1996 GMC Savana 3500
1996 GMC Savana 3500
The 1996 GMC Savana 3500 is a full-size van that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The standard engine was a 5.7-liter V8 that produced 250 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque. Optional engines included a 6.0-liter V8 that produced 300 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, and a 7.4-liter V8 that produced 330 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. The van was available with a four-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual transmission.
The Savana 3500 was praised for its spacious interior and powerful engines. However, it was also criticized for its poor fuel economy and rough ride.
Engine
5.7-liter V8
- Intake manifold gasket failure: This issue is caused by a faulty intake manifold gasket that can leak coolant and oil. Symptoms include a loss of coolant, a drop in oil pressure, and a rough idle. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
Head gasket failure: This issue is caused by a faulty head gasket that can leak coolant and oil. Symptoms include a loss of coolant, a drop in oil pressure, and a white or gray exhaust. The solution is to replace the head gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000. 6.0-liter V8
- Fuel injector failure: This issue is caused by a faulty fuel injector that can cause the engine to run rough or stall. Symptoms include a rough idle, a loss of power, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the faulty fuel injector. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400.
7.4-liter V8
- Engine knock: This issue is caused by a faulty piston or connecting rod bearing. Symptoms include a knocking sound from the engine. The solution is to rebuild or replace the engine. Estimated cost to fix: $2,000 - $5,000.
Recalls:
- 96V107000: Fuel pump failure
- 96V153000: Power window switch failure
- 96V212000: Brake line corrosion
Transmission
Four-speed automatic transmission
- Torque converter failure: This issue is caused by a faulty torque converter that can cause the transmission to slip or shudder. Symptoms include a loss of power, a shuddering sensation when shifting gears, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Estimated cost to fix: $1,000 - $2,000.
- Transmission fluid leak: This issue is caused by a faulty transmission seal or gasket that can cause transmission fluid to leak. Symptoms include a loss of transmission fluid, a drop in transmission fluid pressure, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the faulty seal or gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400.
Five-speed manual transmission
- Clutch failure: This issue is caused by a faulty clutch that can cause the transmission to slip or shudder. Symptoms include a loss of power, a shuddering sensation when shifting gears, and a burning smell. The solution is to replace the clutch. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,000.
- Transmission fluid leak: This issue is caused by a faulty transmission seal or gasket that can cause transmission fluid to leak. Symptoms include a loss of transmission fluid, a drop in transmission fluid pressure, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the faulty seal or gasket. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400.
Recalls:
- 96V084000: Transmission failure
Suspension
- Front suspension wear: This issue is caused by worn or damaged front suspension components, such as ball joints, tie rods, and control arms. Symptoms include a clunking or rattling noise when driving over bumps, and a loss of control. The solution is to replace the worn or damaged suspension components. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500.
- Rear suspension wear: This issue is caused by worn or damaged rear suspension components, such as leaf springs, shocks, and bushings. Symptoms include a rough ride, a loss of control, and a sagging rear end. The solution is to replace the worn or damaged suspension components. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $1,500.
Electrical
- Battery drain: This issue is caused by a faulty electrical component that is draining the battery. Symptoms include a dead battery, a slow crank, and a check engine light. The solution is to identify and replace the faulty electrical component. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $500.
- Alternator failure: This issue is caused by a faulty alternator that is not charging the battery. Symptoms include a dead battery, a slow crank, and a check engine light. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated cost to fix: $300 - $600.
Exterior
- Rust: This issue is caused by exposure to the elements, such as rain, snow, and salt. Symptoms include rust spots on the body, frame, and suspension components. The solution is to prevent or treat rust by applying a rust-resistant coating or repairing rusted components. Estimated cost to fix: $500 - $2,000+.
- Door lock failure: This issue is caused by a faulty door lock actuator or switch. Symptoms include a door that does not lock or unlock properly. The solution is to replace the faulty door lock actuator or switch. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400.
Interior
- HVAC system failure: This issue is caused by a faulty HVAC blower motor, resistor, or control module. Symptoms include a lack of heat or air conditioning, a noisy blower motor, or a non-functioning control panel. The solution is to replace the faulty HVAC component. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $600.
- Power window failure: This issue is caused by a faulty power window motor, switch, or regulator. Symptoms include a power window that does not go up or down properly. The solution is to replace the faulty power window component. Estimated cost to fix: $200 - $400.
Summary
The 1996 GMC Savana 3500 is a full-size van that is known for its spacious interior and powerful engines. However, it is also known for its poor fuel economy and rough ride. The most common issues with the Savana 3500 include engine gasket failures, transmission problems, suspension wear, electrical issues, and interior problems. The severity of these issues can range from minor to major, and the cost to fix them can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.