2013 Chevrolet Express problems

General information about Chevrolet-Express
Overview of popular issues
Recalls list
Negative car reviews
Positive car reviews

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).

Social links

Common 2013 Chevrolet Express problems

The Chevrolet Express 1500 has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the issues in detail:

Fuel Pump Failure: The most reported problem with the Chevrolet Express is fuel pump failure, with the 1999 model year having the most overall complaints. The average cost to fix this problem is $3,000, with an average mileage of 25,000 miles. This problem can also occur at an average mileage of 70,000 miles, with an average cost to fix of $4,000, and at an average mileage of 67,000 miles, with an average cost to fix of $8,300.

Air Bag Deployment: The 2009-2014 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds and less and equipped with front passenger air bags have been recalled due to a condition where the front passenger air bag may not sufficiently absorb the impact during a frontal impact below the air bag deployment threshold. This can cause the panel to not sufficiently absorb the impact, failing to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact."

Chassis Electronic Module: The 2013-2014 Cadillac CTS, Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Yukon, and Yukon XL, and 2014 Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Express, Impala, Silverado HD, Traverse, GMC Acadia, Savana, and Sierra HD vehicles have been recalled due to a condition where the chassis electronic module may be internally contaminated, resulting in an electrical short.

Rear Lights Not Working: Normal wear and tear from using the cargo space of the van can cause damage to the tail light wiring, causing the rear lights to stop working. Replacing and protecting a new tailight harness should fix this issue.

Fuel Level Sensor Failure: Chevy Express Cargo owners have reported that their fuel tank may read the fuel level incorrectly due to fuel level sensor failure. Replacing the entire fuel pump can range from $600-$1000.

Intake Manifold Gasket May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil: The intake manifold gasket may develop an external engine oil or coolant leak, which can cause the coolant to mix with engine oil and result in engine damage. Replacing the intake manifold gasket will correct this issue, with a repair cost of around $500.

Water Pump Coolant Leak and Engine Overheating: A coolant leak from the water pump can result in an engine overheating. Replacing the water pump can run about $300-$550.

Damaged Front Electrical Components: Hosing down the rear cargo mat can cause various electrical components under the front carpet/rubber mat to become damaged due to excess water.

These problems have been reported by owners and may not be representative of all Chevrolet Express 1500 vehicles. It is important to note that the frequency and severity of these issues may vary based on factors such as vehicle usage, maintenance history, and model year.

Is the Chevrolet Express a reliable van?

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.

How many miles does a Chevy Express get?

Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 20 MPG, offering 620 miles of range out of the 31 gallon tank. Gas costs are similar to other vans, at $369 per month. Value 8/10 – The 2019 Chevrolet Express is cheaper than a lot of other full size vans with reasonable depreciation rates, making it an attractive value.

What is the recall on the Chevy Express van?

Recall # N202325160 Date: 03/18/2021 Recall: General Motors, LLC 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.

Is the Chevrolet Express a reliable van?

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?

What is the fuel economy of a 2013 Chevy Express?

Find and Compare Cars

2013 Chevrolet Express 2500 2WD Passenger
Personalize Find a car	Flex-Fuel Vehicle 8 cyl, 4.8 L, Automatic 6-spd Compare
Fuel Economy
EPA MPG	Regular Gas 13 combined city/highway MPG 11 city 17 highway 7.7 gals/100 miles E85 10 combined city/highway MPG 8 city 12 highway 10.0 gal/100mi

What engine is in the Chevy Express?

It's propelled by conventional, robust gasoline engines, including a 4.3-liter V-6 and a 6.6-liter V8, which are backed by an eight-speed automatic and a heavy-duty six-speed automatic, respectively.

2013 Chevrolet Express complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2013 Chevrolet Express.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2013 Chevrolet Express recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 8 recalls for different components of the 2013 Chevrolet Express.

2018-04-26

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: EQUIPMENT
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2009-2014 Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD, 2009 GMC Topkick 5000, 6000, 7000 and 8000 Series and Isuzu F Series, and 2009-2018 Chevrolet Express, and GMC Savana vehicles, equipped with certain Plastic-Handle Fire Extinguishers or Push Button 'Pindicator' Fire Extinguishers. These extinguishers may become clogged, preventing the extinguisher from discharging as expected or requiring excessive force to activate the extinguisher. Additionally, in certain models, the nozzle may detach from the valve assembly with enough force that it could cause injury and also render the product inoperable. For a full list of the affected fire extinguisher models visit: https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2017/RMISC-17E062-5427.pdf
Consequence: In the event of a fire, if the fire extinguisher does not function properly, it can increase the risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, instructing them to contact Kidde to get a replacement fire extinguisher, free of charge. The recall began June 11, 2018. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782, and Isuzu customer service at 1-866-441-9638. GM's number for this recall is 18146.

2015-10-30

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Summary: General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 Chevrolet Silverado HD, Chevrolet Express, and GMC Sierra HD vehicles, and model year 2013 GMC Savana compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles that fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 303 "Fuel System Integrity of Compressed Natural Gas Vehicles." In the affected vehicles, the text of the CNG fuel-only label is smaller than the required size, and as a result, may be less noticeable.
Consequence: Text that does not conform to the required labeling size could inhibit fuel tank inspection practices and safe refueling, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy: GM will notify owners and will send them a replacement label, free of charge. The recall began December 3, 2015. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 13365.

2014-08-13

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2011-2014 Chevrolet Express compressed natural gas (CNG)vehicles manufactured September 10, 2010, to April 28, 2014, and GMC Savana CNG vehicles manufactured May 23, 2011, to April 21, 2014. The affected vehicles may leak natural gas from the CNG high pressure regulator.
Consequence: A natural gas leak in the presence of an ignition source increases the risk of a fire or explosion.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the high pressure regulator, free of charge. The recall began February 13, 2013. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 14321.

2014-03-17

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2009-2014 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vans manufactured January 27, 2009, through March 7, 2014 with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds and less and equipped with front passenger air bags. In the affected vehicles, during a frontal impact below the air bag deployment threshold, if an unbelted front passenger's head hits the instrument panel above where the passenger air bag is located, the panel may not sufficiently absorb the impact. As such, these vehicles fail to meet the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 201, "Occupant Protection in Interior Impact."
Consequence: In the event of a crash below the air bag deployment threshold, an unbelted front passenger seat occupant has an increased risk of injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will modify the passenger instrument panel free of charge. Notices to the owners of the heavy duty vans were mailed on April 28, 2014. The recall began on May 19, 2014. Chevrolet owners may call 1-800-630-2438. GMC owners may call 1-866-996-9463. GM's number for this recall is 14082.

2013-05-15

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
Summary: General Motors LLC (GM) and IMPCO Automotive Division of IMPCO Technologies, Inc. (IMPCO) are recalling certain model year 2011-2013 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana Cargo vans that have a compressed natural gas (CNG) fuel system installed as original equipment by IMPCO. The fuel systems, manufactured February 14, 2011, through February 20, 2013, have a fuel shut-off solenoid connector to the CNG tank that may corrode and form a short.
Consequence: A short at the connector may cause overheating, resulting in an increased risk of fire.
Remedy: GM will notify owners and GM dealers/fleets will perform the remedy which will include replacing the solenoid assemblies and fuel pump fuses and adjusting the wiring routing. The recall began on August 5, 2013. GM's number for this recall is 13139. Impco's number for this recall is FA13GM001. Owner's may contact GM Fleet Action Center at 1-800-353-3867.

2013-04-17

Manufacturer: Explorer Van Company, Inc.
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Summary: Explorer Van Company, Inc. is recalling certain model year 2013 Explorer and Explorer Limited SE vehicles built on GMC Savana and Chevrolet Express chassis, manufactured August 1, 2012, through April 9, 2013. The wiring harness that powers the seat adjuster and the seat heating circuit may not be properly secured. As a result, the harness may become lodged in the seat riser mechanism.
Consequence: If the wires become lodged in the seat riser mechanism, they may become severed and potentially short circuit. A short circuit may result in a fire.
Remedy: Explorer Van Company will notify owners, and dealers will secure the seat wiring harness. Any damaged seat wiring harnesses will be replaced. These services will be completed free of charge. The recall began on May 10, 2013. Customers may contact Explorer Van Company at 1-800-926-7878. Explorer's number for this campaign is 2013-1.

2013-01-14

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Summary: General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Chevrolet Express vehicles manufactured November 1, 2012, through December 21, 2012; and model year 2013 GMC Savana vehicles, manufactured November 14, 2012, through November 20, 2012. It may be possible to remove the key from the ignition when the vehicle is running or the transmission is not in the Park position. As such, these vehicles fail to conform to the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard 114, "Theft Protection."
Consequence: If the ignition key is removed while the vehicle is still on and/or the vehicle is not in Park, the vehicle may rollaway and the unintended movement of the vehicle may result in a possible crash or injury to pedestrians.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the ignition lock cylinder and the two associated keys. This service will be performed free of charge. The recall began on February 8, 2013. For more information, GMC owners may call 1-866-996-9463 and Chevrolet owners may call 1-800-630-2438.

2013-01-02

Manufacturer: General Motors LLC
Components: STEERING:COLUMN LOCKING:ANTI-THEFT DEVICE
Summary: General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2013 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT; Chevrolet Avalanche, Express, Silverado HD, Silverado LD, Suburban, and Tahoe; and GMC Savana, Sierra HD, Sierra LD, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles, manufactured between November 7, 2012, through December 18, 2012, for failing to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 102, "Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect", and FMVSS No. 114, "Theft Protection and Rollaway Prevention." The vehicles may have been built with a fractured park lock cable or a malformed steering column lock actuator gear in the lock module assembly.
Consequence: As a result, the vehicle may shift from Park with the ignition key removed or the ignition key in the OFF position. The vehicle may also shift out of Park without application of the brake pedal while the key is off. Either of these scenarios may cause the vehicle to roll away after the driver has exited the vehicle, resulting in a possible vehicle crash and/or injury.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and replace the steering column as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on January 21, 2013. Chevrolet owners may call 1-800-630-2438. Cadillac owners may call 1-866-982-2339. GMC owners may call 1-866-996-9463.

Negative 2013 Chevrolet Express car reviews

Brennon Zemlak 2024-08-10

Hi there! I borrowed this vehicle for my growing family and unfortunately, it didn't quite meet our needs. Within just 5 minutes, we noticed that the kids had to duck under seat belts to get to the 3rd row and there were no headrests for the back rows. Additionally, we felt every bump in the road. It's a shame that the engineers didn't think this through more thoroughly. We're now saving up for a Mercedes Benz Sprinter which we hope will be a better fit for us!
Milton Bruen 2024-07-03

Our family van is our second express. The first one was a 1999 12-passenger van, and the current one is a 2011 15-passenger van. We have no reason to sell it other than the fact that it's a little old to take on cross-country trips. It's great for local trips to Lowe's with the seats out or to a family event with all or some of the seats back in. We drive it every day, but we don't want to pay the sticker price of a new one, especially since they haven't really changed over the years.
Royal Weber 2024-06-24

It seems like GM could improve their MPG ratings. I've been getting around 15 MPG with no cargo and 12 MPG with 8000 GVW. Additionally, the split outside mirrors can be quite bothersome and take some getting used to. The plastic door panels clip in place and can sometimes pop out, causing the clips to break off. However, I have found that at times it can be difficult to see the driver info display due to the steering wheel. Overall, it's been a bit of a learning curve, but I'm still enjoying my vehicle.
Leif Carroll 2024-05-24

We bought the van because we outgrew our Grand Caravan, and we absolutely love the fact that we can tow anything we want. I've only owned it for three months, but I already love the room and power it provides.
Kristian Bauch 2024-04-13

While the engine and transmission of these vehicles are superior to those of Fords, the rest of the vehicle falls short. The old 1975-1992 Econoline has more room, feels better, drives better, handles better, and has a more solid body. The interior of the Express is uncomfortable and made of hard plastic that creaks and feels like it might break. The front seating is cramped and less roomy than Ford. The ride is not very smooth and can be a bit rough. The sliding door rattles and shakes when closed gently. All doors, controls, seats, and dash feel cheap compared to Ford. However, we understand that everyone has different preferences and priorities when it comes to vehicles. We hope this information helps you make an informed decision.

Positive 2013 Chevrolet Express car reviews

Art Spinka 2024-10-29

Great for hauling kids, dogs, and everything. Also, the 300hp is great for pulling our 31 ft. 7800 lb. camper. It looks tough too.
Pierre Harris 2024-10-29

Superb!!!
Fermin Runolfsson 2024-10-15

What a fantastic vehicle! It's huge, making it easy to see and navigate. The Vortec V8 is incredibly powerful and reliable, just like the Vortec V6 in my previous Chevy Astro. Even though I bought the base model, it still came with power windows and locks, cruise control, and a CD player. I found it on Ebay from an owner in Las Vegas and flew from Atlanta to buy it. I then drove it 2,150 miles back home, and it drove like a dream - just like a Cadillac! While it may not be the most economical vehicle, I still managed to get about 15.5 mpg while averaging 75 mph for 80% of the trip. I receive so many compliments on this van, and the cargo space is enormous, especially when you remove the 2 bench seats. Overall, I am extremely pleased with this truck (van). Chevrolet really hit the nail on the head with this one!
Johnny Renner 2024-09-10

Change the oil and keep up with the maintenance. With 226k on it, we would still drive it from Delaware to Florida today! Our car has been so good to us that we are upgrading and still keeping it as a backup.
Floy Gaylord 2024-09-08

This is a great vehicle for families and offers good value when compared to a Suburban. Even with the 4.3L V6, it performs well, although the available V8 would probably be even better. The locking rear axle makes winter driving very manageable, and the optional 4-wheel disk brakes are a welcome addition to stop this 5300lb truck.

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2013 Chevrolet Express problems:

ECM problem on 2013 Chevy Express van? - Chevrolet Forum ...

https://chevroletforum.com/forum/express-g-series-vans-30/ecm-problem-2013-chevy-express-van-109170/

Apr 14, 2022 ... These are very generic warnings which can have many different causes. It could be failed sensor, failed computer, or just poor wiring connection ...

Q&A: Common Problems with 03 Chevy Express 3500 & 6.0L Engine

https://www.justanswer.com/chevy/8cp9b-03-chevy-express-3500-6-0l-engine-stalls-intermittently-no.html

Mar 22, 2014 ... 03 chevy express 3500 6.0l. engine stalls intermittently, no codes other than evap leak. Changed fuel filter, dropped - Answered by a ...

2013 Chevrolet Express 1500 Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues

https://repairpal.com/2013-chevrolet-express-1500/problems

Problem with your 2013 Chevrolet Express 1500? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2013 Chevrolet Express 1500.

Van Problems. Chevy Express 1500 (Page 1) — Other Random Car ...

https://forums.24hoursoflemons.com/viewtopic.php?id=31745

Van Problems. Chevy Express ... "PA Posse" 21st out of 96 and 2nd in Class C, Capitol Offense 2013. ... common problem when showing P1404 on a new ...