1997 Chevrolet Astro Extended review from North America

Entire front end (suspension) was rebuilt at 119,000 miles to fix a wander problem that was still there after the $600 - NOT at the dealer.

Intake manifold gasket replaced at 119,500 miles and cost $350 at my regular mechanic - NOT the dealer.

Replaced the brakes all the way around at 120,000 - I did it myself for about $100.

Water pump replaced at 121,600 at regular mechanic - another $250.

Replaced the radiator due to leaks caused by the new water pump and increase in pressure (as I was told) at 121,650.

Many electrical issues with the vehicle: fan would not blow on high (was not the switch because I blew $40 on the part to find it didn't fix the problem), gauges would intermittently stop working when lights turned on, rear A/C fan quit, transmission shifting problem, many others too numerous to mention.

The van had an engine miss that was NOT cured by plugs, wires, cap, and rotor replacement. Never did find out what was causing that.

The final straw was the bearing on one of the connection rods blew out at 124,000.

I ended up with a lemon. I had $8000 in the van, drove it for less than a year and sold it as it sat for $2200.

Positives were:

It did have a good towing capability for my small trailer to haul camping gear, etc.

Cabin was very nice and roomy and had 8 passenger seating - we have 6 kids and needed the space.

For what is supposed to be the "best" engine out there (the 4.3L Vortec) it sure didn't impress.

We went back to a V-8 in a full-sized van.