · Service Campaign
    Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some …
  • 24-NA-141 Jul 24, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more ca…
  • 16-NA-383 Jun 28, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduc…
  • 18-NA-099 Jun 17, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
  • 09-00-89-008G May 7, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
  • 10-08-45-001H Mar 28, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
  • PIT5353 Nov 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
  • 16-NA-383 Mar 13, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to red…
  • 22-NA-074 Feb 22, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
  • 18-NA-099 Jan 16, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
  • PI1394B Jan 12, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
  • 02-08-42-001J Jan 12, 2024 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
  • Recalls Jun 30, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Vehicle Recalls
  • PIT4864F Mar 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
  • 23-NA-219 Dec 12, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
  • PIC5588B Jun 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
  • PIC5588A Oct 1, 2012 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
  • 130089009 Sep 1, 2013 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
  • PIT5264B Nov 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
  • PIT5264 Mar 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
  • 17-NA-170 Oct 6, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
  • 07-08-49-020R Sep 21, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
  • 23-NA-153 Sep 1, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
  • 18-NA-073 Aug 24, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
  • 03-06-01-023G Jul 31, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
  • 19-NA-219 Apr 24, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
  • 17-NA-170 Apr 27, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
  • 04-00-89-015Z Apr 19, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information on Warranty Administration – Required Operating Procedures - 8 Points (U.S. Only).
  • 19-NA-219 Mar 23, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
  • 22-NA-009 Mar 17, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
  • 17-NA-073 Feb 21, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
  • 01-08-42-001O Feb 15, 2023 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
  • 09-00-89-008F Dec 21, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
  • 21-NA-124 Dec 14, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides diagnostic tips/steps on testing for possible EVAP leaks in the system to correct a customer concern of an MIL Illuminated with DTCs P0442 and/or P0455 Set.
  • PIT3271N Nov 29, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in …
  • 22-NA-074 Nov 9, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
  • 22-NA-205 Oct 19, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information on Module Harvesting.
  • 22-NA-195 Sep 28, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information on Handling Requests for Modifications to Permanently Import/Export Vehicles Between the U.S. and Canada.
  • 22-NA-009 Sep 14, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
  • 06-00-89-031H Sep 16, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides information on OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification.
  • 22-NA-181 Sep 1, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This diagnostic tip advises the tech not to separate the flexplate from the torque convertor or damage my occur if the engine is started while diagnosing for noise from the engine or transmission.
  • 03-06-01-023F Aug 26, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
  • 20-NA-065 Aug 15, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information on tools available to find an intake vacuum leak or exhaust leak to correct a condition of MIL Illuminated with Multiple Fuel Trim and/or Oxygen Sensor Codes Set.
  • 22-NA-009 Jun 15, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
  • 18-NA-099 May 16, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
  • 03-06-01-023E Apr 27, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This information bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
  • PIT3271M Mar 7, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in …
  • 22-NA-074 Mar 31, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
  • 22-NA-009 Mar 22, 2022 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
  • 15-NA-079 Dec 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    OnStar Voice Fallback Number Update
  • 06-00-89-031D Dec 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification
  • PI0281D Jan 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Underbody Component Corrosion The following information may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers. Some customers may comment that one or more of their vehicle's underbody components are showing some form of corrosion. …
  • PI0281D Jan 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Underbody Component Corrosion The following information may be helpful when addressing underbody component corrosion with customers. Some customers may comment that one or more of their vehicle's underbody components are showing some form of corrosion. …
  • 99-08-51-007F Feb 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Refinishing Aluminum Wheels This bulletin updates General Motor's position on refinishing aluminum wheels. GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening o re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel's coatings, u…
  • 99-08-51-007F Feb 1, 2014 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    Refinishing Aluminum Wheels This bulletin updates General Motor's position on refinishing aluminum wheels. GM does not endorse any repairs that involve welding, bending, straightening o re-machining. Only cosmetic refinishing of the wheel's coatings, u…
  • 15-NA-079 Dec 1, 2015 · Service Bulletin/Repair Instructions
    OnStar® Voice Fallback Number Update Some customers may have received a letter from OnStar® stating that "We recently tried to provide a software update to the OnStar® hardware in your vehicle. However, your system could not be updated remotely. As a res…
Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications files.