How To Fix Low Idle Hesitation On 2000 GMC Safari [Solved]

Idle hesitation on any vehicle can lead to greater problems. You are probably already aware of that. If you are worried about how to fix low idle hesitation on the 2000 GMC Safari, you have arrived at the right place.

Here we will give you the solution of idle hesitation on 2000 GMC Safari. Not only this, we will discuss the reason behind such problems as well. After completing this article, you should have no problem fixing the issue. Let’s get started.

How To Fix Low Idle Hesitation On 2000 GMC Safari [5 Easy Solutions]

Several issues can give rise to idle hesitation on your 2000 GMC Safari. It’s essential to be aware of these reasons to fix the overall problem properly. This is why we suggest you take a look at the following five things that can cause idle hesitation on a 2000 GMC Safari.

Note: You can also read how to prevent Hydrolock with cold air intake.

1. Filthy Fuel Injector

The purpose of the fuel injector is to spray the precise amount of fuel into the cylinders at the proper time. However, the injector can get greasy or clogged over time. This condition prevents the smooth flow of fuel into the system.

As a result, your can engine shows poor performance and evidently leads to rough idling.  

Solutions:

The solution to this problem is to either get a new fuel injector or clean the existing one. Cleaning is preferable because it’s cheaper than the other option and is relatively easy to do. You just have to remove the injector and use diesel fuel to clean it. 

You can use other cleaning materials, but using an ingredient with a high concentration of detergent can leave a long-lasting effect. Such elements can prevent the formation of carbon deposits. As a result, the injector stays clean for a more extended period.

2. Faulty Spark Plugs:

Spark plugs give a signal to the engine to start. It creates a high voltage and delivers this electrical impulse that fires up the air/fuel mixture in the cylinders.

But the spark plugs can get obstructed with carbon deposits. Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to prevent it. But once this happens, the spark plugs won’t work correctly.

Due to this, your spark plug may fail to deliver the consistent amount of voltage needed to run the engine. 

As a result, you will notice idle hesitation in your vehicle.

Solution:

You have to observe the spark plug closely to solve this issue. Firstly, remove the spark plugs from their place and see if the deposits are firmly seated or not.

Carbon deposits mean that the air/fuel mixture is not in perfect proportion. If this is the case, you have to check the gas cylinder and ensure that the air/fuel mixture is in perfect condition. 

If you notice an accumulation of oil deposits on the spark plug, you should look for leaking piston rings and valves. Then, fix the crack that’s causing the leaking.

Finally, if ash deposits are hindering the spark plug’s performance, you should change your fuel. Bad quality oil can generate such residue.

3. Clogged Air Filter

The name ‘air filter’ says all about its function. It filters air while air enters the engine. This part aims to prevent foreign matters such as dust and dirt from entering the engine. 

In the process, the filter itself gets clogged with debris. And when there’s too much dirt stuck on the filter, it because difficult for air to enter through.

Low airflow can cause idle hesitation of vehicles. In addition, it can increase the car’s fuel consumption rate.

Solution:

Though you can clean the air filter with a vacuum, this may not be the most effective solution. This is why we recommend you replace the air filter with a new one. Here’s how to do it quickly:

  • Firstly, open your car hood and locate the air filter box. Look for a black plastic box on the side or top of your engine. It may have a huge hose sticking out of its side.
  • Now, you need to open the air filter box. Find the big metal clips holding the top down. Unclasp these clips and open the box. Here you will find the dirty filter. Remove it carefully.
  • Finish the job by placing the new air filter in the box. Position the new air in the box and clasp the metal clips the way it was. Close the box reversing the way you opened it, and now you are done.

4. Damaged PCV Valve:

PCV valve or the ‘Positive Crankcase Ventilation” controls the emission of gas. It receives the gasses generated by the crankcase and sends them back to the engine’s combustion chamber.

It ensures the safe burning of gasses. This function of the PCV valve prevents your vehicle from being damaged. But PCV valves can wear off with time. If dirt and sludges are accumulated in the valve’s pathway, it ceases to perform correctly.

As a result, the flow of gas is hampered. This results in idle hesitation of the car.

Solution:

If your car’s PCV valve is already damaged, then you have to replace it. Here’s how to do it:

  • Find the PCV valve. Loosen the hose clamp attached to it.
  • Pull the rubber grommet holding the valve in its place and then unscrew the PCV valve off.
  • Clean the slot of your PCV valve.Remove any type of debris, dirt, or grease from the PCV valve slot.
  • Take a new PCV valve and place it in the slot. Screw the PCV valve in its position like the old one was. Once you are done screwing, make sure it’s perfectly secure in its place.
  • Reconnect the hose you detached at the very beginning. Now start your car engine and see if it’s working correctly. If you follow this method, you can get the job done in less than $100, while taking it to a repair shop will easily cost you $500. However, you can save all the money with Periodic servicing.

5. Damaged EGR Valve:

EGR valve helps to lower the car’s emission when there is too much exhaust gas. This valve can get damaged with time. As a result, it may fail to close or open to allow the proper flow of gas. This can affect the air/fuel mixture. As a result, your 2000 GMC Safari will have idle hesitation.

Solution:

Usually, cleaning the EGR valve solves the issue. You just have to detach the EGR valve from its place and soak it in a carb cleaner. Then, place the soaked EGR valve in a well-ventilated area and keep it like this overnight. 

However, in some cases, getting a new EGR valve is the best option. You can do this simply in the following way:

  • Make sure that the engine is turned off.
  • Carefully remove the vacuum line. A rubber vacuum line is supposed to be connected to the EGR valve.
  • Now, detach all the electrical connections from the EGR valve. Carefully disconnect all the wires and place them in a safe position. Of course, you must wear safety gloves throughout the whole process.
  • It’s time to take off the old EGR valve. Remove all the bolts that are holding the EGR valve in its place. This will allow you to take it off with a slight tap.
  • Finally, install a new EGR valve. Position the EGR valve properly and screw it in its place tightly. After you are done, attach the vacuum hose and all the wirings you took off earlier.This should solve the problem of idling.

FAQs:

What Is The Value Of A 2000 GMC Safari?

The price of a new 2000 GMC safari can range from $500 to $2,700.

Is A GMC Safari A Good Van?

GMC Safari is a great vehicle. The process of maintenance and usage is pretty straightforward. And its overall performance is satisfying as well.

What Replaced GMC Safari?

Many agree that Chevrolet Express has replaced the GMC Safari.

When Did They Stop Making GMC Safari?

General Motors stopped manufacturing GMC Safari in 2005.

Why Did They Stop Making Astro Vans?

After 20 years of riding the market, General Motors admitted that they could not justify manufacturing Astro Vans at the amount below the plant’s capacity. This is why they don’t make Astro Vans anymore.

To Conclude:

2000 GMC Safari idle hesitation is a harmful problem for your car. Not only does it affect the riding performance, it gradually damages the car’s internal parts as well.

This is why as soon as you notice such idling, follow these steps of how to fix low idle hesitation on 2000 GMC Safari and get your car fixed for free.

If you have any confusion or query, then do not hesitate to comment below. 

About John M

John contributed as a technical head at an automobile company just 2 years after his post-graduation in Automobile Engineering. He loves to lead a free life, so he left his job & started blogging. Now, he does research on every automotive problem, part & product and seeks a better solution & best products & shares his findings with his readers to help them as well as to minimize their struggle.

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