2013 GMC Savana 4500

Introduction The 2013 GMC Savana 4500 is a full-size van offered with a choice of two gasoline engines and two transmission options. The 6.0L V8 produces 324 horsepower and 373 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 6.6L V8 generates 352 horsepower and 464 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic or a heavy-duty Allison 1000 six-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the Savana’s spacious interior, high towing capacity, and powerful engines. However, it has been criticized for its rough ride quality, poor fuel economy, and outdated interior.

Engine Issues

6.0L V8 Engine

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure: Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, reduced engine power, rough idle, check engine light. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• Piston Ring Failure: Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, loss of power. Solution: Rebuild or replace the engine. Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $5000+
• Valve Train Noise: Description/Symptoms: Tapping or clicking sounds from the engine, especially during cold starts. Solution: Adjust or replace the valve lifters or rockers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+

6.6L V8 Engine

• Fuel Injector Failure: Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle, reduced fuel economy, check engine light. Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injectors. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Regeneration Issues: Description/Symptoms: Decreased engine power, increased fuel consumption, check engine light. Solution: Force a DPF regeneration or replace the filter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+

Transmission Issues

Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shifting Problems: Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping, hesitation, check transmission light. Solution: Repair or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1500 - $3000+
• Torque Converter Shudder: Description/Symptoms: Vibration or shudder when accelerating from a stop. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+

HD Allison 1000 Six-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Overheating: Description/Symptoms: Transmission slips or hesitates, check transmission light. Solution: Replace the transmission oil cooler or radiator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
• Internal Component Failure: Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic transmission failure, loss of drive power. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $3000 - $6000+

Suspension Issues

• Front Suspension Squeaking: Description/Symptoms: Squeaking or creaking sounds when driving over bumps. Solution: Lubricate or replace the front suspension bushings. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Rear Leaf Spring Breakage: Description/Symptoms: Sagging or uneven ride height, loss of load-carrying capacity. Solution: Replace the broken leaf spring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+

Electrical Issues

• Battery Drain: Description/Symptoms: Vehicle won’t start, battery goes dead after sitting. Solution: Diagnose and repair the electrical system, replace the battery. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
• Alternator Failure: Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical issues, check battery light. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
• Starter Motor Failure: Description/Symptoms: Vehicle won’t start, grinding noises when starting. Solution: Replace the starter motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Exterior Issues

• Rear Door Latch Failure: Description/Symptoms: Rear doors won’t open or close properly. Solution: Replace the door latch assembly. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Sliding Door Cable Breakage: Description/Symptoms: Sliding door won’t open or close smoothly or gets stuck. Solution: Replace the sliding door cable. Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Interior Issues

• Power Window Failure: Description/Symptoms: Power windows won’t operate, window gets stuck. Solution: Repair or replace the window motor, switch, or wiring. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Climate Control Malfunction: Description/Symptoms: AC or heater doesn’t work properly or intermittently. Solution: Diagnose and repair the climate control system, replace the compressor or blower motor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
• Dashboard Rattle: Description/Symptoms: Noises or vibrations from the dashboard while driving. Solution: Install damping materials or foam strips to reduce noise. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary The 2013 GMC Savana 4500 has a variety of issues ranging from mild to severe. Some of the more costly repairs include a failed transmission, engine rebuild, or diesel particulate filter replacement. However, many of the issues are relatively minor and can be fixed for a reasonable cost. It’s important for owners to stay up-to-date on maintenance and repairs to minimize the risk of major problems.