2000 GMC Savana 3500

The 2000 GMC Savana 3500 is a full-size van appreciated for its utility and cargo capacity, often used for commercial purposes. Engine options for this model year included the 4.3L V6, the 5.0L V8, the 5.7L V8, and the 7.4L V8. Transmission options were primarily the 4L60E and 4L80E four-speed automatic transmissions, depending on the engine choice. Owners often praise the van’s robust build and spacious interior, while common complaints include fuel economy and maintenance costs associated with an older, work-focused vehicle.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough running engine, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

5.7L V8

• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, stalling, loss of power, and eventually complete fuel pump failure.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erroneous oil pressure readings, causing the oil pressure gauge to read high or low.
  • Solution: Replace the oil pressure sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

7.4L V8

• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running, misfires, and difficulty starting due to worn or damaged distributor components.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor cap, rotor, and potentially the entire distributor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E (Typically Paired with 4.3L V6 and 5.0L/5.7L V8)

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, particularly when accelerating. Can be caused by worn clutches or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or harsh shifts between gears, especially noticeable during upshifts. Often related to valve body problems or solenoid failure.
  • Solution: Valve body repair or replacement, solenoid replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

4L80E (Typically Paired with 5.7L/7.4L V8)

• Loss of Reverse Gear
  • Description/Symptoms: Complete loss of reverse gear functionality. Caused by internal transmission failure.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Overheating
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission overheating, often indicated by warning lights or diagnostic codes. Can result from prolonged heavy use, towing, or lack of maintenance.
  • Solution: Fluid and filter change, transmission cooler installation or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Leaf Springs (Rear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than normal, reduced load-carrying capacity, poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs or add helper springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Only one or two blower motor speeds work, or the blower motor doesn’t work at all.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated on the dashboard, loss of ABS functionality.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust around Wheel Wells and Rocker Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming around wheel wells, rocker panels, and other body seams. Common in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair, bodywork, and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Exterior door handles, particularly on the side and rear doors, can break due to wear and tear.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Headliner fabric detaching from the backing and sagging down.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate properly, or not operating at all.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 GMC Savana 3500, while a capable work van, is prone to certain issues typical of vehicles of its age. Engine and transmission problems, particularly fuel pump failures, intake manifold leaks, and transmission slipping, are common and can range from moderate to expensive to repair. Suspension issues like worn ball joints and sagging leaf springs can impact ride quality and handling. Electrical problems and rust formation are also notable concerns. Owners should be prepared for potential repairs to keep the van running reliably. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but addressing them promptly will help maintain the van’s functionality and longevity.