What are the most common GMC Savana problems?
According to Au7o's analysis of 350+ owner reports, the 2021 GMC Savana has 4 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: AFM Lifter Failure on V8 Vortec/EcoTec3 Engines, Cutaway Rear HVAC Blower Circuit Corrosion at Left B-Pillar - Fire Risk (Recall 23V-247), 6.6L L8T Positive Battery Terminal Contacting Fuse Block - Engine Compartment Fire Risk (Recall 21V-189). Of these, 3 are rated critical and should be addressed promptly.
Is the GMC Savana reliable?
The 2021 GMC Savana has 4 known issues documented across 350+ owner reports. 3 issues are rated critical: AFM Lifter Failure on V8 Vortec/EcoTec3 Engines and Cutaway Rear HVAC Blower Circuit Corrosion at Left B-Pillar - Fire Risk (Recall 23V-247) and 6.6L L8T Positive Battery Terminal Contacting Fuse Block - Engine Compartment Fire Risk (Recall 21V-189). Prospective buyers should inspect for these issues and factor potential repair costs into their purchase decision. Regular maintenance following the manufacturer's schedule helps prevent many common problems.
How much does it cost to fix common GMC Savana problems?
Repair costs for known GMC Savana issues range from $0 to $8,000, depending on the specific problem and whether you choose DIY or professional repair. The most critical issue, AFM Lifter Failure on V8 Vortec/EcoTec3 Engines, typically costs $3,500-$8,000 to repair. Au7o provides step-by-step DIY maintenance guides that can help reduce repair costs.
What is the 2010-2025 GMC Savana AFM Lifter Failure on V8 Vortec/EcoTec3 Engines?
GMC Savana vans equipped with 4.8L (L20), 5.3L (LM7), and 6.0L (L96) V8 engines with Active Fuel Management suffer the same AFM lifter collapse problem documented across the entire GM full-size truck/van lineup. The collapsible AFM lifters on deactivation cylinders fail between 6… Repairs typically run $3,500-$8,000. Severity: high.
What is the 2003-2023 GMC Savana Cutaway Rear HVAC Blower Circuit Corrosion at Left B-Pillar - Fire Risk (Recall 23V-247)?
Savana Cutaway chassis are built with an unused wiring circuit at the lower left B-pillar so that a final-stage upfitter can install an optional rear HVAC blower. When the upfitter leaves that circuit's connectors or cut wire ends unsealed, moisture and road contamination corrode… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 2021 GMC Savana 6.6L L8T Positive Battery Terminal Contacting Fuse Block - Engine Compartment Fire Risk (Recall 21V-189)?
The 6.6L gasoline V8 (L8T) arrived as a new Savana engine option for 2021 and brought a packaging defect with it. Anti-rotation tabs on the positive battery terminal sit too close to an attachment post on the fuse block assembly; with insufficient clearance the tabs can touch the… Repairs typically run $0-$0. Severity: high.
What is the 1996-2025 GMC Savana Rear Cargo Door and Side Door Hinge Wear?
The rear cargo doors and sliding side door hinges wear out from the weight of the doors and constant commercial use. Doors sag, become difficult to close, and the weatherstripping no longer seals properly. Repairs typically run $100-$400. Severity: low.
