2004 GMC Jimmy

The 2004 GMC Jimmy is a compact SUV that was produced by General Motors. It was available with a 4.3L V6 engine, producing around 190 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. The engine was available with either a 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission. People liked the Jimmy for its ruggedness, off-road capability (especially in 4x4 models), and relatively low price. However, it was also criticized for its dated interior, mediocre fuel economy, and reliability issues.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Faulty Fuel Injectors
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, poor fuel economy, and potential catalytic converter damage. Often, the injectors become clogged or fail electrically. The spider injectors are a common cause of this, though they have been redesigned to eliminate the issue.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injectors. Many owners choose to upgrade to the updated MFI (Multi-Port Fuel Injection) system for increased reliability.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and a sweet coolant smell. This can lead to serious engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, stalling, and difficulty starting.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor cap, rotor, or the entire distributor assembly if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E 4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Slipping or Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips between gears, resulting in delayed acceleration or sudden jerks. Hard shifting can also occur.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. This could involve replacing worn clutches, solenoids, or rebuilding the entire unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, and a general lack of power.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

NV3500 5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Hard to Shift/Grinding Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting into certain gears, grinding noises during shifting, and potential gear lockout.
  • Solution: Check and replace the transmission fluid. If this doesn’t fix the issue, the transmission may need to be rebuilt.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100-$1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front end, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Rear Leaf Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, poor ride quality, and reduced load-carrying capacity.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Faulty Fuel Pump Relay
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, and fuel pump not activating.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel pump relay.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), dim or flickering lights, and inaccurate readings.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated on the dashboard, ABS system not functioning, and potential loss of braking assistance.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Wells
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust formation on the rocker panels and around the wheel wells.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the affected panels. This may involve cutting out the rusted sections and welding in new metal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, often due to sun exposure and temperature changes.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or install a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not working or moving slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the power window motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 GMC Jimmy, while appreciated for its utility and affordability, suffers from a number of common issues, particularly related to its engine, transmission, and suspension. Engine-related issues such as fuel injector problems and intake manifold gasket leaks can lead to significant repair costs. Transmission problems, especially with the 4L60E automatic, are also a concern. Suspension wear, electrical faults, and rust are common problems that owners should be aware of. Many repairs can be costly, depending on the severity and complexity of the issue. Potential buyers should carefully inspect these areas before making a purchase.