2012 GMC Savana 4500

Here’s a breakdown of common issues and complaints for the 2012 GMC Savana 4500, categorized and formatted as requested. The 2012 GMC Savana 4500 is a heavy-duty full-size van primarily used for commercial purposes like cargo hauling and passenger transport. Engine options for the 2012 Savana 4500 include a 6.0L Vortec V8 producing 324 horsepower and 373 lb-ft of torque, and a 6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 producing 260 horsepower and 525 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Savana owners often appreciate its robust capabilities, spacious interior, and ease of customization. However, common dislikes include its utilitarian interior, relatively poor fuel economy, and potential for higher maintenance costs due to its heavy-duty nature.

Engine

6.0L Vortec V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent oil top-offs between scheduled oil changes. Can be indicated by blue smoke from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacing valve seals and piston rings is one possible solution, or replacing the entire engine is another possible solution.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $6,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Exhaust Manifold Bolts Breaking
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise, especially when the engine is cold, due to exhaust leaks. Broken bolts are often discovered when attempting to replace the manifold gasket.
  • Solution: Replacing the exhaust manifold and bolts, sometimes requiring specialized tools to extract broken bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.6L Duramax Turbo Diesel V8 (LGH)

• Fuel Injector Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, decreased fuel economy, and potential for white or black smoke from the exhaust. Can lead to damaged pistons.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty fuel injectors, and potentially damaged pistons.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $4,000+ (depending on the number of injectors and if pistons are damaged)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Glow Plug Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather, and rough running until the engine warms up.
  • Solution: Replacing faulty glow plugs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (Hydra-Matic 6L90)

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibrations, especially at highway speeds or during light acceleration. Transmission may slip or fail to engage gears properly.
  • Solution: Replacing the torque converter. Flushing the transmission fluid can sometimes temporarily alleviate symptoms, but replacement is generally necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Harsh or Delayed Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough shifts between gears, or a noticeable delay when shifting from park or neutral into drive or reverse. Can be caused by worn valve body components or low transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Transmission fluid flush and filter replacement, valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, especially when loaded. Reduced ride height and compromised handling. Broken leaf springs are a safety hazard.
  • Solution: Replacing the leaf spring(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ per spring
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints/Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front end, especially over bumps. Loose or imprecise steering.
  • Solution: Replacing worn ball joints and/or tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• ABS Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: ABS light illumination, loss of ABS function, and potential issues with traction control.
  • Solution: Replacing the faulty ABS sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per sensor
  • Recalls: None Found
• Body Control Module (BCM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems such as malfunctioning power windows, door locks, lights, or other accessories. Can be difficult to diagnose.
  • Solution: Diagnosing and repairing or replacing the BCM.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Specifically around wheel wells and rocker panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming around wheel wells, rocker panels, and other body panels.
  • Solution: Rust removal and repair, potentially involving welding and bodywork.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3,000+ (depending on the severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor stops working, resulting in no airflow from the vents. Can be intermittent at first, then fail completely.
  • Solution: Replacing the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Driver Information Center (DIC) Display Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim or flickering display, or complete failure of the DIC.
  • Solution: Replacing the DIC.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2012 GMC Savana 4500, while a capable work van, is prone to some common issues. Engine issues like oil consumption in the 6.0L V8 and fuel injector problems in the 6.6L Duramax diesel can be costly to address. Transmission issues like torque converter failure and harsh shifting can also lead to significant repair bills. Suspension and electrical problems, while not as severe, can still be inconvenient. Rust is also a concern, especially in areas with harsh weather. Overall, the Savana 4500 requires diligent maintenance to prevent major issues, and potential buyers should carefully inspect vehicles for signs of these common problems before purchasing. The severity and cost of repairs can vary widely depending on the specific issue and the extent of the damage.