2006 Chevrolet Uplander LS 3.5L V6

Summary:

Good, solid, but anonymous vehicle

Faults:

Transmission pressure manifold at 139K. My mechanic also replaced the two solenoid valves in the transmission while he had it open.

Evap system is currently on the fritz; replaced the gas cap, but it doesn't work.

General Comments:

It's a good solid car, and there is plenty of power with the V6.

I'm surprised cruise control wasn't standard on this model.

I like the automatic headlights, it's been a feature in GM cars for over 20 years, and I'm amazed many other manufacturers don't offer this as a standard feature.

My big beef is the lack of underfloor storage like in traditional station wagons.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 16th October, 2011

2009 Chevrolet Uplander LS 3.9 V6

Summary:

It gets the job done - but only that

Faults:

It's still only a couple years old, so only a few things to report:

- Traction control, stability control and ABS constantly decide to stop working (sometimes momentarily, sometimes the warnings last for a few days).

- One rear brake caliper seized when parked.

- Power steering pump noise and malfunction at 40,000km.

- Fuel gauge is finicky.

- "Wood trim" is falling off.

General Comments:

I bought the car for $15000 CDN brand new (with remote start and tinted windows), entirely for the purpose of being my daily driver and hauling things around for building the house. I commute for work, so I tend to put a lot of mileage on my cars - this one was no different.

It's really no surprise that it's been discontinued. It's basically the same pushrod garbage that my old Chevy Venture was. It's mediocre in just about every sense; there is no one area wherein this is a good minivan.

The drivetrain is, well... mediocre. Same old 4 speed auto that GM has been using since the beginning of time. The 3.9V6 is actually pretty torquey and gets the job done, but it is by no means smooth or refined. The engine really needs a nice tall 5th gear for the freeway, and passing is always ugly because the transmission only has 4 gears to play with. Trans itself is hesitant and doesn't wake up until you beat it. Brakes have two settings: on or off. I didn't expect brake feel like my BMW, but it's just disappointing.

The interior of the LS is comfortable, but only for the 2 passengers up front (usually I had the rear seats taken out). However, the middle row seats are too narrow and don't have armrests, and the rear bench is very uncomfortable. The worst attempt at fake wood trim that I have ever seen. Plastics are cheap, rattles are plenty.

Stability control is intrusive. If you go over a speedbump at an awkward angle or even enter a sloped driveway, it cuts in and makes a lot of noise.

Mileage in the city is terrible (about 300 kms/tank) and road noise on the freeway is also pretty bad.

I bought this van to basically beat on, and it's done the job. Gets me where I need to go, and can't argue with the price. But if you want an actual minivan for a family with comfort and refinement, this is definitely not it.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 26th March, 2011

2006 Chevrolet Uplander LS 3.5 Litre

Summary:

Excellent vehicle

Faults:

I have had no significant problems with this vehicle. I've made expected repairs/replacements, i.e. Brakes, windshield wiper, tires, etc.

General Comments:

This vehicle has been a very pleasant surprise. It's dependable, comfortable, has some power and is fun to drive. It has a bit of a truck-like ride, but that's to be expected. This has been a great van for me. I know I got my money's worth and more.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 5th March, 2011

2005 Chevrolet Uplander 3.5 V6

Summary:

An uncomfortable gas guzzler

Faults:

So far, the back wiper motor stopped, and the back door seal leaks.

Sometimes hard to start, which is getting worse. Was told that this is common for these vans with the 3500 series V6, and that it may be time for a tune-up. And there's also some sort of air sensor that may need cleaning.

Gets very poor fuel economy! Not sure exactly what the MPG now, but it's very poor. Not to mention those pesky worn out wheel bearings, they'll keep you in the garage unless you try an aftermarket wheel bearing, I've driven over 23000 km's now without any problems, usually wouldn't last between an oil change.

General Comments:

The 3500 series V6 is adequate in this van, but not very good on gas, I'm not sure the actual MPG, but it's poor in my opinion.

The ride is a little uncomfortable on long drives, and it's really inconvenient to have to climb over the seats to get to the back seat from the sliding doors, since the middle seats are next to the doors. This is excellent for young children in car seats, but impossible if you're planning on putting car seats in the back row. The back seat has absolutely no leg room (on either window side).

There is absolutely no room to put groceries in the back, I would recommend the larger model, you get way more room in the Uplander LS, an extra foot or more in the back for groceries, and a little more leg room for the back row, but still got to climb over those seats in the middle through the sliding doors... so inconvenient.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 24th April, 2010

18th Oct 2013, 22:35

Hi, I have an Uplander as well, and the starting problem can be solved by removing the rubber hose off your throttle body, and carefully opening the throttle plate and spray throttle body cleaner in and around the plate while open, then gently clean it with a rag and spray the plate while closed. Let sit about 15 minutes and restart it. I bet it will resolve your problem.

Cheers.