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GMC · Known Issues

2025 GMC Savana Problems: 2 Known Issues

2025 model year · 350+ owner reports · Updated September 2026

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2025 · All trims · All engines

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Issue summary

According to Au7o's analysis of 350+ owner reports, the 2025 GMC Savana has 2 documented known issues, with 1 rated critical. The most serious is AFM Lifter Failure on V8 Vortec/EcoTec3 Engines ($3,500-$8,000 repair). The most commonly reported issue is AFM Lifter Failure on V8 Vortec/EcoTec3 Engines with 350 owner reports. Across all issues with published estimates, repair costs range from $100 to $8,000. DIY maintenance guides at au7o.io.

In This Article

  • Savana Engine1
  • Savana Body/Panels1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ
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In This Article

  • Engine1
  • Body/Panels1
  • Recalls8
  • FAQ

All 2 Known Issues

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ALL YEARS202520242023202220212020201920182017201620152014201320122011201020092008200720062005200420032002200120001999199819971996
Community reported
350 owners

On the 2010-2025 GMC Savana, 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 60,000-120,000 miles, causing misfires, engine ticking, rough idle, and potential engine damage. Commercial Savana vans used for fleet operations are especially vulnerable due to high mileage accumulation and variable maintenance practices. The problem affects all GMT600 platform Savana/Express vans with AFM-equipped engines.

This issue also affects: Buick LeSabre, Buick Park Avenue, Buick Cascada

Common Symptoms

  • Misfire codes P0300, P0301, P0304, P0306, P0307
  • Ticking or tapping from engine
  • Rough idle especially when cold
  • Check engine light
  • Reduced power under load
  • Metal shavings on oil drain plug magnet

How to Fix

Replace all 16 lifters and VLOM (GM 12639516). AFM delete kit for permanent fix. Range Technology RA003B disabler for prevention. Increase oil change frequency to 5,000 miles with Dexos2 full synthetic for commercial use vans.

Typical repair cost:$3,500 - $8,000

Research This Issue

Based on 350 owner reports

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
High Confidence350 owner reportsLast reported by owners Feb 2026Reviewed Feb 2026

On the 1996-2025 GMC Savana, 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.

This issue also affects: GMC Safari

Common Symptoms

  • Doors hard to close
  • Wind noise from door seals
  • Doors sag visibly
  • Water leaks around doors

How to Fix

Replace door hinge pins and bushings, or complete hinge assemblies if worn beyond bushing repair. Adjust door striker plates after hinge repair. Lubricate all hinge pivot points with white lithium grease every 6 months.

Typical repair cost:$100 - $400

Research This Issue

GoogleRedditYouTubeNHTSA
Community Reported
Medium Confidence
NHTSA Recalls8 recalls

STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans. The impact beam located in the driver's side door may have improper welds.

Campaign #25V08700013/02/2025

TIRES:SIDEWALL

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Express Cutaway, and 2025-2026 Savana Cutaway vehicles. These vehicles may be equipped with a tire with sidewall damage.

Campaign #26V12700005/03/2026

SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:HEAD RESTRAINT

General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vehicles. The front passenger seat head restraint may have been improperly welded to the seat frame.

Campaign #25V29900008/05/2025

STEERING

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2025-2026 Express, and 2025-2026 Savana vehicles. The steering gear assembly may have a nut that was not properly tightened.

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Other GMC Models

GMC Sierra 150035GMC Terrain26GMC Yukon XL24GMC Sierra 3500HD24GMC Acadia22GMC Yukon21

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common GMC Savana problems?

According to Au7o's analysis of 350+ owner reports, the 2025 GMC Savana has 2 documented issues. The most frequently reported are: AFM Lifter Failure on V8 Vortec/EcoTec3 Engines, Rear Cargo Door and Side Door Hinge Wear. Of these, 1 is rated critical and should be addressed promptly.

Is the GMC Savana reliable?

The 2025 GMC Savana has 2 known issues documented across 350+ owner reports. 1 issue is rated critical: AFM Lifter Failure on V8 Vortec/EcoTec3 Engines. 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 $100 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 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.

Content on this page was compiled with AI assistance using NHTSA complaints, TSBs, owner reports, and public automotive data. While we strive for accuracy, this information may contain errors. Always verify repair procedures and specifications with your vehicle's service manual or a qualified mechanic.

Data sourced from 350+ owner reports, NHTSA recalls, TSBs, and automotive forums.

Campaign #26V39900023/06/2026

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE:SOFTWARE

General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2022-2023 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vehicles. Incorrect software in the transmission control module (TCM) may result in harsh shifting, reduced power, unintended deceleration, rear wheel lockup, or cause the vehicle to move in an unintended direction.

Campaign #24V83900007/11/2024

+ 3 more recalls. Check all on NHTSA.gov

Enter your VIN at NHTSA.gov to check recalls specific to your vehicle.