2001 Chevrolet Van 1500 Express 4.3 V6
Summary:
Would not buy another one like it for sure
Faults:
Coil pack needed to be replaced around 40,000 miles; seems to have broken loose in its housing. This caused intermittent stalling and starts.
Oil pump needed to be replaced around 50,000 miles.
Had problem with the computer, being in the engine compartment, allowing water to splash on it and running off the windshield down on the computer. Had to replace the computer. That gets pricey. I bought a new one from a parts dealer, programmed and ready to go. Cheaper than OEM!
Rear wheel seals replaced twice.
Distributor needed to be replaced at 50,000 some miles. Gear worn down to thin metal.
Brake line corrosion caused the lines to need to be replaced.
Needs the engine rebuilt because of cheap GM intake gaskets. Allowed antifreeze to leak into the oil, causing the oil to gum up like jello. A known GM intake gasket problem again. Oil galleries need to be flushed and bearing replaced at 68,000 miles. Replaced pistons and rings, because of piston slap while having it apart.
General Comments:
Overall the vehicle is pricey to keep on the road.
It's making me re-think buying another GM van.
This vehicle also has the paint peeling; a known issue GM that ignores.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know
Review Date: 21st November, 2014
13th Jul 2006, 00:05
The 3500 series Express cargo van is a monster!
Every area of the vehicle is solid, sturdy and well constructed.
Fuel mileage is around 15mpg with the 5.7 engine, which is fair.
One can turn on every electrical/motor AC feature of the van, and never notice any performance issue!
Seats are comfortable, but the edges do crack after continual in-out; I would think the latter would occur in any work vehicle.
Remember, one has to climb into the van, which places stress on the edge, sliding/falling out of the van also causes stress; a new GM seat cover costs $218.00.
Bumpers are great to have, they are made of the same material as a Sherman tank; Steel!
Factory GM tires (Goodyear or Firestone) are superb concerning driving, but wear very fast.
I suggest using a Tiger paw or something similar, the drive will be a little more bumpy, but the tires will last 3X as long!
Around 6 months ago, a Dodge Dakota smashed into the front of my van, head-on (around 15mph) my front bumper required replacement, the Dodge required a flat bed etc...
Parking concerning the extended cargo van is a challenge, but the added room is worth the occasional frustration.
The van has so much interior room, regardless as to how hot it is outdoors, the inside is cool.
Never does one have to open the door and wait 10 minutes for the interior to cool down on a hot day, simply jump in and go!
Finally, very rarely will you ever be cut-off, people never park their car next to a van because most finally understand the outcome etc...
Overall it is a very safe vehicle, it is important to remember to take care of the vehicle like you would a car to maintain reliability along with resale.