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).
Social links
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
-
I was surprised to find out that there is no 2500 3/4TON AWD model to choose from, only a 1500 series. However, the Pro Package is equipped with 2 double long air assisted opening panels, one on each side where the windows would normally be, custom 12 volt interior lighting, and an electronic transmission towing switch on the instrument panel. The 5.3L Vortex engine is simply amazing. Although, like with all GMC/CHEVY vehicles, the exterior primer and paint quality is not great. My van is 13 years old but has less than 78,000 miles. Unfortunately, on the 10th year after the RUST warranty disappeared, so did the paint from the primer. The primer was installed too thin and never properly adhered to the cheap paint used. I had a 1985 CHEVY 3/4 TRUCK that had the same issue with the paint. I thought GMC would be better quality, but unfortunately, that was not the case. If you plan on keeping a Chevy or GMC for an extended period, then please take my word for it, you will need to repaint the vehicle. Rainwater works behind the paint, dislodging huge sections at a time. The Vortex engine is fantastic and could have enhanced performance and economy with electric fans on the radiator (push/pull setup) and an electric water pump. This setup would have reduced unneeded drag on the 5.3L engine, topped off with a cold air intake. However, we are all aware that each and every penny saved in construction goes into someone's back pocket. As a great woman once said, 'if you want it done right, do it yourself.'
-
The air conditioning in this vehicle is excellent, especially when driving in the Southeastern United States. The rear air conditioning system consists of three rows of vents, which is more than what Dodge and Ford offer. Additionally, the leg room in this vehicle is better than that of Ford. The noise level is also low, making for a comfortable ride. The 155 inch wheel base is perfect for the extended 15 passenger van. When the vehicle is not heavily loaded, reducing the pressure in the rear tires can make passengers even more comfortable. The tires that come with the van are very stable and can handle side movements with ease. The break-in period before towing is 9,000 or 11,000 miles, and the service requirements are low, with only one change of the rear-end oil and grease points/zerks at oil change. The undercarriage of this 1-ton vehicle is superb, which is one of the reasons why I chose it. The standard 350 engine is powerful and reliable.
-
Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my new GMC Savana. It's been a great replacement for my old Astro Van, especially when it comes to towing and comfort. I got it with 94,000 miles and it's now at 107,000 miles. The only issue I've had so far was the A/C going out at around 105,000 miles. Despite that, I absolutely love this van! Although it gets slightly lower gas mileage than my old Astro, it more than makes up for it with its overall comfort and ability to easily tow my 14-foot enclosed trailer and motorcycle through the mountains of North Carolina. Thanks for listening!
-
Your truck sounds like a reliable and well-maintained vehicle! It gets 16 Mpg with or without load and handles well on the highway. While the brakes tend to overheat in traffic lights, it's still a very safe vehicle with great driver visibility. With 400,000 miles on the chassis and a second engine with 100,000 miles that purrs like a kitten, it's clear that you take good care of your truck. You've also done a great job replacing the shock absorbers, bushings, p/s gear box, control arms, and more. Keep up the good work!
-
It's great to hear that you've been enjoying your GMC Savana for almost five years now! It sounds like you've designed the van to meet your large family's needs perfectly. The van is a pleasure to drive and glides down the highway smoothly. Although you've had a recent mechanical problem with the sending unit in the gas tank, it's good to know that your everyday MPG is about 12.5 and trips are between 14.5 to 16, which is impressive for a 1 ton extended van fully loaded with a large cargo carrier on top. The only interior problem you've had is with the interior panels on the back door staying in place when they are closed. Overall, it's clear that you've taken great care of your van and it's serving you well. Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
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.