2003 Chevrolet Express
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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These records cover every 2003 Chevrolet Express. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
11 recalls name the 2003 Chevrolet Express. Newest first.
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2003-2004 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vehicles, equipped with a left side cargo door, and originally sold or currently registered in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Significant corrosion may allow fuel to leak during refueling, and in the presence of an ignition source; there is an increased risk of fire.
Remedy
GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a new fuel filler neck, free of charge. The safety recall began on October 1, 2012. Owners may contact the Chevrolet owner center at 1-866-694-6546 and GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
Sabersport IS recalling 16,270 combination corner and bumper lamp assemblies of various part numbers sold for use as aftermarket equipment for various passenger vehicles. these headlamps fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment." these lamps do not contain…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Decreased lighting visibility may result in a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Sabersport will notify owners and offer a full refund for the noncompliant combination lamps. the safety recall began on may 11, 2009. owners may contact sabersport at 1-909-598-7589.
On certain full-size passenger, cargo, or cutaway vans, the front and rear seat belt buckles will not latch or will not unlatch.
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a crash, a seat occupant may not be properly restrained increasing the risk of personal injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the buckles and, if found to be inoperative, the entire buckle assembly would be replaced. for buckles found to be operative, dealer will replace only the upper buckle cover. the recall will be conducted in phases. the first phase mailing began during march 2006. owners may contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
Certain extended and regular cab pickup trucks and cargo vans converted to compressed natural gas (CNG) fail to conform to the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 225, 'child restraint anchorage systems.' these vehicles have one seating position, the center rear seat, equipped with child restraint lower anchorages.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The standard requires child seat lower anchorages in two seating positions for vehicles with three rear seating positions. the standard cab and cargo van vehicles, which only have front seating positions, have an air bag off switch to disable the front passenger air bag and do not have child restraint lower anchorages in the passenger seat. the standard requires passenger seat child seat lower anchorages in vehicles with an air bag off switch. However, the standard does not require vehicles with only front seating positions to have lower anchorage provisions if the vehicle IS not equipped with an air bag off switch.
Remedy
To bring the standard cab and cargo van vehicles into compliance, dealers will inject epoxy into the air bag off switch to prevent air bag activation, relocate the switch behind the instrument panel and then install a cover over the resulting opening. the sun visor label and owner's manual will also be changed. the correction for the extended cab vehicle will consist of changing the front passenger seat to a seat that has child restraint lower anchorages. the recall began on september 9, 2004. owners should contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438 or GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
Certain sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and passenger vans fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 135, ?passenger car brake systems.? some of these vehicles were produced with an out-of-specification brake hydro-boost housing relief valve bore.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Consequently, the valve o-ring seal may fracture. steering efforts may be slightly increased while braking or parking. under certain driving conditions, a fractured seal may require a slight increase in the applied brake pedal effort to achieve the same vehicle deceleration rate as prior to the seat fracture.
Remedy
Dealers are to replace the hydro-boost relief valve. the recall began on june 18, 2004. owners should contact cadillac at 1-866-982-2339; chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438; GMC at 1-866-996-9463; or hummer at 1-866-486-6376.
Certain minivans, passenger and sport utility vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 225, "child restraint anchorage system." the owner's manual does not explain the meaning of the location symbols for the child restraint lower universal anchorage system.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This does not meet the requirements of the standard.
Remedy
Owners will be provided with a supplement for their owner's manual. this supplement describes and shows the location symbols for the child restraint anchors that are located in the vehicle and on the child restraint or booster cushion. owner notification began august 18, 2003. owners should contact buick at 1-866-608-8080, cadillac at 1-866-982-2339, chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, GMC at 1-866-996-9463, pontiac at 1-800-620-7668, or oldsmobile at 1-800-630-6537.
Certain vans have a condition in which water may enter and corrode the rear license plate lamp socket. if the lamp socket were to corrode, the rear license plate lamp may operate intermittently or not at all, and the left rear tail lamp may become inoperative. the temperature of the license plate lamp socket could increase to the point that it may begin…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the socket assembly were to reach the point of melting, the occupants of the vehicle may notice an odor and smoke at the rear doors of the vehicle. if this odor and smoke were ignored, the plastic could ignite and a fire could occur.
Remedy
Dealers will install a new sealed rear license plate lamp socket assembly. owner notification began july 21, 2003. owners should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.
On certain vans with a gross vehicle weight of less than 8,500 pounds, during a vehicle crash sufficient enough to deploy the safety belt pretensioner, the front safety belt buckles may not release after the vehicle crash, or alternately may eject the safety belt latch during the vehicle crash.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could result in increased risk of personal injury.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the front driver and passenger side safety belt buckle. owner notification began june 3, 2003. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.
On certain vans with an 8,500 lb. Or 8,600 lb. Gross vehicle weight rating, the nut attaching the pitman arm to the steering linkage may not be tightened adequately resulting in a possible separation.
Risk and remedy
Risk
A separation could result in loss of vehicle control, and a crash could occur with prior warning.
Remedy
Dealers will tighten the pitman arm nut to the proper specification. if the nut IS missing, the dealer will install a new nut and tighten it correctly. owner notification began december 10, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.
On certain vans, the right-hand tie rod end nut may not be tightened adequately. the nut can loosen resulting in separation of the tie rod from the steering knuckle.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Separation of a tie rod can cause unexpected vehicle steering in some maneuvers and could cause a crash without prior warning.
Remedy
Dealers will tighten the tie rod end nut and, if necessary, replace the tie rod end. owner notification began november 27, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.
Certain vans were built without a wheel bearing assembly retaining nut, which could lead to a possible bearing separation.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If this were to occur, the amber-colored ABS tell-tale lamp in the instrument panel would illuminate and the ABS system would be disabled. the driver would also notice a grinding noise, a decrease in the vehicle speed, and the steering will pull in the direction of the affected brake assembly. this could result in a loss of vehicle control, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the wheel bearing assembly. if the inspection reveals a missing retaining nut, the wheel bearing assembly will be replaced. owner notification began november 13, 2002. owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact chevrolet at 1-800-222-1020 or GMC at 1-800-462-8782.
Owner complaints
59 complaints2 involved a crash7 involved a fire1 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Fuel system, gasoline
The contact recently purchased a 2003 Chevrolet Express. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel due to a corroded catalytic converter. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V388000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the…
The contact recently purchased a 2003 Chevrolet Express. The contact stated that the check engine warning light was illuminated on the instrument panel due to a corroded catalytic converter. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 12V388000 (Fuel System, Gasoline); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue; however, the contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 125,000.
- Electrical system › Instrument panel › Speedometer/odometer
Odometer Fraud. The contact purchased a 2003 Chevrolet Express. The contact discovered a mileage discrepancy after the purchase. The vehicle was a private sale. At the time of purchase, the vehicle mileage was approximately 156,000. It was later discovered that the mileage on July 2, 2024, was 258,051.
- Unknown or other
The frame and its crossmembers are rusted (rotted) thru above the gas tank making the van useless. The gas tank IS even attached at those areas making it a ticking time bomb. This IS a know gm frame problem for many years on many truck bodies.
- Seat belts · Structure › Body › Door › Hinge and attachments
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that the cable that held the seat belts together, located in the rear middle row, snapped without warning. As a result, the contact was concerned that, in the event of a crash, the seat belts would not secure properly and cause an…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that the cable that held the seat belts together, located in the rear middle row, snapped without warning. As a result, the contact was concerned that, in the event of a crash, the seat belts would not secure properly and cause an injury. The contact also stated that the rear driver and passenger side door hinges fractured. The contact stated that the doors were glued shut. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failures. The failure mileage was 228,000. updated 10/17*lj updated 10/4/18*jb
- Suspension
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that the front of the vehicle vibrated whenever the vehicle was being driven over 30 mph over a bump. The vehicle was taken to a dealer where the control arms, the pitman arm, the tires and the hubs were replaced, but the failure persisted. The failure mileage was 109,000. The vin was not available. ....Updated 07/22/15 *bf updated 10/4/2017*cn
- Fuel/propulsion system
I received a notice from gm ( doc ID #32202443, #12167 fuel filler pipe corrosion) stating that there was a recall on my vehicle for leaking gasoline. I brought it to sighn chevrolet in riverside ca and the service manager told me that ca vehicles do not qualify. I contacted customer complaints…
I received a notice from gm ( doc ID #32202443, #12167 fuel filler pipe corrosion) stating that there was a recall on my vehicle for leaking gasoline. I brought it to sighn chevrolet in riverside ca and the service manager told me that ca vehicles do not qualify. I contacted customer complaints case # [xxx] and all they did was call the same service manager and got back to me saying they won't fix it. I believe I am driving around with a vehicle leaking gas on the road creating an extremely dangerous situation for my family with a dire fire hazard. My contention IS, why would they send me a recall notice and then tell me I don't qualify? I did receive the notice and it said it had to be acted on before 12/31/12 but it was not leaking then. I don't care when it expires. It IS a admitted defect and gm should stand behind their dangerous errors. information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(B)(6).' *tr
- Engine · Power train
My speedometer quickly jumps from one indicated speed to another speed that IS clearly inaccurate, down as low as -0- while driving, accompanied by the transmission attempting to downshift on it's own, which causes a severe engine over-rev condition or going into a neutral momentarily with no input…
My speedometer quickly jumps from one indicated speed to another speed that IS clearly inaccurate, down as low as -0- while driving, accompanied by the transmission attempting to downshift on it's own, which causes a severe engine over-rev condition or going into a neutral momentarily with no input from me as the driver. there are no specific actions I can take to trigger the erratic symptom, nor any specific action I can take to cause normal operation. with snow and ice on the roads at this time of the year this IS extremely dangerous as it could cause the van to lock up the rear wheels on slippery pavement causing lack of control. this condition can occur regardless of whether or not cruise control IS selected, regardless of the gear I manually select, and regardless of the trailer mode being selected or not. simultaneously the "check engine" light goes on, the "ABS light" and "brakes" lights are lit on the dashboard although no braking abnormalities are noted. I reported a less severe case of this several months ago, but received no reply from the nhtsa. doing internet research I find that it may be a defective speedometer dashboard assembly that would need to be sent away for repair/exchange. they require a large deposit in order to go thru the verification process that the odometer reading I report IS the same as the unit I send in. Part cost with deposit IS close to $600, and they show an online internet video of how to remove the dashboard unit which takes less than 3 minutes. I've read this IS a common problem with this vehicle make, model and year. I am the original owner since new, and it has less than 17,000 actual miles on it. *tr
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that there was a fuel leak coming from the vehicle. The contact indicated that after refueling, fuel puddle under the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer who diagnosed that the filler neck needed to be replaced and…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that there was a fuel leak coming from the vehicle. The contact indicated that after refueling, fuel puddle under the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer who diagnosed that the filler neck needed to be replaced and the metal fuel filler pipe was corroded. the contact was not included in nhtsa campaign ID number: 12v388000 (fuel system, gasoline). The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 153,500.
- Power train · Service brakes · Vehicle speed control
Driving on interstate at 65 mph, the ABS warning light came on, and the speedometer started jumping erratically from actual speed to lower speeds 45, 25 + others as low as 8 (eight) mph. This caused the transmission to downshift unpredictably, over-revving the engine speed. It happened repeatedly…
Driving on interstate at 65 mph, the ABS warning light came on, and the speedometer started jumping erratically from actual speed to lower speeds 45, 25 + others as low as 8 (eight) mph. This caused the transmission to downshift unpredictably, over-revving the engine speed. It happened repeatedly so I documented the odometer erratic movement on my cell phone as a video, showing road movement + all gauges + audio events like engine over-revving at same time. The video IS of high quality and the events taking place are documented with the video. Rural area with few cars on road at the time. If it took place in a city interstate environment (especially in the winter months) it might have caused a multiple car collision with sudden unexpected downshifting that was out of my control. Engine rpm also hunts erratically and out of my control. Predictable in what it does, it begins approximately within a range of 4-8 miles after leaving home daily. When engine turned off and parked at a local store as an example, it will clear it's problem as if a cpu IS "re-booted", and repeat the cycle of erratic behavior from that new starting point. When I bought + installed actron brand obd-ii code reader which features ability to reveal ABS brake codes, it never shows any other stored codes except a single po446 which IS an emissions related code. This van was originally sent new by the selling nh chevrolet dealer to the pennsylvania based quigley conversion facility, so in february 2004 was modified from RWD to a 4WD by exchanging stock model 2500 front end for a 4 wd pickup truck new factory front end with 4WDL, neutral, 2WDH 4WDH floor control lever. The driver's door jam has an 8600 lb gvw certification which IS appropriately quigley's. My very low odometer at 16,614 miles IS accurate, as I also have other vehicles to use, and work at home. *tr
- Air bags · Engine · Fuel/propulsion system · Power train · Steering › Linkages › Tie rod assembly · Structure
This vehicle was bought brand new but unbeknownst to me was made in canada (something which would not have been acceptable to me had I been told). upon possession the windshield molding came off on the ride home. the driver side tierod end went at 12,000 miles and again at 24,000 miles because…
This vehicle was bought brand new but unbeknownst to me was made in canada (something which would not have been acceptable to me had I been told). upon possession the windshield molding came off on the ride home. the driver side tierod end went at 12,000 miles and again at 24,000 miles because upon inspection the ball joints were never properly tightened. the bolts on the transmission were found by the dealer to have been never properly tightened. the sidedoor hinge had to be replaced at a cost of $600 because it froze up and could not be opened. the power steering unit rusted out at 12,000 miles and started leaking fluid and, what I find most important, I am not sure if I have airbags because the airbag light stays on but IS noted to go off when the key IS partially turned however the key cannot stay in this position and must be turned to start the vehicle. fuel expectation was never near what I was told it would be and tailpipe consistently showed evidence of being blackened due to insufficient fuel burning. the poor backdoor design makes it difficult to see out the back window and it IS clearly evident by almost every van of this type having a dented bumper due to this blindspot in design. I have not begun to list all the things not right with this vehicle but I will chalk them up to downright lying and just inferior parts and craftsmenship. this vehicle has been a nightmare. *tr
- Engine
For the second time in one week the engine raced to max rpm without a throttle input. had to put it in neutral to slow down with the brakes. the first time (35mph slowing down for a red light) went to neutral, foot on brake and back to drive, the engine responded normally. last night the engine…
For the second time in one week the engine raced to max rpm without a throttle input. had to put it in neutral to slow down with the brakes. the first time (35mph slowing down for a red light) went to neutral, foot on brake and back to drive, the engine responded normally. last night the engine raced to max rpm again 100 feet from my parking spot going less than 5MPH went to neutral back to drive no change in engine speed back to neutral glide to parking spot turned engine off. no warning when the max engine rev would begin, one was slow speed the other moderate speed, temp 75 one day, temp 45 yesterday. worked fine today. worried the problem IS not repeatable or can be found using a code reader. worried that the only way now to stop max engine rpm IS by turning engine off, not safe while driving on the interstate. *tt
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express conversion van. The contacted stated that while driving 45 mph, all of the gauges and electrical features failed however, the light functions remained operable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician was unable to diagnose a failure.…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express conversion van. The contacted stated that while driving 45 mph, all of the gauges and electrical features failed however, the light functions remained operable. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where the technician was unable to diagnose a failure. No repairs were performed to the vehicle. The manufacturer was not notified about the failure. The failure mileage was 80,000 and the current mileage was 84,000. updated 5/22/14*cn
- Service brakes
Driver a noticed lack of pressure in brake pedal. The brake pedal went fully to the floor and resulted in less braking than expected. Driver reduced speed by downshifting to lower gears (automatic transmission) and pulled into first available parking area. By pumping the brakes and pulling into an…
Driver a noticed lack of pressure in brake pedal. The brake pedal went fully to the floor and resulted in less braking than expected. Driver reduced speed by downshifting to lower gears (automatic transmission) and pulled into first available parking area. By pumping the brakes and pulling into an uphill parking spot, driver achieved enough braking to come to a full stop without using the emergency brake. Inspection showed a nearly full brake reservoir and no leakage from wheel cylinders. Further inspection showed leaking fluid from brake line on left side under the drivers seat and above the vehicle frame. It squirted out from a crack in a brake line when brake pedal was pumped. The vehicle was deemed unsafe to drive. The vehicle was towed for repair. *tr
- Engine
My 2003 chevy express 2500 cargo van was in evening rush hour stop and go traffic. After reducing my speed to 10 mph then attempting to accelerate. The vehicle stalled and began to idle rough and shut-off. I had to put the vehicle in neutral and restart in the middle of the interstate. I had to…
My 2003 chevy express 2500 cargo van was in evening rush hour stop and go traffic. After reducing my speed to 10 mph then attempting to accelerate. The vehicle stalled and began to idle rough and shut-off. I had to put the vehicle in neutral and restart in the middle of the interstate. I had to continue to shift into neutral and press the gas to prevent the vehicle from shutting off in the middle of traffic. I had the plugs and wires change the very next day and the problem continued. this could have turned into a major accident with the vehicle shutting off in the middle of traffic. This issue should be addressed and an immediate recall notice should be put into effect to prevent a major accident which could lead to a possible fatality. this IS dangerous! I've researched this issue and have found multiple chevy express owner's with the same concern. gm should do the right thing for the customers who support their brand and product. *tr
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that she noticed a leak under the vehicle when she would put refuel. the vehicle was taken to a dealer for inspection where they advised that the fuel filler needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified and stated that they would pay a portion of the repair costs. The failure mileage was 126,600.
- Structure › Body
During a family outing we were unable to close the right rear passenger door. Experienced difficulty closing door. After several attempts, I noticed the door was not aligned with the body of the car which prohibited the door latch to connect and close. the door would not close shut completely and…
During a family outing we were unable to close the right rear passenger door. Experienced difficulty closing door. After several attempts, I noticed the door was not aligned with the body of the car which prohibited the door latch to connect and close. the door would not close shut completely and has since knocked while driving and also creates a safety hazard for children & adults because it IS primary exit for the rear exit to the sidewalk forcing passengers to exit from the rear left door passenger door onto the street to oncoming traffic that can lead to accident, bodily injury or fatality. no prior maintenance instructions or suggested upkeep was documented in the buyers manual which came with the vehicle that would indicate possible hinge corrosion or rusting. possible pin defect detected by certified dealer on 10/7/2012, when taken in for safety recall on fuel filler pipe recall 12166 campaign id#12v388. multiple complaint for hinge/pins have been documented in complaints on safercar.org website for 2003 chevy express van. I believe this issue should be investigated to avoid accidental deaths due to inoperable access to sidewalk from the left rear passenger door. *tr
- Seat belts
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that the seat belt buckle assembly broke. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the seat belt was working up to specifications. The dealer stated that there was a recall nhtsa campaign ID number: 03v050000 component…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that the seat belt buckle assembly broke. The vehicle was taken to the dealer who stated that the seat belt was working up to specifications. The dealer stated that there was a recall nhtsa campaign ID number: 03v050000 component: seat belts:front:buckle assembly. But the vehicle was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included in any recalls. The failure mileage was 65,000. The vin was not available.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that a small amount of fuel continuously leaked out of the fuel tank filler neck immediately after refueling. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the fuel filler neck tube exhibited rust corrosion. The…
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. The contact stated that a small amount of fuel continuously leaked out of the fuel tank filler neck immediately after refueling. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the fuel filler neck tube exhibited rust corrosion. The part was replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the problem. There was a recall associated with nhtsa campaign ID number 12v388000 (fuel system, gasoline:storage:tank assembly: filler pipe and cap) however the vin was not included. The approximate failure mileage was 111,000.
- Fuel/propulsion system
TL* the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express conversion van. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked, he noticed a hole in the fuel filler neck. The vehicle was not taken to the dealer. The manufacturer was not contacted. The failure and current mileages were 127,000.
- Fuel system, gasoline · Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly › Filler pipe and cap
2003 chevrolet express fuel filler pipe leak: gas filler tube rusted through and gasoline leaked every time I refueled. corrosion holes caused fuel to leak and creating a fire hazard. this van has a left side rear cargo door. this IS a similar complaint as: odi ID number : 10413214 *kb
- Visibility
When driving in a horrible rainstorm, the driver's side windshield wiper stopped moving and then on the next rotation, swung itself around and got lodged by the side view mirror. an accident was avoided, but it occurred 3 more times randomly that same day, and then today. it was a miracle through…
When driving in a horrible rainstorm, the driver's side windshield wiper stopped moving and then on the next rotation, swung itself around and got lodged by the side view mirror. an accident was avoided, but it occurred 3 more times randomly that same day, and then today. it was a miracle through the heavy rain that we didn't wreck. luckily the passenger side wiper kept working and with some luck, we exited to safety. *tr
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Tl*the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. While driving approximately 30 mph the contact applied pressure to the brake pedal but the vehicle hesitated to stop. The contact applied excessive pressure to the brake pedal in order to stop the vehicle. The failure recurred intermittently. The…
Tl*the contact owns a 2003 chevrolet express. While driving approximately 30 mph the contact applied pressure to the brake pedal but the vehicle hesitated to stop. The contact applied excessive pressure to the brake pedal in order to stop the vehicle. The failure recurred intermittently. The vehicle was taken to an auto shop where the vehicle was inspected. The technicians were able to duplicate the failure. The technician stated the brake pads and rotors were in good condition but informed the contact of a recall under nhtsa campaign ID number: 04v045000 (service brakes, hydraulic). The dealer was notified and informed the contact the vehicle was not included in the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 80,000.
- Air bags › Frontal
Vehicle was parked in our company parking lot, vehicle was not running and the key was not in the ignition. Employee was loading tools and equipment into rear of vehicle after completing a job. Side sliding door was open. Passenger air bag only deployed. Vehicle had not been a wreck. *Tr
- Tires
2003 chevrolet express lost control of vehicle striking the median barrier. *bf according to the police report, the rear tires had very little tread. On the inside of the tires, there was no tread. (Ohio traffic crash report # 10-0234-91)*jb updated 07/22/10 *bf
- Latches/locks/linkages · Structure › Body › Door
I own a 2003 chevrolet express van. I am unable to open the rear doors on the driver and passenger sides. I have been told by a local body shop that the problem IS the pins that were used in the hinges. they are rusting from the inside causing the doors not to open. this body shop said they…
I own a 2003 chevrolet express van. I am unable to open the rear doors on the driver and passenger sides. I have been told by a local body shop that the problem IS the pins that were used in the hinges. they are rusting from the inside causing the doors not to open. this body shop said they have been given information on how to fix the problem at a cost of $1500.00 per side. but I cannot find any information about a recall from general motors. I do not have an extended warranty on this vehicle but I don't think these repairs should be made at my expense. this vehicle IS used mostly when I go camping. I have two young children who ride in this vehicle. I tried trading this vehicle in numerous times before the rear doors became totally inoperable. but every dealership I go to goes for the rear doors and tries to open them. which leads me to believe that they know that a problem exists. *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Fuel Filler Pipe Corrosion/Leakage
On August 7, 2012 General Motors (GM) notified the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) that it will conduct a safety related recall for model year (MY) 2003-2004 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vehicles.The recall affects vehicles equipped with a left side cargo door and that were originally sold or currently…
On August 7, 2012 General Motors (GM) notified the Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) that it will conduct a safety related recall for model year (MY) 2003-2004 Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana vehicles.The recall affects vehicles equipped with a left side cargo door and that were originally sold or currently registered in the corrosion or salt-belt states of Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin. Dealers are to install a new fuel filler neck. Consumer notification letters will be sent in early October 2012, when sufficient parts are available. ODI has received 12 complaints alleging unique incidents of fuel leakage during refueling of a subject vehicle. Eleven of the complaints occurred on Chevrolet Express vans, and 1 of the complaints involved a GMC Savana. All vehicles were equipped with the left side cargo door option. For vehicles so equipped, water and road debris can become trapped in the protective conduit that covers the fuel filler pipe and may subsequently cause the pipe to corrode. If the corrosion creates a significant perforation in the pipe, fuel may leak onto the ground while refueling the vehicle. An illuminated Check Engine light (on some vehicles) or the presence of fuel odor may also act as precursors to fuel leakage. Fuel in the presence of an ignition source could cause a fire to occur. In their response to ODI's information request, GM reported 24 owner reports and 1 field report alleging fuel filler pipe failure/corrosion in the subject vehicle population. Six additional records were also provided that included the replacement of the fuel filler pipe, however not enough information existed to determine a relation to the alleged problem. After further review of the reports, ODI determined that a total of 27 individual GM reports were related to filler pipe corrosion. The complaints received from both ODI and GM primarily occurred in the corrosion states. During the investigation, the scope of the subject vehicle population was expanded to include MY 2004 Express vans, and MY 2003 and 2004 GMC Savana vans (with V6 engines) also equipped with left hand side door options, since the Savana vans also utilize the same, or substantially similar fuel filler pipe configuration. GM subsequently modified the design of the fuel filler pipe on vehicles equipped with side doors to correct the corrosion concern, so these vehicles do not have the defect issue.The affected vehicle population shown above reflects the total number of vehicles registered in the salt-belt states listed in GM's defect information report (DIR). Prior to the safety recall announcement, GM had issued a special coverage adjustment for vehicles in these states, during which a total of 771 repairs were made. Accordingly the vehicle population noted in the DIR reflects that of the remaining vehicle population.The investigation is closed based on GM's announcement of safety recall 12V388. The reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10463398, 10459328, 10456403, 10453725, 10445925, 10443143, 10441615, 10413568, 10413214, 10411911, 10353717, 10259377.
- Hydraulic pump failres
Gm IS conducting a recall on all subject vehicles build between may 1999 and october 14, 1999.significant changes were incorporated into production in early october 1999, and vehicles built after that date have lower warranty failure rates.the complaint and warranty data appear to support the effectiveness of these…
Gm IS conducting a recall on all subject vehicles build between may 1999 and october 14, 1999.significant changes were incorporated into production in early october 1999, and vehicles built after that date have lower warranty failure rates.the complaint and warranty data appear to support the effectiveness of these changes. Gm made additional changes in november 1999, february 2000, may 2001, and february 2004.odi will continue to monitor this problem and will take further action, if warranted, in the future.for further technical details see the attached engineering analysis report.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11010544This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
- 11009156This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
- 11007744This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007743This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249980This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vibration complaints that are one of the most challenging complaints to accurately diagnose and repair. Technician will need to use Pico Oscilloscope Diagnostic Kit to effectively diagnosis vehicles. Technician should drive the vehicle will using the Pico Oscilloscope to record data. After the data is recorded it should be reviewed to determine the root cause of the concern. If a repair attempt made the concern better but not eliminated or had no affect at all, and are requesting assistance from General Motors Technical Assistance Center record another Pico file and save it to the computer. After the new Pico Oscilloscope data has been saved email the data to General Motors Technical Assistance Center in the subject line include ?Vibration? ?Business Associate Code? and the last 8 of the Vehicle Identification Number.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247780This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that the Heater-Vent-Air Conditioning blows warm air. Before calling General Motors Technical Assistance Center technician will need to have high and low pressures, outside temperature, humidity, and vent temperature.
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10246499Duramax Diesel Glow Plugs Difficult to Install Due to Carbon Buildup - New Glow Plug Bore Reamer Available
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10245833Special Coverage Adjustment - Fuel Filler Pipe Corrosion
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244214This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242298This Preliminary information communicates information that will need to be provided to TAC to aid in diagnosing if a vehicle comes in with misfire and DTC Codes P0300 - P0308 and/or P050D
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10242252This technical bulletin provides information and a solution to a condition of Brake Pedal Moves or Self Applies at Full Turns.
- 10240793This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an unusual noise and is difficult to identify, isolate or pinpoint. Technician should get record a sound clip or take a video of the noise for assessment by engineering. Technician will need to call General Motors Technical Assistance Center for further assistance.
- 10240344This service bulletin explains how to measure for oil consumption and possible reasons for loss of oil.
- 10237671This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician that the Hydro-Boost is not serviceable and will need to be replaced if the brake pedal moves or applies on its own at a full turn.
Every Chevrolet Express model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.