Vehicles / GMC / Envoy XL / 2004

2004 GMC Envoy XL

187 federal complaints (227 component records) · 1 recall campaigns on file · 4 federal investigations · 131 service bulletins · 4 Canadian recalls
See all 4 model years of the GMC Envoy XL →
Engine
4.2L 6-cyl
Fuel
Regular
Drive
RWD
EPA economy
13 city / 18 hwy
Federal complaints
187
Recall campaigns
1
Specifications show one example EPA configuration for this model year; other engines, drivetrains, and trims exist and the records below cover all of them.
How to read this file. Complaint records are unverified owner submissions to the federal safety agency. Counts are raw, not adjusted for sales volume or vehicle age. Recall campaigns apply to the model; only a VIN check shows whether this car is affected or repaired. Parts shown are named by an editorial note or listed as a search directory; none is a diagnosis. Full methodology.

Fault profile

Complaint-component records on this vehicle, grouped by family. A complaint naming two systems counts once in each.

Electrical system
83
Fuel system
28
Power train
21
Engine & cooling
20
Lighting
12
Glass & wipers
10
Speed control
9
Air bags
7
Complaints are owner-reported and not verified by the agency.

When it fails

The timing of this vehicle's reported failures, from the complaint file itself. A cluster tells you what to expect and when; it is shaped by reporting behavior as well as by the vehicle.

Vehicle age when the failure occurred

0 years old: 14 complaints01 years old: 10 complaints2 years old: 9 complaints3 years old: 26 complaints4 years old: 23 complaints5 years old: 24 complaints56 years old: 25 complaints7 years old: 15 complaints8 years old: 7 complaints9 years old: 9 complaints10 years old: 6 complaints1011 years old: 7 complaints12 years old: 5 complaints13 years old: 3 complaints14 years old: 2 complaints15 years old: 0 complaints1516 years old: 0 complaints17 years old: 0 complaints18 years old: 0 complaints19 years old: 1 complaints20+ years old: 0 complaints20+
Years between the model year and the owner's reported failure date. Based on 186 of 187 complaints with a usable failure date.

Odometer when the failure occurred

0,000 - 20,000 miles: 10 complaints020,000 - 40,000 miles: 14 complaints40,000 - 60,000 miles: 31 complaints40k60,000 - 80,000 miles: 32 complaints80,000 - 100,000 miles: 17 complaints80k100,000 - 120,000 miles: 12 complaints120,000 - 140,000 miles: 11 complaints120k140,000 - 160,000 miles: 5 complaints160,000 - 180,000 miles: 5 complaints160k180,000 - 200,000 miles: 3 complaints200,000+ miles: 2 complaints200k+
Owner-reported mileage at failure, in 20,000-mile bands. Based on 142 of 187 complaints reporting a plausible odometer (500 to 500,000 miles; unverified).

Known issues

The component families with the most complaint records against this vehicle. Counts, crash and fire figures belong to the whole family, not to any single named issue. Parts listed are related system parts, not a diagnosis.

Electrical system

83 complaint records3 fire reports
"THE CLUSTER INSTRUMENT PANEL FLASHES ON AND OFF GUAGES ARE ALL INCORRECT FROM TIME TO TIME AND DO NOT WORK SOME TIMES. *TT..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse electrical system parts in the directory →

Fuel system

28 complaint records1 fire report
"MY GAS GAUGE SAYS I HAVE GAS WHEN I KEEP RUNNING OUT. I HAVE TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP AND THEY REPLACED GAUGE. STILL DOES NOT WORK. *TR..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse fuel system parts in the directory →

Power train

21 complaint records
"TRANSMISSION NOT SHIFTING CORRECTLY, ABS LIGHT, BRAKE LIGHT, EMERGENCY BRAKE LIGHT, 4-WD DRIVE LIGHT, HEAT/AC CRUSIE CONTROL NOT WORKING. FOUND PI REPORT, IGNITION SWITCH REPLACED, FIXED PROBLEM. *AK..."- one owner's federal complaint about this system; it may not describe the issue named above
Parts
No specific part is named for this issue. Browse power train parts in the directory →

Federal defect investigations

Formal investigations opened by the federal safety agency into this vehicle. An investigation is the step between a complaint pattern and a recall; not every one results in one.

InvestigationStatusComponentSubject
RQ17002
opened Apr 2017
closed Mar 2021Exterior LightingLoss of Headlights
The subject vehicles are model year (MY) 2002-2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2004-2007 Buick Rainier, 2003-2008 Isuzu Ascender, 2005-2009 Saab 9-7X, 2002-2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003-2006 Chevrolet SSR, 2005-2009 Buick Lacrosse, and 2006-2008 Pontiac...
EA07009
opened Jul 2007
closed Aug 2008Fuel System, GasolineFUEL PUMP MODULE LEAKS GASOLINE
DURING THE COURSE OF THIS EA INVESTIGATION, ODI OBSERVED THAT THE MAJORITY OF THE COMPLAINTS (88%) AND WARRANTY CLAIMS (94%) WERE REPORTED FOR VEHICLES THAT ARE REGISTERED FOR USE IN THE SALT BELT REGION OF THE US.THIS AREA INCLUDES 20 STATES IN THE...
PE05006
opened Feb 2005
closed May 2005Exterior LightingTURN SIGNAL FAILURES - led to recall 05V198000
BY LETTER DATED APRIL 29, 2005, GM NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT IS CONDUCTING ASAFETY RECALL ( NHTSA RECALL NO. 05V198 ) INVOLVING CERTAIN MODEL YEARS (MY) 2003-2004 ISUZU ASCENDER, CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER, GMC ENVOY, OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA AND MY 2004 BUICK RAINER...
EA04021
opened Aug 2004
closed Nov 2004Exterior LightingBRAKE LAMP FAILURE - led to recall 04V527000
GM STATES THAT SOME BRAKE/TAIL LAMP BULBS CAN PREMATURELY BECOME INOPERATIVE DUE TO MALFUNCTIONING BRAKE/TAIL LAMP SOCKETS.ON MARCH 2, 2004, GM INITIATED A 6-YEAR/72,000 MILE SPECIAL POLICY FOR 989,487 SUBJECT VEHICLES TO INSPECT AND REPLACE THE REAR...

Recall campaigns

Safety-recall remedies are normally provided at no charge. Under US federal law the mandatory free remedy applies when the vehicle was no more than 15 years old at the time the defect was determined; manufacturers often cover older vehicles voluntarily. Canadian rules differ. Confirm eligibility with the manufacturer using the VIN. Each campaign number links to the federal record.

CampaignComponentSummaryRemedy
04V527000Exterior LightingON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, VIBRATION AND HEAT MAY CAUSE THE TAIL LAMP/STOP LAMP BULB TO LOOSEN IN ITS SOCKET. IF THIS OCCURS, THE BULB MAY FLICKER AND EVENTUALLY BECOME INOPERATIVE.Normally free

Transport Canada recalls

Recalls issued under Canadian law for this model year, from Transport Canada's Vehicle Recalls Database. Matched by model name, so a Canadian-market variant may appear here that was sold under another name in the US. Units are Canadian vehicles affected.

RecallSystemUnits (CA)Summary
2019420
2019-08-21
Other5,327Issue: This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered.
2005131
2005-05-02
Lights And Instruments9,289On certain vehicles, the directional/hazard signals may not operate as designed. Actuation of the turn signal or hazard lights will cause them to illuminate and remain illuminated (not flash as intended).
2004390
2004-10-29
Lights And Instruments38,598On certain vehicles, vibration and heat may cause the tail lamp/stop lamp bulb to loosen in its socket. If this occurs, the bulb may flicker and eventually become inoperative.
2004088
2004-03-09
Brakes52,776On certain vehicles, the brake hoses are not labelled with a designation that identifies the manufacturer of the assembly as required by CMVSS 106. This non-compliance has no effect on the performance of the involved brake hose assemblies.

Service bulletins and warranty extensions

Manufacturer communications to dealers on file with the federal agency: repair instructions, service campaigns, and warranty extensions. A warranty extension means the manufacturer may pay for a repair the recall table does not cover.

BulletinTypeComponentSummary
PIP5601C
Jul 2025
Unknown Or OtherThis PI communicates the requirement to provide a pico file to receive diagnostic assistance from TAC.
PIT3271P
Sep 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles.
General Communication
Aug 2024
SERVICE CAMPAIGNElectrical SystemVehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions).
24-NA-141
Jul 2024
Power TrainGM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping.
16-NA-383
Jun 2024
EngineThis service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
Show 55 more bulletins
BulletinTypeComponentSummary
18-NA-099
Jun 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
24-NA-098
Jun 2024
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
09-00-89-008G
May 2024
Unknown Or OtherThis Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
10-08-45-001H
Mar 2024
Electrical SystemThis bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
06-06-01-019C
Mar 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis bulletin advises the technician of possible location of an internal coolant leak from a specific cylinder head and location.
16-NA-383
Mar 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
22-NA-074
Feb 2024
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
18-NA-099
Jan 2024
EquipmentThis bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
02-08-42-001J
Jan 2024
Exterior LightingThis informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
PI1394B
Jan 2024
Power TrainThis PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
23-NA-219
Dec 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
03-00-91-001I
Nov 2023
Power TrainThis service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.
17-NA-170
Oct 2023
WheelsThis service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
10-00-89-006J
Sep 2023
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
07-08-49-020R
Sep 2023
EquipmentThis informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
23-NA-153
Sep 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThe service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
18-NA-073
Aug 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
17-NA-170
Apr 2023
WheelsThis service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
19-NA-219
Apr 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
04-00-89-015Z
Apr 2023
EquipmentThis bulletin provides information on Warranty Administration – Required Operating Procedures - 8 Points (U.S. Only).
19-NA-219
Mar 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
22-NA-009
Mar 2023
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
17-NA-073
Feb 2023
EquipmentThis warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
01-08-42-001O
Feb 2023
Exterior LightingThis service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
09-00-89-008F
Dec 2022
EquipmentThis Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
21-NA-124
Dec 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides diagnostic tips/steps on testing for possible EVAP leaks in the system to correct a customer concern of an MIL Illuminated with DTCs P0442 and/or P0455 Set.
PIT3271N
Nov 2022
TiresThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles.
22-NA-074
Nov 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
22-NA-205
Oct 2022
Electrical SystemThis service bulletin provides information on Module Harvesting.
PIT3033B
Oct 2022
VisibilityThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician that the Cam gear alignment can be incorrect after replacing the HVAC mode actuator.
10-00-89-006I
Oct 2022
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
22-NA-195
Sep 2022
EquipmentThis service bulletin provides information on Handling Requests for Modifications to Permanently Import/Export Vehicles Between the U.S. and Canada.
06-00-89-031H
Sep 2022
Power TrainThis service bulletin provides information on OEM and Remanufactured Engine and Automatic Transmission/Transaxle Identification.
22-NA-009
Sep 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
22-NA-181
Sep 2022
Power TrainThis diagnostic tip advises the tech not to separate the flexplate from the torque convertor or damage my occur if the engine is started while diagnosing for noise from the engine or transmission.
20-NA-065
Aug 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingThis bulletin provides information on tools available to find an intake vacuum leak or exhaust leak to correct a condition of MIL Illuminated with Multiple Fuel Trim and/or Oxygen Sensor Codes Set.
22-NA-009
Jun 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
18-NA-099
May 2022
EquipmentThis bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
12-00-89-003B
May 2022
EngineThis service bulletin provides policy information on warranty administration guidelines for multiple repairs with independent causes (GM Canada Dealers Only).
22-NA-074
Mar 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
22-NA-009
Mar 2022
Engine And Engine CoolingThis service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
PIT3271M
Mar 2022
TiresThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles.
010601011L
Dec 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingThis informational bulletin provides guidelines and diagnostic/repair information to technicians regarding vehicle engine oil consumption.
RFI20201207_599-
Dec 2020
Electrical SystemThis SKU is a Climate Control Module. The customer communication requested return of unsold inventory to inspect for a software issue. If the software issue exists it can cause a fan in the climate control system to stay on even when the ignition is turned off.
PIT3271K
Nov 2020
WheelsThis Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles.
PIT3116B
May 2020
Engine And Engine CoolingThis Preliminary information communicates information to Clean the throttle body if the engine stalls at idle when the A/C comes on.
16NA383
Jan 2020
Equipment Adaptive/MobilityThis informational bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon...
PIT4297A
Dec 2019
Engine And Engine CoolingThis Preliminary information communicates diagnostic information for a front noise.
PIT3254B
Nov 2019
Electrical SystemThis Preliminary information communicates information for setting up the SDM.
PIT3712A
Sep 2019
EquipmentThis Preliminary information communicates rear HVAC blower operation and diagnostic.
PIT4204A
Aug 2019
EquipmentThis Preliminary information communicates the normal operation of the CJ2 automatic HVAC system
070849020M
Oct 2017
Electrical SystemIPC Odometer Programming Method Quick Reference Guide
150089004B
Oct 2017
SuspensionInformation Regarding the Differences Between Fluid Leakage and Seepage This bulletin is intended to help identify the differences between what is considered a fluid leak and what is considered seepage. Improper diagnosis may lead to unnecessary component replacement.
150089005A
Oct 2017
EquipmentEssential Tools that Include Consumable Parts (U.S. Only)
PI1394A
Aug 2016
EngineTHIS INFORMATIONAL BULLETIN PROVIDES ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON HOW TO INSTALL PISTONS AND SUGGEST WHAT TOOLS TO USE.

Showing 60 of 131 distinct bulletins on file for this vehicle.

Before you buy this vehicle

A test-drive checklist generated from this vehicle's own complaint and recall record.

  1. Sit in it with the engine off and test everything that has a switch.Windows, locks, lights, the cluster, the radio. Electrical faults are this vehicle's story and the hardest to see on a drive: an intermittent no-start waits for the second week of ownership. Ask for the battery's age and whether any control module has been replaced.
  2. Smell for fuel and watch the first restart when hot.Hard starting when warm, hesitation under load, or any fuel odor near the tank or engine bay match this vehicle's fuel-system cluster. Check the recall table for fuel pump campaigns.
  3. Drive it from a dead stop, twice, on a hill if you can.Shudder, hesitation, or a lurch under light throttle is how this vehicle's largest complaint cluster shows itself. Then ask for the transmission service history in writing; repeat repairs are a pattern, not a fluke.
  4. Run the VIN against open recalls before you negotiate.This vehicle has 1 recall campaign on file. An open recall needs VIN-specific confirmation. Many are quick, no-charge fixes and worth negotiating over; an unresolved do-not-drive advisory, or a remedy the manufacturer has not yet made available, should stop the purchase until it is resolved.
  5. Ask for the service history in writing, then read it against this page.The complaint families above are where owners of this vehicle report trouble. Repairs in exactly those systems are evidence the car had the problem; no such repairs could mean it never developed it, or that it was never fixed. The test-drive items above are how you tell those apart.

Parts search directory

The generic parts list for this vehicle has its own page: a search launcher for every system, filtered by fuel type and era but not by engine, trim, or brake type. It is not a diagnosis and not a fitment guarantee.

Open the parts directory for this GMC Envoy XL →