2002 GMC Jimmy

The 2002 GMC Jimmy is a compact SUV known for its traditional body-on-frame construction, providing decent off-road capability and ruggedness. It came standard with a 4.3L Vortec V6 engine that produced around 190 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque and it was paired with a 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission. Some owners appreciate its simple design and relatively affordable price point, while others dislike its dated interior, less-than-stellar fuel economy, and common mechanical issues.

Engine

4.3L Vortec V6

• Failed Fuel Pump
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, loss of power, or complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replacement of the fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks (often external), rough idling, overheating, and loss of coolant. Can cause damage if it leaks into the oil.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, difficulty starting, engine stalling, and check engine light illumination.
  • Solution: Replacement of the distributor or distributor cap/rotor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E 4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, delayed or harsh shifts, or failure to shift at all.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Fluid change may help in some instances.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1800 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration at low speeds, stalling at idle, and poor acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises when going over bumps, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Leaf Springs (Rear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, reduced load capacity, and poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idler Arm Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering while driving, and difficulty maintaining a straight line.
  • Solution: Replacement of the idler arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Window not going up or down, slow movement, or clicking noises from the door panel.
  • Solution: Replacement of the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly, flickering lights, or complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated, reduced braking performance, and potential locking of the wheels during braking.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the lower body panels, especially the rocker panels and around the wheel arches.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking or becoming difficult to use.
  • Solution: Door handle replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the solution.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Headliner fabric detaching from the roof and sagging.
  • Solution: Headliner replacement or repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 GMC Jimmy can be a relatively affordable and capable SUV, but it’s important to be aware of its common issues. Engine and transmission problems, particularly with the 4.3L Vortec V6 and 4L60E transmission, can be costly to repair. Suspension issues like worn ball joints and sagging leaf springs also contribute to maintenance costs. Electrical problems such as power window motor failure can be annoying. Exterior rust can be a major concern in regions with harsh winters. The severity of the issues can range from minor inconveniences to major mechanical failures, with repair costs varying accordingly. Careful inspection and a thorough maintenance history are essential when considering purchasing a 2002 GMC Jimmy.