1998 GMC Jimmy SLT from North America - Comments

I lost my ignition module after 5 hours off the show room floor.

Replaced the air conditioner twice and the alternator three times.

Finally the windshield wipers would not quit until the ignition was turned off.

This vehicle handles very well and was the most comfortable truck I have ever owned.

The reliability of the Jimmy leaves very much to be desired. All of the above problems occured prior to 38000 miles. At 42000 I could take no more and traded in the truck for two Nissans. Since that day I have never had to worry about being stranded on the side of the road.

Ditto on the driving comfort. Freeway driving with the luxury ride package is as comfortable as an Escalade or Navigator without the bulk, and the driving position and visibility are excellent. The ergonomics/dash layout are outstanding - controls are easy to reach and use. Access to the rear seats is a little tight and the back rests could use more padding. Handling is what you would expect for a truck-based SUV. Unfortunately the ride and cab features don't offset the reliability issues. In 3 yrs. I've had to replace the following:

- Steering wheel - badly deteriorated cover by 20K miles (still under warranty)

- CD/Stereo - 42K miles

- Radiator - rotted at 62K miles

- Water pump - badly leaking at 62K miles

- Heater core - rotted at 68K miles (and a big job to replace - you have to completely remove the dash)

On top of this the paint/clear coat is beginning to deteriorate. All of this has occurred on a Jimmy SLT that is driven conservatively in a mild So. Cal climate, serviced at the recommended intervals, and garaged.

With the problems I've experienced, there is no way I could recommend this vehicle. You would have to purchase the extended warranty just for peace of mind and you would still have the guaranteed inconvenience of having it in the shop regularly. With this reliability record, who cares if you only have to tune-up the vehicle every 100K!

I too have a 1999 Jimmy and I am replacing the heater core at 47,000 miles. Unfortunately, I DID purchase the extended warranty, only to find out that the heater core will not be covered under warranty! This was very frustrating to say the least. I am currently up to my neck in dash board with no relief in sight. I WILL NOT purchase another Jimmy, possibly not another GM product again. This is the second Jimmy that I have had... SHAME ON ME!!!

I have a 1999 Jimmy also and was just informed my $1400 extended warranty will not cover the "blocked heater core". The vehicle has 57, 000 miles and I just had to replace the front wheel bearing. The dealer said he could try to blow out the clog and if that did not work, replace it. This is very expensive he informed me on the answering machine and 3 days later at that! I now have to wait until Mon. morn to have them start work (they have had the car since 11/25 and now they are closed Thanksgiving thru Sun.) They have informed me the rental car is only covered for 2 days and I am responsible for the rest of the days. I was thinking of buying a new SUV in the fall, but believe me, It will not be a GMC. And I will not buy an extended warranty for any vehicle. When you use it once, they figure they gave you enough service-Livid in MN.!!

1998 Jimmy 4x4 SLT

Where do I start? Every window motor has been replaced. Trany leak less than 60,000 km, Rear end locked up less than 70,000 km and the CHECK ENGINE LIGHT has been playing hide n seek the whole time I have owned this truck. Exxcellent for comfort terrible on gas. Truck still lokks great, but what a lemon hidden behind the mango appearance.

Yes, I too own a 1999 Jimmy with 68k miles and have had my share of problems. Alternator, rotors, brakes, water pump, heater core, tires, front bearings, etc, etc, etc. This sucks. In the last week I have replaced my alternator and my water pump. Still no heat. I am now thinking of a trade instead of fixing the heater core.

I have had all of the same problems with my 1998 GMC Jimmy and GMC will not do anything about them. I bought myself a Toyota and it has been a GREAT truck, but now I am stuck selling a real LEMON. I WILL NEVER buy another american made auto again. SAME ON THE BIG THREE. for lowering the standards of American quality workmanship.