Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (automatic and manual transmissions, CVT, axles, driveshaft, 4WD/AWD).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1999 GMC Jimmy owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
The transmission slips from 2nd to 4th gear and yet the 3 automotive shops can not locate a problem! Each one has replaced a part or 2 but they all say it is not the transmission nor the computer but none of them can fix it. I just keep getting passed down to another shop so they can get their $200.00 to $300.00 from me. The dealership I purchased it from will not even call me back to discuss the problem and I had paid an extra $1800.00 for an additional warranty on the vehicle. I will never buy another GMC again!
I bought my 1999 GMC Jimmy when I was 16, I loved it 4x4 but the transfer case locked up and the engine light came on causing the thing not to read how much gas I have and not allowing it to pass inspection. Yes its old but it shouldn't of made the e-vap system do that and the problem is when it dose do this your wasting gas like crazy causing you to run out of gas in danger spots while driving. Recall the 1999 GMC Jimmy for the e-vap system. Cost to repair by owner used $499.00 new $699.00 with out labor.
1999 GMC Jimmy. Transmission issues. New tranny needs to be rebuilt by 80,000 miles. Seats and structure of handles break easily and last for maybe 35,000, new hubs required by 40,000, bail joints fail without warning creating serious road hazards, alternator failure, ujoint failure. All parts replaced between 35,000 and 80,000 to the tune of $11,000 yet no recalls despite mechanics claiming these are recurring problems in these vehicles. Never buy a GMC again.
2000 miles after the lower intake manifold gasket was replaced, vehicle spun #6 rod bearing and destroyed the whole engine. GM is aware of thousands of complaints about the leaking intake manifold gasket. Often leads to catastrophic engine damage. Also found rusted dexcool blocking the hose to the radiator reservoir, which May have contributed to the problem.
Transmission fluid coolant lines from transmission to the radiator leaking at the transmission connection steaming flammable transmission fluid onto the hot exhaust system components. Connections of lines at the transmission leak due to inadequate allowance for normal movement between the radiator and fixed transmission connection.
The 4l60e transmission seems to be running hot during warmer summer weather & while driving up hills towing a trailer. The transmission also seems to be shifting rough during warmer summer months too. There is a shudder every once in a while during low speed turning. Now there is a noise consistent with a speed around 55 MPH.
Dt*: the contact stated while driving 30 MPH, there was a thumping noise from underneath the rear of the vehicle, and it was difficult to steer from side to side. The vehicle was inspected by an independent repair shop, who determined the differential unit failed and needed to be replaced. The manufacturer was alerted.
Transmission fluid coolant lines from transmission to the radiator leaking at the tranmission connection streaming flammable transmission fluid onto the hot exhaust system components. Connections of lines at the transmission leak due to inadequate allowance for normal movement between the radiator and the transmission.
When under one quarter (1/4) of a tank of fuel the vehicle would stall while decelerating (read: hard braking, braking before a turn) without warning, disabling all powered controls including power steering and power braking. Issue would occasionally resolve itself and then come back at random intervals.
There are several recalls out on my model of vehicle in which my vehicle has the same symptoms but when I run a check on the year VIN it comes back with no recalls. How can I make sure that my repairs should be covered under the recalls.
Transmission complaints in other Jimmy years
Frequently asked questions
How common are transmission problems on the 1999 GMC Jimmy?
NHTSA has 23 complaints about the transmission & drivetrain of the 1999 GMC Jimmy, 17% of the model year's 137 complaints. The component named most often is automatic transmission (8 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1999 GMC Jimmy transmission problems?
No. NHTSA lists no transmission & drivetrain recall for the 1999 GMC Jimmy. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1999 GMC Jimmy transmission problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 85,000 miles, and 8% before 25,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 2 crashes, 0 fires and 0 injuries to transmission & drivetrain problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.