2000 GMC Safari review from North America

The van seems to love to eat front brake pads. If you decide to purchase a Safari, remember that it will need a front brake job every 20,000 miles.

The van will also eat front tires until you get it aligned by a professional. After the alignment you will get normal wear from the tires.

(Barn doors only) The rear barn door handle has broken three times. They are a little pricey at the dealer. I have found that an Astro handle will work if you run across one in a salvage yard.

My Safari decided to have major repairs around 90,000 miles. I had my local mechanic replace wheel bearings, alternator, belts, hoses, plugs, shocks, front and back brakes (1st time for the backs) and other assorted odds and ends. The bill was $2900 (US)

The a/c is starting to get weak. The air compressor and evap will need to be replaced soon. That will be $700 (us)

My negatives would have you believe that my Safari has been trouble. That assumption would be far from the truth. $3660 at one time for 90,000 miles of carefree driving has been awesome. The van has hauled kids, friends, lumber, groceries, and a boat with rear wheel drive authority.

It is a shame that GM has ended the run on the Safari and Astro, they have been good friends to a lot of owners.