1997 GMC Safari Consumer Reviews

Another Love/Hate realationship

Written by: Ozzmier on 01/23/2009

Vehicle

1997 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLT 4WD Passenger Van Extended

Review

When I bought my Safari it had 45,000 miles on it. Around 130,000 my brakes finally wore down and I got new ones. Around 140,000 miles my power steering pump blew and I bought a new one. Around 145,000 miles my a/c and heat stopped working with the exception of a warm defrost. The 2nd heat censor blew. Then, around 160,000 my fuel pump died on me. Now it is sitting in my driveway waiting for a new coil because that blew about 3 days ago ( 173,000 miles). It has been a workhorse, a family vehicle and more. I love the Safari, and until 130,000 miles it never failed me. I would recommend it to anyone who is interested. As long as you keep it maintained as you would expect from any verhicle.

Favorite Features

All wheel drive, removable seats, power everything, nice sound system, quiet and smooth ride

Suggested Improvements

Gas mileage, make the doghouse a little more convenient, a middle console would be nice

Report inappropriate post

Love/ Hate

Written by: Ed Slaney on 10/14/2002

Vehicle

1997 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLE Passenger Van Extended

Review

We have a love /hate relationship with this vehicle. It is great to drive,easy for shopping etc. Comfortable on long trips. We have replaced 3 window motors,1 seat motor,an alternator,a very expensive fuel pump,a wiper circuit board and other various items some under warrenty some not. Before the fuel pump went I complained to GMC and they offered me an 8 hundre $ cert. towards a new GMC product good for 1 yr. The pump went shortley after and the fix wiped out the cert. Yesterday the blower moter switch would only work on high.

Favorite Features

All around driving is great. Road visibility, handling etc.

Suggested Improvements

Obviously....Better quality of parts and a better warranty

6 out 6 people found this review helpful

Report inappropriate post

electrical hell

Written by: Rick Earl on 09/11/2002

Vehicle

1997 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLE Passenger Van Extended

Review

This vehicle has been expensive to operate. It had electrical problems from the start. It continues to eat fuses like candy. The lighter, fuel gauge, and power windows have not worked in 2 years. Its on its 4th battery and 3rd set of front brakes. The front end wears tires quickly, even with it properly aligned. In short buyer beware. There is very little head or leg room in the front seats.

Favorite Features

It is roomy inside, besides the front seat.

Suggested Improvements

Re-design the electrical system, and front end.

2 out 2 people found this review helpful

Report inappropriate post

The Van of Vans

Written by: Jonhnny on 07/17/2002

Vehicle

1997 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLE Passenger Van Extended

Review

I have a trailer and its the only thing that can carry 8 people + a 5,000 pound trailer without a sweat

Favorite Features

190hp Engine, More Interior Refinement

Suggested Improvements

Hydroformed Chassis, More power would be even better,

Report inappropriate post

My safari

Written by: mamoke on 04/28/2002

Vehicle

1997 GMC Safari 2 Dr SLE Passenger Van Extended

Review

Love everything about it but it has become difficult for me to get in and out of it because of my short legs and arthrities.

Favorite Features

Able to see out, up high and visibility is great.

Suggested Improvements

make it closer to the ground

Report inappropriate post