25 Best & Worst Chevrolet Express Years (With Pictures)

The Chevrolet Express is a full size commercial van that began as a 1996 model year. 

It is one of the few remaining full-size vans on the market and it has clung to its original formula for many years.

It is available in both Cargo Van and Passenger Van configurations.

In this article, we’ll be going through all of its best and worst years.

Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Chevrolet Express Are:

The best Chevrolet Express model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2005. The worst model years of this model are 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2013. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.

What Are The Best Years For The Chevrolet Express?

2024, 2023, 2022, 2021 Chevrolet Express

The 2024, 2023, 2022, and 2021 Express models are the tops picks and are the most reliable options. They all belong to the first generation).

They offer powerful V8 and diesel engine options, massive towing capacity, and lots of features all for a relatively affordable price point.

Base pricing ranges from approximately $44,000 to $47,000.

There are 4 available trims: LS 2500, LS 3500, LT 2500, and LT 3500.

The most popular choice is the LS 3500, which has a starting price of $45,295.

When properly equipped, the 3500 model has a 9,600 pounds towing capacity, which is more than enough for larger trailers and campers.

Notable safety features are:

• Forward Collision Alert
• Lane Departure Warning
• Side Blind Zone Alert

These are the available engine options:

• 4.3-liter V6 (276 horsepower, 298 pound-feet of torque)
• 6.6-liter V8 (401 horsepower, 464 pound-feet of torque)
• Turbocharged 2.8-liter diesel (181 horsepower, 369 pound-feet of torque)

2023 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2022 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2021 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2021 Express, Edmunds Review:

“The Express 3500 is highly recommended for large families or people who want to travel in comfort with a lot of gear. We love the extra roominess of the extended 3500 and for a vehicle of this size we have found that it handles very nicely and gets very good mileage…”

2020, 2019, and 2018 Chevrolet Express

The 2020, 2019, and 2018 Express models are good choices, they have received solid reviews from owners and are more reliable than many of the older models.

Changes introduced for 2018 include:

• A downsized 4.3-liter V6 engine (with similar horsepower and torque ratings compared to the previous 4.8-liter V8 engine
• An improved 8-speed transmission system for the models fitted with a diesel engine

Thanks to these additions, these models are slightly better in terms of fuel efficiency, handling, and overall driving experience.

While official fuel efficiency ratings are not available, owners have reported around 17 MPG for combined city and highway driving for the 4.3-liter V6 engine variant.

Owners have praised these models for the following:

• Driving experience
• Ride quality
• Interior
• Value for money

2020 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2019 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 3.7 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2018 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 3.8 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2018 Express, Edmunds Review:

“We bought the Chevy van because we wanted a vehicle that could sit 11-12 people, the Dodge Sprinter cost twice as much and doesn’t have the towing power. We rented several vans for different long distance trips and compared…”

2017, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Chevrolet Express

The 2017, 2016, 2015, and 2014 Express models are much the same, aside from a few minor tweaks and updates to safety and entertainment features, which is not always a bad thing. These models have received strong reviews and are great choices for those on a budget.

Owners have become accustomed to minimal changes over the years as it allows Chevrolet to focus on addressing defects and issues encountered by owners of the previous model year (check out the problematic 2013 Express in the next section).

If you are looking to comfortably lots of people under a single roof, then the Express Passenger Van is the vehicle of choice as it is a full-size van with premium amenities and numerous standard safety and driver assistance features.

Fuel economy is not the Express’s strong suit. Most trims are rated at only 13 MPG for combined city and highway driving, according to the EPA.

2017 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2016 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2015 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2014 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2014 Express, Edmunds Review:

“I purchased this van for work and pleasure , it has turned out to be my everyday driver… I love it, my favorite thing about this van is the FUEL ECONOMY it is amazing…”

2012, 2011, and 2010 Chevrolet Express

The 2012, 2011, and 2010 Express models have a wide variety of engine options, different passenger configurations, and an available all-wheel-drive.

There are 2 main trims: LS and LT, and 3 different series: 1500, 2500, and 3500.

In total, there are 4 different powertrains:

• 5.3-liter V8 (310 horsepower and 334 pound-feet of torque) + 4-speed automatic transmission
• 4.8-liter V8 (280 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque) + 6-speed automatic transmission
• 6.0-liter V8 (323 horsepower and 373 pound-feet of torque) + 6-speed automatic transmission
• 6.6-liter V8 turbodiesel (260 horsepower and 525 pound-feet of torque) + 6-speed automatic transmission

Rear-wheel-drive is standard but an all-wheel-drive option is available for all variants. 

For maximum comfort, features, performance, and passenger capacity, going for the LT 3500 is the logical choice.

However, if you are not in need of extra seating and the best possible towing capacity, the 1500-series and 2500-series models are also good options.

2012 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2011 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2010 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2010 Express, Edmunds Review:

“ … What a pleasure to drive and tow (its like the trailer is not there). This has lots of power – even on the hills a smooth ride and handles like a smaller vehicle…”

2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2005 Chevrolet Express

Despite their age, the 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, and 2006 Express models are still viable options, they offer various passenger and cargo transportation configurations.

Whether you plan to use it for business or for pleasure, these models provide strong engine options, dual passenger access doors, multiple wheelbase and passenger configurations, and an optional all-wheel-drive.

Owners mentioned these as the best aspects/qualities of this batch of Express vans:

• Seating
• Comfort
• Interior
• Handling
• Steering
• Spaciousness
• Visibility
• Sound system
• Convenience

For the best fuel economy, we suggest going for the 1500-series versions. The EPA claims that these variants can achieve around 15 MPG for combined city and highway driving. 

2009 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.1 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2008 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2007 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2006 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.3 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2005 Chevrolet Express:

• Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
• Kelley Blue Book: 4.2 / 5.0

2006 Express, Edmunds Review:

“I’ve had this van since 2006. It’s been so good. I personally think it’s more comfortable and prettier than the Fords. Very easy maintenance.”

Consumer Scores For Best Chevrolet Express Years

Related: Chevrolet City Express Alarm Going Off? (12 Main Reasons)

What Are The Worst Years For The Chevrolet Express?

2000, 2001, 2003, 2003, and 2004 Chevrolet Express

The 2000 to 2004 Express models were a bad batch of vans that we advise you to steer clear of.

Owners complained about an unreliable brake system. Specifically, it was reported that the brake pedal would become unresponsive.

“While driving about 30 mph applied brakes, pedal felt spongy and went to the floor. No braking action, hit the vehicle in front…” – CarProblemZoo.com

Other owners also experienced uneven application of brakes, forcing the vehicle to pull to one direction.

“When brakes are applied, the vehicle pulls to the right…” – CarProblemZoo.com

The tire tread of the stock tires also wore out prematurely, according to several users. This could lead to dangerous accidents on the road because of a lack of grip or traction.

“While driving, the rear driver’s tire tread separated. Consumer pulled and changed the tire…” – CarProblemZoo.com

There have also been instances of the vehicle catching on fire due to wiring issues. 

Finally, fuel leakage was quite common for these models due to a corroded fuel filler pipe.

The manufacturer sent out notices to affected owners as part of a massive recall campaign but only a portion of the costs was shouldered, according to reports online.

“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…” – CarProblemZoo.com

• The 2000 Express had a total of 6 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 83 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
• The 2001 Express had a total of 4 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 46 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
• The 2002 Express had a total of 3 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 57 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
• The 2003 Express had a total of 6 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 65 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.
• The 2004 Express had a total of 7 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 23 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.

Common problems:

• Anti-theft system prevents vehicle from starting
• Intake gasket failure
• Water in footwell
• Vehicle not starting
• Paint peeling off
• Air conditioning not working properly
• Intermittent stalling while driving
• Warped rotors
• Intermittent loud noise from fan
• Odometer resets itself
• Coolant leakage
• Door hinge problems
• Engine runs rough

2013 Chevrolet Express

Based on reports online, the engine of the 2013 Express seemed to have a mind of its own. Below are a few of the engine-related problems reported by owners:

• Engine will not turn off after removing key from ignition
• Vehicle speed is capped/limited intermittently
• Check engine light, traction control, and Stabilitrak warning lights come on
• Vehicle will not turn on

“This vehicle will not turn off when the ignition key is removed. This poses a great risk to any passengers in the vehicle as it can be moved without the key in the ignition. The vehicle remains fully powered with the key removed.” – CarProblemZoo.com

Brakes have also been reported to lock up intermittently while driving. This was accompanied by issues such as engine overheating, steering wheel vibration, and smoke and bad odor originating from the brake system.

“The vehicle randomly and autonomously applies the brakes and cuts engine power while driving. At this time the vehicle states “service Stabilitrak” and the icon flashes that I am skidding, which I am not (I have video proof of this occurring)…” – CarProblemZoo.com

• The 2013 Express had a total of 7 complaints on CarComplaints.com and 31 problems based on CarProblemZoo.com data.

Common problems:

• Check engine light on
• Damaged wiring
• Premature tire wear
• Coolant leakage

Related: Why Does My Chevy Keep Beeping? (11 Common Causes)

What Years Have The Most Complaints?

Related: 4 Best & Worst Chevrolet City Express Years (Facts & Stats)

What Problems Do Chevrolet Express Have?

• Engine dies randomly
• Fuel pump failure
• Bad internal component
• Damaged wiring
• Premature tire wear
• Coolant leakage
• Stalls while driving
• Difficulty starting
• Check engine light on
• Paint peeling
• Door hinge problems
• Engine runs rough
• Odometer resets itself
• Anti-theft system prevents vehicle from starting
• Intake gasket failure
• Water in footwell

References

https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/express

https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/chevrolet/express

https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/express/

https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/express/

https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/chevrolet/express

https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Express/

https://www.carproblemzoo.com/chevrolet/

https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-express_1500/recalls/

https://www.nhtsa.gov/