1997 Chevrolet Astro LS review from North America

Before I go into any detail, I just want you all to know that I will be updating or at least trying to update this post on a monthly basis. If I get a blue frowny face, it is because I don't know much about this used car, nor do I take it to a dealer - EVER!

Known defects when I purchased the Astro:

Bad blower fan speed relay or switch - It does not work on the "High" position.

Striker bolt for cargo door was mashed in from abuse.

Needs sway bar bushings.

Needs a good clean-up in and out and a change of fluids.

This Astro is replacing my 1986 Astro. You can read about that one on this site. "Chevy Astro Never Dies". Well it did die, but it took 22 years to kill it!

Night and day would describe the differences between the two Astro vans.

It is basic transportation.

Burgundy exterior with gray interior.

It includes options like PW, Airbags, ABS, Daytime running lamps, PL, CC, and AC. All of which was NOT included on my '86 Stro. Big difference.

I'm not used to driving an automatic and I'm still searching for the gear stick and clutch pedal.

This van has much more giddy up then the old one. I find myself pulling onto a highway going uphill doing about 80, where on my '86, it would struggle to get to 50 in 3rd and 4th gear.

So far I have filled the tank one time for $50 and it has been getting great fuel mileage (compared to my old Astro). At one half tank of fuel consumption it has gone 188 miles. Let me know if this is common for this van.

The front seats are nice. They have adjustable lumbar support and recline, but they just feel a bit sloppy, not enough side support for me.

The body is in good shape.

The under body has a lot more rust than my '86 Astro, but is sound.

The engine is very quiet.

It has had the GM "orange" coolant circulating through its veins for years, which has started to create a build-up of disgusting algae-like sludge. That will be fixed.

The transmission was rebuilt 30,000 miles ago and seems to be in good shape. I don't like automatics, but I can't find another Astro with a stick shift.

I threw in a Sirius radio so I have something to listen to besides ads and the same 23 classic rock songs on all classic rock stations.

I will keep you all updated. Please leave comments or give me some knowledge you may have about this van.

Thanks!