2003 Gmc Safari problems

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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.

2003 Gmc Safari

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Common 2003 Gmc Safari problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the GMC Safari 2003, several common problems have been reported:

  • ABS Light Due to Brake System Control Unit Failure: Another common problem reported by owners of the GMC Safari is related to the ABS system. When the brake system control unit fails, it triggers the ABS light to illuminate on the dashboard, indicating a malfunction in the anti-lock braking system. This issue can affect the vehicle's braking performance and requires attention from a qualified mechanic.
  • Heater Doesn't Work: Owners of the 2000 GMC Safari have reported issues with the heater not functioning properly. This can be a significant inconvenience, especially in colder climates where a functioning heater is essential for comfort and defrosting the windshield. Addressing this problem may involve diagnosing the heating system components and potentially replacing faulty parts to restore proper heating functionality.
  • Transfer Case Lockup: Some owners of the 2000 GMC Safari have experienced problems with the transfer case locking up. This issue can impact the vehicle's drivability and may result in difficulty shifting gears or engaging the four-wheel-drive system. Resolving this problem may require inspecting the transfer case components and addressing any mechanical issues that are causing the lockup.
  • Rough Idle When in Gear: Complaints have been raised about the 1996 GMC Safari experiencing rough idling when the vehicle is in gear. This issue can indicate underlying problems with the engine or transmission, affecting the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency. Diagnosing the root cause of this problem may involve inspecting the engine components, sensors, and transmission system to identify and rectify the issue.

These common problems reported by owners of the GMC Safari 2003 highlight various mechanical and electrical issues that can impact the vehicle's performance, safety, and comfort. Addressing these problems promptly through professional diagnosis and repair is crucial to maintaining the reliability and functionality of the GMC Safari.

2003 Gmc Safari engine

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.

How big is the gas tank on a 2003 GMC Safari?

27 gal

Used 2003 GMC Safari - Specs & Features

Fuel & MPG
EPA city/highway MPG14/19 MPG
EPA combined MPG16 MPG
Range in miles (city/hwy)378/513 mi.
Fuel tank capacity27 gal.

When was the last GMC Safari made?

2005

Chevrolet Astro

Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari
ManufacturerGeneral Motors
Also calledGMC Safari
Production1985–2005
AssemblyBaltimore Assembly, Baltimore, Maryland

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.

2003 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:

  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Air bags problems
  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Gmc Safari vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Latest 25 complaints 2003 Gmc Safari

The NHTSA has received 27 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Gmc Safari. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Gmc Safari vehicles.

2015-10-05

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2015-09-25
  • VIN: 1GKEL19X83B
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: THE BRAKE LINES IN FRONT ARE RUSTED OUT AND LEAKING CREATING A SERIOUS PROBLEM, AS THE BRAKES ARE NOT WORKING. I SEE THIS IS A RE-OCCURRING PROBLEM WITH GMC VEHICLES. THE COST TO REPAIR IS ASTRONOMICAL. WHY ISN'T GMC RECALLING THESE VEHICLES?
2014-09-28

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2014-07-08
  • VIN: 1GKEL19X73B
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: . I WOULD LIKE TO REPORT THE INCIDENT I HAD WITH MY AUTOMOBILE: GMC SAFARI WAGON 2003. ONE DAY IN JULY THIS YEAR (2014) I APPLIED THE BRAKES OF THE ABOVE VEHICLE WHEN I WAS APPROACHING THE RED TRAFFIC LIGHT. THE VEHICLE DID NOT STOP EVEN THROUGH THE BRAKE SYSTEM WAS RECENTLY WORKED ON. I INVESTIGATED THE REASON WHY IT FAILED TO STOP AND FOUND OUT THAT THE BRAKE LINE WAS HEAVILY CORRODED. *TR
2014-04-17

SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-04-07
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES
  • Summary: MY ABS SYSTEM IS THE SAME AS THE OTHER COMPLAINTS. I WILL PRESS ON THE BRAKES AND IT ACTS LIKE I HAVE NO BRAKES. I TOOK IT TO A REPAIR SHOP YESTERDAY AND THEY SAID THE PART WOULD COST $1,310.00 FOR ONE PART ALONE. WHY HAVEN'T THERE BEEN A RECALL ON THIS SITUATION. BEFORE SOMEONE DOES GET HURT.
2013-03-25

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2013-03-16
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1GKEL19XX3B
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 GMC SAFARI. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, HE CRASHED HEAD-ON INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES REPORTED. A POLICE REPORT WAS NOT FILED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 126,000.
2011-10-19

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-08-18
  • VIN: 1GKEL19X33B
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ABS SYSTEM DEFECT. WHEN SLOWING DOWN TO STOP, AT VERY LOW SPEED (ABOUT 5 MPH) ABS ENGAGES, ALTHOUGH THERE IS NO NEED FOR IT. THIS CAUSES A "FLOATING" SENSATION, MAKING CONTROL OF THE STOPPING POINT UNCERTAIN, UNLIKE NORMAL BRAKING. THIS HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR ABOUT 2 MONTHS. MOST RECENTLY, CAR IS PULLING TO RIGHT DURING THE STOP, WHEN ABS ENGAGES. *TR
2011-07-15

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2011-07-14
  • VIN: 1GKEL19X13B
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: BACKING UP MY BOAT TO LAUNCH IT, THE BRAKE LIGHT CAME ON AND BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. SLOWED IT DOWN AND ENDED UP THROWING IT IN PARK TO KEEP THE BOAT, TRAILER, AND VAN FROM ROLLING INTO THE WATER. GOT TOWED OUT AND A FRIEND PULLED THE BOAT HOME FOR ME. THE MECHANIC SHOWED ME THE RUSTED DRIVERS SIDE STEEL BRAKE LINE THAT HAD RUPTURED. HE ALSO TOLD ME ALL OF THE OTHER LINES HAD CONSIDERABLE RUST AND THAT ALL OF THEM SHOULD BE REPLACED DUE TO SAFETY CONCERNS. THE ENTIRE STEEL BRAKE LINE HAS BEEN REPLACED AND I DID SAVE THE RUSTED LINES FOR NOW. *TT
2009-07-17

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2009-07-15
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: OUR 2003 GMC SAFARI HAS HAD THE BRAKES SPONTANEOUSLY FAIL WHILE WE WERE DRIVING IT AT LEAST SIX TIMES (EVERY COUPLE OF MONTHS OR SO) FOR THE PAST YEAR. EACH TIME, THE PEDAL JUST DROPPED TO THE FLOOR, THE "BRAKE" LIGHT CAME ON, AND WE HAVE HAD TO PRACTICALLY STAND ON THE BRAKE PEDAL TO GET IT TO FINALLY ROLL TO A STOP. FORTUNATELY IT HAS BEEN AT SLOW SPEEDS EACH TIME AND WE HAVE NOT CAUSED ANY ACCIDENTS YET. WE HAVE BEEN TO TWO DIFFERENT DEALERSHIPS REPEATEDLY AND SPENT OVER $1000.00 FOR VARIOUS BRAKE SYSTEM COMPONENTS THAT ARE NOT FIXING THE PROBLEM. WE THINK IT IS EITHER A BOOSTER OR SENSOR ISSUE, BUT THE DEALERSHIPS WILL NOT LISTEN TO US AND GMC'S CUSTOMER SERVICE LINE HAS NOT BEEN HELPFUL EITHER. WE ARE TERRIFIED OF DRIVING THIS VEHICLE BUT CAN'T AFFORD A NEW ONE AT THIS TIME. *TR
2007-11-12

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-10-18
  • VIN: 1GKEL19X23B
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: ON VACATION ABS LIGHT WOULD COME ON DURING DRIVING. WHEN BRAKING, JUST BEFORE COMING TO A STOP, MORE TRAVEL IN THE PEDAL AND BRAKES CHATTERED. ABS LIGHT MIGHT BE ON OR OFF DURING BRAKING. WENT TO DEALER, RIGHT FRONT SENSOR ERRATIC. REPLACED RIGHT FRONT SENSOR. WORKS GOOD AGAIN. VAN HAS 32,000 MILES. *TR
2007-09-06

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-09-06
  • VIN: 1GKDS13S032
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
  • Summary: FUEL TANK DEVELOPED A LEAK WHERE FUEL LINE ENTERS THE TANK. *TR
2007-04-19

SEAT BELTS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-04-16
  • VIN: 1GKDM19X73B
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: PURCHASED BOOSTER SEATS FOR OUR GRANDCHILDREN. A CERTIFIED INSPECTOR SHOWED US THAT ALL FOUR REAR SEAT BELTS DO NOT LOCK WHEN PULLED QUICKLY INDICATING THAT THE SEATBELTS WOULD NOT RESTRAIN THE CHILD IN AN ACCIDENT (OR AN ADULT EITHER). TOOK THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE DEALER. DEALER CLAIMS THE SEATBELTS LOCK WHEN YOU BRAKE HARD, BUT ARE NOT MADE FOR CHILDREN'S BOOSTER SEATS. WE ARE UNDER THE IMPRESSION THAT VEHICLES MADE AFTER 2001 HAD TO HAVE THE APPROPRIATE SEATBELTS FOR CHILD SAFETY. *JB
2007-04-17

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-03-26
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1GKDM19X44B
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 GMC SAFARI. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND THE CONTACT SMELLED SOMETHING BURNING. HE LIFTED THE HOOD AND NOTICED THE CLAMP THAT HELD THE BRAKE LINE WAS ON FIRE. THE CONTACT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE, AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HIS RESIDENCE. HE CHANGED THE BRAKE LINE HOSE, AND DROVE THE VEHICLE FOR ABOUT A MILE AT 35 MPH. THE CONTACT PARKED THE VEHICLE, AND NOTICED THAT THE BRAKES WERE FAILING WHEN HE ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT THE VEHICLE TO THE DRIVE POSITION. HE LOOKED UNDER THE HOOD AND REALIZED THAT THE BRAKE LINE WAS HOT AGAIN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED BACK TO HIS RESIDENCE AND INSPECTED BY A MECHANIC. THE CAUSE OF FAILURE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 40,924 , AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,800.*AK
2007-01-19

SERVICE BRAKES, AIR PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2007-01-18
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
  • Summary: MY 2003 GMC SAFARI VAN HAS NOW TWICE HAD ITS ABS ACTIVATE IN A PARKING LOT SITUATION AT A SLOW SPEED CAUSING THE VAN TO TAKE AN EXTREMELY LONG TIME TO STOP. LUCKILY THERE WAS NO PERSON IN FRONT OF ME OR THEY WOULD HAVE BEEN INJURED. THERE WAS NO WARNING BEFORE THE FAILURE. THE MANUAL STATES THAT IF THE ABS LIGHT GOES ON THAT THE SYSTEM IS NOT ACTIVE, BUT THE VAN IS STILL OK TO DRIVE-BUT NO LIGHT CAME ON. I HAVE TLKED WITH OTHERS WHO OWN GM CAR/VEHICLES AND THEY HAVE REPORTED SIMILIAR INSTANCES. DOES GM HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THEIR BRAKES?
2006-10-16

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-06-27
  • Number Of Injuries: 2
  • Crash: 1
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 42 MPH, THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO THE REAR OF ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. MINOR INJURIES WERE SUSTAINED BY BOTH DRIVERS. A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN IMPOUND AND WAS DEEMED TOTALED. THE DEALER WAS ALERTED.
2006-02-22

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2006-02-09
  • VIN: 1GKEL19XX3B
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: CORROSION HAS BUILT UP ON THE ABS SENSORS CAUSING THEM TO ACTIVATE AT LOW SPEEDS. WHEN THIS HAPPENS THE BRAKES DON'T LOCK UP AND AT LOW SPEEDS (LESS THAN 4 MPH) THAT MEANS THE VEHICLE TAKES AN EXTRA FEW FEET TO STOP. ON ONE OCCASION I ALMOST HIT A PERSON AND TWO OTHER TIMES A PARKED CAR IN A PARKING LOT BECAUSE THE CAR DIDN'T STOP. THE PROBLEM IS INTERMITTENT SO THE DEALER COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM AND THEREFORE CAN'T FIX IT. THERE IS A GM RECALL (#05068) FOR OTHER LIKE MODELS OF GM CARS BUT NOT MINE. SO MY PROBLEM IS THE DEALER CAN'T FIX IT WITHOUT A RECALL AND GM WON'T ISSUE A RECALL BECAUSE THERE HASN'T BEEN ENOUGH COMPLAINTS. *JB
2005-09-02

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-04-10
  • VIN: 1GKEL19X43B
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: I OWN A 2003 GMC SAFARI WHICH I PURCHASED IN UTAH. EARLIER THIS YEAR I EXPERIENCE A PROBLEM WITH THE ABS BAKING SYSTEM WHERE THE ABS WOULD ENGAGE AT LOW SPEEDS, INCREASING MY STOPPING DISTANCE GREATLY. I CONTACTED GM AS THIS SEEMED TO BE A SAFETY ISSUE AND WAS TOLD TO TAKE IT IN TO A LOCAL GM DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP INSPECTED THE BRAKES AND NOTED THAT THE SENSOR WAS BAD AND BILLED ME FOR A REPAIR. I SEE NOW THAT GM HAS ISSUE A RECALL, ALTHOUGH IT DOES NOT COVER MY STATE OR VEHICLE MODEL, I WAS EXPERIENCING THE EXACT PROBLEM THAT THESE OTHER VEHICLES HAVE WITH THE ABS FAILURE. I THINK THIS NEEDS TO BE MORE WIDELY INVESTIGATED AS IT SEEMS TO BE A LARGER PROBLEM THEN THEY WANT TO ADMIT. I UNDERSTAND THAT THE PROBLEM IS CAUSED BY PRODUCTS USED ON ICY STREETS WHICH THE VAN OPERATED ON IN UTAH BEFORE I BOUGHT IT. PS-THE DEALERSHIP DESTROYED THE FAULTY PART EVEN THOUGH I ASKED TO SEE IT - THEY STATED THAT THIS WAS THERE POLICY. *NM
2005-08-30

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-08-19
  • VIN: 1GDEL19X73B
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: AT IRREGULAR TIMES WHEN DRIVING AT SLOW SPEEDS (~10 MPH), ON DRY CLEAN PAVEMENT, AND UNDER LIGHT TO MODERATE BRAKING, THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM ENGAGES AND EXTENDS THE STOPPING DISTANCE OF THE VEHICLE. I UNDERSTAND THAT A RECALL WAS ISSUED FOR OTHER VEHICLES IN OTHER STATES, BUT OBVIOUSLY THE PROBLEM EXTENDS TO MORE YEAR MODELS AND OVER A WIDER AREA. IN ADDITION, GM HAS ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN #02-05-25-006A COVERING MORE VEHICLES THAN WERE IN THE INITIAL RECALL FOR THIS FAILURE. IT SEEMS THAT IF A TSB WAS RELEASED, THEY ARE AWARE THAT THE PROBLEM IS ON MUCH WIDER SCALE THAN THE RECALL INDICATES. *NM
2005-08-09

SEATS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-07-31
  • VIN: 1GTGK13U43F
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: DRIVER SEAT CAN'T BE PRESET FOR DRIVER 1 OR 2. OFTEN WHEN THE VEHICLE IS STARTED, THE SEAT GOES ALL THE WAY UP UNDER THE STEERING WHEEL. AT OTHER TIMES THE SEAT REMAINS SO FAR BACK THAT NOBODY CAN REACH THE GAS/BRAKE PEDAL. EACH TIME ANYONE DRIVES THE VEHICLE THE SEAT MUST BE RESET OR READJUSTED. GMC HAS BEEN TAKEN TO A REPAIR FACILITY MANY TIMES BEFORE THE WARRANTY WAS UP, BUT THE REPAIR CENTER SAID THEY HAD NO IDEA OR REMEDY FOR THIS PROBLEM. *JB
2005-01-31

SUSPENSION PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-12-07
  • Components: SUSPENSION
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED STEERING WHEEL VIBRATED. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK
2004-11-05

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-11-01
  • VIN: 1GKDM19X03B
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: DAMPNER FAILED, PURCHASE VAN WITH THIS PROBLEM 3 MONTHS AGO AND STILL HAVE NOT RECEIVED THE DAMPNER PART FROM GMC. *BF THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED WITH ONLY 60 MILES ON IT. DURING THE TEST DRIVE, PRIOR TO PURCHASE, THERE WAS A HARMONIC ROAR NOISE VIBRATION COMING FROM THE REAR. *SC
2004-08-23

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-08-02
  • VIN: 16KDM19X83B
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: CONSUMER RECEIVED RECALL 03V328000. RECALL REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED AT DEALERSHIP. AFTER RECALL REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED CONSUMER NOTICED TIRES WERE WEARING VERY BADLY ON THE OUTSIDE, AND WERE LOSING ALL TREAD. TOOK VEHICLE TO TIRE DEALER, AND WAS INFORMED THAT TIRES WERE NOT ROTATED AFTER RECALL REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED. BRIDGESTONE, P215/70R16. HAD TIRES ALIGNED AND ROTATED AFTER 11,000 MILES. *AK
2004-08-11

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-12-16
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: VALVE BODY WAS REPLACED, THE FAN MOTOR WAS REPLACED, AND ALL OF THESE PARTS WERE DEFECTIVE AGAIN. DEALER STATED THAT VEHICLE NEEDED A NEW TRANSMISSION. THE MANUFACTURER STATED WARRANTY EXPIRED.*AK
2004-01-22

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-01-21
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 25 MPH ENGINE IDLED, CAUSING THE DRIVER TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL. CONSUMER CONTACTED DEALER ON THREE SEPARATE OCCASIONS, BUT THE PROBLEM STILL OCCURS. *AK
2003-08-26

VISIBILITY PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 1GTDM19X93B
  • Components: VISIBILITY
  • Summary: DRIVER'S SIDE MIRROR HAS A VIBRATION CAUSING VIEWING DISTORTION. *MR THE DRIVERS SIDE MIRROR EXPERIENCED SEVERE VIBRATIONS WHICH CAUSED VARIOUS DEGREES OF DISTORTION. THIS PROBLEM CAUSED THE CONSUMER TO HAVE NAUSEA, HEAD ACHES, AND BODY TENSION. ROAD CONDITIONS, WEATHER/TEMPERATURE, AND THE SPEED OF THE VEHICLE HAVE ALL EFFECTED THE MIRROR VIBRATIONS. (THE PASSENGER SIDE VIEW MIRROR WAS PERFECT) *SCC *JB
2003-07-24

STRUCTURE PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • VIN: 16DDM19X638
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: CONSUMER NOTICED WHEN RAINING /OR GOING THROUGH A CAR WASH REAR OF VEHICLE WOULD HAVE STANDING WATER ON FLOOR. ALSO ON THE BACK PANEL, WHEN YOU OPEN DOOR THE LIGHT DOESN'T GO ON. THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP FOUR TIMES . *AK *CB
2003-07-20

EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-07-19
  • Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
  • Summary: I READ AN ARTICLE TODAY IN THE DETROIT FREE PRESS WHICH HAS PROMPTED ME TO WRITE YOU REGARDING HIDDEN LAMPS. MY COMPLAINT IS GENERAL, IN THAT THE AMOUNT OF "DAZZLE" FROM THE SCATTERED LIGHT IS GREATLY OBJECTIONABLE, AND MUST BE CONTROLLED. "HEAD-ON" VIEWING OS ACCEPTABLE, BUT SLIGHT OFF-ANGLE IS EXTREMELY DISTRACTING AND PAINFUL FROM THESE LAMPS. I WORK FOR A MAJOR AUTO COMPANY, AND HAVE SOME EXPERIENCE IN LIGHTING TECHNOLOGY. I WOULD PREFER IF NHTSA MIGRATE TO EUROPEAN REQUIREMENTS (CUT-OFF LINES) AND ENFORCE SOME TYPE OF ANTI-DAZZLE REQUIREMENTS FOR THESE LAMPS. ALTHOUGH ALLOWING A "WASH" IN FRONT OF THE VEHICLE ON THE ROAD, THE SIDE SCATTER I BELIEVE IS MORE DANGEROUS, POSSIBLE CAUSING OR RELATING TO ONCOMING DRIVER IRRITATION, ROAD RAGE, OR POSSIBLE ACCIDENTS. *AK

2003 Gmc Safari recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2003 Gmc Safari.

2006-05-19
  • 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).
2006-03-23
  • 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.
2003-09-12
  • Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
  • Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
  • Summary: CERTAIN MINIVANS HAVE AN INTERFERENCE CONDITION BETWEEN THE LOWER BALL JOINT RUBBER BOOT AND THE STEERING KNUCKLE (BOTH LEFT/RIGHT SIDES), WHICH COULD RESULT IN CUTTING OF THE BOOT THAT IS INTENDED TO SEAL THE BALL JOINT. IF THE LOWER BALL JOINT BOOT WERE CUT, CONTAMINATION FROM THE ROAD (SALT, DIRT, WATER, ETC.) COULD ENTER THE BALL SOCKET AREA OF THE BALL JOINT CAUSING THE JOINT TO WEAR OUT TOO QUICKLY.
  • Consequence: THE STEERING KNUCKLE COULD SEPARATE FROM THE LOWER CONTROL ARM, DROPPING DOWN THE AFFECTED CORNER OF THE VEHICLE. THE COIL SPRING WOULD PUSH THE CONTROL ARM DOWN INTO CONTACT WITH THE GROUND, CREATING A DRAG THAT WOULD SLOW THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER COULD HAVE DIFFICULTY IN MAINTAINING THE DIRECTIONAL CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE AFFECTED WHEEL ASSEMBLY COULD SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE IF FORCES RESULTING FROM THE WHEEL'S DRAGGING ACTION WERE SUFFICIENT TO FRACTURE THE TIE ROD END AND UPPER BALL JOINT CONNECTIONS. SEPARATION OF THE WHEEL ASSEMBLY WOULD ALSO SEVER THAT WHEEL'S HYDRAULIC BRAKE HOSE, RESULTING IN LOST BRAKING PERFORMANCE FROM THE FRONT BRAKE SYSTEM. VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE WOULD INCREASE, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
  • Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STEERING KNUCKLES. OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN ON APRIL 8, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.

Negative 2003 Gmc Safari car reviews

  1. Gaylord Carter 2024-11-06

    Good: This minivan offers more interior and cargo space than most, and boasts a powerful 4.3 litre V6 engine with impressive towing capacity. Bad: However, some areas for improvement include interior quality, fuel economy, rattling, reliability, and a stiff ride. It would be great if GMC/Chevy could offer an optional V8 power and more luxury options, such as premium sound systems, OnStar, heated seats, and DVD players. As an owner of the SLT AWD model, I have noticed that these features are not currently available.

  2. Ezequiel Stark 2024-10-10

    The Safari is a versatile vehicle that can carry cargo, 8 passengers and occasionally tow a trailer. I had a Safari and it was great for all of these things. However, I did experience some reliability issues during the 4 years I owned it. I had to replace several parts, including the transmission, power lock actuators, vacuum diaphragm, rear heat control, dashboard switches, mass air flow sensor, and exhaust system. I also had to replace the interior carpet and weatherstripping due to water leaking in from the dutch doors. Despite these issues, I enjoyed my time with the Safari. In the end, I decided to trade it in and purchase a 2005 Ford E-150.

  3. Brent Simonis 2024-07-18

    Hi there! That's a really nice van you have!

  4. Jace Roberts 2024-04-25

    I experienced some issues with my Safari, including sticking sliding passenger doors and rear hatch. Despite taking it to the dealer for resolution, the problems persisted. Additionally, I encountered transmission issues and oil cooling line leaks at only 42000 miles. While I am not satisfied with the fuel economy or front leg room, I am pleased to report that it is capable of towing our 3300 lb popup camper with ease, which was our primary reason for purchasing it.

  5. Norval Rice 2024-01-19

    Nice to drive. Very roomy. Good torque. Ideal for family use!

Positive 2003 Gmc Safari car reviews

  1. Elbert Emmerich 2024-10-28

    I'm so glad to hear that you love it!

  2. Bret Collier 2024-10-27

    This van is excellent for space. I really need it because I have 5 kids. I love the features. I love this van.

  3. Jordy Stark 2024-10-16

    You'll be pleased to know that you get more value for your money.

  4. Mohammad Graham 2024-08-24

    This van is perfect for large families! Your kids will love the rear radio.

  5. Jarrod Lehner 2024-07-10

    Hi Miles, I think that these vans work best with miles on them.

Leave your review of 2003 Gmc Safari

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2003 Gmc Safari problems:

2003 GMC Safari Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
2003 GMC Safari Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-gmc-safari/problems

Top 2003 GMC Safari Problems · ABS Light Due to Brake System Control Unit Failure · Outside Door Handles May Break · Door Locks Stop Working · Power Brake Units ...

What are the problems aith AWD? | Chevy Astro and GMC Safari ...
What are the problems aith AWD? | Chevy Astro and GMC Safari ...
https://www.astrosafari.com/threads/what-are-the-problems-aith-awd.45121/

Jan 20, 2014 ... On the newer models the actuator motor is "THE" common problem but it's relatively cheap and easy to replace. On my 2003 I had an issue getting ...

GMC Safari Problems and Complaints - 30 Issues
GMC Safari Problems and Complaints - 30 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/gmc/safari

Top GMC Safari Problems · ABS Light Due to Brake System Control Unit Failure · Outside Door Handles May Break · Door Locks Stop Working · Power Brake Units May Leak ...

*REAL FIX FOR Astro Van Intermittent brake & ABS light!!!! | Chevy ...
*REAL FIX FOR Astro Van Intermittent brake & ABS light!!!! | Chevy ...
https://www.astrosafari.com/threads/real-fix-for-astro-van-intermittent-brake-abs-light.16006/

Aug 21, 2012 ... Chevy Astro and GMC Safari ... but in mechanics 'common problems' have COMMON SOLUTIONS... ... Is it hard to remove? (Guess that's two questions).

Q&A: Troubleshooting 2001 GMC Safari Van Gas Tank & Starter ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 2001 GMC Safari Van Gas Tank & Starter ...
https://www.justanswer.com/gm/224wj-2001-gmc-safari-van-gas-tank-starter-turns-wont-start.html

May 3, 2009 ... Battery fully charged, gas tank 1/4 full. Starter turns over normally but won't start. Used ether into the air intake to check if the problem ...

Other years of Gmc Safari

gmc safari 2004 photo
Safari 2004
Gmc

6

2

13

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc safari 2005 photo
Safari 2005
Gmc

5

2

13

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc safari 1985 photo
Safari 1985
Gmc

3

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc safari 1986 photo
Safari 1986
Gmc

10

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc safari 1987 photo
Safari 1987
Gmc

22

2

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
gmc safari 1988 photo
Safari 1988
Gmc

7

3

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

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2003 Gmc Safari photo