27th Sep 2004, 14:17
My experience with the '93 GMC Jimmy SLE has been vastly different than that of the others posting here.
In 1998, I purchased my first '93 Jimmy (red) from my brother-in-law and it had 112,000 miles on it. Over the next 6+ years, my wife and I ran the odometer up to over 240,000 miles. Even with over 240,000 miles, this Jimmy did not smoke and its Vortec 4.3L V6 would take it down the road much quicker than local law enforcement will allow! I would not have hesitated to drive this SUV anywhere.
During this time, we did have problems with the fuel system. We replaced the fuel pump 2-3 times, the fuel injectors, and the fuel injector wiring harness. I did experience the EGR valve issue mentioned earlier. However, after taking it to a trusted mechanic for a couple of cleanings, we replaced the valve and didn't have another problem.
Everything else that we replaced was regular maintenance items for a vehicle driven regularly. We kept the oil changed every 3,000 miles, instead of GM's recommended 7,500 miles. Our Jimmy was not "garaged" and had no rust at all.
Almost six weeks ago, a lady ran a traffic light at 45+ mph and totaled my Jimmy as a result. Now I'm driving another 1993 GMC Jimmy SLE (green) that has 4WD, power seats, power mirrors, and 116,000 miles. This Jimmy does have some rust because it spent at least six years in New York and New Jersey (according to AutoCheck). We have had to replace the fuel pump, sending unit, gas lines, and gas tank due to rust and improper repairs made by someone else. Soon, it will need the ball-joints replaced, but it does have over 100,000 miles on it.
Perhaps I'm overly optimistic, but I believe that with some TLC, this '93 Jimmy can last as long as the first one did and perhaps as many miles too!
14th Dec 2004, 16:19
WOW! I've been running GMC Jimmy's for the past 11 yr's, My first was the '93 SLT and I still got it with over 300,000 miles, both on and off road 70-30 split. I may have, other than tires, brakes etc put another 1000 dollars into it top's. I have had 5 since then and never have I had any serious problems. I can say one thing, I do look after my things and I don't wait till a problem arises. I'd say either you got a really bad deal or you better fire your mechanic, cause he has made a few dollars off of you by the looks of it. P.S. 4x4's can be expensive if you don't know what you got, have a good day!
23rd Apr 2010, 21:33
Yes I have a 1993 GMC Jimmy with the good ole 4.3 Vortec engine. It has over 200,000 miles on it and still runs great. I drove from IL to Ca. No problem.
The only thing that bums me out is there is a radiator leak and I am not sure where it is at. Maybe the thermostat, maybe the heater core?? But it still runs great. I want to road trip again. I just have to figure out the problem and deal with it!!
Much love to all GMC Jimmy owners, Ya I'm proud!!!
6th May 2010, 12:15
All auto makers have problems with their vehicles. The bottom line is, for the price you pay not everything is going to be perfect. Some sacrifice certain things in order to improve on other things.
If you take the time to notice and compare, then you will see that every car has its own quirks and faults, just like all of us do.
Be thankful that the vehicle you choose to purchase only cost as much as they do -- because imagine what they would cost if they were almost indestructible and last forever, like let's say a diamond.
6th Feb 2011, 21:52
I've had nothing but user induced problems, mostly my own.
I purchased my 93 SLE 4x4 unit at 287,000 with a cracked head. It is now at 320,000, no problems with the engine, but bushings and starters and alternators hoses etc are all part of every vehicle's regular maintenance.
A bonus to these models is they are everywhere. Used units litter the auto wrecker yards, so parts are easy to come by.
I'll buy another should this one bite the bullet.
14th Jul 2004, 16:32
I have a 1993 SLE, and my list of problems looks almost like yours. I am so sick of this piece of junk. I have 155,000 miles and have recently spent close to $1,500 in repairs in the past 2 months. I am still having problems after having the CPI unit replaced.