2012 GMC Savana 3500

The 2012 GMC Savana 3500 is a full-size van known for its durability and cargo/passenger hauling capabilities. Engine options include a 4.8L V8 (280 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque), a 6.0L V8 (324 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque), and a 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 (260 hp and 525 lb-ft of torque). These engines were typically paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Savana’s robust build and towing capacity, but common complaints include poor fuel economy, a basic interior, and some reliability issues.

Engine

4.8L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption between oil changes, sometimes leading to low oil levels and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Monitor oil levels frequently and top off as needed. In some cases, piston ring replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, rough running, misfires, and potential engine damage due to collapsed lifters.
  • Solution: Disable the AFM system and replace the failed lifters. Full AFM delete with a new camshaft is also an option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running, misfires, black smoke, reduced fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per injector
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, white smoke on startup.
  • Solution: Replace faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts, especially between 1st and 2nd gear, or 2nd and 3rd gear.
  • Solution: A transmission flush and filter change may help. In severe cases, valve body repair or replacement may be needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at certain speeds, stalling, or complete transmission failure.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Broken Leaves
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sagging, reduced load capacity, rough ride.
  • Solution: Replace worn or broken leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front end, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks not working properly, intermittently working, or not working at all.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, battery not charging, stalling, and eventual complete electrical failure.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially around wheel wells and rocker panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust on the body of the vehicle.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300-$2000+ depending on the severity.
  • 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 blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 GMC Savana 3500, while a capable work van, has a few potential issues to be aware of. Engine problems such as oil consumption (4.8L), AFM lifter failure (6.0L), and fuel injector/glow plug issues (6.6L Duramax) can be costly to repair. Transmission issues like harsh shifting and torque converter failure are also prevalent. Suspension wear and electrical glitches like door lock and alternator failures are common. Rust can also be a significant concern, particularly in areas with harsh winters. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle for these issues and factor in potential repair costs. While some repairs are relatively inexpensive, major engine or transmission work can be quite costly.