2002 GMC Safari
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › GMC › Safari › 2002
These records cover every 2002 GMC Safari. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
3 recalls name the 2002 GMC Safari. Newest first.
Certain replacement fuel filters, fram brand name p/n g3727, with date codes x52911 through x60801 sequentially or x600141 and a mexico country or origin marking on the fuel filter housing manufactured from october 18, 2005, through march 21, 2006, sold for use on the vehicles listed above and on certain school buses. (to see the school bus engine sizes…
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition may cause an inadequate seal at the connection, potentially leading to a fuel leak. In the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Remedy
Honeywell will notify owners and replace the fuel filters free of charge. the recall began on october 18, 2006. owners may contact fram customer service at 1-800-890-2075 (option 1).
Certain pro-a motors corner lamps, turn signals, and headlights sold as replacement lamps for use on certain passenger vehicles listed above. some combination lamps that are not equipped with amber side reflectors fail to conform to federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Without the amber reflectors, the vehicle will be poorly illuminated, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash without warning.
Remedy
Pro-a motors will notify owners and offer to repurchase the lamps. the recall began on april 3, 2006. owners may contact pro-a motors at 323-838-2988.
On certain minivans, the multifunction switch may develop an open circuit condition in the stop lamp or hazard lamp circuit that results in the stop lamps and hazard lamps being inoperative.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The loss of stop lamps and rear hazard lamps could fail to warn a following driver that the vehicle IS braking and/or IS stopped and could lead to a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the hazard warning flasher switch and apply special grease to the contacts at the time of installation of the module free of charge. the repair would be used in vehicles in which the hazard slider button IS still movable. if a vehicle has a hazard slider button that IS not movable (frozen), the entire multifunction switch will be replaced. the recall began on april 13, 2005. owners may contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
Owner complaints
25 complaints4 involved a crash1 involved a fire2 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags
TL* the contact owns a 2002 GMC safari. While driving 45 mph, the contact's vehicle was struck on the driver's side by a 2006 dodge caravan. The contact's vehicle then crashed into a pole. The air bags did not deploy. The contact sustained lower back pain, a bruised toe, a forehead gash, and damage…
TL* the contact owns a 2002 GMC safari. While driving 45 mph, the contact's vehicle was struck on the driver's side by a 2006 dodge caravan. The contact's vehicle then crashed into a pole. The air bags did not deploy. The contact sustained lower back pain, a bruised toe, a forehead gash, and damage to the ribs. Medical attention was required. A police report was filed. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The local dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was not notified. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000. *Tt updated 8/21/18*jb
- Service brakes
Front brake line rusted out and failed, necessitating expensive repair and replacement. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
My 2002 GMC safari would not start. I went and replaced the 2.5 year old battery (it was leaking at the terminals) it started one time and then about 45 minutes later it was dead again. It was towed to the dealer. I was first informed that the charging system was o.k. And that the probable cause…
My 2002 GMC safari would not start. I went and replaced the 2.5 year old battery (it was leaking at the terminals) it started one time and then about 45 minutes later it was dead again. It was towed to the dealer. I was first informed that the charging system was o.k. And that the probable cause was the battery was not fully charged. I was then informed that the brake light was on the dash and a brake lining was leaking. They recommended to replace both linings and flush the system and fill with fresh fluid. After several hours I was told that when the parts came and the tech was to install the linings that the fluid was smoking and the tech almost burned his hands. The vehicle was on the lift three hours for this to happen. The service rep could not explain how this happened. I was told that gm told them to check the positive cable for grounding. They found it was grounding on the center link of the steering. The work order said they re-routed the cable. I was told by a gm rep in argentina that gm felt that after the time and mileage that they were not responsible. I told him that if the cable had been properly routed at the time of manufacture that this would not have happened regardless of the time and/or miles. I am thankful that the fluid had not leaked out or boiled to the point that I would have had brake failure. I feel it cost me all most $700. At this point that was do to the routing of the cable and would like to be reimbursed. The gm rep said I could go to the better business bureau that he could do nothing. Can you help or tell me where I can go for help? Thank you. *Tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings · Steering › Linkages › Arm › Idler and attachment · Suspension › Front › Wheel bearing
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 GMC safari. while driving 5 or 6 mph, it took 40-50 feet before the contact could stop the vehicle. a mechanic stated that both the passenger and driver side wheel bearings and idler arms needed to be replaced. the local mechanic performed the repairs. GMC denied him…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 GMC safari. while driving 5 or 6 mph, it took 40-50 feet before the contact could stop the vehicle. a mechanic stated that both the passenger and driver side wheel bearings and idler arms needed to be replaced. the local mechanic performed the repairs. GMC denied him reimbursement because they did not make the repair. The consumer had the repairs made a an independent shop the current mileage was 28,550 and failure mileage was 28,530. updated 5/5/08 *cn updated
- Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 GMC safari. the contact stated that the brake lights worked intermittently. the vehicle was taken to a dealer for diagnosis and they stated that the repair required them to dismantle some of the major components to better access the failure. the vehicle was not…
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 GMC safari. the contact stated that the brake lights worked intermittently. the vehicle was taken to a dealer for diagnosis and they stated that the repair required them to dismantle some of the major components to better access the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was notified requesting information on nhtsa campaign ID number 05v099000 (exterior lighting:brake lights:switch), but the vin was not included in the recall. the current mileage was 44,500 and failure mileage was 28,000. updated 03/26/08. *lj
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Disc › Pads
Tl*the contact owns a 2002 GMC safari. the contact stated that the vehicle's brakes squeaked and she had the brake pads replaced. the pads were replaced a second time at 40,000 miles. the brakes continue to squeak. the vehicle's purchase date and engine size were unknown. the current mileage IS 68,000 and failure mileage was 22,000.
- Power train › Automatic transmission
Had to replace transmission at 39,000 miles. Then again at 131,000 miles. Now it IS back in the shop with transmission problems yet to be determined at 149,000 miles. Judging from the complaints on the internet, this seems to be a defect that IS costing the consumer a bundle of money. So far I have…
Had to replace transmission at 39,000 miles. Then again at 131,000 miles. Now it IS back in the shop with transmission problems yet to be determined at 149,000 miles. Judging from the complaints on the internet, this seems to be a defect that IS costing the consumer a bundle of money. So far I have spent over $3000 to repair the transmission. I am now waiting to hear how much more I will have to spend. This needs to be investigated. *jb
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip · Suspension › Front › Hub
When backing out of garage brakes failed and the pedal went all the way to the floor. dealer told me there was no brake problems, but could be ABS sensors rusted or had dirt build up. the dealer cleaned ABS sensors and sprayed a rust inhibitor on sensors and hubs , and said they hoped this would solve the problem. if problem persists to come back.*ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
I was very nearly broadsided when my vehicle's anti lock brake sensor failed when attempting to stop at an intersection of a secondary road with a state highway. My vehicle proceeded into the intersection at a very slow rate of speed while my brake was pushed to the floor. I have subsequently…
I was very nearly broadsided when my vehicle's anti lock brake sensor failed when attempting to stop at an intersection of a secondary road with a state highway. My vehicle proceeded into the intersection at a very slow rate of speed while my brake was pushed to the floor. I have subsequently discovered that there has been a recall for this problem but that it IS limited to selected states and the district of columbia. I live in the adirondack park in upstate ny where towns use dirt only on its roads. I can't imagine a worst situation for this condition to occur than the combination of salt and dirt (like dc I suppose). How many crashes or fatalities are required in each state on known problems before recalls are expanded? *jb
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
2002 GMC safari brakes would not perform properly. *Ts ***no answer required*** the brakes would not stop the vehicle and resulted in extended stopping distance. the consumer mentioned this problem to the dealer several times but each time they claimed that no problem was found. the consumer…
2002 GMC safari brakes would not perform properly. *Ts ***no answer required*** the brakes would not stop the vehicle and resulted in extended stopping distance. the consumer mentioned this problem to the dealer several times but each time they claimed that no problem was found. the consumer heard of the recall on some GMC vehicle's but soon found out the her vehicle was not included in the recall due to vin. * nm
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
Dt: the contact owns a 2002 GMC safari. the contact stated that when trying to stop the ABS activated, and vehicle lost the braking capability on the right front wheel. there was more braking on the left side of the vehicle, and this caused the steering wheel to pull to the left. the consumer…
Dt: the contact owns a 2002 GMC safari. the contact stated that when trying to stop the ABS activated, and vehicle lost the braking capability on the right front wheel. there was more braking on the left side of the vehicle, and this caused the steering wheel to pull to the left. the consumer asked the service dealer about this problem, and they stated the right hub needed to be replaced, and that the consumer would have to pay for the repairs. the dealership stated that the consumer could take out the fuse to the ABS and this would disable the ABS brakes. the consumer was not aware of a recall for this specific type of vehicle regarding the ABS. the consumer stated that there was a technical service bulletin (tsb) regarding this problem. *ak
- Electrical system › Ignition › Module
Engine fire. started by a faulty ignition module. *nm
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system › Radiator assembly
The right front propeller shaft IS defective on the vehicle, per the manufacture. you can feel the vibration of the engine as well as hear it. the manufacture will try to place more installation on, however they stated the defect IS not reversible.
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
While applying the brakes, the pedal went to the floor and bounces up and down. the vehicle continued to accelerate. the consumer was able to pull over . the vehicle was later taken to a mechanic, who informed the consumer that the switch to the anti-lock brake modular had shortened out and needed replacement. please fill in additional information. *jb *tc
- Visibility › Defroster/defogger/hvac system › Fan/motor
The heater blower motor doesn't operate in high humidity unless I unplug and replug the connection at the motor under the hood. It IS an 02 GMC safari cargo van with 48K mi. *jb
- Equipment › Electrical · Service brakes, hydraulic · Unknown or other
Brakes soft and nosie at times. Master cylinder replaced. Brakes jump when stopping at times. Battery goes dead. Jumped about a dozen times. Gm told me to replace battery. I did at walmart for $50. Instead at autoway for $150. Overhead information (compass, mile per gallon etc repaired about six…
Brakes soft and nosie at times. Master cylinder replaced. Brakes jump when stopping at times. Battery goes dead. Jumped about a dozen times. Gm told me to replace battery. I did at walmart for $50. Instead at autoway for $150. Overhead information (compass, mile per gallon etc repaired about six times(but on warranty from autoway and gm. Hard starting, front doors jam, right front window fog up, told to turn vent by autoway and gm. Vent doesn't turn. Key less entry doesn't work sometimes. Was told by autoway & gm that I am the problem becaused I am disabled and should not drive.
- Air bags
While driving during foggy conditions at 20 to 25 mph, consumer lost control of vehicle and hit a tree. The airbags failed to deploy. as a result, the driver broke her back. a police report was taken. please describe further. *ph
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
While driving at 30 mph in rush hour traffic consumer tried to apply the brakes but the brakes locked up. Vehicle shuddered, the ABS kicked in, and a collision occurred. consumer felt that the brakes failed. the dealer have been notified of the problem.*ak
- Suspension › Front
The vehicles front suspension upper ball joint failed causing the drivers tires to wear prematurely. dealer has been notified. M please provide any further details. *nlm.
- Electrical system · Interior lighting · Visibility › Power window devices and controls
Vehicle has experienced severe electrical problems. while driving power locks intermittently popped up and down on their own. right side windows will go down, but will not come back up with out physically pulling them up by hand. dome light popped on intermittently, and the vehicle had to be jump started at least six times since eleven months of ownership. *Ak
- Service brakes, hydraulic › Antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip
Vehicle had brake failure while going down an incline. Brake pedal went all the way to the floor but didn't hold. The vehicle was totaled. Consumer felt gm should replace the vehicle. *ak *cb *jb
- Electrical system · Equipment · Structure › Body › Door · Visibility › Windshield
Consumer states that the instrument panel goes out with out warning at night. The overhead information panel has not worked since vehicle was purchased. Mr the vehicle stalled due to battery failure. The driver's and passenger side doors failed due to electrical lock failure. The right passenger window fogs up and cannot see mirror. Key less security failed. *Yh *jb *dt
- Steering › Hydraulic power assist › Pump
While drivingf 60-65 mph power assist pump failed, causing loss of steering and braking, the dealer was contacted. *Ak
- Vehicle speed control › Linkages
While vehicle IS in reverse it accelerated forward until applied brakes. Dealer has been notified, and mechanic stated the rpms have been lowered that was why vehicle was accelerating.*ak
- Suspension › Front
Front end of the vehicle has become unstable over the past few months. consumer cannot control vehicle at times. Contacted dealer, and the dealer IS not willing to do any work.*ak
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Loss of brake lamp illumination
In its letter dated march 9, 2005, gm stated that it would conduct a safety recall to remedy a faulty multifunction switch in certain model year (my) 2001 and 2002 chevrolet astro and GMC safari vehicles; specifically, all my 2001 vehicles and early my 2002 vehicles built between march and august 2001.see nhtsa recall…
In its letter dated march 9, 2005, gm stated that it would conduct a safety recall to remedy a faulty multifunction switch in certain model year (my) 2001 and 2002 chevrolet astro and GMC safari vehicles; specifically, all my 2001 vehicles and early my 2002 vehicles built between march and august 2001.see nhtsa recall no. 05V-099 for details.the multifunction switch may develop an open circuit in the brake lamp or hazard lamp circuit resulting in inoperative brake lamps and hazard lamps.this IS due to the combined effects of the material and lubrication for the hazard switch contactor that result in increased resistance in the hazard switch and stuck hazard slider button in open (no contact) condition.dealers are to replace the hazard switch and apply special grease to the hazard switch contactor.if a vehicle has a stuck hazard slider button, dealers are to replace the entire multifunction switch.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247780This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242298This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10242252This technical bulletin provides information and a solution to a condition of Brake Pedal Moves or Self Applies at Full Turns.
- 10240793This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
- 10237671This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician that the Hydro-Boost is not serviceable and will need to be replaced if the brake pedal moves or applies on its own at a full turn.
- 10236164This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10235713This bulletin provides information on Warranty Administration Required Operating Procedures - 8 Points (U.S. Only).
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232811This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
Every GMC Safari model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.