2002 GMC Safari

The 2002 GMC Safari is a rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive passenger and cargo van that offers practicality and utility. The standard engine is a 4.3L Vortec V6 producing approximately 190 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission. People often appreciate the Safari for its spacious interior, relatively compact size compared to full-size vans, and its ability to haul cargo or passengers. However, common complaints include relatively poor fuel economy for its size, dated interior features, and the age-related reliability issues typical of older vehicles.

Engine

4.3L Vortec V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating, and white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Issues (Spider Injector)
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor fuel economy, rough idle, misfires, hard starting, or a check engine light. This is a common issue with the central port injection system.
  • Solution: Replace the spider injector assembly with an updated multi-port fuel injection system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, hard starting, stalling, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor cap, rotor, or the entire distributor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E 4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, shifts harshly, or fails to shift at all.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. Could involve replacing the valve body, solenoids, or rebuilding the entire transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, stalling, or unusual noises coming from the transmission area.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and/or control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging (Rear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sits low, poor ride quality, reduced load capacity.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs or add-a-leaf.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window and Door Lock Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows and locks fail to operate intermittently or completely.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor, door lock actuator, or repair wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door/window
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light is illuminated, ABS system is not functioning properly.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Body and Frame)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on body panels, undercarriage, and frame components. This can lead to structural weakness.
  • Solution: Rust repair, body panel replacement, or frame repair/replacement (depending on severity).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $5000+ (highly variable)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner material detaches from the backing and sags.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner material.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor stops working, resulting in no heat or AC.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor or blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 GMC Safari, while practical, suffers from common issues related to its age. Engine and transmission problems, particularly related to the 4.3L V6 and 4L60E transmission, can be expensive to repair. Suspension components are also prone to wear and tear, affecting ride quality and handling. Electrical and interior issues add to the overall maintenance costs. Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh weather. Owners should be prepared for potentially costly repairs and maintenance.