Faults:

Problem Intake manifold gasket leaked. This was indicated by antifreeze level dropping in overflow reservoir. I was advised to ask GM nicely for repairs and GM paid one half (after warranty expired) In my opinion, this should have been a recall and I feel customer confidence will suffer.

Problem Front brakes began to fade. I was advised by a independent mechanic to change disks (rotors) purchased from a well known auto supply store. Rotors and pads were changed and I have had good service from brakes since.

Problem Changing air filter myself. It's a frustrating job. Everything is so jammed in. I had to remove electric pump to rear heater, removed overflow reservoir and then pry air cleaner assembly apart to replace air filter. I suggest you leave it to a mechanic.

Problem I started to hear a slight whine in the transmission. I suggest you run not walk to your nearest auto transmission shop and have fluid changed. My friend with a 96 Dodge Caravan didn't do this and he now has a rebuilt $4500 transmission. Venture's transmission shifts up and down very smoothly. All front wheel drive transmissions are more stressed than the old rear drive, the shop told me. Yes, the transmission is OK and now no noise and normal shifts.

Problem (When first purchased with 66000km) 3.4L engine slightly difficult to start and then some clicking from engine lifters when engine cold. I changed to full synthetic oil and that solved it. I won't use anything else now.

General Comments:

Overall I like the Venture's power. It has 185 hp and is adequate, but not lazy. I see the new Venture clone, The Uplander has 3.4L (200hp) engine. Perhaps its better.

I have found the the fit and finish to be about the same as other domestic vans. The Venture's ride is very good. The sliding doors rattle a bit over harsh bumps, but so do other domestic vans. I have found the mileage to be above average, about 26 or 27mpg. It's great for hauling plywood sheets. Newer seat systems are easier for the some to handle. I find mine OK to remove, but a bit heavy. Air conditioning is very good. I was advised to get a upgraded thermostat. I did and now get much better heating. I like my 2000 Chev Venture, but I feel GM should correct the head gasket deficiency and others that are mentioned on this forum.

Faults:

Intake manifold gasket failed at 40000K

Head gasket failed at 65000K

Front brakes replaced twice

Fuel level sender unit replaced under warranty

Wipers stuck in up position

Rear brake hydraulic leak at 50000K

Rear door sliding mechanism replaced

Rear hatch handle broke.

General Comments:

This is the worst car I have ever seen. Everything has broken that could break. But even worse, these problems are common for all owners of this vehicle. The Internet is littered with websites full of complaints about this car.

General Motors has acknowledged the severe problem with intake manifold gaskets (they will pay for the replacement if you ask nicely), yet they have refused to make a recall. It is shameful that in this day and age a car so completely unreliable could be sold to hundreds of thousands of families in the world. It is only a matter of time before one of these vans stalls in the middle of the highway causing a preventable fatality.