2018 GMC Savana 2500

The 2018 GMC Savana 2500 is a full-size cargo van offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. Engine choices include a 4.3L V6, a 4.8L V8, and a 6.0L V8. Transmission options include a 6-speed automatic and an 8-speed automatic. The Savana 2500 is known for its spacious interior, powerful engines, and impressive towing and payload capacities. However, it has also been the subject of several complaints and recalls.

Engine

4.3L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold, causing overheating or engine performance issues.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Timing Chain Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Metal shavings in the oil, knocking or rattling noises from the engine, and reduced engine power.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain and associated components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

4.8L V8

• No Issues Found

6.0L V8

• Cylinder Head Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the cylinder heads, overheating, and engine performance issues.
  • Solution: Replace the affected cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $3,000 - $5,000+
• Piston Ring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption and decreased engine power.
  • Solution: Overhaul the engine or replace the piston rings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+

Transmission

6-speed Automatic

• Transmission Slipping:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, delayed acceleration, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Overhaul or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
• Torque Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration during acceleration, loss of power, and increased transmission temperature.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

8-speed Automatic

• Transmission Control Module Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission malfunctions, including shifting problems, loss of power, and warning lights.
  • Solution: Replace the transmission control module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Transmission Seal Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission leaks, fluid loss, and reduced transmission performance.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking transmission seals.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Suspension

• Front Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, uneven tire wear, and reduced handling.
  • Solution: Replace the worn control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Rear Leaf Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, reduced load capacity, and increased ride harshness.
  • Solution: Replace the broken or damaged leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely, even when the vehicle is turned off.
  • Solution: Diagnose and find the source of the electrical drain and repair or replace the faulty component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, flickering electrical components, and charging system warning lights.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Door Hinge Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Doors sagging or sticking, difficulty opening or closing, and wind noise.
  • Solution: Replace the worn or damaged door hinges.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Slide Door Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Slide door does not open or close properly, malfunctioning door opening lights, and warning messages.
  • Solution: Replace the slide door motor or related components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or fading on the dashboard, particularly in the areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the damaged dashboard or apply a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Climate Control Problems:
  • Description/Symptoms: AC or heater not working properly, fan speed issues, and temperature fluctuations.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty climate control components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

The 2018 GMC Savana 2500 has several reported issues, including engine and transmission failures, suspension problems, electrical problems, and various interior and exterior concerns. The severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the component affected and the extent of the damage. Some issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, while others can be quite severe and costly. It is important for owners to be aware of these potential problems and to have their vehicles regularly inspected and serviced to help prevent or address them promptly.