1996 Gmc Safari problems
The Chevrolet Astro is a van that was manufactured and marketed by the Chevrolet division of American auto manufacturer General Motors from 1985 to 2005. Sold alongside the GMC Safari, the Astro was marketed in multiple configurations, including passenger minivan and cargo van.
The Astro and Safari used a rear-wheel drive chassis; all-wheel drive became an option in 1990. For its entire production, the Astro and Safari were produced by Baltimore Assembly in Baltimore, Maryland; the vans would be the final model line produced by the facility. In total, approximately 3.2 million Astros and Safaris were produced from 1985 through 2005.
Background
The Astro and Safari were introduced for the 1985 model year as the first minivan from General Motors. While marketed as a response to the first-generation Chrysler minivans, GM selected a rear-wheel drive layout, sizing the Astro and Safari closely to the short-wheelbase Chevrolet G10 van. Similar to the Ford Aerostar, to reduce production costs, GM adapted light-truck powertrain components; engines and transmissions were sourced from the Chevrolet S-10, allowing for a towing capacity of up to 5,500 lb (2,500 kg).
Prior to its use on a minivan, the Astro nameplate was used twice by General Motors; in 1967 (for the Chevrolet Astro 1 concept car) and from 1969 until 1987 (on the GMC Astro COE semitractor). GMC sourced the Safari nameplate from Pontiac (used by the latter to denote station wagons). As GMC was half of the Pontiac/GMC Division (later including Buick), from 1985 through 1989, both GMC and Pontiac Safaris were simultaneously offered through the same dealership network.
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Common 1996 Gmc Safari problems
The GMC Safari, a van produced by General Motors, has been known to have several common problems over the years. While the 2003 model year is considered the worst due to factors such as higher repair costs and more problems at lower mileage, issues have been reported across various model years.
One of the most common problems, particularly with the 1995 model, is engine stalls while driving.
Another issue reported by GMC Safari owners is the failure of the ABS light due to problems with the brake system control unit. This can lead to the ABS system not functioning properly, which can be dangerous in certain driving conditions.
The 1996 Safari has been reported to have issues with rough idle when in gear. This can be caused by various factors, including faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
Some Safari owners have also reported problems with the rear doors not opening, particularly in the 1995 model. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including faulty door latch mechanisms or problems with the door hinges.
Transfer case lockup has been reported as a problem in the 2000 Safari, which can lead to difficulty shifting gears or engaging the four-wheel-drive system. This can be caused by various factors, including worn-out gears or problems with the transfer case control module.
Heater problems have also been reported in the 2000 Safari, with some owners reporting that the heater does not work at all. This can be caused by various factors, including problems with the heater core, thermostat, or blower motor.
Engine issues are a common theme among Safari complaints, with 14 complaints reported across all model years. These issues can be caused by various factors, including faulty spark plugs, ignition coils, or fuel injectors.
Electrical issues have also been reported, with six complaints across all model years. These issues can be caused by various factors, including faulty wiring, blown fuses, or problems with the electrical control modules.
HVAC issues have been reported in four complaints across all model years, with problems ranging from a malfunctioning air conditioning system to issues with the heater.
Suspension issues have been reported in three complaints across all model years, with problems ranging from worn-out shocks and struts to issues with the steering system.
Brakes have also been reported as a problem, with three complaints across all model years. These issues can be caused by various factors, including worn-out brake pads or rotors, problems with the brake lines, or issues with the brake calipers.
Are GMC Safaris good?
GMC Safari fan
It has been very reliable and gets >17.5 mpg doing package delivery in northern Nevada. It drives well, feels planted on the road and is rattle free. With regular maintenance this van should easily eclipse 200K miles.
What is the gas mileage on a 1996 GMC Safari?
15 mpg city/19 mpg highway
EPA fuel economy: 15 mpg city/19 mpg highway. Engine: 4.3-liter V-6; 190-hp at 4400 rpm; 250 lb-ft torque at 2800 rpm. Transmission: Four-speed automatic.
Is the GMC Safari front or rear wheel drive?
rear-wheel-drive
Along with the Chevrolet Astro van, Safari was GM's rear-wheel-drive response to Lee Iacocca's front-wheel-drive mini-vans at Chrysler in the mid-'80s. GM insisted van owners wanted rear-wheel-drive, truck-tough haulers, not front-wheel-drive vans built for show and not tow.
When was the last GMC Safari made?
2005Chevrolet Astro
| Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | General Motors |
| Also called | GMC Safari |
| Production | 1985–2005 |
| Assembly | Baltimore Assembly, Baltimore, Maryland |
Are GMC Safaris good?
GMC Safari fan
It has been very reliable and gets >17.5 mpg doing package delivery in northern Nevada. It drives well, feels planted on the road and is rattle free. With regular maintenance this van should easily eclipse 200K miles.
What is the gas mileage on a 1996 GMC Safari?
15 mpg city/19 mpg highway
EPA fuel economy: 15 mpg city/19 mpg highway. Engine: 4.3-liter V-6; 190-hp at 4400 rpm; 250 lb-ft torque at 2800 rpm. Transmission: Four-speed automatic.
When was the last GMC Safari made?
2005
Chevrolet Astro
| Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | General Motors |
| Also called | GMC Safari |
| Production | 1985–2005 |
| Assembly | Baltimore Assembly, Baltimore, Maryland |
What size engine is in the GMC Safari?
Under the hood, the carmaker installed a 4.3-liter V6 engine paired to a standard 4-speed automatic gearbox.
1996 Gmc Safari car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Gmc Safari problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Visibility problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Gmc Safari vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Gmc Safari
The NHTSA has received 168 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Gmc Safari. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Gmc Safari vehicles.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-19
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILS EVEN WITH NEW BATTERY, ALTERNATOR. WHEN I ATTEMPT TO START VEHICLE ALL POWER IS LOST. HAPPENED LAST YEAR IS HAPPENING AGAIN, ONLY IN WINTER. KILLS BATTERY AFTER BATTERY. HAVE BOUGHT 3 BATTERIES, NOW THE ELECTRICAL POWER JUST DOES NOT COME ON. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-12-26
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I LOVE THIS VAN BUT IM BEGINNING TO THINK THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE DOOR HANDLES. WHEN I LEAST EXPECT IT THE HANDLES WILL JUST BREAK OFF IN MY HAND. I HAVE REPLACED EACH ONE AT LEAST TWICE. I WAS WONDERING IF THERE IS A RECALL ON THEM THAT I WAS NOT AWARE OF. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-30
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GKDM19W0TB
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL *- THE CONTACT CALLED REGARDING A 1996 GMC SAFARI VAN. THE CONTACT WAS TRAVELING AT 25 MPH AND WHEN HE APPROACHED A STOP SIGN THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGED. HIS FOOT REMAINED ON THE BRAKES, BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED INTO THE INTERSECTION AND WAS HIT BY ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT BOTH OF THE VEHICLES WERE BADLY DAMAGED. THE VEHICLE DID NOT HAVE CRUISE CONTROL INDICATOR, BUT HE FELT THE CRUISE CONTROL ENGAGE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE CONTACT HAS A COPY OF THE POLICE REPORT. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP. *AK UPDATED 02/27/07. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-15
- VIN: 1GKEL19W5TB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, A LOUD NOISE WAS HEARD AND THE CONTACT LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. IT WAS MANEUVERED OFF THE ROAD AND STOPPED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A RESIDENCE WHERE A DEALER REPRESENTATIVE CAME FOR AN INSPECTION AND DETERMINED THE PASSENGER SIDE TORSION BAR FRACTURED, AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-06-26
- VIN: 1GKEL19W6TB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: GMC SAFARI VAN WAS PARKED IN DRIVEWAY, NEXT MORNING IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE FRONT HAD COLLAPSED AND WAS JUST 2 INCHES OFF THE PAVEMENT, INNER FENDERS WERE TOUCHING THE TIRES. DISCOVERED THAT THE TORSION BARS HAD FAILED, DEALER SAID REPAIRS WILL BE $1000, PART HAS BEEN REDESIGNED AND HAS A NEW MOUNTING KIT TO GO ALONG WITH NEW TORSION BARS . VEHICLE IS USED AS SECOND FAMILY CAR AND DRIVEN BY DAUGHTER FOR SCHOOL AND WORK, LUCKILY FAILURE OCCURRED WHILE PARKED. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CONSUMER 1996 GMC SAFARI VAN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM WITH FUEL PUMP. *BF THE FUEL PUMP DID NOT PUMP FUEL. THE FUEL PUMP SUFFERED ELECTRICAL DAMAGE. THE FUEL FILTER WAS CHANGED WHEN THE REBUILT ENGINE WAS PLACED IN THE VEHICLE. THE MAIN BEARING WAS SHOT. *SC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: PROBLEM WITH 1996 GMC SAFARI VAN NOT STARTING. *BF THE MECHANIC FOUND THE FUEL PUMP WAS NOT PUMPING FUEL. UPON RETRIEVING THE FUEL PUMP FROM THE GAS TANK, HE FOUND IT TO HAVE SUFFERED SEVERE ELECTRICAL DAMAGE. THE ACTUAL FAILURE WAS NOT THE FUEL PUMP, BUT BECAUSE IT GENERATED ENOUGH HEAT TO MELT THE HOSE COMING FROM THE PUMP ALONG THE CONNECTION. THE CONSUMER ALSO STATED HE HAD TO HAVE A REBUILT ENGINE INSTALLED AFTER THE FIRST ENGINE FAILED WITH ONLY 87,000 MILES. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-19
- VIN: 1GKEL19W6TB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE BRAKES WILL NOT ENGAGE INTERMITTENTLY. AT TIMES THERE WAS A NOISE. DEALER COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM, SO THEY WILL REPLACE THE ABS SYSTEM. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-26
- VIN: 1GKDM19W1TB
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: POWER WINDOWS DO NOT WORK. CONSUMER CHECKED THE FUSES, AND THE FUSES ARE NOT THE PROBLEM. CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN AFTER MARKET REPAIR SHOP WHERE THE DEFECT WAS NOTICED. *AK NO RECALL FOUND ON THIS ISSUE. *TC
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-27
- VIN: 1GKDM19W1TB
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: THE POWER WINDOWS FAILED. AS A RESULT, WHEN THE WINDOWS WERE UP THEY WERE UNABLE TO COME BACK DOWN. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-17
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TORSION BAR BROKEN
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-06-11
- VIN: 1GKDM19WXTB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: THE VEHICLE IDLED ROUGH,THE SERVICE SOON LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND THEN THE ENGINE MIFIRED. THIS OCCURED BECAUSE THE FUEL INJECTORS WERE EITHER STUCK IN THE OPEN OR CLOSE POSITION. THE PROBLEM HAPPENED DUE TO DEPOSIT BUILD UP WHICH CAUSED THE POPPET VALVE TO STICK AND FAIL. THERE WAS TSB #000604003B ON THIS ISSUE. THE DEALERSHIP CLEANED THE INJECTORS, BUT SHOULD OF REPLACED THE CSFI FUEL SYSTEM AS PER THE TSB. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-29
- VIN: 1GKDM19WXTB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: COOLANT LEAK CAUSE BY INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILURE. *LA
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-07-08
- VIN: 1GKDM19W3TB
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: DUNLOP ROVER TIRE FAILED AT 17000 MILES. TIRE A COMPLETE LOSS .TIRE REPLACED BLAMED ON POOR WORKMANSHIP.OLD TIRE KEEP AT PLACE OF PURCHASE.*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH CONSUMER HEARD A BOOMING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND PULLED OVER. CONSUMER NOTICED THAT PASSENGER SIDE TORSION BAR BROKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE TORSION BAR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED.*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-21
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH FRONT UPPER BALL JOINTS BROKE. AS A RESULT, VEHICLE SWERVED OUT OF CONTROL. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO GAIN CONTROL AND STOP. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-21
- Crash: 1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS SYSTEM ENGAGES WHEN BRAKES PRESSED ON DRY PAVEMENT, WHICH CAUSES A DELAYED STOP-TIME OF ABOUT 3 SECONDS. HAS HAPPENED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-15
- VIN: 1GKEL19W2SB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: SINCE THE MIDDLE OF LAST YEAR, WE EXPERIENCED A PROBLEM W/ABS BRAKES. WHEN YOU WOULD SLOW DOWN & GET TO ABOUT 20 MPH, THE VAN WOULD START TO LOCK UP RENDERING THE VEHICLE OUT OF CONTROL & UNABLE TO STOP. WE TOOK IT TO OUR USUAL MECHANIC WHO DETERMINED THE SENSOR ON THE DRIVER SIDE WAS BAD & REPLACED IT. THAT LASTED ABOUT 6 MONTHS & WE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM REOCCUR. AGAIN, OUR MECHANIC LOOKED AT IT (PULLING HIS HAIR OUT MIND YOU) & DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS UNEQUAL VOLTAGE, SO HE REPLACED BOTH SENSORS. NOW AGAIN WE STARTED HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM. AS OF TODAY, THE ABS LIGHT IS ON & THE SYSTEM IS NOT FUNCTIONING. WE ARE NOT HAVING ANY PROBLEMS STOPPING NOW. ANYWAY, I'VE DONE SOME RESEARCH & NOTICED THAT A GOOD NUMBER OF GM VEHICLES HAVE HAD ABS RECALLS, 1 STORY I READ WAS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. I REQUESTED SEVERAL THINGS FROM GM. 1) DIRECTION TO GO NOW; 2) REIMBURSEMENT FOR THESE EXPENSES(APPROX $800); 3) ARRANGEMENTS TO HAVE THIS PROBLEM CORRECTED THE RIGHT WAY & 4)A RECALL BE PLACED ON THIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE ALSO. IF THERE WAS A RECALL PLACED ON IT, WE DID NOT RECEIVE IT IN THE MAIL. UNFORTUNATELEY, I WAS SENT A REPLY BASICALLY SAYING THAT THE 1996 MODEL WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALL. IF I FEEL THERE'S A FAILURE, THEN I SHOULD VISIT A LOCAL DEALER TO HAVE IT CHECKED OUT (AT MY OWN EXPENSE PROBABLY). THERE'S AN OBVIOUS TRACK RECORD WITH THIS ABS SYSTEM, HOWEVER IT DOESNT SEEM LIKE THEY WANT TO TAKE RESPONSIBILTY FOR IT.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-15
- VIN: 1GKEL19W2TB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: ON AUGUST 13TH, 2003, I BACKED THE VAN OUT OF THE GARAGE, WHICH HAS AN ABOUT 2 INCH DROP. WHILE MAKING A LEFT TURN, I COULD FEEL THE TIRE SCRAPING. BY THE TIME I GOT OUT OF THE CAR,THE DRIVERS' SIDE WAS ALMOST ON THE GROUND. I HAD THE VEHICLE TOWED TO THE NEAREST GARAGE, WHERE WE HAVE MOST OF OUR WORK DONE.I THOUGHT IT WAS THE STRUT, BUT IT WAS THE TORSION BAR. WE HAD TO REPLACE BOTH TORSION BARS. THE MECHANIC TOLD ME THAT THE REPLACEMENT BARS WERE DIFFERENT FROM THE ORIGINALS. I CHECKED AROUND AND WAS TOLD, THAT BOTH HAD TO BE REPLACED, THE PRICES WERE ABOUT THE SAME. I WROTE TO GMC, AND TOLD THEM THEY KNEW THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THE TORSION BARS, OTHERWISE THE REPLACEMENTS WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN DIFFERENT. ON THE 4TH OF SEPT. WE RECEIVED A PHONE CALL FROM THEM. THERE HAD BEEN A RECALL 01036, BUT OUR VEHICLE IS TOO OLD , SO THEY ARE NO LONGER RESPONSIBLE. WHERE CAN I FIND OUT WHEN THIS RECALL WAS, SINCE WE'VE OWNED THE SAFARI SINCE 1999, AND NEVER RECEIVED A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM.IN THE FIVE YEARS WE'VE HAD THIS VAN, WE HAVE SPENT MORE THAN $3000.00 ON REPAIRS, NOT COUNTING REGULAR MAINTENANCE.
SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-03-15
- VIN: 1GKEL19W1TB
- Components: SUSPENSION,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,VISIBILITY,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPERS DO NOT OPERATE - RECALLED - DEALER CLAIMS IT WAS REPAIRED, NOW WIPERS OPERATE WHENEVER IT FEELS LIKE IT. BOTH TORSION RODS FAILED WITHOUT WARNING WITHIN 1 DAY APART OF EACH OTHER. MECHANIC REVEALED THAT GM NOW HAS A SPECIAL TECHNIQUE TO BE DONE WHEN THIS HAPPENS AND IT COSTS AN EXTRA $90 TO REPAIR. WHICH MEANS THEY ARE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND WILL NOT RECALL THE VEHICLES AND REPLACE AT THEIR COST. BROKEN SPARK PLUG ALMOST KILLED MY FAMILY. FUEL PUMP WENT OUT. DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW DOES NOT ROLL DOWN, DRIVER'S SIDE VIEW MIRROR DOES NOT OPERATE.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-15
- VIN: 1GKEL19W8TB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: LEFT SIDE TORSION BAR SNAPPED WHEN DRIVING. THE REPAIR SHOP CHANGED BOTH LEFT AND RIGHT SIDE TORSION BARS AND ARMS EVEN THOUGH THE RIGHT SIDE WAS FULLY FUNCTIONAL. GM'S PARTS DEPARTMENT STATED THAT THIS WAS A MANUFACTURING DESIGN PROBLEM AND THUS I HAD TO CHANGE BOTH SIDES. THIS HAS APPARENTLY BEEN A PROBLEM WITH OTHER SAME MODEL CARS AS WELL. I FEEL THAT IF THAT IS THE CASE, THEN THEY SHOULD RECALL ALL CARS BECAUSE IT POSES A SERIOUS SAFETY HAZARD.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-13
- VIN: 1GDEL19W7TB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHEN COMING TO A COMPLETE STOP, THE VEHICLE HIT A POTHOLE, CAUSING THE LEFT SIDE OF THE TORSION BAR TO BREAK. *AK WHILE DRIVING SLOWLY APPROACHING A STOP SIGN, THE LEFT SIDE OF THE VAN HAD DROPPED DOWN ON THE LEFT TIRE AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO STOP SUDDENLY. THE TIRE RUBBED ON THE FENDER AND CAUSED THE CONSUMER TO STEER HARD, THEN THE TORSION BAR SNAPPED. *SCC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-02
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SEATS
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY REAR WINDSHIELD WIPERS BECOME INOPERABLE, OBSTRUCTING DRIVER'S VIEW. THE ACCELERATOR CABLE WAS REPLACED TWICE. THE ALTERNATOR WAS REPLACED THREE TIMES. THE WATER PUMP WAS REPLACED TWICE. THE DRIVER'S SIDE POWER WINDOW MOTOR WAS REPLACED AND THE PASSENGER SIDE NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT MOTOR FAILED. THE HATCH FAILED. THE REAR CAPTAIN CHAIRS SEAT BELTS BROKE. *AK *NLM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-01
- VIN: 1GKEL19W9TB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING, THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHT ILLUMINATED, SUDDENLY THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. CONSUMER HAD TO USE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP. *AK *TS *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-03
- VIN: 1GKEL19WXTB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING AT 65 MPH DRIVERS SIDE TORSION BAR INEXPLICABLY AND WITHOUT WARNING BROKE. ENTIRE VEHICLE SHUDDERED AND PULLED SHARPLY TO THE LEFT. FORTUNATELY FOR MY PASSENGERS AND MYSELF I WAS ABLE TO QUICKLY REGAIN CONTROL AND COME TO A SAFE STOP. THIS IS A SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. SUCH A FAILURE COULD EASILY RESULT IN SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH. SINCE THE TORSION BAR FAILURE I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY DIFFERENT MECHANICS "THEY BREAK ALL THE TIME" AND "IT IS A DESIGN FLAW". I UNDERSTAND THAT GENERAL MOTORS IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM AND HAS REDESIGNED THE AFFECTED PARTS. THIS IS A FAR MORE SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS ISSUE THAN THOSE ADDRESSED BY OTHER RECALLS ON THIS VEHICLE (SEATBELT WARNING BUZZER AND WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR FAILURES). IN THE INTEREST OF SAFETY FOR ALL OWNERS, PASSENGERS AND ANYONE IN THE PROXIMITY OF THE AFFECTED VEHICLES I BELIEVE A RECALL IS IN ORDER.*AK
1996 Gmc Safari recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1996 Gmc Safari.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN MODEL-ENGINE COMBINATIONS, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY FAIL DUE TO CRACKED SOLDER JOINTS ON THE CONTROLLER CIRCUIT BOARD. THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS COULD WORK INTERMITTENTLY OR NOT AT ALL.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR DURING BAD WEATHER, DRIVER VISIBILITY WOULD BE REDUCED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIPER MOTOR CIRCUIT BOARD AND COVER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 19, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THE "FASTEN SAFETY-BELT" AUDIBLE WARNING OCCASIONALLY MAY NOT COME ON OR MAY TERMINATE IN LESS THAN FOUR SECONDS AS REQUIRED BY THE STANDARD.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW ALARM MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 27, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH INTEGRATED DUAL CHILD SEATS. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES MAY BE MISSING A SEAT BELT RETRACTOR CLUTCH SPRING AND/OR PAWL SPRING IN THE CHILD SEAT. IF THE CLUTCH SPRING WAS MISSING, THE SEAT BELT WOULD LOCK IN THE RETRACTED POSITION AND COULD NOT BE USED. IF THE PAWL SPRING WAS MISSING, THE SEAT BELT RESTRAINT WOULD CONTINUALLY PLAY OUT AND WOULD NOT LOCK.
- Consequence: THESE CONDITIONS COULD INCREASE THE OCCUPANT'S RISK OF INJURY IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SEAT BELTS ON THE CHILD SEATS, AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE CHILD SEAT.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Summary: THE OUTBOARD SAFETY BELT WEBBING ON THE RIGHT-HAND REAR BUCKET SEAT CAN SEPARATE DURING A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE VEHICLE OCCUPANT WOULD NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED AND PERSONAL INJURY COULD RESULT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A PROTECTOR ON THE REAR SEAT CUSHION FRAME.
Negative 1996 Gmc Safari car reviews
Positive 1996 Gmc Safari car reviews
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With a family of 6 that takes trips often, having enough room is essential. I'm glad to hear that the van has been extremely reliable.
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We bought this van in March 2004 and it has been fantastic! It doesn't leak or burn a drop of oil, even with over 150k miles on it. We did a tune-up at 145k and it runs even smoother now, which seems to have helped with the mileage - we're getting 20mpg. The 4.3L engine has plenty of power. We did have a water pump issue at 138k, but that's to be expected with older vehicles. I really love the space - you can pack so much in it! I would definitely buy another one!
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I've had this car for 3 years now and I drive it 200 miles a day. Despite the cost of gas and maintenance, I've hardly had to put any money into it - just the occasional oil change and brake replacement. It was a fantastic purchase at only $1000 for 3 years of reliable service. Even with 250,000 miles on the clock, there isn't even a hint of an oil leak. I absolutely adore this car!
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This van has been great! With over 250,000 miles, I've only had to keep up with regular maintenance and replace minor parts like tires, brakes, hoses, and belts. The electric windows work perfectly fine. I highly recommend this van to anyone with kids - it's a fantastic traveling van!
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Hey there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 1995 Safari. One of the things I love about it is that I can easily fit my 10-foot surfboard inside and still have room to lock the doors under the seats. It's also surprisingly peppy for a van! The rear AC and Dutch doors are really cool features, and the middle and rear seats make the cargo space super versatile. My girlfriend did mention that the shotgun seat doesn't have much foot room, but since I don't drive from there, it's never been an issue for me. Unfortunately, I did have some trouble with the fuel injection system at 80k miles, which was a bit pricey to fix at $1k, but it was definitely worth it. However, at 116k miles, the transmission died and the $2k to replace it just wasn't worth it, so I ended up trading it in.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Gmc Safari problems:
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Other years of Gmc Safari
Are you having problems with your 1996 Gmc Safari?
Milo Altenwerth 2024-09-15
I have experienced several issues with this vehicle since its purchase. Unfortunately, it broke down during my vacation, causing inconvenience. Despite purchasing two separate warranties, I have spent over $1000.00 on repairs within six months. Regrettably, my experience with Mount Clemens Dodge has been unsatisfactory, and I cannot recommend them. I believe that improvements are necessary in their service and honesty.
Keanu Batz 2024-09-03
I have experience towing a pop-up camper across the country multiple times, and camping every summer with 5-6 people. However, it is important to tow in 3rd gear due to transmission calibration. I have also towed a full-size trailer on several trips. While I have encountered some electrical problems such as window motors (one side twice), alternator, fuel pump, blower motor, radiator, and A/C compressor ($1200), as well as needing to replace the water pump and 4 idler arms, the engine and transmission run well. Unfortunately, the tire life is not great and the rear dutch door handle has completely rusted off. The injectors also need to be cleaned. Overall, it has been a challenging but rewarding experience.
Domingo Cummerata 2024-07-28
This van is amazing! It has over 202,000 miles and is still going strong, with no rust. It has been driven all over the place, from Canada to Florida, North Carolina to Connecticut, NYC to New Mexico, Kansas to Texas, and everywhere in between. Has it ever broken down? I don't think so! It's no wonder why GM sells more cars than Ford and DaimChrysBenz.
Eddie Denesik 2024-07-26
I bought my van for $3000 back in 2006, and since then I've spent almost the same amount on maintenance. I've had to replace a cooling fan, two alternators, a fuel pump, a fuel filter, a fuel line, all four tires, brakes, two window motors, a windshield wiper motor, two starters, and a right front ball axle joint. Unfortunately, the cigarette lighter is broken, the A/C has a major leak and doesn't work, the locks freeze easily in the winter (I live in Ohio), the rear defrost and heat don't work, and the rear door handle broke and doesn't latch shut. Despite all of this, I wouldn't recommend this van to anyone. If you see one on the road, it's best to look away as there's a high chance that something might go wrong with your car!
Garth Lockman 2024-05-09
These vans have a few issues. The power window motors tend to fail often, and the switches in Safaris also have several failures. Despite these little annoying problems, which most people avoid repairing due to the high cost, the vehicle has been reliable.