1978 GMC C15 recalls & complaints
Source: NHTSA, updated daily. Last checked 2026-10-20. Recalls apply to specific VINs — run your VIN to confirm.
1 safety recall, most serious first
1. Equipment
What's wrong, in plain English: A part or accessory supplied with the vehicle. THE NUT ON THE CARRIER SUPPORT BOLT ASSEMBLY MAY BREAK WHICH WOULD ALLOW THE ENTIRE WHEEL AND TIRE ASSEMBLY TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
What could happen:
The fix: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE TIRE AND WHEEL CARRIER BOLT ASSEMBLY AT NO CHARGE.
What to do
- Check whether your car is affected: enter your 17-digit VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. A recall covers specific VINs, not every 1978 C15.
- Book a repair at any authorized GMC dealer. Quote NHTSA campaign 78V177000.
- The repair is free. By US law, safety recall repairs cost the owner nothing, no matter the car's age or mileage.
- Buying this car used? Ask the seller for proof the recall was completed, or run the VIN yourself before paying.
Official wording from NHTSA
Component: EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:CARRIER/RACK
Summary: THE NUT ON THE CARRIER SUPPORT BOLT ASSEMBLY MAY BREAK WHICH WOULD ALLOW THE ENTIRE WHEEL AND TIRE ASSEMBLY TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE.
Consequence:
Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE TIRE AND WHEEL CARRIER BOLT ASSEMBLY AT NO CHARGE.
Notes: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT TRUCKS.SYSTEM: EQUIPMENT; SPARE TIRE MOUNT.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: IF THE SPARE TIRE AND WHEEL SEPARATES FROM THE VEHICLE,IT COULD ROLL FREE AND ENDANGER OTHER VEHICLES ON THE ROAD.
Useful for owners
Owner complaints filed with NHTSA
Most complained-about parts: Transmission / drivetrain (1).
Complaints are unverified reports from owners. A pattern (many complaints about the same part) matters more than any single one.
Read recent complaints (1)
08/16/1996 · Transmission / drivetrain
TRANSMISSION FAILS TO SHIFT PROPERLY WHILE TOWING TRAILER, ALSO STICKS IN OVERDRIVE.