2000 GMC Savana 2500

The 2000 GMC Savana 2500 is a full-size van known for its utility and cargo-hauling capabilities. Engine options included a 4.3L V6 (around 200 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque), a 5.0L V8, a 5.7L V8 and a 7.4L V8. The 4L60E and 4L80E automatic transmissions were the common options. Owners generally appreciate the Savana’s spaciousness and ruggedness but often note issues related to aging components, fuel economy, and ride quality.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, stalling, no-start condition.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.0L V8

• Oil Leaks (Valve Cover Gaskets, Rear Main Seal)
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for valve cover gaskets, $400 - $800+ for rear main seal.
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L V8

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ (depending on the number of injectors needing replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• EGR Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, poor acceleration, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the EGR valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

7.4L V8

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gaskets or seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ for valve cover gaskets, $400 - $800+ for rear main seal.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E

• Slipping Between Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission hesitates or struggles to shift between gears, often accompanied by a rise in engine RPM without a corresponding increase in speed. This is sometimes more prevalent when cold.
  • Solution: A rebuild or replacement of the transmission is the solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000-$4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

4L80E

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delay when shifting into gear, particularly from Park or Neutral to Drive or Reverse. Harsh or abrupt shifting between gears during normal driving conditions.
  • Solution: Valve body servicing/replacement and a transmission rebuild
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000-$4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when going over bumps, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, poor ride quality, reduced load-carrying capacity.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs or add helper springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side (depending on the solution)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, dead battery, warning lights on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window/Door Lock Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent operation or complete failure of power windows or door locks.
  • Solution: Repair or replace faulty switches, motors, or wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Wheel Wells, Rocker Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on body panels, especially around wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaches from the roof and sags.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (depending on the repair method)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 GMC Savana 2500 experiences typical issues associated with vehicles of its age. Engine problems range from minor leaks to more significant issues like intake manifold gasket failures or fuel injector problems, with costs ranging from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars. Transmission issues, especially slipping or harsh shifting, can be costly to repair, potentially requiring a rebuild or replacement. Suspension wear, particularly worn ball joints and sagging leaf springs, are common and can affect ride quality and handling. Electrical problems, such as alternator failure and power window/door lock issues, are also prevalent. Rust is a concern, especially on exterior panels. Interior issues like headliner sagging and dashboard cracking detract from the vehicle’s appearance. The severity and cost of these issues can vary significantly, but potential buyers should be aware of these common problems when considering purchasing a 2000 GMC Savana 2500.