46 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 0–10,000 miles.
Most common 2003 Chevrolet Express problems
10 of the 59 complaints (17%) are about the electrical system.
Component
Reports
Crashes
Fires
Injuries
Fuel/Propulsion System · fuel and propulsion system
5
0
0
0
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · brakes
3
1
0
0
Seat Belts
3
0
0
0
Engine
3
0
0
0
Air Bags › Frontal · airbags
3
0
0
1
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor · brakes
2
0
0
0
Fuel System, Gasoline · fuel system
2
0
0
0
Electrical System › Wiring › Interior/Under Dash
2
0
2
0
Electrical System › Wiring › Front Underhood
2
0
2
0
Electrical System › Wiring
2
0
2
0
11 safety recalls
Part 573 reports
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Filler Pipe and Cap12V388000
Filed Aug 8, 20129,389 vehiclesGeneral Motors LLC
Defect. General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vehicles, equipped with a left side cargo door, and originally sold or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. Water and road contaminants may become trapped in the protective conduit that covers the fuel filler pipe and may cause the pipe to corrode.
Risk. Significant corrosion may allow fuel to leak during refueling, and in the presence of an ignition source; there is an increased risk of fire.
Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a new fuel filler neck, free of charge. The safety recall began on October 1, 2012. Owners may contact the Chevrolet owner center at 1-866-694-6546 and GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Filed Dec 19, 2005425,593 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. ON CERTAIN FULL-SIZE PASSENGER, CARGO, OR CUTAWAY VANS, THE FRONT AND REAR SEAT BELT BUCKLES WILL NOT LATCH OR WILL NOT UNLATCH.
Risk. IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, A SEAT OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BUCKLES AND, IF FOUND TO BE INOPERATIVE, THE ENTIRE BUCKLE ASSEMBLY WOULD BE REPLACED. FOR BUCKLES FOUND TO BE OPERATIVE, DEALER WILL REPLACE ONLY THE UPPER BUCKLE COVER. THE RECALL WILL BE CONDUCTED IN PHASES. THE FIRST PHASE MAILING BEGAN DURING MARCH 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.
Filed May 11, 2004736 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. CERTAIN EXTENDED AND REGULAR CAB PICKUP TRUCKS AND CARGO VANS CONVERTED TO COMPRESSED NATURAL GAS (CNG) FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, 'CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEMS.' THESE VEHICLES HAVE ONE SEATING POSITION, THE CENTER REAR SEAT, EQUIPPED WITH CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER ANCHORAGES.
Risk. THE STANDARD REQUIRES CHILD SEAT LOWER ANCHORAGES IN TWO SEATING POSITIONS FOR VEHICLES WITH THREE REAR SEATING POSITIONS. THE STANDARD CAB AND CARGO VAN VEHICLES, WHICH ONLY HAVE FRONT SEATING POSITIONS, HAVE AN AIR BAG OFF SWITCH TO DISABLE THE FRONT PASSENGER AIR BAG AND DO NOT HAVE CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER ANCHORAGES IN THE PASSENGER SEAT. THE STANDARD REQUIRES PASSENGER SEAT CHILD SEAT LOWER ANCHORAGES IN VEHICLES WITH AN AIR BAG OFF SWITCH. HOWEVER, THE STANDARD DOES NOT REQUIRE VEHICLES WITH ONLY FRONT SEATING POSITIONS TO HAVE LOWER ANCHORAGE PROVISIONS IF THE VEHICLE IS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AN AIR BAG OFF SWITCH.
Remedy. TO BRING THE STANDARD CAB AND CARGO VAN VEHICLES INTO COMPLIANCE, DEALERS WILL INJECT EPOXY INTO THE AIR BAG OFF SWITCH TO PREVENT AIR BAG ACTIVATION, RELOCATE THE SWITCH BEHIND THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THEN INSTALL A COVER OVER THE RESULTING OPENING. THE SUN VISOR LABEL AND OWNER'S MANUAL WILL ALSO BE CHANGED. THE CORRECTION FOR THE EXTENDED CAB VEHICLE WILL CONSIST OF CHANGING THE FRONT PASSENGER SEAT TO A SEAT THAT HAS CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER ANCHORAGES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 9, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.
Filed Feb 4, 200468,875 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND PASSENGER VANS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 135, ?PASSENGER CAR BRAKE SYSTEMS.? SOME OF THESE VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH AN OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION BRAKE HYDRO-BOOST HOUSING RELIEF VALVE BORE.
Risk. CONSEQUENTLY, THE VALVE O-RING SEAL MAY FRACTURE. STEERING EFFORTS MAY BE SLIGHTLY INCREASED WHILE BRAKING OR PARKING. UNDER CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS, A FRACTURED SEAL MAY REQUIRE A SLIGHT INCREASE IN THE APPLIED BRAKE PEDAL EFFORT TO ACHIEVE THE SAME VEHICLE DECELERATION RATE AS PRIOR TO THE SEAT FRACTURE.
Remedy. DEALERS ARE TO REPLACE THE HYDRO-BOOST RELIEF VALVE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 18, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; GMC AT 1-866-996-9463; OR HUMMER AT 1-866-486-6376.
Equipment › Other › Owners/Service/Other Manual03V250000
Defect. CERTAIN MINIVANS, PASSENGER AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 225, "CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORAGE SYSTEM." THE OWNER'S MANUAL DOES NOT EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT LOWER UNIVERSAL ANCHORAGE SYSTEM.
Risk. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE STANDARD.
Remedy. OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A SUPPLEMENT FOR THEIR OWNER'S MANUAL. THIS SUPPLEMENT DESCRIBES AND SHOWS THE LOCATION SYMBOLS FOR THE CHILD RESTRAINT ANCHORS THAT ARE LOCATED IN THE VEHICLE AND ON THE CHILD RESTRAINT OR BOOSTER CUSHION. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN AUGUST 18, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, OR OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537.
Filed Jun 10, 200350,225 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. CERTAIN VANS HAVE A CONDITION IN WHICH WATER MAY ENTER AND CORRODE THE REAR LICENSE PLATE LAMP SOCKET. IF THE LAMP SOCKET WERE TO CORRODE, THE REAR LICENSE PLATE LAMP MAY OPERATE INTERMITTENTLY OR NOT AT ALL, AND THE LEFT REAR TAIL LAMP MAY BECOME INOPERATIVE. THE TEMPERATURE OF THE LICENSE PLATE LAMP SOCKET COULD INCREASE TO THE POINT THAT IT MAY BEGIN TO SOFTEN AND MELT.
Risk. IF THE SOCKET ASSEMBLY WERE TO REACH THE POINT OF MELTING, THE OCCUPANTS OF THE VEHICLE MAY NOTICE AN ODOR AND SMOKE AT THE REAR DOORS OF THE VEHICLE. IF THIS ODOR AND SMOKE WERE IGNORED, THE PLASTIC COULD IGNITE AND A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW SEALED REAR LICENSE PLATE LAMP SOCKET ASSEMBLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JULY 21, 2003. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Filed Feb 14, 200318,327 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. ON CERTAIN VANS WITH A GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT OF LESS THAN 8,500 POUNDS, DURING A VEHICLE CRASH SUFFICIENT ENOUGH TO DEPLOY THE SAFETY BELT PRETENSIONER, THE FRONT SAFETY BELT BUCKLES MAY NOT RELEASE AFTER THE VEHICLE CRASH, OR ALTERNATELY MAY EJECT THE SAFETY BELT LATCH DURING THE VEHICLE CRASH.
Risk. THIS COULD RESULT IN INCREASED RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 3, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Filed Dec 12, 20024,158 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. ON CERTAIN VANS WITH AN 8,500 LB. OR 8,600 LB. GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT RATING, THE NUT ATTACHING THE PITMAN ARM TO THE STEERING LINKAGE MAY NOT BE TIGHTENED ADEQUATELY RESULTING IN A POSSIBLE SEPARATION.
Risk. A SEPARATION COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, AND A CRASH COULD OCCUR WITH PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL TIGHTEN THE PITMAN ARM NUT TO THE PROPER SPECIFICATION. IF THE NUT IS MISSING, THE DEALER WILL INSTALL A NEW NUT AND TIGHTEN IT CORRECTLY. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DECEMBER 10, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Filed Dec 2, 200218,648 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. ON CERTAIN VANS, THE RIGHT-HAND TIE ROD END NUT MAY NOT BE TIGHTENED ADEQUATELY. THE NUT CAN LOOSEN RESULTING IN SEPARATION OF THE TIE ROD FROM THE STEERING KNUCKLE.
Risk. SEPARATION OF A TIE ROD CAN CAUSE UNEXPECTED VEHICLE STEERING IN SOME MANEUVERS AND COULD CAUSE A CRASH WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL TIGHTEN THE TIE ROD END NUT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE TIE ROD END. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 27, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Filed Nov 14, 200218,409 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.
Defect. CERTAIN VANS WERE BUILT WITHOUT A WHEEL BEARING ASSEMBLY RETAINING NUT, WHICH COULD LEAD TO A POSSIBLE BEARING SEPARATION.
Risk. IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, THE AMBER-COLORED ABS TELL-TALE LAMP IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL WOULD ILLUMINATE AND THE ABS SYSTEM WOULD BE DISABLED. THE DRIVER WOULD ALSO NOTICE A GRINDING NOISE, A DECREASE IN THE VEHICLE SPEED, AND THE STEERING WILL PULL IN THE DIRECTION OF THE AFFECTED BRAKE ASSEMBLY. THIS COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy. DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE WHEEL BEARING ASSEMBLY. IF THE INSPECTION REVEALS A MISSING RETAINING NUT, THE WHEEL BEARING ASSEMBLY WILL BE REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 13, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
All 11 campaigns on file, newest first.
What owners reported
Newest filings
Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Sep 22, 2026125,000 milesCA
The contact recently purchased a 2003 Chevrolet Express. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel due to a corroded catalytic converter. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V388000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue; however, the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 125,000.
Electrical System › Instrument Panel › Speedometer/Odometer
Filed Mar 17, 2026258,051 milesCA
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2003 Chevrolet Express. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was approximately 156,000. It was later discovered that the mileage on July 2, 2024, was 258,051.
Unknown or Other
Filed Dec 27, 2018190,000 milesNJ
THE FRAME AND ITS CROSSMEMBERS ARE RUSTED (ROTTED) THRU ABOVE THE GAS TANK MAKING THE VAN USELESS. THE GAS TANK IS EVEN ATTACHED AT THOSE AREAS MAKING IT A TICKING TIME BOMB. THIS IS A KNOW GM FRAME PROBLEM FOR MANY YEARS ON MANY TRUCK BODIES.
Seat Belts
Filed Aug 9, 2017228,000 milesNY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CABLE THAT HELD THE SEAT BELTS TOGETHER, LOCATED IN THE REAR MIDDLE ROW, SNAPPED WITHOUT WARNING. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT, IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE SEAT BELTS WOULD NOT SECURE PROPERLY AND CAUSE AN INJURY. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE REAR DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE DOOR HINGES FRACTURED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DOORS WERE GLUED SHUT. THE DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 228,000. UPDATED 10/17*LJ UPDATED 10/4/18*JB
Suspension
Filed Apr 6, 2015109,000 milesNY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE VIBRATED WHENEVER THE VEHICLE WAS BEING DRIVEN OVER 30 MPH OVER A BUMP. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE THE CONTROL ARMS, THE PITMAN ARM, THE TIRES AND THE HUBS WERE REPLACED, BUT THE FAILURE PERSISTED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 109,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. ....UPDATED 07/22/15 *BF UPDATED 10/4/2017*CN
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jan 24, 201572,000 milesCA
I RECEIVED A NOTICE FROM GM ( DOC ID #32202443, #12167 FUEL FILLER PIPE CORROSION) STATING THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON MY VEHICLE FOR LEAKING GASOLINE. I BROUGHT IT TO SIGHN CHEVROLET IN RIVERSIDE CA AND THE SERVICE MANAGER TOLD ME THAT CA VEHICLES DO NOT QUALIFY. I CONTACTED CUSTOMER COMPLAINTS CASE # [XXX] AND ALL THEY DID WAS CALL THE SAME SERVICE MANAGER AND GOT BACK TO ME SAYING THEY WON'T FIX IT. I BELIEVE I AM DRIVING AROUND WITH A VEHICLE LEAKING GAS ON THE ROAD CREATING AN EXTREMELY DANGEROUS SITUATION FOR MY FAMILY WITH A DIRE FIRE HAZARD. MY CONTENTION IS, WHY WOULD THEY SEND ME A RECALL NOTICE AND THEN TELL ME I DON'T QUALIFY? I DID RECEIVE THE NOTICE AND IT SAID IT HAD TO BE ACTED ON BEFORE 12/31/12 BUT IT WAS NOT LEAKING THEN. I DON'T CARE WHEN IT EXPIRES. IT IS A ADMITTED DEFECT AND GM SHOULD STAND BEHIND THEIR DANGEROUS ERRORS. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).' *TR
Engine
Filed Dec 21, 201415,500 milesNH
MY SPEEDOMETER QUICKLY JUMPS FROM ONE INDICATED SPEED TO ANOTHER SPEED THAT IS CLEARLY INACCURATE, DOWN AS LOW AS -0- WHILE DRIVING, ACCOMPANIED BY THE TRANSMISSION ATTEMPTING TO DOWNSHIFT ON IT'S OWN, WHICH CAUSES A SEVERE ENGINE OVER-REV CONDITION OR GOING INTO A NEUTRAL MOMENTARILY WITH NO INPUT FROM ME AS THE DRIVER. THERE ARE NO SPECIFIC ACTIONS I CAN TAKE TO TRIGGER THE ERRATIC SYMPTOM, NOR ANY SPECIFIC ACTION I CAN TAKE TO CAUSE NORMAL OPERATION. WITH SNOW AND ICE ON THE ROADS AT THIS TIME OF THE YEAR THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS AS IT COULD CAUSE THE VAN TO LOCK UP THE REAR WHEELS ON SLIPPERY PAVEMENT CAUSING LACK OF CONTROL. THIS CONDITION CAN OCCUR REGARDLESS OF WHETHER OR NOT CRUISE CONTROL IS SELECTED, REGARDLESS OF THE GEAR I MANUALLY SELECT, AND REGARDLESS OF THE TRAILER MODE BEING SELECTED OR NOT. SIMULTANEOUSLY THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT GOES ON, THE "ABS LIGHT" AND "BRAKES" LIGHTS ARE LIT ON THE DASHBOARD ALTHOUGH NO BRAKING ABNORMALITIES ARE NOTED. I REPORTED A LESS SEVERE CASE OF THIS SEVERAL MONTHS AGO, BUT RECEIVED NO REPLY FROM THE NHTSA. DOING INTERNET RESEARCH I FIND THAT IT MAY BE A DEFECTIVE SPEEDOMETER DASHBOARD ASSEMBLY THAT WOULD NEED TO BE SENT AWAY FOR REPAIR/EXCHANGE. THEY REQUIRE A LARGE DEPOSIT IN ORDER TO GO THRU THE VERIFICATION PROCESS THAT THE ODOMETER READING I REPORT IS THE SAME AS THE UNIT I SEND IN. PART COST WITH DEPOSIT IS CLOSE TO $600, AND THEY SHOW AN ONLINE INTERNET VIDEO OF HOW TO REMOVE THE DASHBOARD UNIT WHICH TAKES LESS THAN 3
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Sep 3, 2014153,500 milesFL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A FUEL LEAK COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT INDICATED THAT AFTER REFUELING, FUEL PUDDLE UNDER THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FILLER NECK NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND THE METAL FUEL FILLER PIPE WAS CORRODED. THE CONTACT WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 12V388000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 153,500.
Power Train
Filed Aug 30, 201416,614 milesNH
DRIVING ON INTERSTATE AT 65 MPH, THE ABS WARNING LIGHT CAME ON, AND THE SPEEDOMETER STARTED JUMPING ERRATICALLY FROM ACTUAL SPEED TO LOWER SPEEDS 45, 25 + OTHERS AS LOW AS 8 (EIGHT) MPH. THIS CAUSED THE TRANSMISSION TO DOWNSHIFT UNPREDICTABLY, OVER-REVVING THE ENGINE SPEED. IT HAPPENED REPEATEDLY SO I DOCUMENTED THE ODOMETER ERRATIC MOVEMENT ON MY CELL PHONE AS A VIDEO, SHOWING ROAD MOVEMENT + ALL GAUGES + AUDIO EVENTS LIKE ENGINE OVER-REVVING AT SAME TIME. THE VIDEO IS OF HIGH QUALITY AND THE EVENTS TAKING PLACE ARE DOCUMENTED WITH THE VIDEO. RURAL AREA WITH FEW CARS ON ROAD AT THE TIME. IF IT TOOK PLACE IN A CITY INTERSTATE ENVIRONMENT (ESPECIALLY IN THE WINTER MONTHS) IT MIGHT HAVE CAUSED A MULTIPLE CAR COLLISION WITH SUDDEN UNEXPECTED DOWNSHIFTING THAT WAS OUT OF MY CONTROL. ENGINE RPM ALSO HUNTS ERRATICALLY AND OUT OF MY CONTROL. PREDICTABLE IN WHAT IT DOES, IT BEGINS APPROXIMATELY WITHIN A RANGE OF 4-8 MILES AFTER LEAVING HOME DAILY. WHEN ENGINE TURNED OFF AND PARKED AT A LOCAL STORE AS AN EXAMPLE, IT WILL CLEAR IT'S PROBLEM AS IF A CPU IS "RE-BOOTED", AND REPEAT THE CYCLE OF ERRATIC BEHAVIOR FROM THAT NEW STARTING POINT. WHEN I BOUGHT + INSTALLED ACTRON BRAND OBD-II CODE READER WHICH FEATURES ABILITY TO REVEAL ABS BRAKE CODES, IT NEVER SHOWS ANY OTHER STORED CODES EXCEPT A SINGLE PO446 WHICH IS AN EMISSIONS RELATED CODE. THIS VAN WAS ORIGINALLY SENT NEW BY THE SELLING NH CHEVROLET DEALER TO THE PENNSYLVANIA BASED QUIGLEY CONVERSION FACILITY, SO IN FEBRUARY 2004 WAS MOD
Structure
Filed May 15, 2014MI
THIS VEHICLE WAS BOUGHT BRAND NEW BUT UNBEKNOWNST TO ME WAS MADE IN CANADA (SOMETHING WHICH WOULD NOT HAVE BEEN ACCEPTABLE TO ME HAD I BEEN TOLD). UPON POSSESSION THE WINDSHIELD MOLDING CAME OFF ON THE RIDE HOME. THE DRIVER SIDE TIEROD END WENT AT 12,000 MILES AND AGAIN AT 24,000 MILES BECAUSE UPON INSPECTION THE BALL JOINTS WERE NEVER PROPERLY TIGHTENED. THE BOLTS ON THE TRANSMISSION WERE FOUND BY THE DEALER TO HAVE BEEN NEVER PROPERLY TIGHTENED. THE SIDEDOOR HINGE HAD TO BE REPLACED AT A COST OF $600 BECAUSE IT FROZE UP AND COULD NOT BE OPENED. THE POWER STEERING UNIT RUSTED OUT AT 12,000 MILES AND STARTED LEAKING FLUID AND, WHAT I FIND MOST IMPORTANT, I AM NOT SURE IF I HAVE AIRBAGS BECAUSE THE AIRBAG LIGHT STAYS ON BUT IS NOTED TO GO OFF WHEN THE KEY IS PARTIALLY TURNED HOWEVER THE KEY CANNOT STAY IN THIS POSITION AND MUST BE TURNED TO START THE VEHICLE. FUEL EXPECTATION WAS NEVER NEAR WHAT I WAS TOLD IT WOULD BE AND TAILPIPE CONSISTENTLY SHOWED EVIDENCE OF BEING BLACKENED DUE TO INSUFFICIENT FUEL BURNING. THE POOR BACKDOOR DESIGN MAKES IT DIFFICULT TO SEE OUT THE BACK WINDOW AND IT IS CLEARLY EVIDENT BY ALMOST EVERY VAN OF THIS TYPE HAVING A DENTED BUMPER DUE TO THIS BLINDSPOT IN DESIGN. I HAVE NOT BEGUN TO LIST ALL THE THINGS NOT RIGHT WITH THIS VEHICLE BUT I WILL CHALK THEM UP TO DOWNRIGHT LYING AND JUST INFERIOR PARTS AND CRAFTSMENSHIP. THIS VEHICLE HAS BEEN A NIGHTMARE. *TR
Engine
Filed Apr 17, 2014254,000 milesVA
FOR THE SECOND TIME IN ONE WEEK THE ENGINE RACED TO MAX RPM WITHOUT A THROTTLE INPUT. HAD TO PUT IT IN NEUTRAL TO SLOW DOWN WITH THE BRAKES. THE FIRST TIME (35MPH SLOWING DOWN FOR A RED LIGHT) WENT TO NEUTRAL, FOOT ON BRAKE AND BACK TO DRIVE, THE ENGINE RESPONDED NORMALLY. LAST NIGHT THE ENGINE RACED TO MAX RPM AGAIN 100 FEET FROM MY PARKING SPOT GOING LESS THAN 5MPH WENT TO NEUTRAL BACK TO DRIVE NO CHANGE IN ENGINE SPEED BACK TO NEUTRAL GLIDE TO PARKING SPOT TURNED ENGINE OFF. NO WARNING WHEN THE MAX ENGINE REV WOULD BEGIN, ONE WAS SLOW SPEED THE OTHER MODERATE SPEED, TEMP 75 ONE DAY, TEMP 45 YESTERDAY. WORKED FINE TODAY. WORRIED THE PROBLEM IS NOT REPEATABLE OR CAN BE FOUND USING A CODE READER. WORRIED THAT THE ONLY WAY NOW TO STOP MAX ENGINE RPM IS BY TURNING ENGINE OFF, NOT SAFE WHILE DRIVING ON THE INTERSTATE. *TT
Electrical System
Filed Apr 8, 201480,000 milesPA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS CONVERSION VAN. THE CONTACTED STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, ALL OF THE GAUGES AND ELECTRICAL FEATURES FAILED HOWEVER, THE LIGHT FUNCTIONS REMAINED OPERABLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE THE TECHNICIAN WAS UNABLE TO DIAGNOSE A FAILURE. NO REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED TO THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 84,000. UPDATED 5/22/14*CN
Service Brakes
Filed Dec 20, 201329,000 milesHI
DRIVER A NOTICED LACK OF PRESSURE IN BRAKE PEDAL. THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT FULLY TO THE FLOOR AND RESULTED IN LESS BRAKING THAN EXPECTED. DRIVER REDUCED SPEED BY DOWNSHIFTING TO LOWER GEARS (AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION) AND PULLED INTO FIRST AVAILABLE PARKING AREA. BY PUMPING THE BRAKES AND PULLING INTO AN UPHILL PARKING SPOT, DRIVER ACHIEVED ENOUGH BRAKING TO COME TO A FULL STOP WITHOUT USING THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. INSPECTION SHOWED A NEARLY FULL BRAKE RESERVOIR AND NO LEAKAGE FROM WHEEL CYLINDERS. FURTHER INSPECTION SHOWED LEAKING FLUID FROM BRAKE LINE ON LEFT SIDE UNDER THE DRIVERS SEAT AND ABOVE THE VEHICLE FRAME. IT SQUIRTED OUT FROM A CRACK IN A BRAKE LINE WHEN BRAKE PEDAL WAS PUMPED. THE VEHICLE WAS DEEMED UNSAFE TO DRIVE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED FOR REPAIR. *TR
Engine
Filed Jul 8, 2013206,300 milesGA
MY 2003 CHEVY EXPRESS 2500 CARGO VAN WAS IN EVENING RUSH HOUR STOP AND GO TRAFFIC. AFTER REDUCING MY SPEED TO 10 MPH THEN ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE. THE VEHICLE STALLED AND BEGAN TO IDLE ROUGH AND SHUT-OFF. I HAD TO PUT THE VEHICLE IN NEUTRAL AND RESTART IN THE MIDDLE OF THE INTERSTATE. I HAD TO CONTINUE TO SHIFT INTO NEUTRAL AND PRESS THE GAS TO PREVENT THE VEHICLE FROM SHUTTING OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. I HAD THE PLUGS AND WIRES CHANGE THE VERY NEXT DAY AND THE PROBLEM CONTINUED. THIS COULD HAVE TURNED INTO A MAJOR ACCIDENT WITH THE VEHICLE SHUTTING OFF IN THE MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. THIS ISSUE SHOULD BE ADDRESSED AND AN IMMEDIATE RECALL NOTICE SHOULD BE PUT INTO EFFECT TO PREVENT A MAJOR ACCIDENT WHICH COULD LEAD TO A POSSIBLE FATALITY. THIS IS DANGEROUS! I'VE RESEARCHED THIS ISSUE AND HAVE FOUND MULTIPLE CHEVY EXPRESS OWNER'S WITH THE SAME CONCERN. GM SHOULD DO THE RIGHT THING FOR THE CUSTOMERS WHO SUPPORT THEIR BRAND AND PRODUCT. *TR
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Nov 13, 2012126,600 milesVA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT SHE NOTICED A LEAK UNDER THE VEHICLE WHEN SHE WOULD PUT REFUEL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR INSPECTION WHERE THEY ADVISED THAT THE FUEL FILLER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND STATED THAT THEY WOULD PAY A PORTION OF THE REPAIR COSTS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 126,600.
Structure › Body
Filed Oct 9, 201269,000 milesMI
DURING A FAMILY OUTING WE WERE UNABLE TO CLOSE THE RIGHT REAR PASSENGER DOOR. EXPERIENCED DIFFICULTY CLOSING DOOR. AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS, I NOTICED THE DOOR WAS NOT ALIGNED WITH THE BODY OF THE CAR WHICH PROHIBITED THE DOOR LATCH TO CONNECT AND CLOSE. THE DOOR WOULD NOT CLOSE SHUT COMPLETELY AND HAS SINCE KNOCKED WHILE DRIVING AND ALSO CREATES A SAFETY HAZARD FOR CHILDREN & ADULTS BECAUSE IT IS PRIMARY EXIT FOR THE REAR EXIT TO THE SIDEWALK FORCING PASSENGERS TO EXIT FROM THE REAR LEFT DOOR PASSENGER DOOR ONTO THE STREET TO ONCOMING TRAFFIC THAT CAN LEAD TO ACCIDENT, BODILY INJURY OR FATALITY. NO PRIOR MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS OR SUGGESTED UPKEEP WAS DOCUMENTED IN THE BUYERS MANUAL WHICH CAME WITH THE VEHICLE THAT WOULD INDICATE POSSIBLE HINGE CORROSION OR RUSTING. POSSIBLE PIN DEFECT DETECTED BY CERTIFIED DEALER ON 10/7/2012, WHEN TAKEN IN FOR SAFETY RECALL ON FUEL FILLER PIPE RECALL 12166 CAMPAIGN ID#12V388. MULTIPLE COMPLAINT FOR HINGE/PINS HAVE BEEN DOCUMENTED IN COMPLAINTS ON SAFERCAR.ORG WEBSITE FOR 2003 CHEVY EXPRESS VAN. I BELIEVE THIS ISSUE SHOULD BE INVESTIGATED TO AVOID ACCIDENTAL DEATHS DUE TO INOPERABLE ACCESS TO SIDEWALK FROM THE LEFT REAR PASSENGER DOOR. *TR
Seat Belts
Filed Aug 28, 201265,000 milesNY
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY BROKE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE SEAT BELT WAS WORKING UP TO SPECIFICATIONS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THERE WAS A RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 03V050000 COMPONENT: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY. BUT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE WHO DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 65,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 22, 2012111,000 milesVA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A SMALL AMOUNT OF FUEL CONTINUOUSLY LEAKED OUT OF THE FUEL TANK FILLER NECK IMMEDIATELY AFTER REFUELING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT THE FUEL FILLER NECK TUBE EXHIBITED RUST CORROSION. THE PART WAS REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THERE WAS A RECALL ASSOCIATED WITH NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 12V388000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY: FILLER PIPE AND CAP) HOWEVER THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 111,000.
Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 14, 2012127,000 milesVA
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS CONVERSION VAN. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, HE NOTICED A HOLE IN THE FUEL FILLER NECK. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 127,000.
Fuel System, Gasoline › Storage › Tank Assembly › Filler Pipe and Cap
Filed Dec 29, 2011MI
2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS FUEL FILLER PIPE LEAK: GAS FILLER TUBE RUSTED THROUGH AND GASOLINE LEAKED EVERY TIME I REFUELED. CORROSION HOLES CAUSED FUEL TO LEAK AND CREATING A FIRE HAZARD. THIS VAN HAS A LEFT SIDE REAR CARGO DOOR. THIS IS A SIMILAR COMPLAINT AS: ODI ID NUMBER : 10413214 *KB
Visibility
Filed May 11, 201143,899 milesUT
WHEN DRIVING IN A HORRIBLE RAINSTORM, THE DRIVER'S SIDE WINDSHIELD WIPER STOPPED MOVING AND THEN ON THE NEXT ROTATION, SWUNG ITSELF AROUND AND GOT LODGED BY THE SIDE VIEW MIRROR. AN ACCIDENT WAS AVOIDED, BUT IT OCCURRED 3 MORE TIMES RANDOMLY THAT SAME DAY, AND THEN TODAY. IT WAS A MIRACLE THROUGH THE HEAVY RAIN THAT WE DIDN'T WRECK. LUCKILY THE PASSENGER SIDE WIPER KEPT WORKING AND WITH SOME LUCK, WE EXITED TO SAFETY. *TR
Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed May 9, 201180,000 milesCT
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 30 MPH THE CONTACT APPLIED PRESSURE TO THE BRAKE PEDAL BUT THE VEHICLE HESITATED TO STOP. THE CONTACT APPLIED EXCESSIVE PRESSURE TO THE BRAKE PEDAL IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE RECURRED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTO SHOP WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED. THE TECHNICIANS WERE ABLE TO DUPLICATE THE FAILURE. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS WERE IN GOOD CONDITION BUT INFORMED THE CONTACT OF A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V045000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.
Air Bags › Frontal
Filed Jun 25, 2010181,632 milesMO
VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN OUR COMPANY PARKING LOT, VEHICLE WAS NOT RUNNING AND THE KEY WAS NOT IN THE IGNITION. EMPLOYEE WAS LOADING TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT INTO REAR OF VEHICLE AFTER COMPLETING A JOB. SIDE SLIDING DOOR WAS OPEN. PASSENGER AIR BAG ONLY DEPLOYED. VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN A WRECK. *TR
TiresCrash
Filed Jun 23, 2010OH
2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS LOST CONTROL OF VEHICLE STRIKING THE MEDIAN BARRIER. *BF ACCORDING TO THE POLICE REPORT, THE REAR TIRES HAD VERY LITTLE TREAD. ON THE INSIDE OF THE TIRES, THERE WAS NO TREAD. (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT # 10-0234-91)*JB UPDATED 07/22/10 *BF
Latches/Locks/Linkages
Filed Dec 17, 2009IL
I OWN A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS VAN. I AM UNABLE TO OPEN THE REAR DOORS ON THE DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDES. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY A LOCAL BODY SHOP THAT THE PROBLEM IS THE PINS THAT WERE USED IN THE HINGES. THEY ARE RUSTING FROM THE INSIDE CAUSING THE DOORS NOT TO OPEN. THIS BODY SHOP SAID THEY HAVE BEEN GIVEN INFORMATION ON HOW TO FIX THE PROBLEM AT A COST OF $1500.00 PER SIDE. BUT I CANNOT FIND ANY INFORMATION ABOUT A RECALL FROM GENERAL MOTORS. I DO NOT HAVE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY ON THIS VEHICLE BUT I DON'T THINK THESE REPAIRS SHOULD BE MADE AT MY EXPENSE. THIS VEHICLE IS USED MOSTLY WHEN I GO CAMPING. I HAVE TWO YOUNG CHILDREN WHO RIDE IN THIS VEHICLE. I TRIED TRADING THIS VEHICLE IN NUMEROUS TIMES BEFORE THE REAR DOORS BECAME TOTALLY INOPERABLE. BUT EVERY DEALERSHIP I GO TO GOES FOR THE REAR DOORS AND TRIES TO OPEN THEM. WHICH LEADS ME TO BELIEVE THAT THEY KNOW THAT A PROBLEM EXISTS. *TR
Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Feb 19, 200962,000 milesOH
SINCE OCTOBER OF 08, I ORDERED A FILLER TUBE WHICH ALLOWS THE GAS TO TRAVEL FROM THE GAS CAP TO THE GAS STORAGE TANK. EVERYTIME I FILL UP, GAS STATIONS WILL SHUT THE PUMP OFF DUE TO SEVERE LEAKING FROM THIS FILLER TUBE. THE LEAK IS SO SEVERE THAT THE FEAR IS SOMEBODY DROPPING A CIGARETTE AT THE TIME OF FILLUP. APPROX 1 GAL OF GAS LEAKS/ FILLUP. I ORDERED THE NEW PART IN LATE OCTOBER FROM THE DEALERSHIP I PURCHASED MY 2003 CHEVY PASSENGER EXPRESS VAN. I HAVE SPOKEN TO THE CHEVY REGIONAL OFFICE AND BEEN TOLD THAT THE PART IS ONLY AVAILABLE AT 5 DEALERSHIPS IN THE COUNTRY BUT THEY HAVE BEEN RESERVED FOR CUSTOMERS AND I WOULD HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL THE PART GETS MANUFACTURED ONCE AGAIN. WHEN? THEY DON'T KNOW. I REQUESTED A SIMILAR VEHICLE BE LOANED TO ME UNTIL THE NEW PART BECOMES AVAILABLE. THEY SAID "NO, IF YOU FEEL UNSAFE THEN I SHOULDN'T DRIVE IT. I TOLD THEM THIS IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN AND IT WILL NOT ONLY COST MY LIFE BUT ANYONE IN PROXIMITY TO THE GAS STATION. ONE PARTICULAR DEALERSHIP SHARED WITH ME THAT IF GM DOESN'T PAY A BILL FOR WHATEVER REASON, THE PART MANUFACTURER HALTS PRODUCTION AND THIS IS WHAT HAPPENS. WILL YOU PLEASE HELP ME? *TR
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
Filed Aug 7, 200742,000 milesPA
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS. WHILE PREPARING TO STOP FROM 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE FEELS AS IF IT IS GOING TO STOP, BUT SUDDENLY LUNGES FORWARD. AFTERWARDS, THE VEHICLE WILL STOP. THE DEALER STATED THAT HIS VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL FOR THIS FAILURE. THE RECALL NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 42,000.
Electrical System › Wiring › Interior/Under DashFire
Filed Apr 13, 200774,000 milesMI
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS 2500 VAN. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IT CAUGHT ON FIRE AND BOTH AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE CAUSE OF FIRE WAS THE SAME AS MENTIONED IN RECALL # 05V104000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER THE DASH BOARD). THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE, AND THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 74,000.*AK
Seat Belts
Filed Jun 10, 20065,800 milesWI
THIS IS REGARDING RECALL NUMBER 05113 (SAFETY BELTS) FOR WHICH WE RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR OUR CHEVY EXPRESS VAN WHICH IS THE FOUNDATION OF OUR FOREST RIVER 22' MOTORHOME. I ASSUME THIS AFFECTS THE SEAT BELTS IN THE CAB ONLY. OUR PROBLEM IS THAT WE HAVE BEEN UNABLE TO FIND A DEALER WHO WILL REPAIR THIS MANUFACTURER DEFECT EVEN THOUGH THE LETTER WE RECEIVED STATES WE CAN TAKE IT TO ANY GM DEALER. WE ARE TWO WEEKS AWAY FROM LEAVING ON AN EXTENSIVE ROAD TRIP WITH THIS VEHICLE AND WOULD LIKE TO KNOW THAT IT IS SAFE AND WE BELIEVE IT IS UP TO THE MANUFACTURER TO CORRECT THEIR SAFETY DEFECT ASAP. *NM
Steering › Rack and Pinion
Filed Mar 20, 2006NY
THE RACK AND PINION UNIT HAS LOTS OF PLAY IN THE CENTER. (APPROX 50K) THE TRANSMISSION SLIPS IN REVERSE FROM DAY ONE. THE GAS PEDAL SHIFT FROM LEFT TO RIGHT ABOUT 3 INCHES. (APPROX 40K) THIS VAN HAS ABOUT 50 REPAIRS UNDER WARRANTY. THIS VAN IS USED BY MY WIFE AND 4 KIDS. *NM
Exterior Lighting › Turn Signal
Filed Mar 16, 200610,000 milesIL
TAIL LIGHTS LIGHT BULBS HAVE TO BE CHANGE EVRY WEEK OR EVERY OTHER WEEK. *NM
Engine and Engine Cooling › Cooling System › Hoses/Lines/Piping/Fittings
Filed Mar 2, 200615,000 milesMD
MY HOSE THAT CONNECTS TO THE ENGINE TO THE RADIATOR HAS CRACKED AT LEAST THREE TIMES IN THE PAST TWO AND HALF YEARS, I HAVE ASK CHEVY ON EACH OCCASION THAT I HAD TO PURCHASE IT FROM THE DEALERSHIP, IF THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH HOW THE HOSE IS POSITION SO CLOSE TO THE EXHAUST PIPE WITH NO SUPPORT TO KEEP THE HOSE AWAY FROM THIS PIPE THAT GIVES OFF SO MUCH HEAT, I TRULY BELIEVE THIS IS CREATING THE PROBLEM AND I'M TIRED OF REPLACING IT AND WOULD LIKE TO GET TO THE BOTTOM OF THIS. *JB
Wheels › Hubcap/Cover
Filed Feb 15, 200650,625 milesOH
I HAVE A 2003 CHEVROLET 2500 EXPRESS VAN (PURCHASED NEW AND WELL MAINTAINED) THAT I USE FOR FIRE INVESTIGATIONS. ON THE DATE OF THE INCIDENT, THE ODOMETER READING WAS 50628 MILES. ON MY RETURN TRAVEL, I WAS ON I-75 NORTH BOUND THROUGH DAYTON, OHIO (SPEEDS EST @ 65-70 MPH) WHEN THE VIBRATION THROUGH THE STEERING WHEEL INCREASED. APPROXIMATELY SEVEN MILES SOUTH OF PIQUA, OHIO, I EXPERIENCED A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL (DIDN'T KNOW WHAT TYPE OF FAILURE AT THIS TIME) WHICH CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO SUDDENLY "JERK" TO THE LEFT. TRAVELING IN THE CENTER NORTH BOUND LANE OF I-75 AND IN HEAVY TRAFFIC, I USED BOTH HANDS TO STEERING MY VAN TO THE RIGHT HAND LANE NARROWING MISSING A SEMI TRACTOR-TRAILER. I CONTINUED ONTO THE BERM WITH THE END OF THE VAN SLIDING SIDEWAYS TO THE RIGHT. AS THE VAN SLOWED AND NOW ALMOST PERPENDICULAR TO TRAFFIC, THE LEFT SIDE OF THE VAN BEGAN TO LIFT WITH BOTH LEFT SIDE WHEELS OFF THE GROUND. LUCKILY, THE VAN CAME TO A STOP AND THE LEFT SIDE DROPPED TO THE GROUND. TRAFFIC ON I-75 WAS IN CHAOS TRYING TO AVOID MY VAN DURING THE WHOLE EPISODE. I BELIEVE THE LONG WHEEL BASE OF THE VAN CONTRIBUTE TO PREVENTING THE VAN FROM ROLLING. AAA TOWED THE MY VAN TOWED TO DEFIANCE (OHIO) CHEVROLET DEALER IN PREPARATION FOR REPAIRS BECKMAN CHEVROLET DEALER SERVICE DEPARTMENT INSPECTED THE VAN ON THE NEXT DAY AN FOUND COMPLETE FAILURE OF THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL BEARING WITH ONLY THE FRONT BRAKE SYSTEM KEEPING THE WHEEL ON THE SPINDLE. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED WITH
Seat Belts › Front › Buckle Assembly
Filed Dec 10, 200522,366 milesCA
DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT RECEIVER MALFUNCTION - WHILE INSERTING BELT LOCKING TAB, RED RELEASE BUTTON POPPED OUT - TRIED TO REINSERT BUTTON, MECHANISM JAMMED TRAPPING ME IN SEAT; UNTIL I COULD THREAD MYSELF OUT OF BELTS. PART ORDERED. *JB
Visibility › Windshield Wiper/Washer
Filed Nov 24, 20055,000 milesMI
I DRIVE A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS VAN. I BELIEVE THERE IS AN ISSUE WITH THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS. MANY TIMES, WHEN TRAVELING AT SPEEDS ABOVE 50 THE WIPERS DO VERY LITTLE TO KEEP THE WINDSHIELD CLEAR. EVEN AFTER INSTALLING NEW BLADES. THIS HAPPENS DURING ALL TYPES OF INCLEMENT WEATHER, BUT IS ESPECIALLY BAD IN THE WINTER. THE WIPER BLADES ALLOW ICE TO COLLECT ON THEM, AND THE DEFROSTER IS NOT ENOUGH TO KEEP THEM CLEAR. I MUST STOP AND MANUALLY CLEAR THE WIPERS IF I MUST USE THE WIPERS, THEY JUST SCRAPE ACROSS THE WINDSHIELD BUT DO VERY LITTLE TO ACTUALLY CLEAR THE WINDSHIELD. IF TRAFFIC PASSING BY, THROWS SLUSH AND SUCH ON THE WINDSHIELD. THE WIPERS CAN NOT CLEAR IT PROPERLY. IN ADDITION TO THIS, THE WINDSHIELD WASHER SPRAY HOSES ARE ATTACHED TO THE WIPER ARMS AND TEND TO PLUG OR FREEZE AND COMPOUNDS THE PROBLEM. I HAVE DRIVEN THIS VEHICLE FOR 3 YEARS AND ITS THE SAME THING EVERY YEAR. IT PRESENTS QUITE A PROBLEM SINCE MANY TIMES, I AM OPERATING THE VEHICLE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, WITH LIMITED VISION. UNTIL I STOP AND CLEAR IT OFF. I DON'T KNOW IF ITS BECAUSE THE WIPERS LIFT OFF THE WINDSHIELD AT HIGH SPEEDS OR IF THE JUST SHRINK DUE TO THE COLD. I DO KNOW THAT IT HAS BECOME A SAFETY ISSUE. *JB
Fuel System, Gasoline › Fuel Injection System
Filed Nov 16, 200549,750 milesCA
DT: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE STALLED INTERMITTENTLY. ALSO, IT STALLED WHEN SLOWING DOWN OR WHEN STOPPING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP, AND THE FUEL INJECTOR PUMP WAS REPLACED. THIS REPAIRED THE VEHICLE.*AK UPDATED 11/7/2005 - *NM
Electrical System
Filed Oct 6, 20057,260 milesPA
DT: THE CONSUMER STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 50-60 MPH 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS STALLED. THE VEHICLE SAT FOR ABOUT A MINUTE, THEN IT RESTARTED. THERE WERE NO LIGHTS THAT CAME ON THE DASHBOARD. THIS HAPPENED WITH NO WARNING. THE DEALERSHIP HAS NOT BEEN CONTACTED AS OF NOW. THE MANUFACTURER HAS NOT BEEN CALLED. THE CONSUMER WAS GOING TO CONTACT THE DEALER SO THEY COULD EXAMINE THE VAN.*AK THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER BUT THEY FOUND NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. *NM
Vehicle Speed Control
Filed Aug 31, 200560,000 milesNY
DT: CONTACT OWNS 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS G3500 PASSENGER VAN. THE VAN WILL ACCELERATE ON ITS OWN SPORADICALLY. THIS STARTED AROUND 7-20-05. IT DOES IT WHILE STOPPING AT STOP LIGHT AND IT WILL ALSO DO IT WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY. THE IDLE SPEED CONTROL MOTOR, THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR, COOLING SENSOR, ECM, AND THE PROM HAVE ALL BEEN CHANGED WITHIN 5-6 WEEKS. HE SAYS IT DID IT AT ANY SPEED SPORADICALLY. HE MADE AN APPOINTMENT TO BRING THE CAR IN AGAIN FOR A POSSIBLE REPAIR. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WILL USUALLY COME ON AFTER AN INCIDENT. *AK
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor
Filed Aug 4, 200530,000 milesNH
DT: CONSUMER WAS DRIVING AT 50 MPH AND THE BRAKES STARTED VIBRATING. THE PROBLEM FIRST STARTED AROUND 6-4-05, AND HAS GRADUALLY GOTTEN WORSE. THE CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP TWICE. THERE WAS NOTHING DONE TO FIX THE VEHICLE BECAUSE IT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER THE WARRANTY. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER, THEY HAD HIM TO MAKE A SECOND APPOINTMENT WITH THE DEALERSHIP. WHEN THE CONSUMER TOOK IT TO DEALER, THEY TOOK THE TIRES OFF, AND INSPECTED THE BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS. THEY TOLD CONSUMER THAT THE METAL HAD DELAMINATED OFF THE ROTORS. THE BRAKE PADS WERE OKAY. THEY REPORTED IT TO THE MANUFACTURER, WHO SAID IT WAS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. THE CONSUMER FELT IT WAS A MANUFACTURING DEFECT. CONSUMER KNEW SOMEONE ELSE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM BUT, WITH A TRUCK. THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE TRUCK. THERE WERE NO OTHER KNOWN PROBLEMS WITH THE VEHICLE AT THIS TIME. *AK
Air Bags › Frontal1 injured
Filed Jun 28, 200557,000 milesCA
ON THE 2003 CHEVY EXPRESS VAN (BOX VAN), THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG BLEW UP WITHOUT THE VEHICLE BEING IN MOTION. IT BLEW UP ON THE CONSUMER'S DAUGHTER WHO IS 5 YEARS OLD. *TT THE PROBLEM OCCURRED WHEN THE CONSUMER'S DAUGHTER CLOSED THE DOOR. THE CONSUMERS DAUGHTER RECEIVED NUMEROUS BURNS AND LACERATIONS ON HER ARMS AND CHEST. *SC *JB
Power Train › Axle Hubs
Filed Jun 8, 200536,900 milesMD
LEFT FRONT WHEEL BEARING HUB ASSEMBLY SEPARATED CAUSING THUMPING AND GRINDING NOISE. IMMEDIATELY DROVE TO DEALER FOR REPAIRS. UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS FOUND THAT THE RIGHT FRONT HUB ASSEMBLY HAD BEGIUN TO SEPARATE AS WELL. BOTH FRONT HUB ASSEMBLIES REPLACED UNDER EXTENDED WARRANTY.
Service Brakes, Air › Disc › Rotor
Filed May 9, 200518,000 milesMI
REAR BRAKE ROTOR BRAKING SURFACE AREA HAS FALLEN OFF. I REPLACED ROTORS WITH SAME CASTING NUMBER. PARTS HAVE BEEN DISCARDED. VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO STOP TO MANUFACTURES DESIGN FLAW. (SUPPLIER PROBLEM) VEHICLE HAS ONLY 24,700 MILES ON IT. DEALERSHIP WONT WARRANTY THIS TYPE OF PROBLEM- THIS IS A NORMAL MAINTENANCE ISSUE.
Steering › Linkages › Arm › Idler and Attachment
Filed Jan 31, 2005IL
FRONT WHEELS OFF THE GROUND, STEERING WHEEL CENTERED, HELD FIRMLY IN PLACE, THERE IS NO PLAY, LOOSENESS IN STEERING SYSTEM. WHEELS TURNED 10-15', EITHER DIRECTION THERE IS APPROXMATELY 1" OF PLAY BETWEEN WHEELS AND STEERING WHEEL. CONDITION IS THE SAME BY MOVEING EITHER FRONT WHEELS. BOTH WHEELS REACT TO EACH OTHER BUT NOT TO THE STEERING WHEEL. THERE SEEMS TO BE A DESIGN DEFECIENTLY IN STEERING LINKAGE OR TURBO-BOOST PUMP.ANOTHER 2003 2500CHEV VAN, 28000 MILES HAS THE SAME PROBLEM, MINE HAS 13,338 MILES 2003.*AK
Fuel System, Other › Storage › Fuel Gauge System
Filed Nov 17, 2004PA
MAIN LINE PARTY RENTALS HAS PURCHASED 2 OF THE 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS VANS. THIS HAS BEEN ABOUT 12 TO 18 MONTHS AGO. BOTH OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE NEEDED THE FUEL TANKS REMOVED TO REPLACE A COMPONENT TO CORRECT NON FUNCTIONING FUEL GAGUES.*AK
Electrical System › Wiring › Interior/Under DashFire
Filed Oct 28, 2004IL
FIRE IN THE LEFT DASH OF A 2003 CHEVROLET EXPRESS VAN G3. *AK
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Filed Sep 13, 200443,196 milesWV
BOTH FRONT BRAKE HOSES ERUPTED ON TWO SEPARATED OCCASIONS WHILE DRIVING. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED.*AK
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Pedals and Linkages
Filed Apr 19, 20048,569 milesTX
PURCHASED VEHICLE AND NOTICED BRAKE PEDAL ARM AND FORWARD RIGHT SEAT BOLT ON DRIVER SEAR WERE BOTH RUSTED. DEALER STATED THEY WOULD LOOK AT IT BUT DID NOT REPORT TO WHY A NEW VEHICLE WOULD HAVE RUST ON INTERIOR COMPONENTS. TWB. *AK
Electrical System › Wiring › Front UnderhoodFire
Filed Mar 20, 200418,000 milesMD
THE PANIC ALARM WENT OFF AND COULDN'T BE TURNED OFF INITIALLY. DEALER ADVISED TO BRING VEHICLE IN. ALARM WENT OFF WHEN VEHICLE STARTED FOR SECOND TIME. VEHICLE DRIVEN ABOUT 3 MILES, ENGINE SHUT DOWN WHILE DRIVING. PULLED OVER, SMOKE POURED FROM UNDER HOOD, THEN FLAMES UNTIL VEHICLE ENGULFED IN FLAMES. VEHICLE TOTALLY DESTROYED BY FIRE. *JB
Exterior LightingFire
Filed Jan 21, 2004OH
WHILE DRIVING CONSUMER SMELLED A BURNING ODOR. WITHIN SECONDS THE CABIN WAS IN SMOKE, THEN FLAMES. UPON INSPECTION OF THE VEHICLE BY THE CONSUMER THE FIRE STARTED FROM THE REAR OF THE VAN. CONSUMER FELT IT WAS DUE TO THE REAR LICENSE PLATE LAMP SOCKET, RECALL 03V217000, BUT WAS NOT SURE. THE VAN WILL BE INSPECTED BY A CHEVROLET INSPECTOR.*AK
Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Jan 15, 2004350 milesMS
I PURCHASED BRAND NEW CHEVROLET CONVERSION VAN ON APRIL 30 2003 FROM BILL HEARD CHEVROLET.I AM HAVING PROBLEM WITH AC AND THE DEALER SHIP FAILED TO FIX IT. 1. PROBLEM-AC NOT WORKING DATE-5-14-03 MILAGE-769 CORRECTIVE ACTION-DEALERSHIP FOUND LOW ON FREON 2. PROBLEM-AC NOT WORKING DATE-5-15-2003 MILAGE-821 COMMENTS-DEALER SHIP FOUND LAEK 3. PROBLEM-AC NOT WORKING DATE-5-23-2003 MILAGE-1304 COMMENTS-DEALERSHIP KEPT THE VAN FOR 5 DAYS.ON 29 THEY CALL AND SAID THE VAN IS FIXED.THE DEALER SHIP SAID THEY CANT FIND THE PROBLEM 4. PROBLEM-AC NOT WORKING JUNE 11-2003 MILAGE-2200 COMMENTS-THE AC IS BLOWING WARM AIR.TOOK IT BACK TO DEALERSHIP AND TALKED WITH KELLY BURNETT(DIRECTOR OF CUSTOMER RELATIONS)SHE PROMISED THAT SHE PERSONALLY TAKE CARE THE PROBLEM AND THE VAN WILL BE READY ON JUNE 13.I CALLED AND THEY SAID ,ICAN PICK IT UP ON JUNE [email protected] ARRIVED AT THE DEALERSHIP 10.30AM AND FOUND OUT NOTHING HAS DONE TO MY VAN.I HAD TO TAKE THE VAN BECAUSE I HAVE TO DRIVE TO NEWJERSY FROM ATLANTA ON JUNE 14. I TOLD KELLY ABOUT MY TRIP BEFORE THIS APPOINTMENT. AT THIS TIME I UNDER STAND BILLHEARD DONT WANT TO TAKE CARE MY PROBLEM.AND I CALLED G.M OFFICE.I TALKED WITH KELLY BLANKERSHIP .AFTER SEVERAL ATTEMPTS KELLY BLANKS CALL ME AND AS PER HER ADVISE I TOOK IT TO AN ANOTHER DEALERSHIP. 5. PROBLEM-AC NOT WORKING DATE-JULY-03 MILAGE-4797 COMMENTS-SOUTHTOWNE DEALER SHIP FOUND LOW SIDE PRESSURE HIGH.HIGH ORFICE TUBE WAS CLOGGED UP WITH METAL. THEY REPLACED IT.IT WAS RUNNING GOOD FOR THREE DAYS AND
Complaints 1-50 of 59, newest first, reproduced as filed.
No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.
Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.
Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.
Most recent recall on file: Aug 8, 2012. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.