1999 Chevrolet Venture LT review from North America

The low coolant lamp came on the first winter we owned the van (2000/2001). The dealer filled it up and said it was due to the low outside temperature. The next winter we had the same problem except the heater also stopped working as there was so much coolant missing. There was none on the driveway. I went back to the dealer who added coolant and told us it must of come out of the overflow tube. He asked if the engine was running hot. Three months later there were loud noises coming from the engine at 48,000 miles. The intake manifold had failed and allowed coolant into the engine - damaging the valves. This is a very common problem with this engine. Recently, at 66,000 miles I noticed low coolant again. I just came from the dealer who had told me I have a blown head gasket. I sent my used engine oil out for testing a while ago and they told me that the engine is wearing like an engine with 135,000 miles!

This is a seriously comfortable van. Four captain seats, rear air and heating, power sliding door, headsets and sound system controls in the back seats. I love this van. It is expensive to run, especially with gas prices the way the are. But it is worth it for the comfort for my family.

My first GM and my last GM. An engine that isn't even to need a tune up until 100,000 - and I have had 2 major engine repairs before 2/3rd's of the way there!