Chevrolet Explorer problems

chevrolet logo

The Chevrolet Express (also known as the GMC Savana) is a series of full-size vans produced by General Motors since 1996. The successor to the Chevrolet G-series van, the Express is produced in passenger and cargo variants. Alongside the standard van body, the line is offered as a cutaway van chassis; the latter vehicle is a chassis cab variant developed for commercial-grade applications, including ambulances, buses, motorhomes, and small trucks.

In production for a single generation since 1995, over 2.5 million examples of the Express and the Savana have been produced. One of the longest-produced designs in American automotive history, the Express/Savana are rivaled only by the Jeep Wagoneer and Dodge Ram Van for longevity.

Since 1995, General Motors has assembled the Express and Savana at its Wentzville Assembly facility (Wentzville, Missouri). Also, since 2017, GM has sourced commercial cutaway-chassis production from Navistar through its Springfield Assembly Plant (Springfield, Ohio).

photo of Chevrolet Explorer car production

Social links

Chevrolet Explorer model years

chevrolet explorer 2002 photo
Explorer 2002
Chevrolet

7

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet explorer 2000 photo
Explorer 2000
Chevrolet

2

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet explorer 1999 photo
Explorer 1999
Chevrolet

5

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet explorer 1998 photo
Explorer 1998
Chevrolet

6

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet explorer 1997 photo
Explorer 1997
Chevrolet

9

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet explorer 1996 photo
Explorer 1996
Chevrolet

7

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1
chevrolet explorer 1995 photo
Explorer 1995
Chevrolet

5

0

0

  • 5
  • 4
  • 3
  • 2
  • 1

Common Chevrolet Explorer problems

The Chevrolet Express is a popular full-size van that has been serving small business owners for over 40 years. However, like any vehicle, it is not without its issues. Here are some common problems with the Chevrolet Express based on complaints from owners:

  • Fuel Level Sensor Failure: Chevrolet Express Cargo owners often find that their fuel tank may read the fuel level incorrectly, which can lead to problems with fuel delivery and engine performance.
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks: The intake manifold gasket in the Chevrolet Express can develop an external leak, which can cause coolant or engine oil to leak out.
  • Coolant Leaks and Engine Overheating: A coolant leak from the water pump can cause the engine to overheat, which can lead to engine damage if not addressed promptly. Replacing the water pump can cost between $300 and $550.
  • Damaged Front Electrical Components: Excess water used in the cargo area can damage various electrical components under the front carpet or rubber mat. It is recommended to avoid hosing down the cargo area to prevent this issue.
  • Engine Issues: The Chevrolet Express ranks 7th in reliability out of 40 Chevrolet models, with most complaints about engine issues.
  • Paint Issues: Paint issues, such as flaking and peeling, have been reported in various model years of the Chevrolet Express.

These are just some of the common problems with the Chevrolet Express based on complaints from owners. It is important for owners to stay up-to-date with regular maintenance and repairs to ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicle.

Chevrolet Explorer

What is the most common problem with the Ford Explorer?

However, one of the biggest complaints customers had about these vehicles was the frequent automatic transmission failures. During third-generation Ford Explorer production, the SUVs were equipped with the 5R55 series transmission system.

What year of Ford Explorer to stay away from?

Avoid: 2004

On a three-year run of bad model years, the 2004 Ford Explorer is worse than the previous year. Along with 2002, 2004 will go down as the worst model years to own the Explorer. Over 2,400 complaints were filed with the NHTSA and, surprisingly, many of them carry over from 2002 and 2003.

Why do Ford Explorers have a bad reputation?

Overall, the models of the early 2000's are not as highly regarded as the models of today. The 2002 Ford Explorer, for example, had a handful of reported transmission issues. Additionally, the National Highway Traffic Safety Association notes 14 recalls affiliated with the 2002 Ford Explorer.

What are the best explorer years?

Some of the most reliable model years to buy used include the 2010, 2011, and 2012 models, as well as the 2019 model if you're looking for a newer design style, or the 1993 model if you're looking for something with a little more of a vintage flair.

Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Explorer years

We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Explorer cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Explorer model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Explorer model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Explorer years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Chevrolet Explorer car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Explorer , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

  • Vehicle speed control problems
  • Power train problems
  • Engine and engine cooling problems
  • Tires problems
  • Service brakes problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Explorer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Explorer model years

A total of 4 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Explorer model years

There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Explorer model years

There were a total of 6 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.

The NHTSA has received 41 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Explorer . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Explorer vehicles.

Latest 25 complaints

Chevrolet Explorer 1995
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-04-19
  • Date Complaint: 2004-09-14
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1FMDU34X6SU
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: AFTER PARKING THE VEHICLE A FIRE STARTED UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. *AK *JB
Chevrolet Explorer 1998
  • Date Of Incident: 2004-05-10
  • Date Complaint: 2004-06-22
  • Components: SEATS
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING/PARKING DRIVER'S SEAT RECLINED BACKWARDS. DEALERSHIP WAS NOTIFIED, BUT DID NOT RESOLVE THE PROBLEM. *AK
Chevrolet Explorer 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2004-01-26
  • VIN: PLEASE FILL
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: THE VEHICLES AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION STICKS IN THE GEAR IT'S CURRENTLY IN OR HESITATES WHEN CHANGING GEAR. THE DEALERSHIP REPLACED PARTS IN ATTEMPT TO CORRECT THE PROBLEM, BUT THE PROBLEM STILL EXIST. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. *NM
Chevrolet Explorer 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-08-14
  • Date Complaint: 2003-08-14
  • VIN: 1GBFG15T031
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKES AND WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING ABS BRAKING LIGHT APPEARS ON THE DASHBOARD. *AK
Chevrolet Explorer 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-07-29
  • Date Complaint: 2003-08-08
  • VIN: 1FMZU32P8XZ
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING, SMOKE STARTED TO EMIT FROM THE STEERING WHEEL AREA. *JB
Chevrolet Explorer 1997
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-05-29
  • Date Complaint: 2003-05-29
  • VIN: 1FMDU34E4VU
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 20MPH ENGINE SHUTDOWN, FORCING VEHICLE TO PULL OFF THE ROAD. CRANKSHAFT BROKE INSIDE ENGINE. DEALER NOTIFIED NOTHING THEY COULD DO. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
Chevrolet Explorer 1996
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2003-05-06
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING, THE ABS ENGAGED WITHOUT CAUSE. *JB
Chevrolet Explorer 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2003-04-09
  • VIN: 1FMDU73E22U
  • Components: STEERING
  • Summary: THE VEHICLE PULLED VIOLENTLY TO THE RIGHT AND THE RIGHT WHEEL SPINDLE DROPPED OFF WHICH CAUSED LOSS OF CONTROL AND AN ACCIDENT. *NLM
Chevrolet Explorer 1999
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2003-04-02
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: THE CALIPER BOLTS WERE MISSING, WHICH CAUSED A VIBRATION. *JB
Chevrolet Explorer 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2003-02-26
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: THE REAR SEAT WAS INOPERATIVE.*JB
Chevrolet Explorer 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-02-21
  • Date Complaint: 2003-02-21
  • Components: STRUCTURE
  • Summary: THE INSIDE DOOR PAD HAD FALLEN OUT THE PLASTIC MATERIAL. *JB
Chevrolet Explorer 1997
  • Date Of Incident: 2003-01-03
  • Date Complaint: 2003-01-14
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1FMDU35P1VZ
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: VEHICLE SUDDEN ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL, RESULTING IN CONSUMER'S VEHICLE HITTING ANOTHER VEHICLE.*JB
Chevrolet Explorer 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2003-01-08
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES WHILE DRIVING 55MPH RIGHT REAR TIRE HAD TREAD SEPARATION. TS
Chevrolet Explorer 2000
  • Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
  • Date Complaint: 2003-01-07
  • Components: SEAT BELTS
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT THE REAR SEAT BELT HAS TO MUCH SLACK IN IT, AND WILL NOT RESTRAIN PASSENGER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. TS
Chevrolet Explorer 2002
  • Date Of Incident: 2002-10-10
  • Date Complaint: 2002-10-17
  • Crash: 1
  • VIN: 1FMZ72E02ZC
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHEN HIT IN THE FRONT CENTER OF THE VEHICLE THE AIR BAG DID NOT DEPLOY CAUSING MINOR INJURIES TO THE CONSUMER. DEALER NOTIFIED. TS

Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Explorer?

Add car complaint
Chevrolet Explorer photo