The 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 is a robust full-size pickup truck, part of the revolutionary GMT400 platform introduced in 1988, which ran through 1998. It featured a sleek, aerodynamic body style, a significant departure from its square-body predecessors. Key trims included the utilitarian Scottsdale, the balanced Cheyenne, and the top-tier Silverado. New pricing ranged from roughly $12,000 to $22,000. Its popularity stems from its rugged dependability, timeless design, and versatility as a capable workhorse, establishing it as an iconic American truck.
The Good
The 1989 C/K 2500 offers strong performance for towing and hauling, coupled with legendary reliability due to its simple, robust mechanics. Its iconic design holds strong emotional appeal, while practical buyers appreciate its excellent parts availability, ease of maintenance, and solid value in the used market. Comfort was improved for its era, making it a capable and cherished work truck.
The Bad
Common weaknesses include significant rust issues on body panels, cab corners, and bed, especially in salt-belt regions. Fuel economy is poor by modern standards. Interior plastics can become brittle and crack, particularly the dashboard. Age-related electrical gremlins, worn suspension components, and potential fuel pump failures are also points to watch out for.
1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 4.3L (262 cu in) V6 Throttle Body Injection (TBI)
- 5.0L (305 cu in) V8 TBI
- 5.7L (350 cu in) V8 TBI
- 7.4L (454 cu in) V8 TBI (Big Block, for heavy-duty applications)
- 6.2L Diesel V8 - Horsepower: (Approximate figures vary by year/configuration)
- 4.3L V6: ~160 hp
- 5.0L V8: ~170 hp
- 5.7L V8: ~210 hp
- 7.4L V8: ~230 hp
- 6.2L Diesel: ~130 hp - Fuel Economy: Highly variable depending on engine, transmission, and drivetrain (2WD/4WD). Typically ranges from 10-15 MPG combined for gasoline engines, with diesels offering slightly better, but still modest, efficiency for a heavy truck. Expect lower figures with the 7.4L V8.
- 0-60 Times: Not designed for acceleration, figures are typically in the 9-12 second range for V8 models, with V6 and diesel options being slower.
- Towing Capacity: The 1989 C/K 2500's towing capacity varies significantly based on engine, axle ratio, and specific configuration. With the right setup (e.g., 7.4L V8, appropriate gearing, and heavy-duty towing package), capacities typically ranged from 6,000 lbs to over 9,500 lbs.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Scottsdale: The base work truck trim, featuring vinyl seats, rubber floor mats, manual windows and locks, and a basic AM/FM radio.
- Cheyenne: A mid-range option, upgrading to cloth seats, carpeting, and often including a better radio. Power windows and locks were typically optional.
- Silverado: The top-tier trim offered enhanced comfort and convenience. This included more luxurious cloth or velour upholstery, full carpeting, standard power windows and door locks, cruise control, air conditioning (often standard), additional chrome exterior accents, and improved interior trim, making it feel more "car-like."
1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1989 |
| Make | Chevrolet |
| Model | C/K 2500 |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Extended Cab 6.5-Foot Bed 4WD |
| Type | Pickup Truck |
| Category | Medium Truck |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | OSHAWA TRUCK |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4506 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 74.50 inches |
| Overall Length | 223.40 inches |
| Overall Width | 76.40 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 141.50 inches |
| Standard Seating | 3 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 5.7-L V-8 OHV 16V |
| Engine Size | 5.7L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | Non-ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $14,666 |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 Have?
The 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500, while renowned for its durability, does have its share of frequently reported problems and long-term reliability concerns, primarily due to its age and design.
Common Issues:
Recalls: For the 1989 model year C/K trucks, some recalls were issued by GM. These often included concerns such as:
Common Issues:
- Rust: This is perhaps the most pervasive long-term concern. Areas prone to rust include rocker panels, cab corners, wheel wells, bed sides, and even the frame, especially in regions exposed to road salt.
- Fuel System: In-tank fuel pump failures are common. Additionally, rust can affect fuel lines over time, leading to leaks.
- HVAC System: Issues with blend doors, fan motors, and control units are frequently reported, leading to problems with heating or air conditioning functionality.
- Electrical Gremlins: While generally simple, age can lead to issues with wiring harnesses, power window motors and regulators, and instrument cluster components. Dashboard lights or gauges may fail intermittently.
- Dashboard Cracking: The plastic dashboards are highly susceptible to cracking due to sun exposure and age, a common cosmetic flaw across the GMT400 platform.
- Steering and Suspension: With high mileage, wear in steering components (e.g., tie rods, ball joints, steering gear slop) and suspension parts (bushings, shocks) is expected, leading to a looser feel and poorer ride quality.
- Brake Lines: Steel brake lines are prone to corrosion, particularly where they pass over the fuel tank or along the frame, potentially leading to sudden brake failure if not inspected.
- Transmissions: While robust, the 700R4 (predecessor to 4L60) automatic transmission, commonly found in these models, can develop issues with heavy use or lack of maintenance. The TH400 is generally more robust but less efficient.
Recalls: For the 1989 model year C/K trucks, some recalls were issued by GM. These often included concerns such as:
- Brake lamp switch issues that could affect cruise control disengagement or brake light function.
- Potential for fuel tank strap corrosion, which could lead to a fuel tank detaching (though this was more prevalent in later GMT400 years, early models could still be affected).
- Some steering shaft component issues or power steering hose concerns.
How long will the 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 last?
The 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 is renowned for its impressive long-term durability. Many owners report these trucks easily exceeding 200,000 to 300,000 miles, with well-maintained examples often reaching 400,000 miles or more, particularly those with the legendary 5.7L or 7.4L V8 engines. This translates to 20-30+ years of service, demonstrating their robust engineering. The strong ladder frame, simple mechanicals, and reliable powertrains contribute significantly to this longevity.
However, weaknesses over time primarily center around rust, which can severely compromise the body and frame if not addressed. Interior plastics degrade, leading to dashboard cracks and brittle trim. Suspension and steering components require periodic replacement due to wear. Despite these age-related issues, with diligent maintenance and protection from rust, a 1989 C/K 2500 can remain a dependable workhorse for decades.
However, weaknesses over time primarily center around rust, which can severely compromise the body and frame if not addressed. Interior plastics degrade, leading to dashboard cracks and brittle trim. Suspension and steering components require periodic replacement due to wear. Despite these age-related issues, with diligent maintenance and protection from rust, a 1989 C/K 2500 can remain a dependable workhorse for decades.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500, a product of its era, featured technology, entertainment, and safety features that are very basic by today's standards.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
Driver-Assistance Features:
Modern driver-assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were non-existent. The primary "assistance" features were:
Safety Features:
Safety standards were far less stringent in 1989 than today. The C/K 2500 offered fundamental safety:
Crash-Test Ratings:
Official crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, as we know them today, were not conducted for vehicles of this vintage. Therefore, no modern crash-test ratings are available. Compared to contemporary vehicles with advanced crumple zones, multiple airbags, and sophisticated safety systems, a 1989 C/K 2500 would likely perform poorly in a modern crash test.
Built-in Tech & Entertainment:
- Instrumentation: Analog gauges for speed, RPM (if equipped), fuel level, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and voltage were standard. Warning lights were used for other system statuses.
- Audio: A basic AM/FM radio was standard. Optional upgrades included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. A factory CD player was less common for 1989 and usually found in higher trims or later model years. Speaker setups were typically simple, with two or four speakers.
- Convenience: Higher trims like the Silverado could include optional power windows, power door locks, and cruise control. Air conditioning was also an option that became more common on Cheyenne and Silverado trims.
Driver-Assistance Features:
Modern driver-assistance technologies like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, or blind-spot monitoring were non-existent. The primary "assistance" features were:
- Power Steering: Standard, significantly aiding maneuverability for a large truck.
- Power Brakes: Standard, with front disc and rear drum setup.
- Rear-Wheel Anti-lock Brakes (RABS): Introduced around this time, RABS was an available or standard feature on some trims, designed to prevent the rear wheels from locking up under heavy braking, particularly when unloaded.
Safety Features:
Safety standards were far less stringent in 1989 than today. The C/K 2500 offered fundamental safety:
- Seatbelts: Three-point lap/shoulder seatbelts were standard for front occupants.
- Airbags: No airbags were available or standard on the 1989 C/K 2500.
- Construction: A robust, full ladder-frame chassis provided significant structural integrity.
- Lighting: Standard headlights, taillights, turn signals, and side marker lights.
Crash-Test Ratings:
Official crash-test ratings from organizations like NHTSA or IIHS, as we know them today, were not conducted for vehicles of this vintage. Therefore, no modern crash-test ratings are available. Compared to contemporary vehicles with advanced crumple zones, multiple airbags, and sophisticated safety systems, a 1989 C/K 2500 would likely perform poorly in a modern crash test.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 Prices and Market Value
When new in 1989, a base Chevrolet C/K 2500 might have retailed for approximately $12,000-$14,000, while a well-equipped Silverado trim could reach $18,000-$22,000, depending on options and engine.
Today's used market prices vary wildly. A "beater" work truck with rust and mechanical issues might fetch $2,000-$6,000. A good-condition daily driver typically sells for $7,000-$15,000. Pristine, low-mileage, or professionally restored examples, especially those with desirable V8 engines, can command $18,000-$30,000+.
Initially, like most vehicles, the C/K 2500 experienced significant depreciation. However, it has since bottomed out and is now experiencing appreciation as a desirable classic truck. Factors heavily affecting current resale value include overall condition (rust-free bodies are paramount), mileage, engine type (V8s, particularly the 5.7L and 7.4L, are preferred), trim level (Silverado commands a premium), maintenance history, and whether it's 2WD or 4WD (4WD often higher).
Today's used market prices vary wildly. A "beater" work truck with rust and mechanical issues might fetch $2,000-$6,000. A good-condition daily driver typically sells for $7,000-$15,000. Pristine, low-mileage, or professionally restored examples, especially those with desirable V8 engines, can command $18,000-$30,000+.
Initially, like most vehicles, the C/K 2500 experienced significant depreciation. However, it has since bottomed out and is now experiencing appreciation as a desirable classic truck. Factors heavily affecting current resale value include overall condition (rust-free bodies are paramount), mileage, engine type (V8s, particularly the 5.7L and 7.4L, are preferred), trim level (Silverado commands a premium), maintenance history, and whether it's 2WD or 4WD (4WD often higher).
1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 presents a mixed bag in terms of costs. Insurance is generally quite affordable due to the vehicle's age and lack of advanced technology. However, fuel costs are a major ongoing expense; these trucks are notoriously thirsty, especially the V8 models, making it costly to run frequently. Maintenance is relatively inexpensive due to the simplicity of its mechanics and the abundance of readily available, affordable parts. Repairs are also generally manageable for the same reasons, though major powertrain work can still be a significant expense. Overall, while economical for maintenance and insurance, its high fuel consumption makes it a costly vehicle to own from a day-to-day operational standpoint. Long-term durability can make it a good value if rust is kept at bay.
1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
25.00 gallons
City Mileage
16 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
20 miles/gallon
1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 Insurance
Insurance for a 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Pickup Truck with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 Compare to Other Pickup Truck?
The 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 competed fiercely in the full-size heavy-duty pickup segment against formidable rivals like the 8th generation Ford F-250 (1987-1991) and the 1st generation Dodge Ram D/W 250 (1972-1993, specifically the updated 1989 models).
Performance:
Features:
All three brands offered basic work truck features, but the Chevrolet C/K's interior, especially in Silverado trim, was often perceived as more modern and "car-like" with its integrated dashboard design and available conveniences like power accessories. Ford and Dodge interiors were more traditional and rugged.
Reliability:
All three manufacturers produced generally reliable trucks for the era. The Chevrolet C/K 2500, with its GMT400 platform, quickly gained a reputation for solid, dependable powertrains and a robust frame. Ford F-Series trucks also had a strong track record for durability. However, the Dodge Ram with the Cummins diesel engine carved out a legendary reputation for extreme longevity and reliability, often outlasting the rest of the truck components. Gas-powered Dodges were solid but perhaps not as universally praised as the GM or Ford gasoline trucks.
Price:
New prices were competitive across the board. In the current used market, well-preserved C/K 2500s and F-250s command similar values, with pristine examples appreciating. However, a 1989 Dodge Ram with the Cummins diesel can often fetch a higher premium due to the desirability of that specific engine.
Alternatives:
Performance:
- Chevrolet C/K 2500: Offered strong gasoline V8 options (5.7L and 7.4L) providing excellent towing and hauling capabilities for its time. It generally had a more refined ride than its predecessors.
- Ford F-250: Known for its robust chassis and powerful engines, including the large 7.5L (460ci) V8, it matched or slightly surpassed the Chevy in raw towing power. It often felt more "truck-like" in its ride quality.
- Dodge Ram D/W 250: While gasoline V8s were available (e.g., 5.9L 360ci), the significant performance advantage for Dodge in 1989 was the introduction of the Cummins 5.9L inline-six turbo diesel engine. This offered unparalleled torque, fuel economy, and longevity for heavy-duty work compared to its gas counterparts.
Features:
All three brands offered basic work truck features, but the Chevrolet C/K's interior, especially in Silverado trim, was often perceived as more modern and "car-like" with its integrated dashboard design and available conveniences like power accessories. Ford and Dodge interiors were more traditional and rugged.
Reliability:
All three manufacturers produced generally reliable trucks for the era. The Chevrolet C/K 2500, with its GMT400 platform, quickly gained a reputation for solid, dependable powertrains and a robust frame. Ford F-Series trucks also had a strong track record for durability. However, the Dodge Ram with the Cummins diesel engine carved out a legendary reputation for extreme longevity and reliability, often outlasting the rest of the truck components. Gas-powered Dodges were solid but perhaps not as universally praised as the GM or Ford gasoline trucks.
Price:
New prices were competitive across the board. In the current used market, well-preserved C/K 2500s and F-250s command similar values, with pristine examples appreciating. However, a 1989 Dodge Ram with the Cummins diesel can often fetch a higher premium due to the desirability of that specific engine.
Alternatives:
- Ford F-250 (1987-1991): A very strong and comparable alternative if you prioritize a traditional heavy-duty feel and robust construction.
- Dodge Ram D/W 250 with Cummins (1989-1993): If maximum towing capacity, diesel longevity, and potential fuel economy are paramount, the Cummins-powered Dodge is an excellent, albeit often pricier, alternative.
Final Verdict: Is the 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 a Good Pickup Truck?
The 1989 Chevrolet C/K 2500 is an ideal vehicle for enthusiasts seeking a classic, iconic American pickup, or for anyone needing a genuinely capable, no-frills work truck. It's perfect for DIY mechanics due to its simple design and abundant, affordable parts, making maintenance and repairs manageable. Those who prioritize long-term durability and utility over modern amenities, fuel efficiency, or advanced safety tech will find it appealing.
It is absolutely worth buying, but only as a used vehicle, as new ones are obviously unavailable. The key is to find a well-maintained example, ideally one with minimal rust, especially in structural areas. For comfort and features, the Silverado trim with the 5.7L V8 is generally the most balanced and popular choice. If heavy towing is a primary concern, seek out the powerful 7.4L V8. Avoid examples with severe body rust or major deferred mechanical maintenance unless you're prepared for a substantial restoration project. It's an excellent choice for a daily driver (if fuel costs are acceptable), a weekend project, or a reliable hauler.
It is absolutely worth buying, but only as a used vehicle, as new ones are obviously unavailable. The key is to find a well-maintained example, ideally one with minimal rust, especially in structural areas. For comfort and features, the Silverado trim with the 5.7L V8 is generally the most balanced and popular choice. If heavy towing is a primary concern, seek out the powerful 7.4L V8. Avoid examples with severe body rust or major deferred mechanical maintenance unless you're prepared for a substantial restoration project. It's an excellent choice for a daily driver (if fuel costs are acceptable), a weekend project, or a reliable hauler.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.