Chevrolet Express problems
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).
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Chevrolet Express model years
Common Chevrolet Express problems
The Chevrolet Express is a popular choice for small business owners due to its reliability and cargo space. However, there are several common problems that owners have reported with this vehicle, particularly with engine issues.
The 1999 Chevrolet Express is the worst model year for engine problems, with the most overall complaints on file.
The 2017 Chevrolet Express has also been reported to have common problems, including the engine failing to start, issues with the sliding door, and premature brake wear.
The Express ranks 7th in reliability out of 40 Chevrolet models, with owners making 74 complaints over 25 model years, mostly about engine issues.
In summary, the Chevrolet Express is a reliable vehicle with a long history of serving small business owners. However, there are several common problems that owners have reported, particularly with engine issues, fuel pump failure, and sliding door problems. It is important to address these issues promptly to ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
Are Chevy Express vans reliable?
The Chevrolet Express 1500 Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 9th out of 21 for commercial vans. The average annual repair cost is $963 which means it has poor ownership costs.
How long do Chevy Express engines last?
If you have a 4.3 V6 250,000 miles would be good. If you have a 4.8L, 5.3L or 6.0L V8 all are LS based engines. Those engines if cared for properly 300,000 is not uncommon. If you drive it like you stole it all the time you will be lucky to make 150,000 miles.
What engines are in the Chevy Express?
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
Chevy's long-serving 4.3-liter V-6 is the volume unit in the Express. Rated for 276 horsepower and 298 pound-feet of torque, it mates with an eight-speed automatic transmission that moves power to the rear wheels.
When did Chevy stop making the express van?
2025-2026
In February 2024, GM abandoned its plans to produce an electric full-size van; the status of the GMT620 redesign is also unknown, leaving the model line without a replacement beyond the 2025-2026 model year.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Express years
We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Express cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Express model years:
- Chevrolet Express 2003
- Chevrolet Express 2000
- Chevrolet Express 2002
- Chevrolet Express 1999
- Chevrolet Express 2004
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Express model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Express years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chevrolet Express car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Express , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Tires problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Express vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Express model years
A total of 29 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 Express model years
There were a total of 35 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 Express model years
There were a total of 31 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Express model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 632 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Express . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Express vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chevrolet Express 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-08-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-04
- VIN: 1GCFG15T671
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet Express. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the rear passenger side wheel locked without warning. The vehicle was taken to the nearest service station where the rear brakes were replaced. The vehicle was then taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the ABS system module needed to be reprogrammed. The vehicle was repaired however, the contact stated that six months later the failure recurred. No warning lights was illuminated. The contact then stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, he then depressed the brake pedal to stop the vehicle however, after the accelerator pedal was depressed, he noticed a substantial drag and failed to accelerate. The dealer was notified of the failure, but no further assistance was provided. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Chevrolet Express 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-09-22
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-29
- VIN: 1GBFG15T251
- Components: SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Express. The contact stated that while driving, the front passenger’s side tire started to wobble. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the contact was informed that the tie rod needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. Additionally, the contact stated that while driving, the headlights failed to operate without engaging the lever. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the bulbs were replaced; however, the high-beam headlights failed to operate as needed. The vehicle was not repaired. Neither the dealer nor the manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 200,000.
Chevrolet Express 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2022-09-08
- VIN: 1GCGG25V751
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Hole warn in front passenger side brake line from battery cable going to engine starter motor. The shielding on electrical cable rubbed and wore a hole in the brake line causing fluid to flow out and caused brakes to fail. No one was injured and no accident. I was backing out of the driveway the brakes failed, next I saw a large puddle of fluid on driveway, I just put it in park. The battery cable crosses over the break line and both are fastened to the frame near each other. I can provide break line and photo. The van has 60,000 miles on it, I purchased it new in 2005.
Chevrolet Express 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-12-04
- Date Complaint: 2022-03-01
- VIN: 1gagg25u841
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V388000. I have this problem. A leaking fuel line due to corrosion. I drive in the Cascade MT's of Washington state. my line now leaks excessively on fill up.
Chevrolet Express 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2022-01-28
- Date Complaint: 2022-01-28
- VIN: 1GNFH15ZX71
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Update to case 11444012 I replaced the 2 tires and Goodyear inspected my other tires and said no problem selling 3 year old tires. Now another one of these tires is cracking. I have removed the tire and it's a clear defect causing cracks and bubbles. 245/75R16 111T SL WRL AT ADVENTURE OWL Tire failed on the inside side wall while the Van was parked for about 2 hours. Tires were purchased in 2019 but has a built year of 2016. AAA service inspected the Van and could not locate reason for issue. I also examined Ring video footage during the event and did not see anything near the Vehicle at the time of the event
Chevrolet Express 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-12
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-30
- VIN: 1GAHG39U341
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: This vehicle was sold for use over US highways, as "repairable condition". After going to a mechanic shop, I was advised, because of sever rust the rear leaf spring hangers were completely rusted thru, the rear axle assembly could come off or the frame could break in half, by just going over say, a railroad crossing. The mechanic said they would not repair this vehicle for use to drive on roads. I am requesting a local representative to help evaluate if this vehicle is safe to travel on Oklahoma roads.
Chevrolet Express 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-29
- Date Complaint: 2021-12-16
- VIN: 1GNFH15ZX71
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 245/75R16 111T SL WRL AT ADVENTURE OWL Tire failed on the inside side wall while the Van was parked for about 2 hours. Tires were purchased in 2019 but has a built year of 2016. AAA service inspected the Van and could not locate reason for issue. I also examined Ring video footage during the event and did not see anything near the Vehicle at the time of the event
Chevrolet Express 2001
- Date Of Incident: 2021-11-18
- Date Complaint: 2021-11-18
- VIN: 1GCFG15W611
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Vehicle shuts down during operation. I just saw there is a recall on your site saying same problem but mine didnt qualify. I have burned wires in harness to instrument panel. I found two wires at harness where code reader plugs into . O was able to ground them but now a couple months later same problem. I found burnt wires in harness and I cannot access to evaluate or replace. I've completed repairs myself, I am poor and dont know any honest affordable mechanics as I am capable of most reasonable repairs. I think my van falls under overheating panel warranty as described by this website. I still have 2 years of payments on van
Chevrolet Express 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-29
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-30
- VIN: 1GNFG15MX21
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Chevrolet Express. The contact stated while driving 65 MPH, she heard an abnormal loud banging sound coming from the rear end of the vehicle. The contact stated that the passenger’s side rear axle detached from the vehicle, causing the tire to detach and roll away. The contact did not sustain any injury. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 100,000.
Chevrolet Express 2000
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-12
- VIN: 1GCHG39R9Y1
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: Driving around 45 mph on an open road, driver's rear tire thread separated from tire, damaged rear bumper and frame, the detached thread COULD have damaged other cars behind me (thankfully it did not), there were no warning lamps and tires were in good shape before the drive, replaced with a spare and drove back home, the car is a 2000 GMC Chevy Express Van (purchased in 2000), tires were included with the vehicle when purchased, car was not driven much, present odometer 8,000 miles, tire is Firestone LT 24575R16
Chevrolet Express 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-13
- Date Complaint: 2021-08-13
- VIN: 1GBJG31U371
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: 2007 CHEVROLET GM3500. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO BRAKING SYSTEM FAILURE. THE CONSUMER STATED WHILE DRIVING THE BRAKES LOCKED UP. THE CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO PULL THE VEHICLE TO THE SHOULDER. THE BRAKE LIGHTS DID NOT ILLUMINATE. AFTER SITTING A FEW MINUTES, THE VEHICLE WENT BACK TO NORMAL OPERATION. THE BRAKE FAILURE WOULD CONTINUE TO OCCUR OFTEN. THE CONSUMER STATED THE ENGIME LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED FOLLOWING A SERVICE BULLETIN, BUT WAS TOO SOON TO TELL IF THE FAILURE WOULD RECUR.
Chevrolet Express 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-06-17
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-18
- VIN: 1GAGG25UX51
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Paint is peeling from ALL parts of the exterior vehicle, even around the window frames and door frames! It appears that NO PAINT PRIMER was used, at all! My white van has missing paint from about 75% of the vehicle, with bubbling going on, in the remainder of paint that has yet to fall off! Looking at ANY Chevy van that is on the roadways, one can easily see that the paint has also been falling off those vehicles, as well! This is a well-known defect in the painting practices of most ALL Chevrolet Vans, and should be dealt with on a class-action basis, since all Chevrolet Van owners are forced to live with an inferior paint scheme on these vehicles! But new owners are not aware of these shortcomings, until they see the paint fall off their vans, for no apparent reason! And it is clearly seen that NO PAINT PRIMER was used, when you look at the paint chip that fell off! Shame on Chevrolet and shame on the NHTSA agency for allowing any auto manufacturer to put out such inferior products to unsuspecting consumers!
Chevrolet Express 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-03-05
- Date Complaint: 2021-03-12
- VIN: 1GCHG35V551
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: BOTH REAR TIRES VEERUBBER TAIGA H/T SIZE LT 245/75R16 DOT # 6MSG-CH HAD BECOME UNSERVICEABLE DUE THE INSIDE SIDE WALL BELT PLYS SEPARATING RENDERING THE VEHICLE UNSAFE TO OPERATE. THE TIRES WERE REPLACED ON 5 MAR 2021 WITH NEW COPPER STFR SOLARUS LT245/75R16 THROUGH MAVIS TIRE WHICH HAD INSTALLED THE TAIGA TIRES MENTIONED ABOVE ON 21 MAY 2020. THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE FOR THESE TIES SINCE THEY ONLY APPROXIMATELY 15000 MILES ON THEM AND THEY HAD A SERVICE LIFE OF 45000 MILES. THIS ISSUE CAME TO LIGHT WHEN WE WERE OPERATING OUR VAN ON A HIGHWAY TRAVELING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MILES AN HOUR.
Chevrolet Express 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-11
- Date Complaint: 2021-02-11
- VIN: 1GCHG35RX21
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 2002 CHEVROLET EXPRESS 3500. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO BROKEN DRIVERS SIDE SPRING LEAF. *LD THE CONSUMER STATED AFTER A POTHOLE BROKE THE SPRING LEAVE, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT SPRING LEAF WAS INCORRECTLY INSTALLED BY THE FACTORY. *JS
Chevrolet Express 2006
- Date Of Incident: 2020-11-09
- Date Complaint: 2020-11-09
- VIN: 1GBFG15T861
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE VEHICLE SECURITY LIGHT COMES ON INTERMITTENTLY FOR YEARS, I THEN CANNOT START THE VEHICLE. I HAVE REPORTED THE PROBLEM TO GM, I HAVE HAD IT TO THE CHEVROLET DEALERSHIP TWICE, WHICH COST ME OVER A THOUSAND DOLLARS FOR THEM TO REPLACE PARTS WHICH HAD NO EFFECT IN SOLVING THE PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE WILL NOT START UNTIL YOU TURN THE KEY TO THE ON POSITION, WAIT 10 MINUTES FOR THE LIGHT TO GO OUT, THEN TURN OFF THE IGNITION FOR 10 SECONDS, THEN IT WILL START. I HAVE PUT UP WITH IT FOR YEARS, BUT WHEN I AM STRANDED IN THE DEAD OF WINTER, THAT POSES A SAFETY HAZARD. YOUR REPORT WANTS TO KNOW WHEN IT HAPPENS, IT HAPPENS WITHOUT NOTICE, RHYME OR REASON, AT ANYTIME SINCE I BOUGHT IT IN 2009.
Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet Express
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 135 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Express.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chevrolet Express 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-03-18
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Park Out Side: 1
- Park Out Side: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2021 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vehicles equipped with 6.6L gasoline engines. The positive battery cable terminals may contact a fuse block assembly attachment post and cause an electrical short circuit.
- Consequence: A short-circuit can increase the risk of a fire.
- Remedy: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the repair is complete. GM will notify owners, and dealers will remove a portion of the anti-rotation tab on both positive battery cable terminals near the fuse block assembly attachments, free of charge. If too much of the tab had been removed during prior servicing, the battery cable will be replaced, free of charge. The recall began April 16, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N202325160.
- Model: Chevrolet Express 2019
- Report Received Date: 2021-02-25
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
- Consequence: Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.
- Model: Chevrolet Express 2018
- Report Received Date: 2021-02-25
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
- Consequence: Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.
- Model: Chevrolet Express 2020
- Report Received Date: 2021-02-25
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
- Consequence: Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.
- Model: Chevrolet Express 2021
- Report Received Date: 2021-02-25
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Buick Enclave, Cadillac XT4, XT5, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, Traverse, GMC Yukon, Yukon XL, 2018-2021 Chevrolet Express, GMC Savana, 2019-2020 Chevrolet Blazer, Silverado 1500, GMC Acadia, Sierra 1500, and certain Continental tires sold to the aftermarket for various model year 2018-2021 vehicles. The affected tires were cured for too long during production.
- Consequence: Over cured tires may develop a break in the sidewall resulting in sudden air loss or a belt edge separation which could lead to a tread/belt loss. Either condition can cause a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the tires, replacing them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 22, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-888-988-7267, Buick customer service at 1-866-608-8080, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006. GM's number for this recall is N212329050.
Latest negative Chevrolet Express car reviews
Latest positive Chevrolet Express car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2019
It's great to hear that you find the vehicle comfortable to drive with excellent handling. The engine and transmission are very smooth and powerful, and it's impressive that it's so efficient with up to 19 mpg on the highway and averaging over 16 mpg for all driving combined. The cruise control is also very efficient. It's good to know that this vehicle is much more comfortable to drive and handle than the Honda Pilot that it replaced.
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Vehicle year: 2000
I'm so glad to hear that you bought this van for your family trips! It's amazing that even with 174k miles on it, it still runs like it's brand new. The Debut conversion sounds like it's perfect for your family's comfort. It's great to know that you're not bothered by the miles, especially since you've seen them run smoothly with over 300k miles. I'm impressed that it still looks brand new both inside and out, and that everything works perfectly. The towing package with 5.7 V8 is a great addition, and it's even more impressive that it still manages to get decent gas mileage even with a full load. It sounds like you'll have many more years of use out of it, and I'm excited for you to buy another one when the time comes :)
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Vehicle year: 2008
I've had this van since 2006. It's been great! Personally, I find it more comfortable and attractive than the Fords. It's also very easy to maintain.
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Vehicle year: 2005
Actually, this van has a 3500 ext. conversion with a stand-up roof modification. It has great gas mileage even when towing (as long as you use NON reformulated gasoline), achieving 14/14.6 when towing and 16/16.8 when not towing. While the dash may not be the most attractive, the conversion shop added some trim to improve its appearance. Personally, I think they should have kept the same dash as the 1998/1999 models. The A/C volume is good, but the air could be colder. However, it's possible that the conversion A/C is affecting it on my van specifically.
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Vehicle year: 2018
I purchased this van second-hand for my family of nine, and it has been through a lot. From hockey practice to basketball games, park runs, and everything in between, we practically live in this vehicle. Despite having driven it for 413k miles, the engine and powertrain have been flawless. Apart from replacing the shocks, brake pads, and a brake booster, as well as the usual maintenance items like tires, oil, and windshield wipers, we haven't had any major issues. However, the paint on our classic Chevy white van started peeling off one day, leaving us looking a bit unkempt. Although it doesn't seem to rust, the van's appearance has suffered. We're also tough on the interior, and the seats have seen better days. On the bright side, there's plenty of room for six car seats with extra space in between. Would I buy this van again? Absolutely! If I had the chance, I would choose a paint color that doesn't peel off (although finding one that isn't white might be a challenge).
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Express?
Jefferey Brekke 2025-03-27
Vehicle year: 2021
I love my 2006 Chevy Express! My only issue is that it's quite challenging to find a parking spot for it. It's longer and wider than any of my other cars, including the Suburbans.
Hoyt Kunde 2025-03-23
Vehicle year: 2002
Chevrolet is known for its trucks and compact cars. However, their 'dark horse' known as the Express Van rarely attracts any positive attention. As an individual working in the demanding trade of plumbing, I have had some challenges with this van. Despite my efforts to overload its weight rating and to continuously postpone oil changes, it has managed to keep going. Although the water pump, heating element, engine light, and gas consumption have been constant issues, I have found ways to keep it running. While it may not be the most reliable vehicle, it has served me well in my line of work. I would recommend considering other options, but if you do choose the Express Van, be prepared for some maintenance challenges.
Arturo Hahn 2025-03-20
Vehicle year: 2008
I love my 2006 Chevy Express! My only issue is that it's quite challenging to find a parking spot for it. It's longer and wider than any of my other cars, including my Suburbans.
Beau Morar 2025-03-20
Vehicle year: 2010
I have experience driving several different vans of this model, ranging from '06 to '09. The engine provides excellent power, and the AWD system really helps with road grip. However, the gas mileage could be improved, as the best I've ever gotten is 17mpg (on 87 octane gas). I did find the traction control system to be a bit unnerving, as it shuts off all power for several seconds if you lose traction, which can be concerning when pulling out onto a busy intersection. On the other hand, I appreciate some of the features, such as the on-board tire pressure monitors and the oil life percentage. Overall, I think it's a good van. The only issue I've had was an oil filter gasket leak, which was likely due to an installation fault by the garage.
Rory Greenholt 2025-03-18
Vehicle year: 2020
I really like my 15 passenger van for what it is, but there are definitely some areas that could be improved. If you're looking for a reliable van built on proven technology with truck-like towing and strength, there is no competition except for its GMC twin. This is the only truck-based van on the market today built on the strength of a full frame, with fully boxed frame and underpinnings that are truly heavy-duty. All other vans on the market are unibody. The fact that it's the only van still available with a V8 engine makes it stand out without equal. The 6.0 and 6L90 transmission are durable and reliable, making it one of the last iron block V8 engines out there. While this van receives bad reviews for its dated technology and style, I personally like the looks of the traditional North American truck-based van and the peace of mind of known technology. However, a serious update to the interior and options would be ideal. Handling and driving a vehicle this large is what it is, but with the two wheelbase lengths and standard stabilitrak, it edged out its previous competition in the E series and Dodge in rollover resistance, which is a low bar. You must be prepared to drive this van within its limits. It isn't a car or even a light truck and shouldn't be compared as such. The airbags include front and side curtain, and there is special glass in the rear sides that add safety and strength. However, it's disappointing that there are no headrests after the first row. It should have had headrests in all rows. The build quality is poor, with misaligned panels inside and out. Also, the interior is made mostly of hard plastics, which are cheap but durable. Options are slim, but you get the basics you need. Better backup camera and phone connectivity should be improved and made standard. The mirrors are big and very useful, and a nicer sound system option would be a welcome improvement too. Fuel economy is low, but it's within what you would expect for a vehicle of this size and weight.I've been getting about 14mpg in mixed driving, mostly in town, with the 6.0. On the interstate, driving at the pace of traffic (not in the fast lane), I've hit 21mpg. The built-in Wi-Fi works well and can consistently stream video to at least five tablets (it may be able to do more, but we haven't tested it). While there is a lack of cup holders and charging ports in the rear, the 110v outlet with extension cord substitutes for the latter. I purchased my van for just under 30k with 2k miles on it, as a program vehicle. That is a great value for passenger capacity, truck capability, and reliability. I've had my van for a couple of years now without any repairs needed. While there is much that could be improved and updated, if you need large passenger capacity and truck strength, there is no equal. People I know with more modern vans, like the Transit, are not reporting much (if any) better fuel economy, even with much smaller engines, and they have had reliability issues that I have not. The small engines the competition use just have to work harder and will wear out faster while limiting towing capacity severely. The lack of a high roof has some advantages when it comes to parking garages, drive-throughs, and crosswinds that affect all vans. Please note that the drop-down menu did not have the correct trim level I am reviewing here. To clarify, I have a 2019 LT 3500 extended van with the 6.0 V8 15 passenger.