2019 GMC Savana 2500 Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2019 GMC Savana 2500: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2019 GMC Savana 2500 has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2019 GMC Savana 2500 has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial diagnostic steps to take for a check engine light on a 2019 GMC Savana 2500?

When faced with a check engine light on your 2019 GMC Savana 2500, it's essential to adopt a systematic diagnostic approach. Begin by checking the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is a common culprit that can easily trigger the light. Next, take a moment to review the dashboard gauges for any additional warning lights or irregularities that might provide further insight into the problem. Utilizing an OBD-II scanner is a crucial step, as it allows you to retrieve specific error codes that can pinpoint the issue more accurately. Additionally, ensure that all essential fluid levels—such as oil, coolant, and transmission fluid—are adequate, as low levels can also activate the check engine light. Finally, conduct a visual inspection of the wiring and connections under the hood, looking for any signs of damage or corrosion that could be affecting the vehicle's performance. By following these initial steps, you can gather valuable information to help diagnose the underlying cause of the check engine light, making it easier to address the issue effectively.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2019 GMC Savana 2500?

When the check engine light comes on in a 2019 GMC Savana 2500, it can be a source of concern for any DIY enthusiast. One of the first things to check is the gas cap; a loose or damaged cap is often the simplest fix and can easily be overlooked. If the gas cap is secure, consider inspecting the oxygen sensor, as a malfunction here can not only trigger the light but also impact fuel efficiency. Another critical component to examine is the catalytic converter, which can fail or become inefficient over time, leading to emissions issues. Additionally, issues with spark plugs or ignition coils can cause engine misfires, resulting in the check engine light illuminating. The mass airflow sensor is another vital part that, if malfunctioning, can disrupt engine performance and trigger the warning light. Lastly, don’t forget to check the thermostat and the EGR valve, as problems with these components can also lead to the check engine light being activated. Addressing these common issues promptly can help maintain your vehicle's performance and prevent further damage.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2019 GMC Savana 2500?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2019 GMC Savana 2500, it is essential to recognize the urgency of the situation. This warning light is not merely a nuisance; it indicates that your vehicle's engine or emissions system may be experiencing issues that could range from minor to severe. Ignoring this signal can lead to a cascade of problems, including reduced fuel efficiency, potential engine damage, and even safety hazards on the road. For DIY enthusiasts, the first step is to use an OBD-II scanner to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes, which can provide insight into the specific issue at hand. However, while some minor problems may be manageable at home, it is crucial to understand that certain issues require professional expertise to prevent further complications. By addressing the check engine light promptly, you not only safeguard your vehicle's performance and longevity but also potentially save on costly repairs down the line. Therefore, taking immediate action is not just advisable; it is a necessary step in responsible vehicle maintenance.

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2019 GMC Savana 2500 Check Engine Light Causes & Solutions