1992 GMC Safari SLE from North America

Summary:

A low performing piece of junk

Faults:

In June 1997 the rear axle needed to be replaced at a cost of $1,500 Canadian (this was for a used part).

The front end needed to be replaced the same year as I went through two sets of new tires in less and 8 months.

In 1998 the heater fan needed to be replaced.

The rear passenger heater has never worked.

Hood and top of van paint stated to peel off and the doors, trim and bumpers had a noticeable amount of rust.

In 1999, the air conditioner ceased to function and an estimate for repair came in well over $1000.00. I never had it fixed.

In 2000, the transmission needed major repairs and now in 2003 it is difficult to shift from park into drive.

From 1997 to 2003 I have replaced the muffler 4 times, the automatic door locks no longer work, the rear doors allow rain to leak into the cargo area and I have replaced the brakes twice.

This van is currently leaking radiator fluid, somewhere around the water pump and did not pass Ontario's Drive Clean test.

I spoke to the previous owner after I purchased the Van (he recognized the van while in a grocery store parking lot)

He indicated that he had transmission problems, front end problems, a leaking roof and paint peeling problems in year 2 of ownership (1992-1993).

Final note, the 1992 Safari is a very uncomfortable ride for the driver during long distance runs.

Time to scrap this baby. I will not buy another GM product again.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 6th January, 2003

1992 GMC Safari ext 4.3L from North America

Summary:

Expensive upkeep, but a good runner

Faults:

Replaced front wheel drive shaft 3 times.

Replaced alternator 2 times.

Replaced both torsion bars 1 time.

Paint is falling off after 3 years of ownership primer still holding.

Body completely rusted by 7th year.

Fuel tank rusted out by 7th year.

Antifreeze dripping the timing cover by 7th year.

4 out of 5 lug nuts on one wheel broke while driving 3rd year eventually replaced a total of 15.

Little to no leg room in front for tall people.

Shredded hands trying to replace spark plugs.

General Comments:

Although we had many repairs this van is a great performer with all wheel drive on winter roads.

I would Buy another one if the occasion arose.

I believe engineers should have to repair the products they design.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 11th April, 2002

1992 GMC Safari SLE 4.6L Vortec from North America

Summary:

Great performing, comfy and strong family van

Faults:

Perfect until about 55000 miles/3 years.

Fuel Injector Block went bad 3 times.

Fuel Pump failed.

Lots of minor things that I think were just poor design or materials: rear lock, door electrics, panel switches, some coolant controls.

Alternator failed at about 70,000 miles.

A/C problems; corroded hose, compressor self-destructed - EXPENSIVE to fix!

After about 100,000 miles, brakes became a problem - probably bad Midas repair.

Annoying Oil leaks after about 90,0000.

The van was listed at about $28,000 and we paid about $23,000. For that kind of 1992 money, we were disappointed with several items of poor union workmanship.

General Comments:

For several years, this big van was a pleasure to drive - trouble free, solid handling in snow & ice. Strong engine - towing a trailer in summer with A/C full blast out west.

I expect some maintenance, but several problems seem to persist - brakes, fuel injection, A/C.

Interior is very comfy and durable - still in good condition after 9 years and 5 kids.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 12th August, 2001

29th Aug 2001, 21:21

Teal Blue paint also began flaking off after about 70,000 miles. Even so, very little rust is occurring - even with the salted roads all winter.