1990-2005 GMC Safari: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
Reviews & Ratings
Pricing
Explore
Specifications & Safety
Related to GMC Safari
Related Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-2005 GMC Safari and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Antilock brakes
- Passenger room
- Optional all-wheel-drive traction
- Trailer-towing capability
- Cargo room (extended-length)
Cons
- Ride
- Entry/exit
- Fuel economy
Vehicle Highlights
GMC Safari and Chevrolet Astro models were identical except for names and series designations. They are truck based, rear- or all-wheel-drive minivans that have higher payload and towing ratings than front-drive counterparts.The all-wheel-drive option, 4-wheel antilock brakes, and an extended bodystyle were added for 1990. Also new for '90 was a restyled instrument panel that included a larger glovebox. Five-passenger seating was standard, but seating for up to eight occupants might be installed. Developing 150 horsepower, the standard 4.3-liter V6 engine hooked to a 4-speed automatic transmission.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | GMC Safari AWD SLE Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 3 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 10 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 45 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-2005 GMC Safari. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-2005 GMC Safari.
Year to Year Changes
1991 GMC Safari:
A high-output V6, rated 175 horsepower, became available in 2WD passenger Safaris in '91.
1992 GMC Safari:
During the 1992 model year, a more powerful V6 engine option--rated 200 horsepower--became available. So did a new rear-door option, dubbed Dutch doors, featuring a one-piece glass liftgate with separately opening split panel doors below.
1993 GMC Safari:
A revised 4-speed automatic transmission with electronic controls arrived in '93. Base engines jumped from 150 to 165 horsepower. A driver-side airbag became optional in mid-year.
1994 GMC Safari:
A driver-side airbag was installed in all Safaris for '94. Other new safety features included side guard beams in both front doors and the sliding side door, plus a center high-mounted stoplamp in the roof.
1995 GMC Safari:
Facelifted for 1995, all models got extended bodies and a 190-horsepower engine. Regular-length vans were dropped.
1996 GMC Safari:
A passenger airbag went into 1996 models, which featured a revised dashboard with a locking glovebox. A new interior engine cover increased front foot room, and had built-in cupholders. New ducts heated and cooled rear seats.
1997 GMC Safari:
Speed-sensitive power steering and daytime running lights led the list of changes for '97.
1998 GMC Safari:
There were no significant changes for 1998, however, Ford dropped the rival Aerostar.
1999 GMC Safari:
Changes were limited to optional running boards and redesigned outside mirrors.
2000 GMC Safari:
Safaris gained rear child-seat anchors, a standard third-row bench seat for 7- or 8-passenger capacity, and a larger fuel tank (now made of plastic). Headlamps now switched on automatically in low-light conditions. Other new features included "flash-to-pass" headlamps, battery-rundown protection, and retained accessory power. A new Tow/Haul mode optimized shift points on the automatic transmission for heavy hauling and towing. The V6 engine was mildly updated for quieter operation and lower emissions. Maximum trailering capacities were increased: to 6000 pounds for 2WD models and 5800 with AWD.
2001 GMC Safari:
Safari lost its base passenger model, leaving SLE and SLT trim levels for 2001. A new seven-passenger option replaced the second-row bench with twin bucket seats.
2002 GMC Safari:
For 2002, passenger versions got standard deep-tint rear glass and cargo versions were available with remote keyless entry and a rear heater.
2003 GMC Safari:
Like the similar Astro, Safari gets all-disc brakes and 16-inch wheels on all models.
2004 GMC Safari:
The Safari is unchanged for 2004.
2005 GMC Safari:
Safari is unchanged for 2005. General Motors says this is its last year.
Our road test for the 1990-2005 GMC Safari includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-2005 GMC Safari and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-2005 GMC Safari is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Spacious inside with either the regular- or extended-length body, Safari vans can be fitted to tow up to 6000 pounds and seat up to eight. With those eight seats, regular-length models have little rear cargo room. Optional rear "Dutch doors" make loading more convenient and improve visibility. Standard full swing-out doors have a large center blind spot due to their thick vertical bar. Rear-drive is great for hauling, but Safari/Astro rides and handles more like a truck than a car. The rear axle hops around on bumpy roads, making it difficult to remain on course. The suspension pounds over broken pavement and allows too much floating on wavy roads. Although the standard V6 has plenty of torque for hauling heavy loads, that muscle does not translate into brisk pickup. Best to pick a Safari with the optional engine, or a later model if performance matters. An extended AWD Safari averaged 18.3 mpg.
Value for the Money
Safari is fine if you need a beast of burden, but don't want a full-size van. As a daily people-mover, however, a front-drive minivan would be wiser.
Safari is fine if you need a beast of burden, but don't want a full-size van. As a daily people-mover, however, a front-drive minivan would be wiser.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | GMC Safari AWD SLE Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 3 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 10 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 45 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation GMC Safari includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation GMC Safari .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Cold-starting problems:
New valve guide seals should eliminate the blue smoke from the tailpipe during cold starting. (1990-93)
Doors:
The sliding door is hard to open or close, or does not glide smoothly because various parts are out of adjustment. (1990-93)
Engine misfire:
The engine speed may flare during downshifts between third and second due to a faulty transmission control solenoid. (1996)
Engine noise:
A knocking sound from the engine may require either an oil filter having a built-in check valve, a revised PROM, or replacement of the main bearings. (1990-95)
Engine noise:
A whooping noise coming from the engine may be caused by the exhaust valves sticking in their guides. New valve guide seals should correct the problem. (1996)
Engine temperature:
Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)
Hard starting:
The fuel injector wires tend to get pinched when the air filter is reinstalled. (1990-93)
Transmission leak:
The rear seal on the transmission (extension housing seal) may leak on vans with a one-piece drive shaft. (1990-94)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $515 |
| Alternator | $245 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $770 |
| Brakes | $225 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $555 |
| Exhaust System | $320 |
| Radiator | $420 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $247 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $255 |
| Universal Joints | $153 |
Our price chart for this generation GMC Safari details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| Safari | $9,200-11,000 | $8,300-9,900 | $4,800-5,700 |
| Safari AWD | $10,000-12,000 | $9,000-10,800 | $5,200-6,200 |
| 2004 | |||
| Safari | $7,500-9,000 | $6,800-8,100 | $3,800-4,500 |
| Safari AWD | $8,300-10,000 | $7,500-9,000 | $4,300-5,200 |
| 2003 | |||
| Safari | $6,200-7,600 | $5,400-6,600 | $2,700-3,300 |
| Safari AWD | $6,800-8,100 | $6,100-7,200 | $3,200-3,800 |
| 2002 | |||
| Safari | $5,200-6,300 | $4,400-5,400 | $2,100-2,500 |
| Safari AWD | $5,700-6,800 | $4,900-5,800 | $2,300-2,800 |
| 2001 | |||
| Safari | $4,400-5,400 | $3,700-4,500 | $1,500-1,900 |
| Safari AWD | $4,900-5,900 | $4,200-5,000 | $1,900-2,300 |
| 2000 | |||
| Safari | $3,700-4,800 | $3,000-3,900 | $1,100-1,400 |
| Safari AWD | $4,200-5,300 | $3,400-4,300 | $1,400-1,800 |
| 1999 | |||
| Safari | $3,300-4,200 | $2,600-3,300 | $800-1,100 |
| Safari AWD | $3,700-4,600 | $3,000-3,700 | $1,100-1,300 |
| 1998 | |||
| Safari | $2,800-3,600 | $2,100-2,700 | $600-800 |
| Safari AWD | $3,200-4,100 | $2,500-3,200 | $800-1,000 |
| 1997 | |||
| Safari | $2,400-3,100 | $1,700-2,200 | $500-600 |
| Safari AWD | $2,800-3,500 | $2,100-2,600 | $600-800 |
| 1996 | |||
| Safari | $2,100-2,700 | $1,500-1,900 | $400-500 |
| Safari AWD | $2,500-3,100 | $1,800-2,300 | $500-700 |
| 1995 | |||
| Safari | $1,800-2,400 | $1,200-1,600 | $300-400 |
| Safari AWD | $2,100-2,700 | $1,500-1,900 | $400-500 |
| 1994 | |||
| Safari | $1,500-2,100 | $1,000-1,400 | $200-300 |
| Safari AWD | $1,800-2,400 | $1,200-1,600 | $300-400 |
| 1993 | |||
| Safari | $1,300-1,800 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| Safari AWD | $1,600-2,100 | $1,100-1,400 | $200-300 |
| 1992 | |||
| Safari | $1,200-1,700 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Safari AWD | $1,400-1,900 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| 1991 | |||
| Safari | $1,100-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Safari AWD | $1,300-1,800 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| 1990 | |||
| Safari | $1,000-1,500 | $600-900 | $100-200 |
| Safari AWD | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation GMC Safari include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 1990-94 ext. 3-door van | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 111.0 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 186.8 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 77.0 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 76.4 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3960 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 170.4 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 27.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 8 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.2 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.6 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.9 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.5 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
All Safaris came with a 4.3-liter V6, but horsepowers from 150 to 200 might be found. The high-output option started at 175 horsepower, but jumped to 200 in '92. A year later, the base V6 gained 15 horses. All engines after 1994 are rated 190 horsepower. A 4-speed overdrive automatic was the only transmission.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V6 | 4.3 / 262 | 175-200 | 230-260 | 4-speed automatic: 16/20 | 4-speed automatic: 18.3 |
| ohv V6 | 4.3 / 262 | 150-165 | 230-235 | 4-speed automatic: 16/21 | 4-speed automatic: 14.5 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation GMC Safari include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Safari |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 3 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-2005 GMC Safari directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990-91:
Bucket seat's knob-recliner mechanism may loosen and cause bolt failure, allowing seatback to recline suddenly.
1995:
Fuel lines at tank were improperly tightened and could loosen.
1995:
On a few vans, left lower control-arm bolt could loosen, fatigue, and break.
1995-97:
The windshield-wiper motor may fail on certain vehicles. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
1996-97:
Outboard-seatbelt webbing on right rear bucket seat can separate during crash.
1996-98 w/integrated child seats:
Seatbelt-retractor clutch spring and/or pawl spring in child seat may be missing.
1998:
On certain vehicles, the outside-rearview-mirror switch may short circuit. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
1998-99:
Audible "fasten seatbelt" warning may not sound or may terminate too soon.
2001-02:
Multifunction switch may develop an open circuit, causing stop lamps and hazard lamps to become inoperative.
2003:
Poorly manufactured steering knuckles on some vehicles may allow for road contamination to enter and wear down the ball joint, resulting in difficulty controlling the vehicle
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
