2006 GMC Envoy XL
The 2006 GMC Envoy XL is a mid-size SUV that offered a longer wheelbase and more cargo space compared to the standard Envoy. Engine options included a 4.2L Inline-6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, and a 5.3L V8 engine producing 302 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4L60-E 4-speed automatic transmission. People generally liked the Envoy XL for its spaciousness, comfortable ride, and towing capacity. Common complaints included fuel economy, some reliability issues, and the somewhat dated interior.
Engine
4.2L Inline-6
- Faulty Ignition Switch
- Description/Symptoms: The ignition switch can fail, causing the engine to stall, electrical components to malfunction, and in some cases, the vehicle to become inoperable. The key may also be able to be removed while the vehicle is still on.
- Solution: Replace the ignition switch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
- Recalls: 07V061000, 14V355000, 12V527000
- Oil Consumption
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported higher than normal oil consumption, which can lead to engine damage if not monitored and addressed. Symptoms include needing to add oil frequently between changes and blue smoke from the exhaust.
- Solution: Depending on the severity, solutions can range from replacing valve stem seals to piston rings, or even a complete engine rebuild.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Camshaft Actuator Solenoid Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The camshaft actuator solenoid can fail, causing poor engine performance, rough idling, and a check engine light.
- Solution: Replace the camshaft actuator solenoid.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
- Recalls: None Found
5.3L V8
- Oil Pressure Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The oil pressure sensor is prone to failure, leading to inaccurate readings on the gauge, a check engine light, and potential engine damage if not addressed.
- Solution: Replace the oil pressure sensor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $80 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Active Fuel Management (AFM) Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The AFM system, designed to improve fuel economy, can cause problems such as excessive oil consumption, cylinder misfires, and rough idling.
- Solution: Deactivating the AFM system or replacing faulty components can help resolve the issue. Some owners opt to install an AFM disabler device.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
4L60-E 4-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slipping/Harsh Shifting
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears or experiencing harsh shifts are common complaints. This can be caused by worn clutches, valve body issues, or low fluid levels.
- Solution: A transmission flush, valve body repair, or a complete transmission rebuild or replacement may be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (flush) - $3000+ (rebuild/replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The torque converter can fail, causing shuddering during acceleration, poor fuel economy, and difficulty shifting.
- Solution: Replace the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Air Suspension Compressor Failure (if equipped)
- Description/Symptoms: The air suspension compressor, if the vehicle is equipped with it, can fail, causing the vehicle to sag or sit unevenly.
- Solution: Replace the air suspension compressor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Worn Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings
- Description/Symptoms: Worn ball joints and control arm bushings can cause clunking noises, loose steering, and uneven tire wear.
- Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and control arm bushings.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Instrument Cluster Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The instrument cluster can experience issues such as flickering lights, inaccurate readings, or complete failure.
- Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Motor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Power window motors can fail, causing the windows to stop working.
- Solution: Replace the faulty power window motor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+ per window
- Recalls: None Found
- Four Wheel Drive (4WD) Actuator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The 4WD actuator can fail, causing the 4WD system to become inoperable.
- Solution: Replace the 4WD actuator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust on Rocker Panels and Wheel Arches
- Description/Symptoms: Rust can develop on the rocker panels and wheel arches, particularly in areas with harsh winters or road salt use.
- Solution: Repair or replace the rusted panels.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: The HVAC blower motor resistor can fail, causing the blower motor to only work on certain speeds or not at all.
- Solution: Replace the HVAC blower motor resistor.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Sunroof Issues
- Description/Symptoms: The sunroof may leak or fail to open or close properly.
- Solution: Repair or replace sunroof components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2006 GMC Envoy XL has several potential problem areas. The engine, particularly the 4.2L Inline-6 and the 5.3L V8, can experience issues with oil consumption, sensor failures, and AFM problems. The transmission may suffer from slipping or harsh shifting. Suspension components like the air suspension compressor and ball joints can also fail. Electrical problems, such as instrument cluster issues and power window motor failures, are also noted. Many repairs will cost several hundred dollars or more, and major repairs, such as transmission rebuilds, can be quite expensive. The age of the vehicle means that maintenance and repair costs are likely to be a significant factor in ownership.