1997 Gmc Savana problems
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).
Social links
Common 1997 Gmc Savana problems
The 1997 GMC Savana 3500 is known for its reliability and spaciousness, but like any vehicle, it has its share of common problems reported by owners. Here are some of the most frequently mentioned issues:
- Loose parts under the hood: Some owners have reported issues with parts becoming loose under the hood, particularly after long road trips or driving on rough terrain. These issues can lead to electronic buzzing sounds and may require simple and inexpensive fixes.
- Transmission problems: The 1997 GMC Savana 3500 can experience transmission-related issues, such as communication problems between the transmission control module (TCM) and the engine control module (ECM). These problems can manifest as interior noises or issues with shifting gears. Common trouble codes related to these issues include P0711, P0712, P0713, P0714, P0715, P0716, P0717, P0718, P0720, P0721, P0723, P0741, P0742, P0751, P0752, P0756, P0757, P0776, P0777, P0796, P0965, P0966, P0967, P2715, and P2723.
- Delayed starting problem: The 2000 GMC Savana has been reported to have a delayed starting problem, which can be frustrating for owners. The average cost to fix this issue is $3,500, with an average mileage of 44,000 miles.
- Excessive oil consumption: Some Savana models, including the 1997 GMC Savana 3500, have been reported to have excessive oil consumption issues, particularly those with the Vortec engine. This issue can lead to increased maintenance costs and decreased engine performance.
- Leaking coolant: Some Savana models, including the 1997 GMC Savana 3500, have been reported to have leaking coolant issues, particularly those with a cracked intake manifold. This issue can lead to overheating and decreased engine performance.
It is important to note that while these issues have been reported by some owners, the 1997 GMC Savana 3500 has a reputation for reliability and spaciousness. If you are considering purchasing a 1997 GMC Savana 3500, it is recommended to have the vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure that it is in good working condition.
Are GMC Savana vans reliable?
The GMC Savana 2500 Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 11th out of 21 for commercial vans.
What is the life expectancy of a GMC Savana?
4. Longevity. If you keep up with the maintenance schedule of your Savana, it can last long term, whether you use it each day or a few times a week. The longevity of a GMC Savana is around 20 years at its maximum life span.
How many miles per gallon does a 1997 GMC Savana 3500 get?
Mileage: About 13 miles per gallon (31-gallon tank, estimated 393-mile range on usable volume of regular unleaded), carrying up to five occupants, running mostly highway with light cargo.
What engine is in a 1997 GMC Savana 3500?
Engine
| Displacement | 5.7L/350 |
|---|---|
| SAE Net Torque @ RPM | 330 @ 2800 |
| Engine Oil Cooler | Yes |
| Engine Type | Gas V8 |
| SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM | 250 @ 4600 |
Are GMC Savana vans reliable?
The GMC Savana 2500 Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 11th out of 21 for commercial vans.
What is the life expectancy of a GMC Savana?
4. Longevity. If you keep up with the maintenance schedule of your Savana, it can last long term, whether you use it each day or a few times a week. The longevity of a GMC Savana is around 20 years at its maximum life span.
What engine is in a 1997 GMC Savana 3500?
Engine
| Displacement | 5.7L/350 |
|---|---|
| SAE Net Torque @ RPM | 330 @ 2800 |
| Engine Oil Cooler | Yes |
| Engine Type | Gas V8 |
| SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM | 250 @ 4600 |
How many miles per gallon does a 1997 GMC Savana 3500 get?
Mileage: About 13 miles per gallon (31-gallon tank, estimated 393-mile range on usable volume of regular unleaded), carrying up to five occupants, running mostly highway with light cargo.
1997 Gmc Savana car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Gmc Savana problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Hydraulic problems
- Service brakes problems
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Gmc Savana vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Gmc Savana
The NHTSA has received 51 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Gmc Savana. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Gmc Savana vehicles.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-17
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1997 GMC SAVANA ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION COMPARTMENTS CAUGHT FIRE WHILE DRIVING. *NJ THE CONSUMER STATED HE DID EXPERIENCE OVERHEATING PROBLEMS EARLIER IN THE DAY. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0256-89) *JB UPDATED02/24/10 *BF
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-03
- VIN: 1GTFG15R8V1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: PLASTIC PRESSURE FUEL LINE ON MY GMC 1997 SAVANNAH G150 DEVELOPED A PUNCTURE SPRAYING GASOLINE NEAR EXHAUST PIPE HAD TO REPLACE SEND DEFECTIVE LINE TO GM THEY SAID THEY HAD NO WAY TO TEST IT. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-01
- VIN: 1GDFG15R7V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: CONSUMER EXPERIENCED LOSS OF POWER STEERING WHILE MAKING A SLOW LEFT HAND TURN AFTER BEING STOPPED AT AN INTERSECTION. BUT THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WASN'T INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. (NAR) *PH *CB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-01
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 30 MPH AND WITHOUT WARNING DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. THEN, PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. DEALER EXAMINED THE VEHICLE, AN DETERMINED THAT SENSOR CONTROL MODULE HAD A SHORT DUE TO MOISTURE IN THE CARPET.*AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1GTHG35R7V1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIRBAG INADVERTENTLY DEPLOYED WITH NOBODY INSIDE THE VEHICLE. *LA *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-20
- VIN: 1GDFG15R9V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH THE VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING WHICH MADE IT HARD TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER MANAGED TO PULL OFF ONTO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND CONTACTED A TOW COMPANY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER WHO INDICATED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS THE POWER STEERING PUMP WHICH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *NLM *PH *NLM
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-05-15
- VIN: 1GTHG39RXV1
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: SIDE CARGO DOORS PROGRESSIVELY HARDER TO OPEN UNTIL REAR UPPER HINGE SNAPPED. DOOR LEFT HANGING, VERY DANGEROUS. NOT RUSTED OR ABUSED. *NLM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-01-30
- VIN: 1GTHG39R7V1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: REPLACED INTAKE MANIFOLD GASKETS WITH 69,000 MILES ON IT.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-11-15
- VIN: 1GTH635R4V1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: SINCE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED THERE HAS BEEN A GAS LEAK. CONSUMER STATES' HE CONSTANTLY BREATHING FUMES. CAUSE IS UNKNOWN. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. TS
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-20
- VIN: 1GDFG15R7Y1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT AFTER THE RECALL #00V110000 FUEL ODOR LEAKAGE WAS REPAIR ON THE VEHICLE THE SENDING UNIT FAILS TO OPERATE WITHIN A WEEK. DEALER NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THE REPAIR HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH THE SENDING UNIT. PLEASE PROVIDE THAT DEALER NAME ADDRESS AND NUMBER. TS
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-27
- VIN: 1GKFG15R0V1
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: MANUFACTURER DECLINED TO PROVIDE ASSISTANCE IN REPAIR/REPLACEMENT OF PUMP. *PH *NLM **DIMSII IVOQ ENTRY POSTED AFTER 12/12/02 CUT OVER TO ARTEMIS**768169
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1GDFG15R410
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING THE TRANSMISSION FAILED, CAUSING AN AWFUL NOISE, AND LIMITED MOBILIY. *SCC
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-22
- VIN: 1GDFG15R7V1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES WHILE DRIVING, THE POWER STEERING WENT OUT, THE DEALER DETERMINED THE SHAFT BROKE IN THE POWER STEERING PUMP, DEALER REPLACED THE POWER STEERING PUMP ASSEMBLY AND SERPENTINE BELT.*JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-23
- VIN: 1GDFG15R7V1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CONSUMER STATED THE FRONT BRAKES WERE REPLACED, THE FRONT ROTORS WERE MACHINED AND THE REAR BRAKES WERE CLEANED AND ADJUSTED.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1GDFG15R9V1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: LOSS OF ENGINE COOLANT WAS REPORTED TO DEALER MULTIPLE TIMES. FIRST REPORTED AT 16,799 MILES. DEALER ALWAYS DID PRESSURE TEST BUT REPORTED NO PROBLEM. NOW MY MECHANIC TELLS ME I HAVE COOLANT IN THE OIL.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-09-25
- VIN: 1GKDM19W2VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AT 38,000 MILES VEHICLE WOULD SHIFT HARD BETWEEN GEAR CHANGES, ONLY WHEN TRAVELING LONG DISTANCE. *AK CONSUMER STATED THAT WHILE THE TRANSMISSION STARTED HARD SHIFTING FROM FIRST TO SECOND GEAR THE ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. *YD
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-21
- VIN: 1GTGG25R6V1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE REAR LEFT SIDE TIRE BLEW UP WHILE THE CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING AT 70 MPH. (FIRESTONE STEEL TEX R4S/TIRE SIZE LT223/75R16). *YH
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-08-21
- VIN: 1GTGG25R6V1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THE REAR LEFT SIDE TIRE BLEW UP WHILE THE CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING AT 70 MPH. (FIRESTONE STEEL TEX R4S/TIRE SIZE LT223/75R16). *YH
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1GTHG35R0V1
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN DEPRESSING BRAKE PEDAL REAR BRAKES WOULD GRAB. WHEN CONSUMER RELEASED THE BRAKES VEHICLE WOULD TRAVEL LIKE BRAKES WERE STILL APPLIED, CAUSING VEHICLE TO SURGE. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED.*AK CONSUMER STATES THAT THE MANUFACTURER SUGGESTED TO THE DEALER TO DISCONNECT THE REAR BRAKE ADJUSTER AND WAS TOLD THAT ALL THE REAR BRAKES WERE OVER ADJUSTING, CONSUMER STATES SINCE THE REMOVAL, THE BRAKES STILL GRAB AND STAY PARTIALLY ON AFTER THE BRAKE PEDAL HAS BEEN RELEASED, DEALER STATED THAT THE VEHICLE IS SUPPOSED TO RESPOND LIKE THAT BECAUSE IT WAS DESIGNED TO HAVE A LOAD IN IT. *SLC
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-05-12
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1GDFG15R4V1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY LOST ALL OF IT'S FLUID WHILE I WAS DRIVING AND LEFT A CLOUD OF SMOKE WHICH CAUSED ME TO STOP. WHEN I SAW A POOL OF TRANSMISSION FLUID, I LOOKED UNDER THE VAN AND NOTICED THAT THE EXHAUST CROSSOVER PIPE HAD CAUSED THE FLUID TO IGNITE UNDER THE VAN AND FLAMES WERE VISIBLE UNDER THE VEHICLE. AT THIS POINT, I ORDERED MY WIFE TO GET OUT OF THE VAN BECAUSE OF THE FLAMES. A MOTORIST MUST HAVE CALLED THE MT. MORRIS FIRE DEPARTMENT BECAUSE A FIRE TRUCK ARRIVED AT THE SCEEN. I HAD ALREADY PUT THE FLAMES OUT BY USING A FIRE EXTINGUISHER THAT I CARRY. MY VAN HAD TO BE TOWED TO ALBERT CHEVROLET IN MT. MORRIS (THEY WERE ONE OF THE FEW DEALERSHIPS THAT WERE OPEN ON SATURDAY). THE DEALER STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION ALONE IS LISTED FOR $1,350.00 PLUS LABOR AND ANY ADDITION FLUIDS AND/OR PARTS. I ESTIMATE THIS TO COST APPROXIMATELY $2,500.00.*AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-29
- VIN: 1GDFG15R0V1
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: PASSENGER'S SIDE 3RD WINDOW IN BACK FALLS OUT OF TRACK ONTO PAINT OF VAN WHEN UNLATCHED. THIS HAPPENED AT 297 MILES, WAS REPAIRED BY DEALER. *AK THE WINDOW FELL DOWN WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS NEW . THE CONSUMER STATES THAT THE MANUFACTURER SHOULD REPLACED IT. *YH
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-22
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: UPPER HINGE PIN FALLING OUT OF HINGES, AND CAUSING DOORS TO DROP. UNABLE TO CLOSE PROPERLY;. DEALER / MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED, AND REFUSED TO REPAIR UNLESS COST GOES TO CONSUMER. PLEASE FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS ON THIS MATTER. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-23
- VIN: 1GJHG39R1V1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE CAME APART-DID NOT DEFLATE-CONSIDERABLE BODY DAMAGE. *AK (DOT NUMBER: 909D TIRESIZE: LT245/75R1)
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-11-23
- VIN: 1GJHG39R1V1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE CAME APART-DID NOT DEFLATE-CONSIDERABLE BODY DAMAGE. *AK( DOT NUMBER: 909D TIRE SIZE: LT245/75R1 )
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1GPTG25M8V1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESS HAVE ALL CORRODED DUE TO MOISTURE, POSSIBLY CAUSING FIRE OR ELECTRICAL FAILURES. *AK
1997 Gmc Savana recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1997 Gmc Savana.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: PASSENGER VANS. THESE VANS EXPERIENCE FUEL ODORS OR LEAKAGE.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REVISED EVAPORATIVE EMISSION PIPE ASSEMBLY.
Negative 1997 Gmc Savana car reviews
Positive 1997 Gmc Savana car reviews
-
An excellent conversion van-- Trailmaster conversion. After 10 years and 160,000 miles it is still reliable and comfortable. This van has spoiled me for driving distances in anything else.
-
It's great to hear that you and your family have had such a positive experience with your van! While there have been some minor issues with the brakes and driver's side window, it's clear that your family has made many happy memories in the van. In fact, your family loves the van so much that you just purchased a new one! Here's to another 10+ years of happy travels!
-
Your car sounds like a great investment! It's amazing that you've had it for so long and it still runs like new with over 100K miles on it. It's perfect for hauling people and things, and it's great that you can even fit a 4x8 sheet of plywood in the back. The only minor issues you've had with it are the fuel pump and air conditioning hoses, but those were easily fixed. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Gmc Savana problems:
Q&A: Common Problems with 1997 GMC Savana 1500 & 3500 ...
Dec 20, 2011 ... Sounds like a problem with idle air control valve or ignition switch..Moniter voltage at trans fuse on interior fuse panel to see if voltage ...
1997 GMC Savana 1500 Problems and Complaints - 15 Issues
Problem with your 1997 GMC Savana 1500? Our list of 15 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 GMC Savana 1500.
Q&A: 2004 GMC Savana Van - Common Issues & Engine Review
Oct 14, 2022 ... I have a 2004 GMC Savana 2500 van. We are getting random misfire codes and loss of power. Especially when going up - Answered by a verified ...
1997 GMC Savana 3500 Problems and Complaints - 16 Issues
Top 1997 GMC Savana 3500 Problems · "No start" Caused By Failed Fuel Pump · Tail Light Wiring in Cargo Area May be Damaged · Fuel Level Sensor Failure · Flush ...
Chevy Express/GMC Savana Starting/Stalling Problems — Car ...
Sep 25, 2006 ... I have a '97 Chevy 1 ton van that had a starting problem repaired two years ago with the replacement of the injector pump computer. It ran ...
Other years of Gmc Savana
Are you having problems with your 1997 Gmc Savana?
Ole Doyle 2024-02-13
Great for hauling kids and camping! It's also easy to haul 4x8 sheets of ply. The rear bench has plenty of room for all my stuff, even when pulling a camper trailer. However, over time, there have been some odd brake issues and all the brake lines have become rusty, resulting in a huge expense. Additionally, I've had a few electrical issues and corroded grounds that are hard to trace.