Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1988 GMC P6t042 — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
1
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
IMPROPER DRILLING OF HOLE TAPERS IN THE STEERING ARM AND PITMAN ARM MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEATING OF THE DRAG LINK BALL STUD ON EITHER THE PITMAN ARM OR THE STEERING ARM AND TIE ROD END ON THE STEERING ATTACHMENTS.
Remedy
REPLACE DEFECTIVE COMPONENTS WITH NEW ASSEMBLIES AND TORQUE TO PROPER SPECIFICATIONS.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1988 GMC P6t042. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
NHTSA opened one investigation into this model year; all are now closed.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.