1997 Chevrolet C10 Problems & Complaints

Better than average47% fewer complaints than a typical year of the C10 at the same age

Owners have filed 7 complaints about the 1997 Chevrolet C10 with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. That is 47% fewer than a typical C10 model year at the same age, making the 1997 one of the better C10 years. The most reported problem area is the suspension (2 complaints). 3 recalls cover this model year.

7complaints
3recalls
1crashes
0fires
0injuries
0deaths

Most common 1997 Chevrolet C10 problems

  • Suspension
    229%
  • Engine & cooling
    114%
  • Fuel & propulsion system
    114%
  • Windows, wipers & sunroof
    114%
  • Steering
    114%
  • Air bags
    114%

Share of the 7 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.

Chevrolet C10 complaints by model year

1995199619971998401671
Owner complaints per model year, Chevrolet C10. Colour = our verdict for that year (red: avoid, orange: caution, green: better than average, blue: too new).

Best C10 years: 1998, 1997. Years to avoid: 1995, 1996. Compare all years →

1997 Chevrolet C10 recalls (3)

Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly

NHTSA recall 98V-187 · Aug 10, 1998 · 55,272 vehicles

Vehicle description: crew cab pickup trucks. The front, inner corner of the fuel tank can contact the body sill either intermittently or constantly. This movement can cause a discernible noise and, over time, can wear a hole in or crack the fuel tank at point of contact.

Remedy: Dealers will inspect the fuel tank for wear and, either install a spacer between the fuel tank and the front crossmember, or if necessary, replace the fuel tank.

Seats

NHTSA recall 97V-176 · Oct 7, 1997 · 6,418 vehicles

Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. One or two of the front seat mounting bolts were not installed. This does not comply with the requirements of FMVSS no. 207, "seating systems."

Remedy: Dealers will check all seat mounting bolts and install any missing bolts.

Seats

NHTSA recall 97V-037 · Mar 7, 1997 · 624,433 vehicles

Vehicle description: extended cab and 2-door utility vehicles equipped with reclining seats and the easy-entry feature. These vehicles exhibit a condition in which a pinch point exists in the recliner mechanism that can trap and pinch a person's hand or finger(s) when the easy-entry feature is activated.

Remedy: Dealers will install a protector cover over the recliner mechanism.

Frequently asked questions

Is the 1997 Chevrolet C10 a good car?

Based on 7 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 1997 C10 rates better than average: 47% fewer complaints than a typical year of the C10 at the same age. It is one of the best C10 years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.

What is the most common problem with the 1997 Chevrolet C10?

The suspension — 2 complaints, 29% of all complaints for this model year, most often about front. Next are the engine & cooling (1) and fuel & propulsion system (1).

How many recalls does the 1997 Chevrolet C10 have?

There are 3 recalls for the 1997 Chevrolet C10, the most recent from August 10, 1998 (tank assembly). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.

What are the best and worst years of the Chevrolet C10?

The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 1998 and 1997. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 1995 and 1996. See the full Chevrolet C10 years comparison.

Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.