2008 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).
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Common 2008 Gmc Savana problems
The 2008 GMC Savana has several common problems reported by owners, primarily related to the transmission and accessories.
- Accessories - Interior Problems: Another common problem with the 2008 GMC Savana is related to accessories and interior issues. The most reported problem is with the 2000 GMC Savana for delayed starting. In addition, there are reports of interior noise with the ignition on or off, which sounds like an electronic buzzing almost like a warning sound. This issue continues until the battery is disconnected.
- Vortec Excessive Oil Consumption: Some 2008 GMC Savana owners have reported excessive oil consumption in the Vortec engine. This issue can result in increased oil consumption and the need for frequent oil changes.
- Leaking Coolant from a Cracked Intake Manifold: Another common issue with the 2008 GMC Savana is leaking coolant from a cracked intake manifold. This issue can result in overheating and engine damage if not addressed promptly.
- Fuel Leaks: There have been reports of fuel leaks in the 2008 GMC Savana, particularly in vehicles originally sold or currently registered in certain states. This issue can result in an increased risk of fire during refueling.
- Steering Gear Pitman Shaft Fracture: Some 2008 GMC Savana owners have reported a loss of steering due to a fractured steering gear pitman shaft. This issue can increase the risk of a crash and requires prompt attention.
These common problems with the 2008 GMC Savana can result in costly repairs and decreased vehicle reliability. It is important for owners to address these issues promptly to avoid further damage and ensure safe operation of the vehicle.
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.
How long do GMC Savana last?
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 is the gas mileage on a 2008 GMC Savana?
The 2008 Savana 1500 Cargo gets 17 MPG overall, with 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. For a complete list of all the 2008 Savana 1500 Cargo specs, features and options check out Kelley Blue Book's 2008 GMC Savana 1500 Cargo specs page.
What size engine is in a 2008 GMC Savana 3500?
The Savana can be equipped with one of five engines: a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6; a 279-hp (maximum), 4.8-liter V-8; a 301-hp, 5.3-liter V-8; a 323-hp, 6.0-liter V-8; or a 250-hp, 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V-8 that generates 460 pounds-feet of torque.
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.
How long do GMC Savana last?
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 is the gas mileage on a 2008 GMC Savana?
The 2008 Savana 1500 Cargo gets 17 MPG overall, with 15 MPG in the city and 20 MPG on the highway. For a complete list of all the 2008 Savana 1500 Cargo specs, features and options check out Kelley Blue Book's 2008 GMC Savana 1500 Cargo specs page.
What size engine is in a 2008 GMC Savana 3500?
The Savana can be equipped with one of five engines: a 195-horsepower, 4.3-liter V-6; a 279-hp (maximum), 4.8-liter V-8; a 301-hp, 5.3-liter V-8; a 323-hp, 6.0-liter V-8; or a 250-hp, 6.6-liter turbo-diesel V-8 that generates 460 pounds-feet of torque.
2008 Gmc Savana complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2008 Gmc Savana.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2008 Gmc Savana recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 2008 Gmc Savana.
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2003-2023 Chevrolet Express Cutaway and GMC Savana Cutaway incomplete vehicles equipped with wiring for an optional rear heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system. When the HVAC blower motor circuit is left unused with exposed connectors and wiring, the circuit can corrode and overheat.
- Consequence: An overheated electrical circuit increases the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Dealers will properly seal the rear HVAC blower motor circuits at the left side B-pillar, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed May 2, 2023. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GMC's number for this recall is N222386050.
- Manufacturer: MAIN MOBILITY, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: MAIN MOBILITY IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2008 AND 2009 CONVERSION VANS BUILT ON CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA CHASSIS FROM OCTOBER 2007 THROUGH MAY 2010 AND FITTED WITH CERTAIN RICON S SERIES AND K SERIES L-MODEL WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. DUE TO A PROBLEM IN THE SOFTWARE THAT CONTROLS THE LIFT'S "UP" FUNCTION, SHOULD THE "UP" BUTTON BE RELEASED BEFORE THE FLOOR LEVEL LIMIT SWITCH IS ACTIVATED, THE LIFT MAY CONTINUE ITS UPWARD TRAVEL AND MAY OVERRUN THE FLOOR LEVEL CUT OFF POINT.
- Consequence: WHEN THE PLATFORM OVERRUNS THE VEHICLE FLOOR LEVEL AND STOPS AT AN ANGLE FROM 15-20 DEGREES, IT IS POSSIBLE FOR A PERSON IN A WHEELCHAIR TO TIP OVER AND FOR SOMEONE STANDING ON THE PLATFORM TO FALL, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN INJURIES.
- Remedy: MAIN MOBILITY WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND THE REPAIRS WILL BE PERFORMED BY AUTHORIZED RICON DEALERS FREE OF CHARGE. A SOFTWARE SOLUTION FOR THIS SAFETY DEFECT IS UNDER INVESTIGATION. UNTIL THE SOFTWARE SOLUTION IS AVAILABLE, RICON WILL PROVIDE OWNERS WITH A BULLETIN OUTLINING PROPER WHEELCHAIR LIFT OPERATION AND WILL SHIP OWNERS A DVD-BASED TRAINING AID TO PROMOTE PROPER LIFT OPERATION AT NO COST. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 27, 2010. OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-818-267-3000 OR MAIN MOBILITY AT 1-716-759-6811.
- Manufacturer: MAIN MOBILITY, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: MAIN MOBILITY IS RECALLING 185 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2009 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA VANS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN APRIL 1, 2005 AND JUNE 25, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH RICON PLATFORM STYLE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 403, "PLATFORM LIFT INSTALLATIONS IN MOTOR VEHICLES." THE ANTI-STOW INTERLOCK MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY AID USER. THE PRESSURE SENSING SWITCH THAT DETECTS THE PRESENCE OF WEIGHT ON THE PLATFORM WAS NOT ADJUSTED TO THE NECESSARY SENSITIVITY LEVEL. THE LIFT COULD STOW EVEN THOUGH SOMEONE OR SOMETHING IS STILL ON THE LIFT.
- Consequence: THE USER OF THE LIFT COULD BE INJURED SHOULD THE LIFT MOVE UNINTENTIONALLY.
- Remedy: MAIN MOBILITY IS WORKING WITH RICON TO CORRECT THE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 07E097). OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-818-267-3000 OR MAIN MOBILITY AT 1-716-759-6811.
- Manufacturer: MAIN MOBILITY, INC.
- Components: EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: MAIN MOBILITY IS RECALLING 185 MODEL YEAR 2005 THROUGH 2009 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA VANS MANUFACTURED BETWEEN APRIL 1, 2005 AND JUNE 25, 2009, EQUIPPED WITH RICON PLATFORM STYLE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 404, "PLATFORM LIFT INSTALLATIONS IN MOTOR VEHICLES." THE THRESHOLD WARNING SYSTEM MAY NOT DETECT THE PRESENCE OF A WHEELCHAIR OR MOBILITY AID USER IN A CERTAIN SPOT WITHIN THE DEFINED THRESHOLD AREA.
- Consequence: THE USER OF THE LIFT COULD BE INJURED SHOULD THE LIFT MOVE UNINTENTIONALLY.
- Remedy: MAIN MOBILITY IS WORKING WITH RICON TO CORRECT THE WHEELCHAIR LIFTS FREE OF CHARGE (PLEASE SEE 07E095). OWNERS MAY CONTACT RICON AT 1-818-267-3000 OR MAIN MOBILITY AT 1-716-759-6811.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:TRANSFER CASE (4-WHEEL DRIVE)
- Summary: GM IS RECALLING 151 MY 2008 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ALL WHEEL DRIVE (AWD). SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE TRANSFER CASES THAT WERE MANUFACTURED WITH AN INCORRECT PART THAT CAN CAUSE EARLY FAILURE OF A DRIVE CHAIN. IF THE CHAIN BREAKS, SHIFTING THE TRANSMISSION TO PARK MAY NOT KEEP THE VEHICLE STATIONARY.
- Consequence: IF THE VEHICLE IS PARKED ON AN INCLINE OR BUMPED, IT MAY ROLL AND STRIKE A PERSON, OBJECT, OR ANOTHER VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING, AND CAUSE PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TRANSFER CASE DATE CODE AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE TRANSFER CASE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 15, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, OR THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AT HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM .
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
- Summary: GM IS RECALLING 567 MY 2008 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA CUTAWAY VEHICLES WITH A 139" WHEEL BASE. THE FRAME RAIL ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE MAY BE WIDER THAN SPECIFICATION.
- Consequence: IF THE FRAME RAIL IS WIDER THAN SPECIFICATION, OVER TIME IT MAY CONTACT THE FUEL TANK HOUSING, RESULTING IN A POSSIBLE FUEL LEAK. FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE FRAME RAIL AND FUEL TANK HOUSING AND WILL REWORK THE FRAME RAIL IF NECESSARY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 30, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-966-9463, OR THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AT HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM .
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
- Summary: GM IS RECALLING 2,481 MY 2008 CHEVROLET EXPRESS AND GMC SAVANA G-CUTAWAY FLEET VAN EQUIPPED WITH A 6.0L (RPO LY6) V8 ENGINE, 4L80E (RPO MT1) TRANSMISSION, 4.10 (RPO GT5) AXLE AND 75 MPH GOVERNOR (RPO 9D7). THESE VEHICLES HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH THE TRANSMISSION MAY BE DAMAGED DUE TO FIRST GEAR ENGAGEMENT AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS AND THEN DOES NOT TRANSMIT POWER WITH D4 OR R SELECTED. THIS MAY BE PRECEDED BY ENGINE SHUTDOWN IF THE VEHICLE EXCEEDS 81 MILES PER HOUR IN CERTAIN CONDITIONS.
- Consequence: THE VEHICLE MAY BE STRANDED ON OR NEAR A HIGHWAY, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE TRANSMISSION AND ENGINE CONTROL MODULES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OR ABOUT JULY 30, 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 AND GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, OR THROUGH THEIR WEBSITE AT HTTP://WWW.GMOWNERCENTER.COM .
Negative 2008 Gmc Savana car reviews
Positive 2008 Gmc Savana car reviews
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We bought this van to take our loved ones and furry friends on adventures to the beach, mountains, camping, and beyond. It has handled everything we've asked of it. The rubber mats and vinyl seats make cleaning up after a trip to the beach or mountains a breeze. It tows our large tent trailer without any trouble. Although we did have to replace the transmission after about 110,000 miles, which seems a bit early, we still would buy this van again.
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This 1500 Savana is the best hightop conversion van explorer ever made. It has a 350cid V8 5.7Liter Vortec engine with approximately 430,000 original miles. It was purchased brand new and has had only one owner. It has been a daily driver since day one and passes state inspection every year. The transmission was replaced a couple of hundred thousand miles ago and still shifts like butter with no issues. The front and rear A/C is so cold that it's colder than a Bentley. It's smoother than a Mercedes Benz. The 2500 vans are stiff and bouncy, but this one is smooth and comfortable. It gets an average of 17 mpg on the highway and with its 30-gallon tank, it gives that extra comfort of the smoothest, powerful long-lasting 350 iron block that's been dependable since new. Even though I heard the recent bad news with the vans 2024 models no longer having V8s but a turbo 6, I seriously don't think it will be as reliable as mine. I use it to carry tools and go up hills, and I don't think the turbo 6 will be able to handle that. Then in 2025, they will go out with a bang with V6 turbos breaking down in vans, but all the vans being discontinued. I wouldn't take less than 100,000 bucks if I ever decide to sell it, but even at six figs, I would not let mine go.
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I bought this van new in 2005 and it has been one of the most dependable vehicles I have ever owned. Besides the usual maintenance (oil changes, tire rotations, brake replacements, and fluid top-ups), the only repair it needed was a water pump at 185,000 miles. I put 191,000 miles on it and it was still going strong until it was unfortunately involved in a wreck.
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to let you know that I've owned this from when it was new and I really like everything about it.
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I've been working since I was young, and GMC is the only work truck for me. If I had used an extended van, I wouldn't have been able to park it in the warm garage away from the birds we feed.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2008 Gmc Savana problems:
Q&A: GMC Savana Fuse Box Location, Diagram & Turn Signal ...
Sep 24, 2011 ... What causes my GMC Savana left turn signals to not work? My left turn signal will not work on a 2008 GMC Savana ... This is a very common problem ...
GMC Savanna long term reliability - Car Forums and Automotive Chat
Sep 8, 2007 ... This is not my experience from driving one, just what i've seen in the field. miecow. 03-29-2008, 03:09 PM. my work uses 05 gmc savana's with ...
2012 GMC Savana 2500 - I have a P0300 and P0302 error codes ...
Feb 13, 2021 ... Common 2012 GMC Savana 2500 problems · GMC ... Is the transmission pan shallow or deep on a 2008 GMC Savanna Van ... Reliability Ratings. For ...
The Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana full-size vans are the most ...
Mar 7, 2021 ... A little bit, but mostly having a big, lazy, under-stressed engine is great for reliability and longevity. Upvote
2008 GMC Savana 1500 Problems and Complaints - 12 Issues
Problem with your 2008 GMC Savana 1500? Our list of 12 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2008 GMC Savana 1500.
Other years of Gmc Savana
Are you having problems with your 2008 Gmc Savana?
Lesley Gusikowski 2024-11-28
I hope you're doing well! I wanted to share my experience with my Exployer conversion. While the interior looks great, I did notice that the ride quality is only fair. Additionally, at highway speeds, there is quite a bit of wind noise which can make it difficult to hold a conversation.
Wilburn Walter 2024-06-20
When my diesel van was new, it had some engine problems, transmission issues, alternator malfunctions, sliding door troubles, and a few other problems. However, they were eventually fixed. Now, it is pretty reliable, except for the alternator belt that has flown off 3 times. Despite the issues I've had, I absolutely love my van! It tows great and I have no problems passing any other truck type vehicles on any mountain passes. My husband agrees that it outperforms his 1997 4x4 dually Chevy diesel truck, except for the lack of 4-wheel drive. I can honestly say that this vehicle has enhanced my life because of its towing abilities and the spacious interior it provides. Although the interior may be cheap, I have learned to live with it. I would definitely buy this vehicle again, especially with 4-wheel drive.
Quinton Franecki 2024-03-02
Great van! It's amazing how much power and fuel mileage it provides for such a large vehicle. I'm really looking forward to purchasing the new GM Diesel van. We use it to tow the US Bobsled to shows and take it to a lot of Nascar Races. We're very active in racing, selling our products to several teams and sponsoring others. It's not uncommon to see Nascar drivers catching a ride in our van, which can seat up to 15 people. All in all, we're extremely satisfied with it.
Lazaro Crist 2024-02-21
I hope you're doing well! I noticed that you mentioned using your van to pull your fishing boat to the ocean. That sounds like a lot of fun! I was thinking that it might be helpful to have side mirrors that extend out for better visibility when backing up in tight spaces. I've seen some really nice ones on Ford pickups that might work well for your van. Some of them even retract and fold against the truck when not in use. I know you love your van, and I think this could be a great addition to make your fishing trips even more enjoyable. It's great that you have holders for all your fishing gear, too. Just lock up the van and you're ready for your next adventure!
Okey Sauer 2024-01-14
Although I have always been a GM guy, this particular van has been a disappointment. The windshield cracked on the first day off the lot due to small stones, which is indicative of poor quality glass. Additionally, the AC failed within 6 months of purchase. The fuel efficiency is also subpar, as we struggle to get 10mpg in the city or on the highway, with only one instance of achieving 12mpg on the highway. When towing my trailer, I was lucky to get 6mpg. Overall, I would not consider purchasing this van again.