Two problems related to axle assembly have been reported for the 1996 Chevrolet C1500. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Complete failure of rear axle assembly. Carrier bearings lost preload. Replacement of ring gear, pinion, axle shafts, carrier bearings, pinion bearings, axle bearings & seals required. This should not have failed at this mileage. Repair cost was $2105. 00. Chevrolet motor division has experienced several failures of the C1500 pickup axles in 1995, 1996 & 1997. Also maybe 1998. A friend had (2) axles replaced on his 1995 C1500 suburban under warranty. He also has noise in his current suburban & is taking it in to be replaced under warranty. Mine had made noise but was never listed as a problem by joe self Chevrolet.
While driving down highway, suddenly there was a jolt, left rear axle had sheared off at wheel, causing loss of control of vehicle, the vehicle rolled over several times.