2004 GMC Savana 3500

Introduction:

The 2004 GMC Savana 3500 is a full-size van available with various engine and transmission options. The standard engine is a 6.0L V8 producing 300 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 6.6L V8, 8.1L V8, and a 6.5L turbodiesel V8. Transmission choices include a 4-speed automatic, a 5-speed automatic, and a 6-speed manual. Despite its commercial nature, the Savana 3500 offers a comfortable interior with amenities like air conditioning, power windows, and a CD player. However, it is known for its reliability issues, especially with its suspension and electrical components.

Engine

6.0L V8

• Valve Stem Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blue smoke from the exhaust, oil consumption
  • Solution: Replace valve stem seals
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.6L V8

• piston ring failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: replace piston rings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

8.1L V8

• Cracked Cylinder Heads:
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace cylinder heads
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.5L Turbodiesel V8

• Fuel Injector Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, reduced power
  • Solution: Replace fuel injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping Gears:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates or slips when shifting
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Automatic

• Valve Body Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, delayed shifts, harsh engagement
  • Solution: Repair or replace valve body
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting, slipping clutch
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front end, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Breakage:
  • Description/Symptoms: sagging in the rear, rough ride
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system malfunctions
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No response when turning the key
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows do not roll up or down properly
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC System Malfunctions:
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control temperature or air flow
  • Solution: Repair or replace HVAC components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 GMC Savana 3500 is prone to various issues, particularly with its engine, transmission, and electrical components. Engine problems range from valve stem seal failure to cracked cylinder heads, while transmission issues include slipping gears and valve body problems. The suspension and electrical systems are also susceptible to failures. While some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others can be severe and require costly repairs. Owners should be prepared for potential breakdowns and the accompanying financial burden.