Since I was a young kid I've dreamt about one day owning a Hummer- That day is finally coming. I am currently looking to buy a 2001 H1 wagon. A couple of questions about this year/first of all is this a good year for the H1's? It also might have a couple of issues, first is the check engine light with code P1643 is this a major issue? 2nd is Carfax reports 8 owners since 2000- seems like a lot but on the other hand this might be a common with H1's. It also has rust bubbles around the rear barn doors and side window. Needless to say I can wait to get it on(or off) the road!

 

One other thing the vin has a Z not a F for the 4th symbol- is this 100% that the block is the "bad block".

 

The F block is the new GEP heavy block. A Z block doesn't mean you have a bad engine, just one from a run that was more susceptible to issues. Most, but not all, of the #8 cylinder issues happened within the first 30,000 miles.
8 owners in 12-13 years is above average. The bubbles are corrosion. The location isn't unusual but it can be an expensive proposition to correct.
Your code is a GPC or glow plug related code.

 

The hummer has 87k on it- would the block have gone bad by now?

 

Most likely but I lost one in my 98 at 82,000 miles.

 

My 98 has 74k miles on it. Its the original motor. Runs hot as hell but the block is okay.

 

Any "safe" point with the miles? Or just drive and keep your fingers crossed you don't have a 10k bill from your local motor shop? I'm looking @ a 98 wagon with about 90k on the dash.

 

Be careful of the steel roof and aluminum panel gaps that tend to corrode. HAve it inspected.