The Good
The 2005 GMC Safari offered decent performance for its class and was known for its relative reliability. Its boxy design maximized cargo space, appealing to practical buyers. The comfortable ride, especially with the SLE trim, and overall value proposition made it emotionally appealing as a budget-friendly, versatile vehicle.
The Bad
Known weaknesses of the 2005 GMC Safari include its relatively poor fuel economy, especially compared to modern minivans. Rust, particularly around the wheel wells and rocker panels, is a common concern. Suspension components and the transmission are also areas to watch out for due to wear and tear.
2005 GMC Safari: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: 4.3L Vortec V6
- Horsepower: Approximately 190-200 hp
- Fuel Economy: Around 15-16 mpg city / 19-20 mpg highway (estimates vary)
- 0-60 Times: Not a performance vehicle; estimated around 10-11 seconds
- Towing Capacity: Up to 5,500 lbs (when properly equipped)
- Trim-Level Features:
- Cargo Van: Basic work van, vinyl seating, minimal features.
- SL: Cloth seating, basic stereo system, air conditioning.
- SLE: Upgraded cloth seating, available power windows and locks, upgraded stereo options, cruise control, and sometimes offered with captain's chairs in the middle row. May also include rear air conditioning.
- Other Notable Features:
- Rear-wheel drive (standard), all-wheel drive (available on some models).
- Automatic transmission.
- Ample cargo space, especially in the cargo van configuration.
- Seating for up to eight passengers in passenger van configuration.
2005 GMC Safari Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2005 |
| Make | GMC |
| Model | Safari |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Cargo Van |
| Type | Van |
| Category | Cargo Van |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | BALTIMORE/LANSING (CRAFT CENTER) |
Dimensions
| Doors | 3-Door |
| Curb Weight | 4191 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | 5850 pounds |
| Overall Height | 75.00 inches |
| Overall Length | 189.80 inches |
| Overall Width | 77.50 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 111.20 inches |
| Standard Seating | 2 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.3L V6 |
| Engine Size | 4.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Four-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Recirculating |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $22,930 |
| Invoice Price | $23,014 |
| Delivery Charges | $740 |
Vehicle History Report
Specifications
History
Events
History Check
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Listings
Recalls
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Analysis
What Problems Does the 2005 GMC Safari Have?
Other reported issues involve the fuel pump, which can fail prematurely, and the electrical system, with reports of faulty sensors and wiring problems. The catalytic converter is also known to fail in some cases, leading to emissions problems.
Recalls have been issued for various issues over the years, including problems with the fuel system and airbags. It's crucial to check the vehicle's VIN for any outstanding recalls before purchasing.
Long-term reliability concerns generally revolve around the aforementioned issues, compounded by the vehicle's age. Regular maintenance, especially regarding fluid changes and rust prevention, is essential to mitigate these problems. Prior model years experienced similar issues. The 2005 model benefited from the design's maturity, but age-related wear and tear remain the primary concern.
How long will the 2005 GMC Safari last?
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
Safety features included standard front airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS) were available on some models, and seatbelts for all seating positions. Optional features included a security system and fog lamps. Electronic Stability control was not available.
Crash-test ratings from the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) for the GMC Safari are generally mediocre, reflecting the vehicle's age and design. These vans were not subjected to the same rigorous testing as modern vehicles. It is advisable to research specific crash test results for the 2005 model year to understand its performance in various crash scenarios. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) may also have historical data available.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Interior Colors
2005 GMC Safari Prices and Market Value
2005 GMC Safari Cost of Ownership
2005 GMC Safari Fuel Efficiency
2005 GMC Safari Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
2005 GMC Safari Warranty
Basic
Powertrain
Rust
2005 GMC Safari Insurance
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2005 GMC Safari Compare to Other Van?
The Safari's price was a significant advantage when new, making it an appealing budget option. However, used prices are now similar across the board.
Alternatives to the 2005 GMC Safari depend on the buyer's needs. For those prioritizing space and affordability, the Chevrolet Astro is a similar option. If reliability and features are more important, a used Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey (even older models) are better choices. For a more modern van with better fuel economy, considering something newer is advisable, albeit at a higher price point.
Ranks #99 Van
| 1 | 2023 Toyota Sienna | (5.0★) |
| 2 | 2023 Honda Odyssey | (2.0★) |
| 3 | 2001 Mazda MPV | (4.0★) |
| 4 | 2024 Ford E-Series Cutaway | (0.0★) |
| 5 | 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van | (0.0★) |
| 6 | 2023 Chevrolet Express Passenger | (0.0★) |
| 7 | 2021 Nissan NV200 | (3.0★) |
| 8 | 2023 GMC Savana | (0.0★) |
| 9 | 2023 Ram ProMaster | (0.0★) |
| 10 | 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn | (0.0★) |
| 11 | 2013 Volkswagen Routan | (4.0★) |
| 12 | 2007 Buick Terraza | (0.0★) |
| 99 | 2005 GMC Safari | (3.0★) |
Final Verdict: Is the 2005 GMC Safari a Good Van?
KeithW on February 22, 2021
Great size and looks, can carry a lot of stuffBought in 2006 as a year-old former rent-a-car with 32K miles on it. Good looking van. Visibility of road, interior space, and cargo capacity is really good. Can carry full sheets of plywood and furniture very easily. It has the "alley" between the front seats that allows you to climb to the back if needed. Engine acceleration and braking is average, gas mileage rather poor, ride is slightly choppy. I'm 6-3 height, so I have lots of headroom but the seat doesn't go quite as far back as I'd like, so leg room is limited. That makes stop and go city/highway driving tiresome to the right leg since the gas pedal action, unlike other cars, requires some foot pressure. Had a 1996 Astro before the Safari, so I can approximately compare the cycle of repairs for the 2005 Safari. I'm an easy driver (not a lead foot)--but within 130K miles, the Safari has had three transmissions. Also, two AC overhauls, two fuel pumps and malfunctioning power locks and some fixed brake light circuitry. The engine runs hot in its tight bay, which tends to wear the distributor components and ERG valves. It's an old-school cult car because there are no like-sized vans made in 2021-- it's paid for, I'm used to it, I love it but it's somewhat punishing to drive. For the uninitiated, I would not recommend this vehicle for anything beyond utilitarian use.
Ralph on January 12, 2018
They don't make 'em like this anymoreThis is the best vehicle I've ever owned! 80,000 miles with no repairs until the heater core had to be replaced. I'd buy a new one if GMC would make them. The "Savana" is too big. The current resale value of these vans should encourage GMC to make them again!
Waggstaff on August 20, 2017
They should not have stopped making these!Very reliable. Powerful. Great style, has a cult following. 8 seats, AWD, plenty of space, strong towing. Unstoppable in snow. Poor MPG.
RonK on November 24, 2014
GMC Safari fanI own a 2001 GMC Safari AWD SLT that has 143,000 miles on it. It has been very reliable and gets >17.5 mpg doing package delivery in northern Nevada. It drives well, feels planted on the road and is rattle free. With regular maintenance this van should easily eclipse 200K miles. I added a cold air intake system and a chip in place of the air temp sensor on the engine to improve performance and MPG. With the rear seats removed you can stuff a lot into it.
VanPro on December 10, 2010
05 safariLousy vehicle, handles terrible on ice even in AWD. It has 120,000 miles on it and the engine rattles like a bunch of marbles in a coffee can. Vehicle is obviously not built to last.
I like Room on October 31, 2007
Most Room of any Mini-vanWe've owned an Astro or Safari for 14 years. Used as a 'family' hauler seating up to 8 comfortably. With the 2nd and 3rd row out the vehicle becomes a mini-hauler. Has the power to tow up to 6,500 pounds from a V6 motor without strain.
Arthur on October 24, 2006
Good vehicle for what I use it for.My wife and I own a residential cleaning business. We have three Safari's in our business. They haul a crew of 4 and all of the equipment they need for the day. Two of them are AWD. The old one is not but I'm replacing that one with a 2005 Safari AWD in spring 2007. You can pick them up pretty cheap due to low resale value. I can usually get a dealer down by about $1,500 to $1,800. from their price without a trade in. I would never have bought a new one as there are too many repairs to warrant GM's price when they were new. Power window motors and switches, mirror switches, door handles inside and outside go bad way too often. That's O.K. if you can replace them yourself, which is very easy, and you can buy the van cheap enough. For hauling you can't beat them and with normal maintenence the engines run forever.
KeithW on February 22, 2021
Great size and looks, can carry a lot of stuffBought in 2006 as a year-old former rent-a-car with 32K miles on it. Good looking van. Visibility of road, interior space, and cargo capacity is really good. Can carry full sheets of plywood and furniture very easily. It has the "alley" between the front seats that allows you to climb to the back if needed. Engine acceleration and braking is average, gas mileage rather poor, ride is slightly choppy. I'm 6-3 height, so I have lots of headroom but the seat doesn't go quite as far back as I'd like, so leg room is limited. That makes stop and go city/highway driving tiresome to the right leg since the gas pedal action, unlike other cars, requires some foot pressure. Had a 1996 Astro before the Safari, so I can approximately compare the cycle of repairs for the 2005 Safari. I'm an easy driver (not a lead foot)--but within 130K miles, the Safari has had three transmissions. Also, two AC overhauls, two fuel pumps and malfunctioning power locks and some fixed brake light circuitry. The engine runs hot in its tight bay, which tends to wear the distributor components and ERG valves. It's an old-school cult car because there are no like-sized vans made in 2021-- it's paid for, I'm used to it, I love it but it's somewhat punishing to drive. For the uninitiated, I would not recommend this vehicle for anything beyond utilitarian use.
Ralph on January 12, 2018
They don't make 'em like this anymoreThis is the best vehicle I've ever owned! 80,000 miles with no repairs until the heater core had to be replaced. I'd buy a new one if GMC would make them. The "Savana" is too big. The current resale value of these vans should encourage GMC to make them again!
Waggstaff on August 20, 2017
They should not have stopped making these!Very reliable. Powerful. Great style, has a cult following. 8 seats, AWD, plenty of space, strong towing. Unstoppable in snow. Poor MPG.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.