1999 GMC Jimmy

Introduction:

The 1999 GMC Jimmy is a mid-size SUV that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 4.3L V6 with 190 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. The optional engine was a 5.7L V8 with 255 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a four-speed automatic and a five-speed manual. The Jimmy was popular for its rugged styling, spacious interior, and off-road capabilities. However, it was also known for its reliability issues.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor cap and rotor failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, hard starting
  • Solution: Replace distributor cap and rotor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L V8

• Vortec head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 99V098000

Transmission

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates to engage gears, slippage when shifting
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission shuddering, overheating, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Five-Speed Manual

• No issues found

Suspension

• Front suspension ball joint failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or squeaking noise when turning or hitting bumps
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear suspension springs sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sits low in the rear, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace rear springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies after sitting overnight
  • Solution: Test battery and electrical system for parasitic drain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on cause
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery light on, dim headlights, electrical problems
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on body panels, frame, and undercarriage
  • Solution: Treat and prevent rust
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate latch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate will not open or close properly
  • Solution: Replace tailgate latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Climate control failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Heater or air conditioner not working, temperature not regulating
  • Solution: Repair or replace climate control system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power window switch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not functioning
  • Solution: Replace power window switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1999 GMC Jimmy has a number of reliability issues that can be expensive to fix. The most common problems include engine intake manifold gasket failure, Vortec head gasket failure, transmission slipping, suspension ball joint failure, and electrical issues. While the Jimmy offers a spacious interior and off-road capabilities, potential buyers should be aware of the potential costs associated with ownership.