2004 GMC Savana 1500

Alright, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2004 GMC Savana 1500, formatted for your website. This focuses on common and recurring problems reported across numerous owners, not isolated incidents. The 2004 GMC Savana 1500 is a full-size van known for its utility and cargo capacity. It’s a popular choice for commercial use and families needing space. Engine options included the 4.3L V6 (around 200 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque), the 5.3L V8 (around 295 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque), and the 6.0L V8. Transmission options were primarily the 4L60E four-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the van’s spacious interior and towing capabilities but dislike its fuel economy and sometimes cumbersome handling.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, overheating, rough idle, white smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, low oil pressure warning. Often related to the Active Fuel Management (AFM) system.
  • Solution: Installation of a catch can, disabling AFM, or in more severe cases, engine rebuild or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Knock Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine performance, engine knocking sounds.
  • Solution: Replace the knock sensor(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, exhaust leak.
  • Solution: Replace broken exhaust manifold bolts and gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E Four-Speed Automatic

• Slipping/Hard Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifting, especially between 1st and 2nd gear.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement, valve body repair/replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, stalling, abnormal noises, especially when shifting into gear.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, reduced load capacity, rough ride.
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges malfunctioning (speedometer, fuel gauge, etc.), intermittent power loss to the cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, stalling, loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on lower body panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity. $200 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks appearing on the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
  • Solution: Dashboard replacement or use of a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to lock or unlock.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 GMC Savana 1500 has a mix of common issues, ranging from moderate to potentially expensive. Engine problems like oil consumption and exhaust manifold issues are prevalent, as are transmission concerns with the 4L60E. Suspension wear is typical for a vehicle of this age, and electrical glitches can occur. Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. The severity and cost of these issues vary, but potential buyers should be aware of these potential problems and inspect the vehicle carefully before purchasing.