Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1998 GMC W3500 — 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
0
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
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: TRUCK CHASSIS. THE INTERMEDIATE STEERING SHAFT-TO-STEERING BOLT WAS NOT TIGHTENED PROPERLY DURING ASSEMBLY. THIS CAN CAUSE STEERING NOISE, LOOSE STEERING, AND AN UNCENTERED STEERING WHEEL.
Consequence
LOSS OF STEERING COULD RESULT.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE STEERING SHAFT AND RETIGHTEN TO THE SPECIFIED TORQUE.
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 1998 GMC W3500. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.