2001 GMC Safari

The 2001 GMC Safari

The 2001 GMC Safari is a full-size van that was available with three different engine options: a 4.3L V6, a 4.8L V8, and a 5.7L V8. The 4.3L V6 produced 190 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, the 4.8L V8 produced 270 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and the 5.7L V8 produced 290 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. All three engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The Safari was praised for its spacious interior, powerful engines, and comfortable ride. However, it was also criticized for its poor fuel economy and dated exterior design.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the intake manifold gasket, loss of coolant, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: N/A

4.8L V8

• Piston ring failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, loss of power
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the engine
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: N/A

5.7L V8

• Cylinder head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaking from the cylinder head gasket, overheating, rough idle
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: N/A

Transmission

• 4-speed automatic transmission
  • Slipping gears
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gear, difficulty shifting, delayed engagement
    • Solution: Replace the transmission or rebuild it
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
    • Recalls: N/A

Suspension

• Front suspension
  • Ball joint failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises when turning or braking, uneven tire wear
    • Solution: Replace the ball joints
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: N/A
• Rear suspension
  • Leaf spring failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven tire wear, difficulty steering
    • Solution: Replace the leaf springs
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: N/A

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, difficulty starting the vehicle, electrical system not working
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, clicking noises when trying to start
  • Solution: Replace the starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A

Exterior

• Body panel rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots or holes on the body panels
  • Solution: Repair or replace the rusted panels
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Variable, depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: N/A

Interior

• Power window failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, windows getting stuck
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: N/A
• Dash cluster failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working, warning lights not illuminating
  • Solution: Replace the dash cluster
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: N/A

Summary

The 2001 GMC Safari is a reliable and capable full-size van. However, it is not without its issues. The most common problems with the Safari include intake manifold gasket failure, piston ring failure, cylinder head gasket failure, slipping gears in the transmission, and body panel rust. While these issues can be expensive to fix, they are relatively rare and the Safari is still a good choice for those who need a spacious and powerful van.