Most common 2002 GMC Safari problems
Share of the 25 complaints; one complaint can involve more than one system. "~" is the median mileage when the problem started.
GMC Safari complaints by model year
Best Safari years: 2004, 2003, 2002. Years to avoid: 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998. Compare all years →
2002 GMC Safari recalls (1)
Exterior lighting › Brake lights › Switch
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.
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.
NHTSA defect investigations
Federal safety investigators have looked into a possible defect involving the 2002 GMC Safari:
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 no.
What 2002 GMC Safari owners say
Brakes
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.
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.
Suspension
Tl 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 updated
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.
Electrical system
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.
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.
2002 GMC Safari engines & fuel economy
| Engine | Transmission | Drive | MPG city / hwy / combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.3L 6-cyl | 4-speed automatic | RWD | 15 / 20 / 17 |
| 4.3L 6-cyl | 4-speed automatic | 4WD/AWD | 14 / 18 / 15 |
EPA ratings. Class: Van.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 2002 GMC Safari a good car?
Based on 25 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the 2002 Safari rates better than average: 61% fewer complaints than a typical year of the Safari at the same age. It is one of the best Safari years by this measure. Complaint counts don't account for sales volume or individual maintenance, so have any used car inspected before buying.
What is the most common problem with the 2002 GMC Safari?
The brakes — 12 complaints, 48% of all complaints for this model year, most often about antilock/traction control/electronic limited slip. Next are the suspension (4) and electrical system (3).
How many recalls does the 2002 GMC Safari have?
There is 1 recall for the 2002 GMC Safari, the most recent from March 14, 2005 (switch). Recall repairs are free at any authorized dealer — check whether yours has been done with the VIN recall check.
What are the best and worst years of the GMC Safari?
The best years by complaints, compared at the same age, are 2004, 2003 and 2002. Years to avoid or approach with caution: 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998. See the full GMC Safari years comparison.
At what mileage do 2002 GMC Safari problems happen?
The median mileage reported in complaints is about 36,000 miles; 78% of problems with a recorded mileage started before 50,000 miles.
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.