2004 GMC Savana 1500

Introduction: The 2004 GMC Savana 1500 is a full-size van offered with a choice of two engine options: a 4.3L V6 and a 5.3L V8. Both engines can be paired with either a 4-speed automatic or a 5-speed manual transmission. The Savana 1500 is praised for its spacious interior, strong towing capacity, and reliable powertrain. However, it is also known for certain common issues that affect specific components.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Spark Plug Failure: Description/Symptoms: Premature failure of spark plugs, resulting in misfires, rough idling, and reduced engine performance. Solution: Replace spark plugs with upgraded or OEM-recommended versions. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: Description/Symptoms: Leaking intake manifold gaskets can cause a vacuum leak, leading to rough idling, performance issues, and increased emissions. Solution: Replace leaking gaskets. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Vortec 5300 Engine Knock: Description/Symptoms: Excessive engine knocking caused by worn piston rings or valve train components. Solution: Replace affected components as necessary. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+ Recalls: 04V348000

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, slippage during acceleration, or rough shifting. Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+ Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure: Description/Symptoms: Insufficient hydraulic pressure leading to transmission shuddering, overheating, or loss of power. Solution: Replace torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Pedal Pulsation: Description/Symptoms: Vibration or pulsation felt through the clutch pedal during engagement. Solution: Replace faulty clutch disc, pressure plate, or flywheel. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+ Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage: Description/Symptoms: Rear leaf springs can snap, causing the vehicle to sag or lose stability. Solution: Replace broken leaf springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ Recalls: None Found
• Front Ball Joint Failure: Description/Symptoms: Worn or damaged ball joints can lead to excessive play or knocking sounds during suspension movement. Solution: Replace faulty ball joints. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Weak or no charging system, discharged battery, or illuminated battery warning light. Solution: Replace alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+ Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain: Description/Symptoms: Excessive battery drain when the vehicle is parked, leading to a dead battery. Solution: Identify and resolve the source of the parasitic draw. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Door Lock Failure: Description/Symptoms: Power door locks may malfunction, preventing doors from locking or unlocking. Solution: Replace faulty door lock actuators. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate Rust: Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the tailgate can lead to weakened support and potential failure. Solution: Rust repair or tailgate replacement. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Center Console Noise: Description/Symptoms: Rattles or vibrations coming from the center console area. Solution: Tighten or replace loose components. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+ Recalls: None Found
• Floor Mat Interference: Description/Symptoms: Floor mats can interfere with the accelerator pedal, potentially causing a loss of vehicle control. Solution: Use properly fitting floor mats. Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A Recalls: 04V141000

Summary: The 2004 GMC Savana 1500 is generally a reliable vehicle, but it can experience some specific issues related to the engine, transmission, suspension, electrical, exterior, and interior components. While some issues, such as spark plug failure, are relatively inexpensive to fix, more major problems like transmission slipping or Vortec 5300 engine knock can be costly to resolve. It is important for owners to be aware of these potential issues and to address them promptly to ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicle.