Search Consumer Guide Auto and the Web
 

1990-2004 Chevrolet Astro Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our reliability study for this generation Chevrolet Astro includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chevrolet Astro.
1990-2004 Chevrolet Astro Reliability
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer, however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Doors: Improper adjustment of the sliding door can make it hard to open or close. (1990-93)
Engine knock: A knocking sound may be due to three possible causes and may be fixed with either an oil filter having a built-in check valve, a revised PROM or replacement of the main bearings. (1990-95)
Engine misfire: New valve-guide seals should eliminate the blue smoke from the tailpipe during cold starting. (1990-93)
Engine misfire: The fuel injector wires tend to get pinched when the air filter is reinstalled. (1990-93)
Engine noise: An engine noise might be caused by the exhaust valves sticking in their guides. New valve-guide seals should correct the problem if the guides are not worn. (1996)
Engine temperature: Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)
Transmission leak: The rear seal on the transmission (extension housing seal) may leak on vans with a one-piece drive shaft. (1990-94)
Transmission leak: Fluid may leak from the pump body on 4L60-E transmissions due to the pump bushing walking out of the valve body. (1995-96)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership to be slightly higher.
Item Name Repair Cost
A/C Compressor $515
Alternator $245
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $770
Brakes $225
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $555
Exhaust System $320
Radiator $420
Shocks and/or Struts $247
Timing Chain or Belt $255
Universal Joints $153
NHTSA Recall History
1990-91: Bucket seat's knob-type recliner mechanism with foam or vinyl "soft joint" may loosen and cause bolt failure, allowing seatback to recline suddenly; could produce loss of control.
1992-94: Front seatbacks do not conform to height requirements.
1994: Airbag-advisory labels may be missing.
1995 w/L35 engine: Fuel lines at tank were improperly tightened and could loosen, allowing leakage and possible fire.
1995: On a few vans, left lower control-arm bolt could loosen, fatigue, and break.
1995-97: The windshield-wiper motor may fail on certain vehicles. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
1996-97: Outboard-seatbelt webbing on right-rear bucket seat can separate during crash.
1996-98 w/integrated child seats: Seatbelt-retractor clutch spring and/or pawl spring in child seat may be missing.
1998: On certain vehicles, the outside rearview mirror switch may short circuit. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
1999: Audible fasten-seatbelt warning may not sound or may not sound as long as is required by the standard.
2001-02: Multifunction switch may develop an open circuit, causing stop lamps and hazard lamps to become inoperative.
2003: Poorly manufactured steering knuckles on some vehicles may allow for road contamination to enter and wear down the ball joint, resulting in difficulty controlling the vehicle
Car Buying Resources

Trade-In Calculator

Research how much your car is truly worth

Trade-In Calculator



Used Cars

Search online classifieds and find a local dealer
Search Local Listings

Vehicle History Report

Get a CARFAX Vehicle History... the first step to protecting yourself from costly hidden problems.



What's Under the Hood?

Learn about how cars work.

Learn things



Insurance

We're dedicated to making insurance easier.

Get Insurance



Sell Your Car

Reach over 8 million buyers
Sell Your Car
    Find a Used Car
Price Range:
to
 Radius:
    Vehicle History Report

FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before you buy.