1997 Gmc G3500 problems

General information about Gmc-G3500
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

The Chevrolet Express (also known as the GMC Savana) is a series of full-size vans produced by General Motors since 1996. The successor to the Chevrolet G-series van, the Express is produced in passenger and cargo variants. Alongside the standard van body, the line is offered as a cutaway van chassis; the latter vehicle is a chassis cab variant developed for commercial-grade applications, including ambulances, buses, motorhomes, and small trucks.

In production for a single generation since 1995, over 2.5 million examples of the Express and the Savana have been produced. One of the longest-produced designs in American automotive history, the Express/Savana are rivaled only by the Jeep Wagoneer and Dodge Ram Van for longevity.

Since 1995, General Motors has assembled the Express and Savana at its Wentzville Assembly facility (Wentzville, Missouri). Also, since 2017, GM has sourced commercial cutaway-chassis production from Navistar through its Springfield Assembly Plant (Springfield, Ohio).

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Common 1997 Gmc G3500 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the 1997 GMC Savana 3500, several common problems have been reported. Here is a detailed list of these issues:

Starting and Stalling Problems: Owners have reported issues with starting and stalling, where the engine may fire up briefly but then quit, or the vehicle may not start at all. This problem can be related to various factors such as a bad ground wire, fuel pump issues, or problems with the security system preventing the car from starting. In some cases, replacing the starter, battery, or addressing loose ground wires has resolved these starting and stalling issues.
Fuel Pump Module Failure: Another common problem is related to the fuel pump module. Owners have experienced low fuel pressure, which is crucial for the proper functioning of the CSFI fuel injection system in the 5.7L Vortec engine. Low fuel pressure can lead to starting issues and poor engine performance. Replacing the fuel pump module and the fuel filter is often necessary to address this problem.
Intermittent No-Start Situations: Some owners have faced intermittent no-start situations where the vehicle may crank but not start, or it may start but lack power. This issue can be challenging to diagnose and may be linked to components like the throttle position sensor, idle air control solenoid, throttle body, or mass airflow sensor. Despite replacing these parts, the problem may persist, indicating a more complex underlying issue.
Electrical and Wiring Problems: Loose wires, bad grounds, or faulty electrical connections have also been reported by owners. These issues can manifest in starting problems, stalling, or erratic engine behavior. Ensuring proper electrical connections and addressing any loose or damaged wiring is essential to prevent these issues.
General Reliability Concerns: While the 1997 GMC Savana 3500 is praised for its reliability, some owners have highlighted occasional problems after long road trips or on challenging terrains. These issues have been described as minor and easily fixable, emphasizing the overall reliability and comfort of the vehicle.

By addressing these common problems reported by owners of the 1997 GMC Savana 3500, drivers can better understand and potentially resolve issues related to starting, fuel delivery, electrical systems, and overall reliability of their vehicles.

1997 Gmc G3500 car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Gmc G3500 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Gmc G3500 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1997 Gmc G3500 complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Gmc G3500.

2015-03-16

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

Date Of Incident: 2015-03-15
VIN: 1GDHG31R2V1
Components: SERVICE BRAKES
Summary: BACKING OUT OF MY YARD, BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. STEEL BRAKE LINE RUPTURED. ON EXAMINATION, I FOUND RUST ON THE BROKEN LINE AND SEVERAL OTHER LINES. *TR

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1997 Gmc G3500 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1997 Gmc G3500.

2007-10-24

Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: CERTAIN HONEYWELL FRAM RACING BRAND HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS THAT WERE MANUFACTURED FROM MAY 25, 2006, THROUGH SEPTEMBER 14, 2007, AND SOLD FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR VEHICLES LIST ABOVE. THE AFFECTED FILTERS ARE MARKED WITH A DATE CODE A61451 THROUGH A72571 SEQUENTIALLY. THE DATE CODE AND PART NUMBER APPEAR ON THE FILTER HOUSING. FRAM RACING HP4 AND HP8 OIL FILTERS NOT BEARING A DATE CODE IN THIS RANGE ARE NOT AFFECTED BY THIS RECALL. THE GASKET OF THE OIL FILTER BECOMES MORE PLIABLE UNDER HIGH TEMPERATURES AND PRESSURES.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE INADEQUATE SEALING AND LOSS OF ENGINE OIL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL REPLACE THE AFFECTED OIL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING NOVEMBER 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE TOLL-FREE AT 1-800-890-2075.