2014 GMC Savana 3500

The 2014 GMC Savana 3500 is a full-size cargo and passenger van known for its durability and utility. Engine options include a 4.8L V8 (280 hp, 295 lb-ft torque), a 6.0L V8 (342 hp, 373 lb-ft torque), and a 6.6L Duramax diesel V8 (260 hp, 525 lb-ft torque). The 4.8L and 6.0L engines are typically paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission (Hydra-Matic 6L90). The Duramax diesel option typically uses a 6-speed Allison automatic transmission. Owners often appreciate the Savana’s spaciousness and towing capacity, but criticize its fuel economy, dated interior, and handling.

Engine

4.8L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption may result in low oil levels, potential engine damage, and the need for frequent oil top-offs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) illuminated, reduced engine performance, potential failure of emissions test, rattling sound from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption may result in low oil levels, potential engine damage, and the need for frequent oil top-offs.
  • Solution: Replacement of the valve cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Catalytic Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) illuminated, reduced engine performance, potential failure of emissions test, rattling sound from the exhaust.
  • Solution: Replacement of catalytic converter(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.6L Duramax Diesel V8

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, black smoke from exhaust, reduced fuel economy, potential for engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injector(s).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+ (per injector)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Frequent regeneration cycles, reduced engine performance, Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) illuminated, potential for DPF clogging and failure.
  • Solution: Forced regeneration, cleaning of DPF, or DPF replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ (DPF replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Hydra-Matic 6L90 (paired with 4.8L and 6.0L V8)

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic or harsh shifts between gears, transmission slipping, loss of power, Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) illuminated.
  • Solution: Valve body replacement or rebuild, transmission replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Allison 1000 (paired with 6.6L Duramax Diesel V8)

• Torque Converter Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at low speeds, poor acceleration, overheating.
  • Solution: Torque converter replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, uneven ride height, poor handling, potential for leaf spring breakage.
  • Solution: Leaf spring replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+ per spring
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises from front suspension, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Ball joint replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per ball joint
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Dead battery, difficulty starting the vehicle, need for frequent jump starts.
  • Solution: Diagnosis of parasitic drain, repair or replacement of faulty components (alternator, relay, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door not locking or unlocking with remote or switch.
  • Solution: Door lock actuator replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially Around Wheel Wells and Rocker Panels)
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust formation, potential for structural damage.
  • Solution: Rust repair, panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control fan speed, no airflow from vents.
  • Solution: Blower motor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seatbelt issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Seatbelts do not retract properly, are difficult to use, or fail to restrain the occupant properly.
  • Solution: Seatbelt assembly replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2014 GMC Savana 3500 has a mix of potential issues across its various systems. Engine issues such as oil consumption and catalytic converter failure are common across the gas engines. The diesel engine suffers from fuel injector and DPF problems. Transmission issues can be costly to repair. Suspension and electrical issues are also present, though generally less severe. Rust is a significant concern on the exterior, particularly in areas prone to corrosion. Overall, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect any used 2014 Savana 3500 and budget for potential repairs, particularly related to the engine, transmission, and rust. The cost of repairs can range from a few hundred dollars for minor issues to several thousand for major engine or transmission work.