Used 2003 Chevrolet Express Consumer Reviews
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We have a limited number of reviews for the 2003 Express, so we've included reviews for other years of the Express since its last redesign.
Van for All uses
AKJIM, 05/30/2005
2002 Chevrolet Express 3500 3dr Ext Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
12 of 12 people found this review helpful
I'd previously owned 2 Ford 15 passenger vans and this was my first Chevy Express Van. I'm NEVER going back to the Ford vans! This Express Van drives with much greater stability and handling honesty. It has been trouble free for 62,000 miles and is still going strong. I pull the seats and use it to haul plywood or put in a fouton for traveling. I even carry a motorcycle inside on occassion. Driving at 55 I get 17-18 mpg (5.7 L engine) on long trips. Highly Recommended! I just bought a 2005 for my business uses too.
Better than SUV for larger Families
Stephen Burton, 03/20/2002
2002 Chevrolet Express 1500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
8 of 8 people found this review helpful
Have a Family of 8 and needed a replacement for our Suburban that was totaled by a drunk. Equity in Suburban to little to replace with same. Opted for a basic Conversion Van. Quad Seating, rear bench folds into a bed. 5L V-8. Result is very nice ride, and better value for the money. Conversion adds insulation which greatly reduces interior noise from road. 7100 lb GVWR is plenty, and with seats removed can haul massive cargo. 20% better mpg than Suburban - 17 vs 14, more living space. Large picture windows allow toddler in car seat excelent view of world outside. 6ft7 son can sit anywhere and have plenty of room. Great for long distance travel.
2003 Chevrolet Express for sale near you
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Excellent product
LJRacing91, 10/13/2008
2001 Chevrolet Express 2500 3dr Ext Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
6 of 6 people found this review helpful
I purchased this van from the original owner in May of '08 at 105k miles. Have put almost 40k miles on it since that time, as I drive hotshot. It has never left me hanging, and aside from the chronic taillight problem, valve guide seals, and an alternator, it's been problem free. It hauls 3000lbs of payload easily, and has the ability to haul 3 full size pallets (12' total!). The seats are excellent for long trips, as I go out of town/state regularly. Would definitely recommend this van for work of any kind. An excellent hauler with plenty of power, and a stable ride, even with 3000lbs in the back. It doesn't drift or float. Keep it maintained and it will go forever.
Better in the long run
Yak, 07/18/2006
2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
5 of 5 people found this review helpful
We have now owned this vehicle for more than 4 years. We are having the same experiences with the seat levers breaking but other than that it is a real workhorse. We are now towing a 4400 lb camper with it and it is doing marvelously. Sure the gas mileage stinks but it's solid mechanically. The driver side sun visor has been replaced 4 times and it's still falling apart. The kids love the van and for long trips, that's really important. We even use it to transport half of my son's basketball team to games.
Fix my seats & it's ready for next owner
what a soccer van!, 05/26/2006
2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
4 of 4 people found this review helpful
Four kids each with his own space; we couldn't be happier. Great layout inside and all the geegaws kept the kids quiet while we talked. Easy to drive. We made long trips with cargo packed in the rear and everybody well pleased. This car was targeted at us, and we loved it.
It's paid for so don't laugh.
firefightingfool, 10/24/2008
2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
5 of 6 people found this review helpful
I love my van. My wife hates it. (Due to the consumption of fuel, along with the price of fuel.) I upgraded from an Chevy Astro. The room, the entertainment system, the handling, the styling, the aggressive motor, the storage room behind the rear seat, the duel A/C. I can go on forever. The only drawback is the fuel economy, which I really don't mind, because the entire family can travel in comfort. I bought my van with 29,000 miles and I currently have just over 93,000 miles. When it comes to repairs, I've needed to replace my starter, alternator and battery. With regular maintenance my vehicle has been superb.
2002 Express LT Lots of room
corvete001, 07/11/2002
2002 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
3 of 3 people found this review helpful
I have owned this van for 5 months now and had a few problems but nothing that I don't expect with a new van. This van is wonderful for short and long trips. The kids love the entertainment system to play games on and watch movies. Lots of room for 7 adults. Love the Bose sound system. This replaced my 99 Tahoe and I am very happy with my choice for the money. I have a very good serviceing Dealer who goes the extra mile for you and that helps with being happy with your purchase. Only down side is I would have waited if I had been informed there was a new modle coming out in 2003. Very nice ride and lots of power with the 350.
Love my van!
Susan, 02/09/2007
2002 Chevrolet Express 2500 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
5 of 7 people found this review helpful
I would love to drive a sporty little Thunderbird, but reality is that I have 4 teenage athletic boys. We bought the van to cart the boys (and their teams) to various sporting events, plus we like to travel. With 12 passenger seating, 6 of us can travel from MN to TX in comfort and we can haul the entire soccer/basketball/baseball team to games, no problem, yet it still fits in my garage fine. With my hitch, I can haul anything. My beefs are: braking system - pads need to be replaced often, and with the most expensive pads to keep them from squeaking badly; the gas mileage stinks! Plus, I usually do end up providing transportation for the entire team/youth group, since I can.
Ship of the highway
timyak, 06/17/2002
2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
We had an Astro and it still didn't handle the towing that this beast does. We got the LT to get more storage room and still tow our camper thru the mountains when needed. The kids enjoy the space and the entertainment system. So far this is a great vehicle and compared to the Astro, the quality is much better. I also really like the modular seats that can be interchanged all over the van. One of my passengers was 6'4" and he was amazed at the room in the back seats.
GMC 3500 8.1 Liter Ext. Wheelbase
rsmmac, 04/30/2002
2002 Chevrolet Express 3500 3dr Ext Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
2 of 2 people found this review helpful
I have already driven 30,000 trouble- free miles with this van. I had a fiberglass top added after I bought it (with installed TV and VCR) and we have enjoyed road trips with our three kids (and often another family and their kids). I average 11 MPG at about any speed/incline/load. Love the 8.1 Liter V8 power and torque.
Chevrolet Express Van ("Summer Van")
kieblaiy, 05/13/2014
2002 Chevrolet Express 2500 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
6 of 13 people found this review helpful
Chevrolet is known for it's trucks and compact cars. However, their 'dark horse' known as the Express Van rarely attracts any positive attention. As an individual working in the demanding trade of plumbing, never have I ever experienced such a royal piece of sh*t that refuses to die. My efforts to overload it's weight rating and to continuously postpone oil changes, have produced no results as it defiantly clings to life. The water pump, heating element, engine light, and gas consumption are constant issues. This van is much like the Stephen King Novel's famous car Christine, however it does not heal itself, it maintains a poor condition to syphon your hard earned money. Avoid at all costs.
Our Adventure Mobile
gep10, 09/11/2004
2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
We use this vehicle to tow our camper around the midwest and carry our family, gear & guests on ski trips & kayaking and biking trips. We also use it to haul large objects and loads ( rototillers, pavers, lumber, etc.). It has been a great traveling vehicle; everyone is very comfortable even after long drives (good seat design, amazing legroom for 2nd & 3rd rows, strong ft/rr AC/ heater system) and the Bose/dual TV/VCR system w/AV hookups is great. 255/70 Firestone Indy 500 tires transformed the wet/ dry handling and I've safely passed 4WD SUV's on snow and ice on our ski trips after installing four winter tires. Very pleased with this vehicle.
Keep the kids away!
jdbayes, 10/24/2003
2002 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
This van is my favorite vehicle out of many new car purchases in my life. It is hard to imagine driving anything smaller. If you need to create space between yourself and those pre-teen monsters we call children - this is with out a doubt the van for you!
2003 Chevy Express 1500 AWD w/ 4th Door
Phitter, 02/27/2003
2003 Chevrolet Express 1500 AWD 3dr Van (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
Chevy doesn't have their act together on this vehicle yet. The assembly is poor. Door & hinge weather gaskets & grommets are missing or falling off. Unpainted sealant on the door hinges and entry areas is present. The fuel fill door compartment is a collection area for road salt and sand. The vehicle is plagued with driveline vibrations and resonance problems. I expected Chevrolet to resolve the issues -- they have not. The interior is the best they offer and it is dull at best. The seats don't belong in a vehicle that lists for over $35,000. The ride is very smooth suspension wise. Acceleration is good when called upon.
My Express
Lori, 01/31/2007
2003 Chevrolet Express 1500 AWD 3dr Van (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
1 of 1 people found this review helpful
I love my van. I use it for transporting dogs to and from competitve events and vet visits. It's a perfect size for my purpose and its very easy to take seats in and out for whatever I need it. It's been very reliable. The only thing I've had repaired on it was a water pump gasket.
2001 mercer review
jlmercer, 09/28/2003
2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
love this van we do alot of camping and it realy fits the bill , b
Family Van and Cargo hauler
boili, 07/06/2006
2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought the van to have more cargo space. Mission accomplished. Cavernous room after to take out all seats. Easy to drive und relaxing ride on long trips. High seat position give a good view. LT trim very appealing. Enjoy stepping in every time.
Nice Family Van
David, 03/04/2007
2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
Bought new in July 2001. Due to kid reduction am ready to sell. Was great family van. Tows great. Plenty of room everywhere! No better vehicle for 2-4 kids.
Excellent alternative to big SUVs
George Hosui, 02/28/2002
2002 Chevrolet Express 1500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my van -- its a base Express 1500 with carpeting and that's about it, but wow, what a lot of space in the interior, for FAR less than any SUV that even comes close in interior space, and all rear seats can be removed for a cavernous interior. Really.
Sturdy hauler - my "covered pickup"
Wallace Mason, 02/28/2002
2002 Chevrolet Express 1500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
At first I was intimidated by the size, but the fuel economy wasn't so different- better than same sized SUVs, and after driving it a few times it became very comfortable. It really is like a "covered, air conditioned pickup". The Vortec engine is the same used on Chevy's trucks, and the feel is very trucky. The passenger tires and suspension make the ride very comforable, more so than a truck.
G1500 Regency Conversion
g wright, 05/29/2005
2002 Chevrolet Express 1500 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
We use our van for long trips and to haul grandkids and anyhting you might need a pickup for. It is the most versatile vehicle we have ever owned and the best Chevy product, we think. Roomy, comfortable and decent on the gas (18-23) on the road. Excellent reliability overall after few electrical problems ar first. Regency conversion elegant and perfect since day one. It runs and looks like new after 3 years and almost 60000 miles. Trying for 100000 before getting another one. Much better bargain than large SUV.
02 chev 15 pass van
sternberg547, 05/11/2004
2002 Chevrolet Express 3500 3dr Ext Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
excellent driveability, no stability problems, no mechanical problems. ownership has exceeded expectations as of 28000mi. my highest reccomendation.
Doesn't owe me anything
Fraz , 02/08/2024
2002 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This van has been back and forth to/ from Mexico 20+ times. Surprisingly good on fuel on hwy ( Lt). With seats out it holds an amazing amount of gear. Going to miss the old girl....
owner of a vending business
Bob Warnock, 03/01/2003
2003 Chevrolet Express 2500 Rwd 3dr Van (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I have the small V-8 and its gas mileage is ok. When I have alot of weight in it the engine has a hard time, but when its gets on the expressway its gone. I have the cargo van and it's very roomy and fun to drive. I would recommend it to anyone.
2003 express van comments
PCMS, 10/21/2003
2003 Chevrolet Express 3500 Rwd 3dr Ext Van (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
THE MAJOR PROBLEM WITH THIS VEHICLE IS THAT THERE ARE NO AFTERMARKET PRODUCTS AVAILABLE, NO BUG SHIELD, NO HOOD BRAS ETC. BODY IS CONSTRUCTED OF THINNER METAL THAN WHAT I WOULD CONSIDER NORMAL. I COMPARED IT TO MY DODGE VAN. THE WAY THE PLASTIC INTERIOR WALLS INTERLOCK IS A DISGRACE, ESPECIALLY AT THE PRICE I PAID. SOME PLASTIC JUST LAYS IN PLACE, NO INTERLOCKING MECHANISM. THE TOUTED OIL CHANGE LIGHT IS USELESS TO ME, IT GOES OFF AT 7000 MILES, I CHANGE MY OIL EVERY 3000. THE STEP UP, IF YOU ARE A SHORT PERSON, IS IMPOSSIBLE WITHOUT HOLDING ON TO THE SEAT AND PULLING YOURSELF IN.
Buy the Extended Warranty
Bill, 08/03/2005
2003 Chevrolet Express 2500 Rwd 3dr Van (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I bought this vehicle to haul our six kids around, and had many problems due to poor GM quality (just get it through the bumper-to-bumper wty). For over $30,000 you don't get much for your money except a big 6.0L V8 engine: no rear cupholders, no rear headrests, rear bench seats uncomfortable for adults, poor fit and finish, and plastic parts break easily. Even with rear A/C it struggles to keep cool on 90 degree days. OEM tires needed replacing at less than 30K miles. Been recalled three times. Problems before 36K miles: radio failed, plastic window latch broke, door switch broke, door latch broke. Front bearings separated at 37K miles. A/C leak at 38K, rotors warped at 40K, window switch fail at 42K
My AWD Van
Crystal, 04/26/2006
2003 Chevrolet Express 1500 AWD 3dr Van (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I love my van. I can throw so much stuff in it and drive it anywhere in the snow. I live on an 800ft gravel drive that is plowed by our farm tractor and the Van has never let me sit. We pack in six kids, two dogs, and two adults and go anywhere. The only problem is the price of gas.
This car has major problems from day one
TOM SCHUMANN, 12/30/2006
2003 Chevrolet Express 1500 AWD 3dr Van (5.3L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
This car has major problems with it from day one. The first time in it and started it the check engine light was on. The car pulled to right, the a/c kept blowing warm. Engine tap. Tranny slips into reverse. Window kept coming loose. Blinker has moisture, bowtie was peeling. Multiple repairs on the right side sliding doors. Tierod replaced, gas pedal assembley replaced. Differential, had to be completely rebuilt. Glove box lock assembley, rear door windows both leaked water. Rear jack cover keeps falling off, seat belt retainers all broke off. Gas tank cap assembley replaced, gas gauge never read correct. 1/8 of tank left me 1 gal gas. This is all I can remember. p.s. The check engine light is on again, cause, fuel
Big van for big ideas!
Tammy M, 07/29/2022
2003 Chevrolet Express 1500 Rwd 3dr Van (4.3L 6cyl 4A)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful
I’ve driven the new style Express since 1997. Drove first one since it was new for 17 yrs. Bought a used 2003 and still have it. But you always have more room in it. Have moved my kids all over. Can’t seem to kill the van. Repairs…yea. Most vehicles have needs. Great van to go on trips. Drives good for a living room on wheels. Wish I had tried the AWD. Just never ran across one. We compared many vans when we decided on this one. Still love it and it still performs! We had the 4 door v8. Had power as needed.
- Safety
- Technology
- Performance
- Interior
- Comfort
- Reliability
- Value
BANG FOR THE BUCK!
WILDCAT, 03/03/2003
2003 Chevrolet Express 2500 Rwd 3dr Van (6.0L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 3 people found this review helpful
IF YOU WANT POWER, GREAT LOOKS, TONS OF ROOM AND NOT BE LUMPED INTO THE SOCCER MOM MINI VAN CROWED THIS IS THE VAN FOR YOU! BUT WAIT!, WHAT ABOUT THE POOR GAS MILEAGE? GO ON ANY DEALER LOT AND SEE HOW MANY THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS YOU WILL SAVE OVER THEIR MINI VAN COUNTERPARTS. YES, ENOUGH TO OFFSET MANY YEARS OF "MEDIOCRE" GAS MILEAGE.
Our "Goin' Up North" Vehicle
johnandlore, 11/12/2003
2001 Chevrolet Express 1500 LT 3dr Van (5.7L 8cyl 4A)
0 of 1 people found this review helpful
We bought this van in Oct. 2001 when GM first came out with 0% financing. It has been a real workhorse ever since - towing our jet-skis, hauling building supplies, or just ferrying us to our 'Up North' cottage. Everyone who rides in it is amazed at the roominess. The ride is surprisingly smooth, and the kids love the TV/VCR with the A/V hookups.