1990-2005 Chevrolet Astro: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-2005 Chevrolet Astro and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Antilock brakes
- Trailer-towing capability
- Optional AWD traction
- Passenger and cargo room
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Entry/exit
- Ride
Vehicle Highlights
Introduced for 1985, Chevrolet's rear-drive minivan and its GMC Safari counterpart are taller, tougher, and more trucklike than Dodge/Plymouth rivals (which are front drive). A properly equipped Astro could haul up to 6000 pounds. Five-passenger seating was standard, but Astros could be equipped to hold up to eight occupants. Starting in 1990, antilock brakes acted on all four wheels (front-disc/rear-drum). Full-time 4-wheel drive also arrived as an option for 1990. An extended-length body was added during the model year, with ten inches tacked onto the rear for nearly 19 extra cubic feet of cargo capacity.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chevrolet Astro 2WD LS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 3 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 10 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 45 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-2005 Chevrolet Astro. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-2005 Chevrolet Astro.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Chevrolet Astro:
A more powerful, high-output V6 became available in 2WD models during '91. All outboard seats now had lap/shoulder belts.
1992 Chevrolet Astro:
Still another high-output engine joined the Astro option list. This one developed 200 horsepower. A new "Dutch" rear-door option featured a one-piece glass liftgate with separately opening split panel doors below.
1993 Chevrolet Astro:
Astro's 4-speed automatic transmission gained electronic shift controls, plus a second-gear start feature for improved slippery-surface traction. The base engine gained 15 horsepower, and speedometers now were calibrated to 100 mph instead of 85.
1994 Chevrolet Astro:
The driver-side airbag became standard in all Astros. Side-door guard beams went into front doors and the sliding side door, while a center high-mounted stoplamp was installed in the roof.
1995 Chevrolet Astro:
Facelifted with a new grille and nose for 1995, all models now came with extended bodies and a 190-horsepower engine. CL and LT option groups featured new composite headlamps and body-colored fascias.
1996 Chevrolet Astro:
A passenger-side airbag went into Astros for 1996, along with a new dashboard that contained rotary controls and a locking glovebox. Horsepower remained at 190 but torque dropped by ten pound-feet, peaking at lower rpm than before. New spark plugs were said to last 100,000 miles. A new engine cover increased front foot room and contained molded-in cupholders.
1997 Chevrolet Astro:
Speed-sensitive power steering and daytime running lights went into the '97 Astro. Optional leather upholstery became available later in the model year.
1998 Chevrolet Astro:
Astro gets only exterior color changes and a revised transmission for '98.
1999 Chevrolet Astro:
Astro's all-wheel-drive system was revised so that power was only sent to the front wheels when needed for maximum traction. Other changes included a standard overhead console on LS and LT trimmed models.
2000 Chevrolet Astro:
Eight-passenger seating became standard this year, so no more 5-passenger models were available. A 7-passenger setup with two second-row buckets remained as an option. Chevrolet claimed that internal changes made the Astro's engine quieter and smoother for 2000. A Tow/Haul mode was added for more-efficient shifting when carrying heavy loads. New standard features included headlamps that switch on automatically in low-light conditions, a larger fuel tank made of plastic instead of metal, and retained accessory power that permits operating electrical accessories for up to 20 minutes after shutting off the ignition.
2001 Chevrolet Astro:
A tilt steering wheel, cruise control, CD player, remote keyless entry, and power windows, mirrors and locks were newly standard in 2001.
2002 Chevrolet Astro:
Cargo models offered remote keyless entry and a rear heater for 2002.
2003 Chevrolet Astro:
The standard antilock brakes are upgraded to an all-disc setup and wheels are increased by one inch to 16-inches on all models.
2004 Chevrolet Astro:
There were no significant changes made in 04.
2005 Chevrolet Astro:
There were no significant changes made in 04.
Our road test for the 1990-2005 Chevrolet Astro includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-2005 Chevrolet Astro and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-2005 Chevrolet Astro is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Spacious inside, Astro vans can be fitted to tow up to three tons and seat up to eight. The penalty that must be paid for its brawn is a rough, bouncy ride--definitely less carlike than front-drive minivans, which serve as replacements for the traditional old family station wagon. Clumsy handling also ranks as subpar. Even the least-potent V6 engine has plenty of torque for hauling heavy loads and towing, but that muscle does not translate into brisk acceleration. As for economy, we averaged just 14.5 mpg in an early AWD, regular-length Astro. Expect around 15 mpg in urban driving, and not a whole lot more on the highway. Another demerit: Servicing isn't so easy. Entry/exit to the front seats is hampered by doorways that are narrow at the bottom. There's also a tall step-up to get inside. Interiors offer loads of passenger and cargo room, though front-seat riders must deal with uncomfortably narrow footwells. The dashboard, as revised for 1996, has a convenient layout with plenty of built-in storage space. With eight seats, a regular-length Astro has little rear cargo room. All-wheel drive offers better rain/snow traction, but with even more thirst for gas. It also makes the Astro an inch higher, adding to step-in height.
Value for the Money
Like the now-extinct Ford Aerostar, the Astro and its GMC Safari cousin are truck-based vehicles, better suited to heavy-duty work than are front-drive minivans. Trucklike behavior could be a turnoff unless you need Astro's brand of brawniness for towing or other demanding applications.
Like the now-extinct Ford Aerostar, the Astro and its GMC Safari cousin are truck-based vehicles, better suited to heavy-duty work than are front-drive minivans. Trucklike behavior could be a turnoff unless you need Astro's brand of brawniness for towing or other demanding applications.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chevrolet Astro 2WD LS Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 4 | |
| Fuel Economy | 3 | |
| Ride Quality | 3 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 3 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 3 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 10 | |
| Value within Class | 4 | |
| Total Score: | 45 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
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 .
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:
Fluid may leak from the pump body on 4L60-E transmissions due to the pump bushing walking out of the valve body. (1995-96)
Transmission leak:
The rear seal on the transmission (extension housing seal) may leak on vans with a one-piece drive shaft. (1990-94)
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 |
Our price chart for this generation Chevrolet Astro details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $9,200-11,000 | $8,300-9,900 | $4,800-5,700 |
| Astro AWD | $10,000-12,000 | $9,000-10,800 | $5,200-6,200 |
| 2004 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $7,500-9,000 | $6,800-8,100 | $3,800-4,500 |
| Astro AWD | $8,300-10,000 | $7,500-9,000 | $4,300-5,200 |
| 2003 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $6,200-7,500 | $5,400-6,500 | $2,700-3,200 |
| Astro AWD | $6,800-8,000 | $6,100-7,100 | $3,200-3,800 |
| 2002 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $5,300-6,300 | $4,600-5,400 | $2,200-2,600 |
| Astro AWD | $5,800-6,800 | $5,000-5,900 | $2,400-2,900 |
| 2001 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $4,500-5,500 | $3,700-4,600 | $1,600-2,000 |
| Astro AWD | $5,000-6,000 | $4,300-5,100 | $2,000-2,400 |
| 2000 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $3,800-5,000 | $3,100-4,100 | $1,200-1,600 |
| Astro AWD | $4,300-5,500 | $3,600-4,600 | $1,500-1,900 |
| 1999 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $3,300-4,300 | $2,600-3,400 | $800-1,100 |
| Astro AWD | $3,700-4,700 | $3,000-3,800 | $1,100-1,400 |
| 1998 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $2,800-3,700 | $2,100-2,800 | $600-800 |
| Astro AWD | $3,200-4,200 | $2,500-3,300 | $800-1,100 |
| 1997 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $2,400-3,200 | $1,700-2,300 | $500-600 |
| Astro AWD | $2,800-3,600 | $2,100-2,700 | $600-800 |
| 1996 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $2,100-2,800 | $1,500-2,000 | $400-500 |
| Astro AWD | $2,500-3,200 | $1,800-2,300 | $500-700 |
| 1995 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $1,800-2,400 | $1,200-1,600 | $300-400 |
| Astro AWD | $2,100-2,800 | $1,500-2,000 | $400-500 |
| 1994 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $1,500-2,100 | $1,000-1,400 | $200-300 |
| Astro AWD | $1,800-2,400 | $1,200-1,600 | $300-400 |
| 1993 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $1,300-1,800 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| Astro AWD | $1,600-2,100 | $1,100-1,400 | $200-300 |
| 1992 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $1,200-1,700 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Astro AWD | $1,400-2,000 | $900-1,300 | $200 |
| 1991 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $1,100-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Astro AWD | $1,300-1,800 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| 1990 | |||
| Astro 2WD | $1,000-1,500 | $600-900 | $100-200 |
| Astro AWD | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Chevrolet Astro include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 1990-94 3-door van | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 111.0 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 176.8 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 77.5 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 76.2 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3897 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 151.8 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 27.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 8 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.2 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 41.6 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 37.9 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 36.5 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
In all Astros, a 4.3-liter V6 engine hooks to a 4-speed automatic transmission. The standard engine in 1990 was rated 150 horsepower, but an optional 175-horsepower edition joined during the '91 model year. A year later, the optional HP (High Performance) V6 put out 200 horsepower, available only in 2WD models. Base-engine horsepower rose from 150 to 165 in 1993. For 1996, the V6 became part of GM's Vortec family, reaching 190 horsepower but dropping from 260 to 250 pound-feet of torque.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V6 | 4.3 / 262 | 150-165 | 230-235 | 4-speed automatic: 16/21 | 4-speed automatic: 14.5 |
| ohv V6 | 4.3 / 262 | 175-200 | 250-260 | 4-speed automatic: 16/20 | 4-speed automatic: 15 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chevrolet Astro include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1999 Astro |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 3 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 4 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-2005 Chevrolet Astro directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
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
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