1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 Problems & Reliability

If you’re cruising down memory lane and find yourself reminiscing about the late ’90s, you might just picture the 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500. This workhorse of a van was a staple for many businesses and families alike, known for its spacious interior and robust performance. But like any vehicle that’s been around the block a few times, the Express 3500 has its fair share of quirks and issues. Whether you’re considering buying a used one or just curious about its legacy, it’s worth diving into the common problems and overall reliability of this classic van. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the typical problems that owners have encountered with the 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500, from engine troubles to pesky electrical issues. We’ll also take a look at how it stacks up in terms of reliability, so you can get a sense of whether this van is a dependable choice or if it’s better left in the past. So, buckle up and join us as we take a closer look at what makes the 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 tick—or, in some cases, what makes it stall.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Tail Light Wiring in Cargo Area May be Damaged

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 has a known issue with the tail light wiring in the cargo area, which can lead to damage over time. This problem might affect the overall reliability of the vehicle’s lighting system, especially if you’re frequently using the cargo area. It’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this van for regular use.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • Fuel Level Sensor Failure

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 seems to have a recurring issue with the fuel level sensor failing. This problem can lead to inaccurate fuel readings, which might leave you guessing how much gas you actually have. While its not the end of the world, its definitely something to keep an eye on if youre considering this van.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Replace Fuel Filter Every 30,000 to Prevent Fuel Pump Failure

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 is generally a reliable vehicle, but one key maintenance tip is to replace the fuel filter every 30,000 miles to prevent fuel pump failure. This simple step can help avoid more significant issues down the road and keep your van running smoothly. Regular maintenance like this is crucial for ensuring the longevity and dependability of your Express 3500.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Electrical components under front carpet may be damaged when cleaning van interior

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 has a known issue where the electrical components located under the front carpet can be damaged during interior cleaning. This problem can lead to electrical malfunctions, which might affect the van’s overall reliability. It’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering this model, especially if you plan on doing a lot of interior maintenance or cleaning.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Flush brake fluid every 60,000 miles

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 is generally a reliable vehicle, but like any older model, it does have its quirks. One important maintenance tip is to flush the brake fluid every 60,000 miles to keep the braking system in good shape and avoid potential issues. Staying on top of this routine maintenance can help ensure the van continues to perform well over the years.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Service transmission every 30,000 miles

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 is generally considered reliable, but one thing to keep an eye on is the transmission, which should be serviced every 30,000 miles. Regular maintenance is key to avoiding any major issues, as neglecting the transmission can lead to costly repairs down the line. Overall, with proper care, this van can serve you well for many miles.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 has a known issue with the intake manifold gaskets, which can lead to leaks of coolant or engine oil. This problem can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, as it may cause engine performance issues or overheating if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these concerns and keep the van running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Contamination of extended life coolant

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 has had some issues with the contamination of extended life coolant, which can lead to engine cooling problems and potential overheating. This kind of problem can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, as maintaining proper engine temperature is crucial for performance and longevity. It’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this van for long-term use.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

  • Replace spark plugs every 100,000 miles

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 is generally a reliable workhorse, but like any vehicle, it has its quirks. One key maintenance tip is to replace the spark plugs every 100,000 miles to keep it running smoothly. Staying on top of this and other routine maintenance can help avoid some of the common issues reported by owners.

Flagship-One-Engine-Computer-In-Stock
Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Leaking Water Pump May Cause Coolant Loss and Overheating

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 has a known issue with the water pump leaking, which can lead to coolant loss and potential overheating. This problem can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, especially if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and keeping an eye on the coolant levels can help mitigate this issue and keep your van running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

  • Alternator May Fail and Cause Noise and Dead Battery

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 has some reliability issues, particularly with the alternator. Owners have reported that the alternator may fail, leading to noise and a dead battery, which can be a hassle if you’re relying on your van for work or travel. It’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this vehicle or already own one.

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

  • Worn Valve Seats May Cause Engine Misfire

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Check Engine Light and Misfire Due to Stuck Fuel Injectors

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 has some reliability issues, particularly with the check engine light and misfires caused by stuck fuel injectors. These problems can lead to performance issues and might require regular maintenance or repairs to keep the van running smoothly. While it’s a solid vehicle for its age, these specific issues are something to watch out for if you’re considering owning one.

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

  • Check Engine Light Due to Loose or Worn Gas Cap

Analysis:

The 1999 Chevrolet Express 3500 is generally a reliable vehicle, but one common issue that pops up is the check engine light coming on due to a loose or worn gas cap. This is a relatively minor problem and can usually be fixed by simply tightening or replacing the gas cap. Overall, while it’s a bit of an annoyance, it doesn’t significantly impact the van’s reliability.

Conclusion

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