GM-GMC: SUV s, rear axle ratio, gmc suv

Question
Hi Dean,
I am wanting to buy a used later model {cheaper?}, GMC brand SUV.
I would like to know, which models are: good on gas{2.8 l}, and which models are known for problems.
And is there a place for me to read up on GMC SUV's, so that I can get educated fast?-Cause I have many more questions!
Thanks for reading,
Cheerio,
Sarah

Answer
Hi Sarah - Sorry for the delay in responding, as I was away for a couple of days.

Your question is very good and a tough one!  Let me do my best to help you out here.

Firstly, if you are looking for a model that is good on gas, don't buy a SUV.  I have had four of them, and the VERY best I ever got was with a 2.8l V6, Automatic with 3.73 rear axle ratio, 4x4 2 dr Jimmy.  That was about 24-25 miles per Imperial Gallon.  The 4.3l V6's that came out in 88, had WAY better power, and got about 20-23 mpg.  If I were you, I would definitely drive one of the 2.8's before sitting down to buy one.  Anemic is a word that comes to mind.

Really, for the most part, in my own experience, they were a pretty good vehicle.  That being said, they are a very complex truck, with more moving parts and components (extra 4x4 stuff), and the more things that a car has, the more chance there is for something to go wrong.

Things to check when buying a S-Truck:
- 2.8l V6 - exhaust seals
- Transfer Case operation and noise
- Four Wheel Drive Operation (actuator)
- Front Constant Velocity Boots

If you are looking for out and out reliability, buy a Toyota.  ALOT rougher riding, but they are typically a great little 4x4.

When buying any used vehicle it is VERY important to have an inspection done by a certified AAA garage or technician.  It is also important, to be able to contact the previous owner and ask them a few questions about their old car.  Usually, they will tell you things that they won't tell a dealer, and more truthfully.  Ask them things like, how the car was, repairs done, the problems that they know about, things that may occur that they know about, would they buy the car again.  Things like that.

Check out sites like www.kbb.com, and www.alldata.com to see about recalls, and problems posted on their sites.  Check out www.trader.com to get an idea of fair market value by seeing other similar ones for sale.

And, a rarely used resource on the web are the Newsgroups.  Ones like alt.autos.4x4.chevy-trucks & rec.autos.4x4, these guys and gals use and abuse their trucks while basically living in them.  They are a fantastic resource to use.  And, lastly, in the NG frame, check out www.dejanews.com, which has the NewsGroup history which you can search out info from past questions and responses.

These are things that I would check.  But, IF you have any further questions, please feel free to drop me a line!  Have A Great Weekend!


Automotively yours,



Dean