2004 GMC Safari

The 2004 GMC Safari is a rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive passenger van, known for its versatility and cargo capacity. Its major selling points include its comfortable ride, ample interior space, and truck-based ruggedness. However, some owners have disliked its fuel economy and dated styling. The engine options for the 2004 GMC Safari included a 4.3L Vortec V6 engine, producing around 190 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. The transmission option was a 4-speed automatic. The Safari offers a blend of utility and passenger comfort, making it a popular choice for families and commercial use.

Engine

4.3L Vortec V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking externally at the front or rear of the engine, overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from the exhaust, rough running, or misfires.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, rough idle, stalling, or a no-start condition. This can be due to a faulty distributor cap, rotor, or ignition module.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty distributor component, such as the cap, rotor, or entire distributor assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, misfires, poor fuel economy, and difficulty starting. Clogged or failing fuel injectors can disrupt the air/fuel mixture.
  • Solution: Cleaning or replacement of the faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4L60E)

• Slipping or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, delayed engagement, harsh or erratic shifting, and overall poor performance.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the transmission, including replacement of worn clutches and bands.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • 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 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and loose or wandering steering.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints and/or control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Leaf Springs (Rear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, especially when loaded, reduced ride height, and compromised handling.
  • Solution: Replacement of the rear leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Door Lock Failures
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to operate, intermittently working, or only working on some doors.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuators or repair of wiring issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly, flickering, or displaying incorrect readings.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Body Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust developing on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and lower body panels.
  • Solution: Rust repair by cutting out rusted panels and welding in new metal, followed by bodywork and paint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+ per panel, depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching from the roof and sagging down.
  • Solution: Replacement or re-gluing of the headliner fabric.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Broken or Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows failing to roll up or down, making grinding noises, or getting stuck.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 GMC Safari, while a versatile and spacious van, is prone to several common issues related to its age and typical usage. Engine problems such as intake manifold leaks and fuel injector issues are prevalent, along with transmission concerns like slipping and torque converter failure. Suspension components like ball joints and leaf springs tend to wear out, and electrical issues with power door locks and instrument clusters are frequently reported. Rust is a common concern for exterior panels, while interior issues include sagging headliners and window regulator failures. The severity of these issues ranges from relatively minor repairs to potentially costly engine and transmission overhauls, making a thorough inspection crucial for prospective buyers. The estimated costs for these repairs can vary widely depending on the extent of the damage and the labor rates in the area.