2002 GMC Envoy XL

The 2002 GMC Envoy XL is a mid-size SUV known for its spaciousness, especially in the extended XL version. It was available with two engine options: the 4.2L Inline-6 producing approximately 270 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque and the 5.3L V8 producing approximately 290 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. The Inline-6 engine was paired with a 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate the vehicle’s comfortable ride and towing capability, while common complaints include fuel economy and some reliability concerns, particularly with the early model years.

Engine

4.2L Inline-6

• Failed Fuel Injectors
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, poor fuel economy, and potential stalling. Often caused by clogged or failing injectors.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ (depending on number of injectors replaced and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ignition Coil Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough running, check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ignition coil.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ (depending on number of coils replaced and labor costs)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, white smoke from exhaust (in severe cases). Common leak points include the water pump, radiator, and hoses.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the source of the leak; replace damaged parts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source and extent of the leak)
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from exhaust, low oil level. Can be due to worn valve seals or piston rings.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, options range from using a thicker oil to replacing valve seals or rebuilding the engine.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (thicker oil) - $3000+ (engine rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knock Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine performance, poor fuel economy, check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty knock sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E 4-Speed Automatic (Both Engines)

• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifts between gears, slipping out of gear. Often caused by worn clutches or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Valve body repair or replacement may also be an option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 (valve body) or $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially at low speeds, poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Air Suspension Issues (if equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: Air suspension sagging or not lifting, compressor failing to operate, error messages on the dashboard. Common problems include leaking air springs, a failing compressor, and faulty sensors.
  • Solution: Replace leaking air springs, replace the air compressor, or repair/replace faulty sensors. Many opt to convert to coil springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per air spring, $300 - $600+ for compressor, $500 - $1500+ for coil spring conversion
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises from the front end, uneven tire wear, loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per ball joint
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Panel Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning or not working, dim or flickering backlighting. Often caused by faulty stepper motors or circuit board issues.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a few days, requiring frequent jump-starts. Can be caused by parasitic draw from a faulty module or accessory.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair the source of the parasitic draw.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the source of the drain)
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around the wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage, especially in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement (depending on severity).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on extent of rust)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noises behind the dashboard, inability to control temperature or airflow, only hot or cold air blowing.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty HVAC actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, slow or erratic window movement.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 GMC Envoy XL faces a range of potential issues, with engine and transmission problems being among the most costly to address. Suspension and electrical problems can also be significant. While some issues are relatively minor, others, such as engine rebuilds or transmission replacements, can be expensive. The vehicle’s age makes regular maintenance crucial for reliability, but prospective buyers should be aware of the potential for these common issues.