2011 GMC Savana 1500

The 2011 GMC Savana 1500 is a full-size van known for its ruggedness and utility. Engine options for this model year included a 4.3L V6 producing 276 horsepower and 294 lb-ft of torque, a 5.3L V8 generating 310 horsepower and 338 lb-ft of torque and a 6.0L V8 producing 324 horsepower and 373 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 4-speed automatic and a 6-speed automatic. Owners appreciate the Savana’s spacious interior, payload capacity, and towing capabilities. However, they often cite concerns about fuel economy and some common mechanical issues.

Engine

4.3L V6

• No Issues Found

5.3L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, excessive oil consumption, and potential for complete engine failure. Often accompanied by diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) related to cylinder misfires.
  • Solution: Disable AFM or replace the AFM lifters with standard lifters. This often involves a camshaft replacement as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The 5.3L V8 engine is known to consume excessive amounts of oil between changes.
  • Solution: Potential solutions include replacing the valve cover, installing a new PCV valve, or replacing the piston rings, which is a major repair.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic (4L60E)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delay or harsh shift engagement, slipping between gears, or failure to shift properly. Can be accompanied by trouble codes.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic (6L80E)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or erratic shifts, slipping between gears, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: The most common repair is to remove the valve body from the transmission and clean or replace the solenoids. If the transmission damage is severe enough, then the complete transmission may need to be replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive play in the front suspension, clunking noises while driving, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the affected ball joints. This is a common wear item on vans due to the weight and usage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking (Rear)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sits lower than normal, reduced load-carrying capacity, and potential for leaf spring cracking.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock, or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illuminated on the dashboard, loss of ABS functionality, potential for extended stopping distances.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Latch Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, latch mechanism binding or failing to engage properly.
  • Solution: Adjust, lubricate, or replace the sliding door latch mechanism.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor not working, only working on certain speeds, or making excessive noise.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor and/or the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2011 GMC Savana 1500 presents a mix of potential issues. The most significant concerns revolve around the 5.3L V8 engine’s Active Fuel Management (AFM) system and oil consumption. These issues can lead to costly repairs, potentially running into thousands of dollars. Transmission problems, particularly with the 4L60E and 6L80E, are also relatively common, with rebuilds or replacements being sometimes necessary. Suspension and electrical issues are less severe but still require attention. Prospective buyers should carefully inspect these areas and consider a pre-purchase inspection to assess the overall condition of the vehicle.