1997 Chevrolet Astro problems
The Chevrolet Astro is a van that was manufactured and marketed by the Chevrolet division of American auto manufacturer General Motors from 1985 to 2005. Sold alongside the GMC Safari, the Astro was marketed in multiple configurations, including passenger minivan and cargo van.
The Astro and Safari used a rear-wheel drive chassis; all-wheel drive became an option in 1990. For its entire production, the Astro and Safari were produced by Baltimore Assembly in Baltimore, Maryland; the vans would be the final model line produced by the facility. In total, approximately 3.2 million Astros and Safaris were produced from 1985 through 2005.
Background
The Astro and Safari were introduced for the 1985 model year as the first minivan from General Motors. While marketed as a response to the first-generation Chrysler minivans, GM selected a rear-wheel drive layout, sizing the Astro and Safari closely to the short-wheelbase Chevrolet G10 van. Similar to the Ford Aerostar, to reduce production costs, GM adapted light-truck powertrain components; engines and transmissions were sourced from the Chevrolet S-10, allowing for a towing capacity of up to 5,500 lb (2,500 kg).
Prior to its use on a minivan, the Astro nameplate was used twice by General Motors; in 1967 (for the Chevrolet Astro 1 concept car) and from 1969 until 1987 (on the GMC Astro COE semitractor). GMC sourced the Safari nameplate from Pontiac (used by the latter to denote station wagons). As GMC was half of the Pontiac/GMC Division (later including Buick), from 1985 through 1989, both GMC and Pontiac Safaris were simultaneously offered through the same dealership network.
Social links
Common 1997 Chevrolet Astro problems
The Chevrolet Astro, particularly the 1997 model, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues include:
- Door Handles Breaking: The outside door handles of the 1997 Chevrolet Astro may break, causing inconvenience and difficulty for the vehicle's occupants.
- ABS Light Due to Brake System Control Unit Failure: The ABS light in the 1997 Chevrolet Astro may illuminate due to a failure in the brake system control unit. This issue can affect the vehicle's braking system, potentially leading to safety concerns.
- Door Locks Stop Working: The door locks in the 1997 Chevrolet Astro may stop working, causing difficulty for the vehicle's occupants when trying to lock or unlock the doors.
- Rear AC On Vans May Not Work: The rear air conditioning system in the 1997 Chevrolet Astro may not function properly, affecting the comfort of the vehicle's occupants.
- Alternator and Power Window Motor Failure: Some owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Astro have reported issues with the alternator and power window motors, causing inconvenience and potentially leading to more significant problems if not addressed promptly.
- Wiper Motor Failure: The wiper motor in the 1997 Chevrolet Astro has been reported to fail, affecting the vehicle's visibility during inclement weather conditions.
- Rough Idling: Some owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Astro have reported issues with rough idling, which can affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.
- Rear Axle Problems: The rear axle in the 1997 Chevrolet Astro has been reported to have problems, potentially leading to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.
- Transmission Problems: Transmission issues have been reported in the 1997 Chevrolet Astro, which can affect the vehicle's performance and fuel efficiency.
- Differential Problems: The differential in the 1997 Chevrolet Astro has been reported to have problems, potentially leading to more significant issues if not addressed promptly.
- Vibrations While Idling: Some owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Astro have reported strong vibrations while idling, which can affect the vehicle's comfort and performance.
- Window Motor Failure: The window motors in the 1997 Chevrolet Astro have been reported to fail, causing inconvenience for the vehicle's occupants.
- Lock Button Failure: The lock button on the passenger side of the 1997 Chevrolet Astro has been reported to fail, causing difficulty for the vehicle's occupants when trying to lock or unlock the doors.
- Driver Side Window Motor Failure: The driver side window motor in the 1997 Chevrolet Astro has been reported to fail, causing inconvenience for the vehicle's occupants.
These issues have been reported by owners of the 1997 Chevrolet Astro, and while some may be more significant than others, they can all affect the vehicle's performance, comfort, and safety. It is essential for owners of this vehicle to address these issues promptly to ensure the vehicle's longevity and reliability.
How long does a Chevy Astro engine last?
These engines are extremely reliable and long lasting as long as they receive basic maintenance. I have seen many 4.3 L V6 is with well over 300,000 miles on them. Ultimately a Chevy Astro can make it that far and although still running it will start falling apart around the engine.
Is Chevy Astro reliable?
Are Chevy Astro vans reliable? Chevy Astro vans tend to be very reliable. These vans were built primarily for commercial use and they have the same reliability and longevity that you would expect from other commercial trucks and vans. If you take care of them they should have no problem lasting over 200,000 miles.
What engine is in the 1997 Chevy Astro van?
4.3 L V61997 Chevrolet Astro / Engine
ENGINE Vortec 4300 SFI V6
Displacement 4.3 litres (262 cu.in.)
What is the gas mileage on a 1997 Chevrolet Astro LS?
Based on data from 18 vehicles, 696 fuel-ups and 196,343 miles of driving, the 1997 Chevrolet Astro gets a combined Avg MPG of 15.92 with a 0.21 MPG margin of error.
How long does a Chevy Astro engine last?
These engines are extremely reliable and long lasting as long as they receive basic maintenance. I have seen many 4.3 L V6 is with well over 300,000 miles on them. Ultimately a Chevy Astro can make it that far and although still running it will start falling apart around the engine.
Is Chevy Astro reliable?
Are Chevy Astro vans reliable? Chevy Astro vans tend to be very reliable. These vans were built primarily for commercial use and they have the same reliability and longevity that you would expect from other commercial trucks and vans. If you take care of them they should have no problem lasting over 200,000 miles.
What is the gas mileage on a 1997 Chevrolet Astro LS?
Based on data from 18 vehicles, 696 fuel-ups and 196,343 miles of driving, the 1997 Chevrolet Astro gets a combined Avg MPG of 15.92 with a 0.21 MPG margin of error.
How big is the gas tank on a 1997 Chevy Astro?
25.0 galUsed 1997 Chevrolet Astro LT - Specs & Features
| Fuel & MPG | |
|---|---|
| EPA city/highway MPG | 15/20 MPG |
| EPA combined MPG | 16 MPG |
| Range in miles (city/hwy) | 375.0/500.0 mi. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 25.0 gal. |
1997 Chevrolet Astro car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Astro problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Visibility problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Power train problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Chevrolet Astro vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Chevrolet Astro
The NHTSA has received 448 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Chevrolet Astro. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Chevrolet Astro vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-04
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET ASTRO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE FAILED TO START. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 184,000.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-13
- VIN: 1GNDM19W9VB
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I BOUGHT 4 GOODYEAR WRANGLER SR-A TIRES FROM THE SEARS AUTO STORE AT 3000 TOWN EAST MALL ON 4 NOVEMBER 2013 AT APPROXIMATELY 11:50AM. THE TIRE DESCRIPTION: P2 235\70R15. THREE WEEKS LATER ON ABOUT 13 DECEMBER 2013 THE LEFT REAR TIRE COMPLETELY CAME A PART WHILE DRIVING ON LBJ FREEWAY WESTBOUND AT HIGHWAY 75. MY SPEED WAS BETWEEN 60-64 MPH. JUST THREE WEEKS ON THE ROAD AND LESS THAN 300 MILES ON THE TIRES. HAS THERE BEEN ANY INCIDENTS WITH THIS TIRE? HAVE THERE BEEN ANY RECALLS ON THIS TIRE? *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-13
- VIN: 1GNDM19W9VB
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: ON 4 NOVEMBER 2013, I PURCHASED 4 GOODYEAR WRANGLER SR-A TIRES FROM THE SEARS AUTO STORE AT 3000 TOWN EAST MALL IN MESQUITE, TX. APPROXIMATELY THREE WEEKS LATER AND LESS THAN 300 MILES ON THE TIRES, THE LEFT REAR TIRES COMPLETELY CAME A PART WHILE DRIVING ON LBJ FREEWAY WESTBOUND IN DALLAS, TX. MY APPROXIMATELY SPEED WAS BETWEEN 55-65 MPH. HAS THERE BEEN ANY PROBLEMS WITH THIS TIRE BRAND AND IDENTIFICATION NUMBER? *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-10-26
- VIN: 1GNDM19W5VB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: 1997 CHEVROLET ASTROVAN WITH ELECTRICAL DOOR LOCKS. PULLED INTO SHEETZ GAS AND GO AND WENT TO OPEN THE DRIVERS DOOR AND IT DID NOT OPEN. TRIED TO PUSH THE MANUAL INSIDE DOOR LOCK BUT IT WAS TOTALLY FROZEN AND WOULD NOT ACTUATE. NEXT TRIED ELECTRICAL DOOR LOCK SWITCH. NO RESPONSE ON DRIVERS DOOR BUT THERE WAS WEAK SOUND FROM PASSENGER DOOR LOCK SOLENOID. IT WAS AS IF ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IT WAS SUFFERING FROM INSUFFICIENT VOLTAGE. CRAWLED OUT OF PASSENGER SEAT AND GOT OUT OF CAR. ' TOOK IGNITION KEY AND INSERTED IT INTO DRIVERS DOOR LOCK. KEY WOULD TURN TO LOCK (FELT THE DETENT OF THE ) AND BACK TO NEUTRAL... KEY WOULD NOT TURN TO UNLOCK POSITION ...WOULD MOVE A LITTLE AND THEN FREEZE. I DID NOT TRY HARDER TO TURN AS I FELT THERE WAS A VERY GOOD CHANCE THE KEY WOULD BREAK AND LEAVE ME STRANDED 40 MILES FROM HOME... NO BACKUP IGNITION KEY. IGNITION KEY WORKS THE DOOR LOCKS IN THIS MODEL. WENT TO NTSTB WEB SITE AND SEARCHED FOR OTHER PEOPLE WITH SAME TYPE PROBLEM. NO LUCK. WENT TO GOOGLE AND DID SAME SEARCH CHEVROLET ASTROVAN DOOR WON'T OPEN AND GOT A NUMBER OF COMPLAINTS THAT HAD NOT REACHED NTSTB.. CHEVROLET HAS TO KNOW ABOUT THIS PROBLEM. IF THIS MODEL HAS FLIP UP STEERING WHEEL, THIS WOULD NOT BE THE PROBLEM IT IS. IT IS VERY DIFFICULT FOR OLDER AND LARGER PROBLEM TO CLIMB OUT OF THE BUCKET SEAT AS THE STEERING WHEEL TRAPS YOUR LEGS WHEREAS A BENCH SEAT YOU SIMPLY SLIDE SIDEWAYS. THIS IS AN ENTRAPMENT ISSUE!!!!!! WILL SEE DEALER IN HOUR. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-07-11
- VIN: 1GBEL19W0VB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: JUST BEFORE STOPPING AT AN INTERSECTION THE BRAKE PEDAL LIFTED SLIGHTLY. THERE WAS A MOANING SOUND FROM UNDER THE HOOD ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE AND THE VAN DRIFTED INTO THE CROSSWALK ( LOST BRAKING ). I THREW IT INTO REVERSE TO STOP. AFTER REPLACING THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER, HYDRO BOOSTER, POWER STEERING PUMP AND GEAR AND HOSES, THE PROBLEM PERSISTED. I FINALLY FOUND SOMEONE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM ON AN ON-LINE FORUM WHO SUGGESTED DISABLING THE ABS BY PULLING THE FUSE. PROBLEM IMMEDIATELY WENT AWAY WHEN ANTI -LOCK BRAKE WAS DISABLED. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-26
- VIN: 1GNDM19W5VB
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I OWN A 1997 CHEVY ASTRO VAN WITH 151K MILES. SUNDAY, THE POWER STEERING PUMP WENT OUT. WHEN IT DID SO, THE BRAKES TURNED MUSHY WITH LITTLE BRAKING POWER. WE WERE LUCKY AS WE HAD JUST COME DOWN A STEEP DRIVEWAY. IF THEY HAD FAILED THEN OUR CHOICES WOULD HAVE BEEN TO RUN INTO THE BACK OF A CAR IF WE COULD HAVE TURNED, RUN INTO A GROUP OF PEOPLE AND THEN CONTINUED DOWN A STEEP HILL INTO BRUSH AND FOREST WITH LIKELY CASUALTIES. LUCKILY, WE HAD JUST STARTED UP TO LEAVE AND NOTICED THE PROBLEM. WE SHUT DOWN AND THE LOCAL CHEVY DEALERSHIP WAS ABLE TO OBTAIN A PART. HOWEVER, THE SERVICE WRITER TOLD US THAT TO THIS DAY, MANY CHEVY VANS AND TRUCKS HAVE THE SAME SYSTEM WHERE THE POWER STEERING PUMP ACTS AS A BOOSTER PUMP FOR THE BRAKING SYSTEM. THAT LACK OF INDEPENDENCE BETWEEN THE TWO SYSTEMS IS AN ENGINEERING ERROR AND SHOULD BE CORRECTED. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-05-11
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET ASTRO. WHILE CHANGING ONE OF THE TIRES THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE CABLE WHICH HOLDS THE SPARE TIRE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE WAS SEVERELY CORRODED. WHILE THE CONTACT WAS PERFORMING HIS OWNS REPAIR TO REPLACE THE CABLE, IT FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 153,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-27
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET ASTRO MINIVAN. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING AT VERY LOW SPEEDS WHEN THE ANTI BRAKE SYSTEM FAILED, CAUSING INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES DURING LOW-SPEED BRAKE APPLICATIONS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE WAS SIMILAR TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER ID: 05V379000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC: ANTILOCK) BUT THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED BY THE DEALER THAT HIS VEHICLE AS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED AND THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 346,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- VIN: 1GNDM19W2V8
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: 1997 CHEVROLET ASTRO. CONSUMER STATES SEVERAL ISSUES WITH VEHICLE *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE ODOMETER LIGHT WENT OUT WHILE DRIVING AND THE AIR CONDTIONER COMPRESSOR FAILED. THE VEHICLE WOULD CUT OFF IN THE MIDST OF DRIVING, WHICH MADE CONTROLLING THE VEHICLE DIFFICULT. *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-07
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET ASTRO VAN. WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS OF 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE LOST POWER AND STALLED. THE CONTACT STATED THE ODOMETER AND OTHER UNKNOWN LIGHTS ON THE DASHBOARD FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC AND ADVISED THE CONTACT THERE WAS A COMPUTER FAILURE IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS DIAGNOSED BY TWO ADDITIONAL MECHANICS WHICH ADVISED THE CONTACT OF THE SAME FAILURE. THE CONTACT HAD NOT INFORMED THE DEALER OR THE MANUFACTURER. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE NOT AVAILABLE. UPDATED 07/26/10. *LJ UPDATED 08/06/10*JB
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-19
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: I OWN A 1997 CHEVY ASTRO VAN CUSTOM. THE REAR SEATBELTS DO NOT WORK IN THE BACK BENCHSEAT. THEY HAVEN'T WORKED SINCE WE BOUGHT THE VEHICLE WE HAVE FOUGHT AND FOUGHT TO GET THIS ISSUE FIXED. THE GO IN WITH A SCREWDRIVER AND POP IT AND SAY IT'S OK. IT"S NOT OK> KIDS SIT BACK THERE. OR AT LEAST THEY ARE SUPPOSED TO. I CAN'T ALLOW ANYONE TO USE THOSE SEATS. I AM AFRAID TO GET SOME FROM THE JUNKYARD AND FOR 30,000. I SHOULD HAVE WORKING SEATBELTS. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-01
- VIN: 1GNEL19W5VB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SUDDENLY SLOWED DUE TO AN ACCIDENT AHEAD. THE STEEL BRAKE LINE TO THE REAR BRAKES FAILED DUE TO EXCESSIVE RUST DURING AN EMERGENCY STOP ON HIGHWAY. THE FRONT BRAKES WERE ABLE TO SAFELY STOP THE VEHICLE WITH NO CONTACT WITH ANY OTHER VEHICLES. STEERING WAS ALSO VERY DIFFICULT DURING THE STOP POSSIBLY DUE TO ABS ACTION, BUT NO WHEEL LOCK EVER OCCURRED. *TR
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-29
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GBEL19W0VB
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 CHEVROLET ASTRO. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ABS WORKS INTERMITTENTLY WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH. WHEN APPROACHING A STOP, THE BRAKES WOULD NOT APPLY AND SHE ALMOST REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THIS HAS BEEN A PERSISTENT FAILURE EVER SINCE SHE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER REPAIRED THE BRAKES AT THE COST OF $125, BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE WAS NO BRAKE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT IN ORDER FOR THE BRAKES TO WORK, SHE HAS TO SLAM HER FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT THIS SOLUTION IS NOT ALWAYS GUARANTEED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 50,800 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. UPDATED 01-10-08. *KB THE CONSUMER STATED GROSSMAN CHEVROLET REPAIRED THE CHEVY VAN AGAIN ON NOV. 30, 2007 AT THE COST OF $979. THE CONSUMER FURTHER STATED IN 2005 SHE REAR ENDED A VEHICLE AT 5MPH BECAUSE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKES. THE DEALER STATED RIGHT FRONT HUB ASSEMBLY WAS REPLACED, REPAIRED FRONT COVER GASKET, REPLACED FRONT PINION, AND REPLACED SERPENTINE BELT. UPDATED 12/31/07 *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-07
- VIN: 1GNDM19WXVB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AUXILIARY AIR CONDITIONR (A/C) REAR SWITCH FAILED/ MELTED/ SMOKED. THIS WAS THE SECOND TIME IN 4 YEARS. WENT TO THE JUNK YARD, AND FOUND THET 5 OF 5 ASTRO VANS WITH THIS TYPE SWITCH ALSO WERE MELTED/BURNED. NO APPEARENT DEFECT WITH REAR BLOWER MOTOR THAT WOULD PULL EXCESSIVE AMPS. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-06
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: VEHICLE INVOLVED 1997 CHEVROLET ASTRO 1. SEAT RECLINER WAS BEING USED WHEN THE HANDLE BROKE OFF. THE SEAT REMAINED IN THE POSITION ESTABLISHED WHEN THE HANDLE BROKE. STARTED DRIVING THE VAN AND SUDDENLY THE SEAT BACK WENT COMPLETELY FLAT. THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO HANG ON TO THE STEERING WHEEL AND MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE DID WANDER INTO THE LEFT LANE DURING THE INCIDENT. 2. I INVESTIGATED THE FAILURE AND FOUND THE PLASTIC HANDLE WAS INTACT, HOWEVER THE METAL PIVOT PIECE THAT ENGAGES THE SERRATED LOCKING PLATE FAILED. THIS PIVOT PIECE ALSO CONTAINS THE TORSION SPRING THAT LOCKS THE PLATE WHEN THE HANDLE IS NOT BEING ACTUATED. THE DESIGN IS NOT INTRINSICLY SAFE IN THAT THE LOCKING PLATE IS PUSHED UPWARD BY THE SPRING TO SECURE THE SEAT. AS LONG AS THERE IS PRESSURE ON THE SEAT THE MECHANISM WILL STAY ENGAGED. WITHOUT A LOAD ON THE SEAT, THE LOCKING PLATE CAN DROP FREE DUE TO GRAVITY AND THE SEAT WILL RECLINE BACKWARD TO THE FULL FLAT POSITION. EXAMINATION OF THE PIVOT PIECE APPEARS TO SHOW A CRACK STARTED WHERE THE SPRING IS SECURED AND THE CRACK PROPOGATED THROUGH THE PIECE DUE TO FATIQUE AND VIBRATION UNTIL FAILURE OCCURRED. 3. THE SEAT WAS LOCKED INTO A PERMANENT POSITION USING HIGH STRENGTH FASTENERS AND EXISTING HOLES IN THE SEAT FRAME. ADDITIONALLY, THE LOCKING PLATE WAS ENGAGED AND ALSO PINNED INTO PLACE TO FURTHER SECURE THE SEAT. THE RECLINING FEATURE OF THE SEAT IS NO LONGER FUNCTIONAL. I RETAINED THE BROKEN ADJUSTMENT HANDLE WITH PIVOT PIECE.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-08
- VIN: 1GNDM19W7VB
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DT: OWNER TOOK THE DEALER, ANN DAVIDS WAS THE MANAGER, THE DEALER DENIES ANY PROBLEM. THE FIRST DAY, OWNER NOTICES A DUST UNDER HOOD, THEN NOTICED THE WIRES WERE BURNT UNDERHOOD AND UNDER CAR.TOOK CAR BACK TO DEALER, AND EVERYTHING WAS APPARENTLY OKAY. OWNER TRIED CRUISE CONTROL TO CHECK THE VEHICLE, WHEN CRUISE CONTROL WAS ON, VEHILCE ACCELERATED UNINTENTIONALLY, THEN OWNER PULLED OFF AND PUT THE CAR IN NEUTRAL. WHEN IN NEUTRAL, THE VEHILCE STARTED TO REV. THEN A BIG BANG, AND SMOKE WAS COMING OUT OF THE EXAUSHT. AFTER VEHICLE COOLED, HE SHUT OFF THE CRUISE CONTROL, AND CHECKED THE ACCELERATOR, THEN STARTED THE CAR AGAIN. THE ACCELERATOR STUCK AGAIN, WHEN THIS HAPPENED, THE DRIVER WOULD PUT IT NEUTRAL. CAR WAS TAKEN BY TOW TRUCK TO THE DEALERSHIP. THE MANAGER REPORTS ALL IF FIXED, BUT NO CRUISE CONTROL. 450 DOLLARS FOR NEW CRUISE CONTROL.
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-13
- VIN: 1GNDM19W6VB
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
- Summary: 1997 ASTRO VAN. FUEL TANK ALWAYS READS FULL. RUNNING OUT OF GAS IN TRAFFIC CAN BE VERY DANGEROUS. I KNOW OF OTHERS WITH SAME VEHICLE WHO HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM. CALLED GM AND OPENED TROUBLE TICKET. THEY SAID NO RECALLS OR BULLITENS ARE OPEN FOR THIS PROBLEM. FUEL LEVEL SENSOR ON FUEL PUMP IS BAD.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-09-10
- VIN: 1GNEL19W4VB
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ANTI-LOCK BRAKE FAILURE AS DESCRIBED IN RECENT ARTICLES FOR GM MODEL YEAR 2000 AND LATER. NEAR COLLISIONS WITH VEHICLES AND PROPERTY AT LOW SPEEDS. PROBLEM IS STILL NOT CORRECTED, ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM TEMPORARILY DISABLED TO MAKE VEHICLE SAFE TO DRIVE.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-04-08
- VIN: 1GNDM19WXVB
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT: WHILE TURNING A CORNER AND PRESSING THE ACCELERATOR IT BECAME STUCK CAUSING THE VEHICLE ACCELERATE FASTER. THE CONSUMER PUMPED THE GAS PEDAL WHICH MADE THE VEHICLE GO FASTER. THE CONSUMER THEN PLACED HER OTHER FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL WHICH MADE THE REAR TIRES SPIN. THE CONSUMER HAD TO PLACE THE TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL AND REMOVE THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION BEFORE THE VEHICLE STOPPED. TRIPLE A WAS AFRAID TO TOW THE VEHICLE DUE TO ACCELERATION ISSUE BUT FINALLY DECIDED TO TOW IT TO DEALER. DEALER WAS WILLING TO REPAIR UNDER AN EXTENDED WARRANTY. GMC WOULD OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE,SEATS
- Summary: THE CONSUMER'S 1987 AND 1997 CHEVROLET ASTRO VANS HAD FAULTY ENGINE'S.***NO ANSWER REQUIRED***. *MR THE POWER WINDOWS FAILED, THE DRIVER'S SEAT CAME LOOSE, THE REAR DOOR HATCH BROKE AND THE TRANSMISSION FAILED DUE TO THE TORQUE CONVERTER SLIPPING AND VALVE BODY WEAR (90000 MILES). *NM
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-01
- VIN: 1GNDM19W4VB
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: CONCERNS REGARDING SAFETY RECALL NOTICES INVOLVING 1997 CHEVROLET ASTRO VAN.*MR THE CONSUMER RECEIVED THE FIRST RECALL NOTICE ON MARCH 1,2003, THEN CONSUMER HAD THE RECALL WORK PERFORMED ON APRIL 15,2003 AND THE CONSUMER HAS BEEN RECEIVING RECALL NOTICES FOR THE SAME PROBLEM EVER SINCE AND THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN RESOLVED. *JB
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-06
- VIN: 1GNDM19WXVB
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: BOTH FRONT POWER WINDOWS MOTORS HAVE FAILED TO FUNCTION.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-03-11
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE PARKING FOR 15 MINUTES VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. OWNER PUT OUT THE FIRE WITH AN FIRE EXTINGUISHER. *AK
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-12-07
- VIN: 1GNEL19W4VB
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: ALL OF THE PASSENGER SIDE WHEEL NUTS STRIPPED WHILE THE CONSUMER WAS DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED NO COMPLAINTS OF THAT PARTICULAR PROBLEM HAD BEEN REPORTED. *JB *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-01-18
- VIN: 1GNEL19W2VB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING 70 MPH VEHICLE COMMENCED TO LOSE SPEED. VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE MORE THEN 20-25 MPH. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, WHO INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THE OXYGEN SENSOR/ EGR VALVE, AND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER MALFUNCTIONED. *AK THE CONSUMER STATED THAT THE OXYGEN SENSOR/ EGR VALVE, AND THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER MELTED DOWN. THE ENGINE LIGHT WAS ON. *TC
1997 Chevrolet Astro recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1997 Chevrolet Astro.
- Manufacturer: CK MOTORSPORT, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN CK MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION HEADLIGHTS, CLEAR CORNER, BUMPER, AND SIDE MARKER LIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: CK MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE NONCOMPLIANT LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CK MOTORSPORT AT 1-909-610-7211.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
- Summary: ON CERTAIN MINIVANS, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES WITH CERTAIN MODEL-ENGINE COMBINATIONS, THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR MAY FAIL DUE TO CRACKED SOLDER JOINTS ON THE CONTROLLER CIRCUIT BOARD. THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS COULD WORK INTERMITTENTLY OR NOT AT ALL.
- Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR DURING BAD WEATHER, DRIVER VISIBILITY WOULD BE REDUCED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE WIPER MOTOR CIRCUIT BOARD AND COVER. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JUNE 19, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020, GMC AT 1-800-462-8782, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-442-6537.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WARNING LIGHT/DEVICES
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION." THE "FASTEN SAFETY-BELT" AUDIBLE WARNING OCCASIONALLY MAY NOT COME ON OR MAY TERMINATE IN LESS THAN FOUR SECONDS AS REQUIRED BY THE STANDARD.
- Consequence: THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW ALARM MODULE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 27, 2001. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: CHILD SEAT
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH INTEGRATED DUAL CHILD SEATS. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES MAY BE MISSING A SEAT BELT RETRACTOR CLUTCH SPRING AND/OR PAWL SPRING IN THE CHILD SEAT. IF THE CLUTCH SPRING WAS MISSING, THE SEAT BELT WOULD LOCK IN THE RETRACTED POSITION AND COULD NOT BE USED. IF THE PAWL SPRING WAS MISSING, THE SEAT BELT RESTRAINT WOULD CONTINUALLY PLAY OUT AND WOULD NOT LOCK.
- Consequence: THESE CONDITIONS COULD INCREASE THE OCCUPANT'S RISK OF INJURY IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE SEAT BELTS ON THE CHILD SEATS, AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE CHILD SEAT.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Summary: THE OUTBOARD SAFETY BELT WEBBING ON THE RIGHT-HAND REAR BUCKET SEAT CAN SEPARATE DURING A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE VEHICLE OCCUPANT WOULD NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED AND PERSONAL INJURY COULD RESULT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A PROTECTOR ON THE REAR SEAT CUSHION FRAME.
Negative 1997 Chevrolet Astro car reviews
Positive 1997 Chevrolet Astro car reviews
-
I put the miles on per year and this van keeps up with them. I have had no major problems, except for the power window on the driver's side, which I have found to be a weakness with Chevy's. However, mine has 142,000 miles and runs like a clock. If I didn't need more room for my business, I would definitely get another. It will be sad to retire this one.
-
I'm so glad to hear that you're enjoying your 1997 Astro Van! It's great to know that it can hold a lot of freight with the rear seats removed, making it perfect for long trips. Plus, the extra side room is a real bonus for comfortable traveling.
-
I believe this vehicle is the perfect compromise between a mini van and a full-sized van. Although it has always been classified as a mini van, I think it fits in-between. It is larger than the Voyager and can tow much larger loads. This is actually my second one of these vans that I have bought for my family.
-
I had to get 2 transmission repairs under warranty, one at 75,000 miles and the other at 80,000 miles. Unfortunately, I don't think the dealership fixed it properly, because I had to be assertive. However, since then, I have driven another 225,000 miles without any problems. I had some trouble with the dealer when trying to get the transmission and throttle body fixed under warranty. They claimed that we didn't have oil changes at GM and used our own serviceman, which was not true as we had regular oil changes every 2500 miles elsewhere. The dealer also said that transmissions must be overhauled every 15,000 miles or it would void the warranty. They also recommended brake repairs at 7500 miles, but didn't put enough brake fluid in and they failed after the repair. After the warranty was over, I have been very satisfied with the van. I love the van, except for the front leg room.
-
This is our second Astro, but our first AWD, and we absolutely love it! As a professional mechanic, I have been thoroughly impressed by the Astro/Safari vans. If you're considering a mini van, the AWD is definitely a great choice.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Chevrolet Astro problems:
I'd like to buy a Chevy Astro Van, what are the problems I should ...
Mar 10, 2023 ... Absolutely climb up under any Astro you buy and look around for rust problems and fluid leaks. They are all 20 year old vehicles, so there will ...
Chevrolet Astro Problems and Complaints - 30 Issues
Top Chevrolet Astro Problems · Outside Door Handles May Break · ABS Light Due to Brake System Control Unit Failure · Door Locks Stop Working · Rear AC On Vans May ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1997 Chevrolet Astro Van - Idles Fine, Bogs ...
Oct 30, 2006 ... Make sure you don't have a restricted fuel filter. Using a pressure gauge with a tap, take a fuel sample from the bleed valve on the fuel ...
What are the problems aith AWD? | Chevy Astro and GMC Safari ...
Jan 20, 2014 ... On the newer models the actuator motor is "THE" common problem but it's relatively cheap and easy to replace. On my 2003 I had an issue getting ...
GMC Safari/Chevy Astro Transmission Problem — Car Forums at ...
Jan 13, 2001 ... ... 1997 Chevrolet Astro and GMC Safari. I also ... The bad news is that the problem is very common. ... Two or three transmission problems on 97 models ...
Other years of Chevrolet Astro
Are you having problems with your 1997 Chevrolet Astro?
Amos Pagac 2025-01-01
I have replaced everything early and often, and have always maintained it by the book at the dealership. This is my 3rd Astro and I will likely get another one. Although it may be a lemon, I still love it anyway. The repairs have cost me a fortune, but fortunately, I had an extended warranty that covered a lot of them. However, I can't seem to get out of the dealership for less than $600 a pop. Despite its lack of reliability, it is the perfect sized van for my needs! I just wish it had a 4th door.
Mervin Dare 2024-10-12
You've had to replace the power window motor three times, the windshield wiper motor, the intake gasket, the rear air conditioning hose, the fuel gauge sender, and the cruise control cable. Unfortunately, there's also been a steady miss in overdrive that they were never able to fix.
Max Tromp 2024-08-07
Your vehicle is very reliable and has lots of cargo space. It's great to hear that you've had it for 5 1/2 years and have only needed to repair the fuel pump. Although, you mentioned a couple of interior design flaws below. It's impressive that there is no rust, even though you've driven it in salt every winter.
Simeon Parker 2024-08-02
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I noticed that you mentioned some issues with your car after it hit 100,000 miles last year. It sounds like you've had quite a few things to deal with, including a head gasket, transmission lines, coil, water pump, tensioner, wiper motor, both power window motors, door locks, rear hatch lifters, vacuum leaks, oil leaks, and more. That can be frustrating, but I'm here to help if you need any advice or recommendations. Let me know if there's anything I can do to assist you!
Baylee Vandervort 2024-07-10
It's been almost 4 years since I purchased this van and I still have it. Although the resale value has dropped, I have no plans to sell or trade it. I have replaced the idler arms and the factory recall repaired the windshield wipers. The blower motor on the AC was replaced, but it seems like the resistor is bad since the blower does not always work, especially when it's very hot or very cold. Cleaning the throttle body intake took care of the sticking gas pedal. I just bought a boat, so the towing capacity will come in handy. The ride is a bit rough, but it has improved with Michelin Harmony tires. The driver's side power window sometimes sticks, but I have found that stopping it before it goes all the way down reduces the problem. The current brakes have nearly 30K miles, so they are due for replacement.