2002 GMC Envoy

The 2002 GMC Envoy was a popular mid-size SUV known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and truck-like capabilities. The standard engine was a 4.2L Inline 6-cylinder engine, producing 270 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciated its towing capacity and relatively smooth ride for a body-on-frame SUV. Common complaints revolved around reliability issues, particularly with electrical components and the suspension. While some found it a capable and comfortable vehicle, others experienced frustrating and costly repairs.

Engine

4.2L Inline 6 (LL8)

• Rough Idle/Misfire
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, hesitation upon acceleration, and potential misfire codes (P0300, P0301, P0302, etc.). Often caused by worn or fouled spark plugs, faulty ignition coils, or vacuum leaks.
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs and/or ignition coils. Inspect vacuum lines for leaks and repair as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on the extent of the problem.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Loss/Overheating
  • Description/Symptoms: Low coolant levels, overheating engine, white smoke from exhaust (potential head gasket issue). Can be caused by a cracked cylinder head (common issue on this engine), leaking water pump, or faulty thermostat.
  • Solution: Pressure test cooling system to identify leaks. Replace water pump, thermostat, or cylinder head as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2000+ depending on the component that needs replacing.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots on the driveway or garage floor, burning oil smell. Often caused by leaking valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal.
  • Solution: Replace the affected gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the location of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E 4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or delayed shifts, slipping between gears, or complete loss of drive. Can be caused by worn clutch packs, solenoid failure, or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, the transmission may require rebuilding or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at highway speeds, especially when accelerating or climbing hills. Can also cause a loss of fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, compressor not running, “Service Ride Control” message on the dash. Common issues include leaks in the air springs, compressor failure, or faulty ride height sensors.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air springs, compressor, or ride height sensors as needed. Some owners convert to traditional coil springs to eliminate air suspension problems.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per component, or $500 - $1500+ for coil spring conversion.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Front Suspension Component Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front end, loose steering, uneven tire wear. Common culprits include worn ball joints, tie rod ends, and sway bar links.
  • Solution: Replace worn suspension components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of gauges, dim or flickering display, or inaccurate readings.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window/Door Lock Malfunctions
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working or operating slowly, door locks not responding to the key fob or switch. Often caused by faulty window motors, door lock actuators, or wiring problems.
  • Solution: Replace faulty window motors, door lock actuators, or repair wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per component.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel gauge reading inaccurately, either showing empty when the tank is full or vice versa. Often caused by a faulty fuel level sensor in the fuel tank.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel level sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted body panels. Apply rust inhibitor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor not working or only working on certain speeds, no air coming out of the vents.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The fabric headliner detaches from the roof and sags.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 GMC Envoy, while offering a comfortable ride and spacious interior, is prone to several common issues, especially considering its age. Engine problems like coolant loss and oil leaks, along with transmission slipping, can lead to significant repair costs. Electrical gremlins and suspension issues, particularly with the air suspension, add to the potential ownership expenses. Overall, the severity of these issues ranges from minor inconveniences to major repairs, with costs varying accordingly. Potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential repairs.