2003 GMC Savana 3500

The 2003 GMC Savana 3500 is a full-size van known for its cargo capacity, towing capability, and overall utility. Engine options included the 4.3L Vortec V6 (195 hp, 260 lb-ft torque), the 5.3L Vortec V8 (285 hp, 325 lb-ft torque), and the 6.0L Vortec V8 (300 hp, 360 lb-ft torque). A primary reason people like the Savana 3500 is its ability to handle heavy workloads and provide ample space for passengers or cargo. Common dislikes include its fuel economy, dated interior, and overall ride quality compared to more modern vans.

Engine

4.3L Vortec V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, rough running engine, coolant smell.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L Vortec V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption requiring frequent top-offs, blue smoke from the exhaust, fouled spark plugs.
  • Solution: Potential solutions range from replacing valve seals to replacing piston rings or the entire engine, depending on the severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knock Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, potential engine knocking sounds.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty knock sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L Vortec V8

• Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, exhaust leak.
  • Solution: Replace broken bolts, potentially the exhaust manifold.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E Automatic Transmission (All Engine Options)

• Slipping/Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, causing a delay in acceleration, or it shifts harshly.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when going over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Broken
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sagging, reduced load capacity, poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, stalling, loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated, potential issues with ABS functionality.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rusting Rocker Panels/Wheel Arches
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the rocker panels and around the wheel arches.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+ per area
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard surface.
  • Solution: Replace or cover the dashboard.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric is detaching from the roof.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2003 GMC Savana 3500 is a capable work van, but owners should be aware of potential issues. Engine problems range from relatively minor intake gasket leaks on the V6 to more significant oil consumption issues on the 5.3L V8. The 4L60E transmission is also a known weak point. Suspension and electrical issues are also fairly common and costly to fix. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but addressing them promptly can help maintain the van’s reliability and longevity.