1991 GMC Safari Transmission and drivetrain Problems
- Complaints
- 7about this part
- Share
- 18%of 39 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 139,250miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 7 complaints about the transmission and drivetrain of the 1991 GMC Safari, 18% of the 39 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 139,250 miles. 1 of these say a crash was involved, according to the filers.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“I have had more transmission problems from my 1991 Gmc Safari mini van than all other previous vehicles I've ever owned. I'm looking at my third transmission overhaul soon (seems like one every two years) and I don't drive fast and don't have a hitch to "pull" anything. Currently, my transmission slips into neutral when the transmission shifts from 2nd to drive. It went from happening once a month to approximately 4-6 times a day. The transmissions shops I've seen say I need an overhaul again. I hate this Gmc automatic transmission.”
NHTSA complaint #10070717, filed 2004-01, 150,000 miles“Numerous complaints identical to those experienced by other owners of this vehicle type. Twice now when applying brakes in a panic situation the ABS system failed and warning light came on. Replaced ecu on brake system once now dealer informs that is must be replaced again at a cost of $1200. I believe this is an extravagant maintenance expense every time you need the anti-lock portion of the braking system. …”
NHTSA complaint #10036634, filed 2003-08, 128,500 miles“While consumer was driving transmission dip stick popped off, and transmission fluid was all over windsheild. Transmission was not working aftrerwards. Contacted dealer ,and was not willing to do anything.”
NHTSA complaint #884466, filed 2001-03“While driving at approx 15 MPH prepairing to stop, weather condition was dry, rear ended vehicle in front. Went to apply brakes, heard noise ,no reaction, no skid marks from wheels. Dealership cannot find problem. Changed brakepads and shoes/rotors/master cylinder. This defect can result in an accident. Serpentine belt replaced due to causing noise. Transmission slipping, dealer found no problems. Front brakes worn to sensors, dealer has replaced rear brake drums replaced, front caliper dragging. Consumer states frost coming out of vents at times. …”
NHTSA complaint #818155, filed 1997-11“Rear axle seal goes out causing fluid to leak onto rear brake pads; repaired approximately every 6 months; brakes not consistent; excessive effort. Tt”
NHTSA complaint #973603, filed 1995-10Transmission and drivetrain: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 | 1 | 20% |
| 2003 | 2 | 11% |
| 2002 | 1 | 4% |
| 2000 | 5 | 7% |
| 1999 | 19 | 31% |
| 1998 | 8 | 9% |
| 1997 | 21 | 16% |
| 1996 | 3 | 2% |
| 1995 | 5 | 3% |
| 1994 | 4 | 3% |
| 1993 | 6 | 10% |
| 1992 | 3 | 5% |
| 1991 | 7 | 18% |
| 1989 | 2 | 11% |
| 1987 | 1 | 9% |
Other parts of the 1991 GMC Safari
16 complaintsSeat belts
4 complaintsSeats
4 complaintsElectrical system
3 complaintsEngine cooling
3 complaintsEquipment
3 complaintsVehicle speed control
3 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
3 complaintsOther or unknown
2 complaintsSteering
2 complaintsExterior lighting
1 complaintsInterior lighting
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1991 GMC Safari
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Nov 1, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology