1997 GMC Safari

Introduction

The 1997 GMC Safari is a full-size van that offers spacious seating and versatility. It comes with a 4.3L V6 engine that produces 190 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

• 4.3L V6 (RWD)
  • Stuck EGR Valve
    • Description/Symptoms: Illuminated check engine light, rough idling, and reduced engine power.
    • Solution: Clean or replace the EGR valve.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, overheating engine, and reduced engine power.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Slipping gears
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed engagement, and loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission filter and fluid, or rebuild the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Sway Bar Links
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises while turning or driving over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failing Shock Absorbers
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough and bouncy ride, poor handling, and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Replace the shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Wiper Motor
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or non-functional wipers.
  • Solution: Replace the wiper motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery after a period of time.
  • Solution: Inspect the electrical system for parasitic draws and replace any faulty components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Surface rust on body panels, especially around the fenders and rockers.
  • Solution: Prevention by regular washing and waxing, and treatment by sanding and repainting affected areas.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on extent of damage
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Headlights
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or non-functional headlights.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight bulbs or inspect for electrical issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Lights Not Working
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or non-functional dashboard lights.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard light bulbs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Air Conditioning Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Weak or non-functional air conditioning.
  • Solution: Check and recharge the refrigerant, or replace the compressor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 GMC Safari offers spacious seating and versatility, but it has its share of issues. The most common engine problems are the stuck EGR valve and intake manifold gasket failure. The transmission may also experience slipping gears. Suspension issues include worn sway bar links and failing shock absorbers. Electrical problems include a faulty wiper motor and battery drain. Exterior concerns include rust and faulty headlights. Interior issues include dashboard lights not working and air conditioning problems. Overall, the 1997 GMC Safari has some common issues, but most are relatively inexpensive to fix.