1997 GMC Safari SLT 4.3 gas from North America

Summary:

Money pit

Faults:

Air conditioner blows cool only once in a while.

Wipers work intermittently.

Door locks work intermittently.

Power windows work intermittently.

Difficulty starting in damp weather.

General Comments:

The biggest issue we've had with this vehicle is that it starts when it feels like it in cold or damp weather. Replacing the distributor, fuel pump and ignition coil module have still not corrected the problem.

The GM dealer has taken this vehicle in on several occasions, including making an appointment with a "specialist". No one seems to know why it turns over, but will not start. Any suggestions? Reach me at jpannozzo@cogeco.ca Thanks!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 22nd September, 2003

16th Oct 2003, 19:25

The problem with it not starting in the damp is almost ALWAYS the ignition coil. To check it next time it turns over, but won't start... remove the "dog house" (the engine cover inside the van) and look for the coil on the upper right side of the intake manifold. Turn the engine over and watch for a spark jumping from the coil to the intake manifold or nearby metal brackets. Cracked coils are a very common problem.

Also... wiper motor problems are known to GM and are under a recall. See your dealer and demand that they replace it for free. If they won't then contact GM head office.

29th Feb 2004, 01:45

Get rid of this thing before it nickel and dimes you to death. That's what I did and I am as happy as can be. Too numerous problems to deal with.

26th Jul 2004, 16:55

I have owned a 1993 GMC Safari for 5 years now, and Have at this point paid more in repairs than I did for the blessed van! I loved it the first year, in spite of replacing the fuel pump within the first 6 months... (that number has now crept to 5 fuel pumps!!!) replaced the fuel injectors, thermostat, door handles all the way around, at least $1500 in the rear end, and the delightful ignition coil that goes out every year (thank god I am one of those women who can do some of her own "wrenching"... This week... the intake manifold has developed a mysterious hole... oh joy... I am fixing this puppy and then getting rid of it... good riddance!! any others want to comment, email at queenofitall82801@yahoo.com.

18th Oct 2009, 00:04

Great van. I've got 334700k's on it and she's still got power.

Front end (idler arms and ball joints) shot, but this van is a machine!!!

1997 GMC Safari LX 4.3L V6 from North America

Summary:

High performance bargain

Faults:

Wiper motor died- reimbursed because of recall.

Alternator replaced (after 160000 miles)

Replaced rotors after 175000 miles.

General Comments:

This van has been absolutely fabulous. It rides very smooth and is a comfortable ride. It accelerates nicely for a vehicle this size, and gets about 20 miles a gallon for me. The seats come out and I can haul a typical 4 x 8 sheet of plywood in the back, which makes it very handy when you are doing projects. The a/c is ice cold and I have had no problems with it other than the alternator and the rotors, which of course typically go by the time you hit 150000 miles!!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th May, 2003