Along with the already stated engine problems I will add I see more internal engine failures on these than any other late model chevys. A big problem has always been the automatic sliding doors. Front suspension noises and early wear on suspension components. Body squeaks, pops, squaks due to they built a van a car platform. Water leaks are also a problem.

The thing most hate about this vehicle is everything is hard to work on. Nothing was engineered to be easy on these beasts.

 

I will say though, you see these everywhere...even still today.

 

My wife is laughing her *** off at your remark Chevy Mgr. Nice to see her smile.

 

I had a 2002 Venture that I bought new. I did have the intake manifold gasket replaced. Other than that, it was one of the most reliable vehicles that I have ever owned. Good power and good fuel mileage for a big vehicle. I had it until February when a young girl made a U-turn on a 55mph road in front of me and the van was totalled.

I was sorry to see the Venture go, it was a good vehicle.

Also, it was one of the few minivans that came in an 8-seat version.

Steve

 

All the same platform, identical to one another aside from some minor cosmetic differences. We had a 2000 Montana. While we never had any real trouble with it, I know the intake manifold gasket was leaking shortly before we got rid of it. It also had more rattles and fit and finish issues than any other GM product I have owned. After the first year we realized how much we hated owning a mini-van. We kept it for 3 years to get it paid off, then we traded it.

BTW, my worst GM for reliability and repair issues has been my current Trailblazer. Its very nice when everything is working right, but I've never stuck so much time and money into a vehicle. The engine is excellent, its the electronics that suck.

 

I own a 2001 Chevy Warners Bro Edition Venture with 72,000 miles on it. Still runs and looks great. It did have the leaking intake manifold problem that is very common on these engines, however noticed mine after warranty ran out. I put in a container of stop leak, and it seems to be holding coolant level okay and not overheating. It has been a great vehicle for us, and yes it is a pain to work on but it's paid for and still has lots of life left in her.

 

Ha ha...ironically I saw an Olds Silhouette on the side of the road for sale, and said "NEEDS INTAKE".

I laughed.

But that doesn't make a bad car. The intake in my Lumina went out twice, and that's a great car!

 

Problem is, unless you can DIY, "Needs Intake" means about $1000 - $1500 depending on where you get it done...

 

I got mine fixed on my Lumina for about $550. Not bad I guess.

 

I guess for now, until I start having major issues I'll stick with my under $10 Stop Leak fix. As long as it's not overheating and holding coolant, I'm not afraid to drive it anywhere.