2005-2008 Chevrolet Uplander: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
2008 Chevrolet Uplander
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2005-2008 Chevrolet Uplander ▼
- Price Range: $7,100 - $17,900
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Uplander and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Passenger and cargo room
- All-wheel drive
Cons
- Fuel economy
- Quietness
Vehicle Highlights
Chevrolet's minivan was what GM called a "crossover sport van." Uplander used the extended-length body from Chevy's 1997-2004 Venture minivan, but received an SUV-flavored nose and grew slightly in length, wheelbase, and height. It retained a 4-speed automatic transmission, but replaced Venture's 185-hp 3.4-liter V6 with a 200-hp 3.5 V6. Uplander offered front-wheel drive in base, LS, and uplevel LT trims. All-wheel drive was available only on LT models. GM's Stabilitrak traction/antiskid control was optional on front-drive LT models. All models have antilock 4-wheel disc brakes. Front side airbags with head and torso protection were available, but full-length curtain side airbags were not. Every Uplander came with OnStar assistance, air conditioning, power windows and locks, and rear DVD entertainment. Also standard were 2nd-row bucket seats, 17-inch wheels, sliding rear side doors, and 3-row seating for seven. Power sliding doors were available. The 3rd-row seat was a 50/50 split bench that folded flat above the cargo floor. All 2nd- and 3rd-row seats could be removed. A standard roof-rail system offered optional snap-on storage modules. A remote starting system that operates from the keyfob was also available. Uplander shared its basic design with the Buick Terraza, Pontiac SV6, and Saturn Relay.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Chevrolet Uplander LT FWD Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 10 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 57 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Uplander. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Uplander.
Year to Year Changes
2006 Chevrolet Uplander:
A shorter-length model and available side airbags for 2nd-row passengers marked 2006 for Chevrolet's minivan. Uplander also was slated to receive a 235-hp 3.9-liter V6 as an option during the model year. Chevy has said, however, this engine would debut in 2007 models.
2007 Chevrolet Uplander:
Chevrolet gave its minivans more power but took away all-wheel-drive models for 2007. A 240-hp 3.9-liter V6 replaced the 2006 Uplander's 201-hp 3.5-liter V6.
2008 Chevrolet Uplander:
The 2008 Chevrolet Uplander got no major changes during its final year.
Our road test for the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Uplander includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 2005-2008 Chevrolet Uplander and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 2005-2008 Chevrolet Uplander is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Front-wheel drive models feel livelier than GM's quoted 0-60 mph time of 10.5 sec. All-wheel drive models are heavier, and therefore lazier, on takeoff. But all have adequate highway passing power. Fuel economy is mediocre at best, averaging 16.4-19.8 mpg depending on driving conditions. While no minivan is sporty, Uplander is average for the class in handling response. Body lean is prevalent, but the availability of AWD is a plus for wet or snowy conditions. Another plus is the ride. It comfortably absorbs bumps, with the load-leveling suspension (standard on AWD, optional on FWD) doing an admirable job of smoothing out the ride on the highway. Uplanders are reasonably quiet on all fronts, though more road noise intrudes in the rear of the vehicle than in the front. The interior is a mixed bag. Gauges are clear, and switchgear has an upscale feel that's vastly improved over previous GM minivans. Standard DVD entertainment is a big plus for families. Trays and drawers, though, are lined with budget-grade plastic. Aside from a lack of curtain side airbags, perhaps the biggest deficit these vans face is the setup and configuration of the cargo area. The 2nd- and 3rd-row seats do fold, but only flat atop the cargo floor. The only way to create a level loading deck is to remove the seats entirely. With the seats in place, passengers can travel in adult-size comfort in the 2nd row. The 3rd row is best left to kids. Visibility is good all the way around, aided by large exterior mirrors.
Value for the Money
Uplander has significant competitive disadvantages, namely the lack of curtain side airbags and 3rd-row seats that don't fold flat into the cargo floor. On the plus side, it rides well, has standard DVD entertainment, and keen pricing. While they are worth considering for those on a tight budget, in the long run, a better designed minivan like the Dodge Caravan or Honda Odyssey makes more sense.
Uplander has significant competitive disadvantages, namely the lack of curtain side airbags and 3rd-row seats that don't fold flat into the cargo floor. On the plus side, it rides well, has standard DVD entertainment, and keen pricing. While they are worth considering for those on a tight budget, in the long run, a better designed minivan like the Dodge Caravan or Honda Odyssey makes more sense.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Chevrolet Uplander LT FWD Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 6 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 5 | |
| Quietness | 6 | |
| Controls/Materials | 6 | |
| Interior Room | 6 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 6 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 10 | |
| Value within Class | 5 | |
| Total Score: | 57 |
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 Uplander includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chevrolet Uplander .
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.
Check-engine light:
The check engine light may come on due to failure of the EGR valve. The Delphi valve is to be replaced with a Seimens valve kit and have the PCM flashed. (2005-06)
Electrical problem:
If the OnStar system quits or won't come on (no power), but comes back to life if the fuse is removed for five minutes, the vehicle communications interface module must be replaced or else the problem will recur. (2005-06)
Electrical problem:
The PCM was being replaced for a defective chip under a voluntary emissions recall because it affected the fuel pump and EGR system. (2005)
Engine misfire:
The engine may not start, may start then quit, and/or assorted warning lights may glow because the wiring connector under the driver seat may get wet and the contacts corrode. (2005-06)
Engine noise:
A whistling noise from the 3.5L engine during acceleration is corrected by replacing the PCV tube. (2005)
Fuel gauge:
The engine may not start or may stall because the tank is empty yet the gauge shows fuel remaining, or the fuel gauge will not show full after refilling due to sulfur corrosion of the fuel level sender and if after treating with Fuel System Cleaner PLUS the problem remains, the sender may need to be replaced. (2005-06)
Horn:
The horn may require extra pressure on some spots of the steering wheel pad and softer springs are available to retrofit. (2005-06)
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 | $600 |
| Alternator | $380 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,960 |
| Brakes | $340 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $890 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $1,450 |
| Exhaust System | $650 |
| Radiator | $735 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $2,540 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $930 |
Our price chart for this generation Chevrolet Uplander details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2008 | |||
| Uplander LS | $14,000-16,000 | $12,700-14,600 | $8,500-9,800 |
| Uplander LT | $17,500-19,500 | $16,100-17,900 | $11,200-12,500 |
| 2007 | |||
| Uplander LS | $11,500-13,500 | $10,400-12,200 | $6,300-7,400 |
| Uplander LT | $14,500-17,000 | $13,200-15,500 | $9,000-10,500 |
| 2006 | |||
| Uplander LS | $9,500-12,000 | $8,600-10,800 | $4,900-6,200 |
| Uplander LT | $12,500-14,000 | $11,300-12,600 | $7,100-8,000 |
| 2005 | |||
| Uplander LT | $10,800-12,300 | $9,700-11,100 | $5,800-6,600 |
| Uplander, LS | $7,900-9,800 | $7,100-8,800 | $4,000-5,000 |
|
|
|||
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 Uplander include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 4-door van | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 121.1 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 204.0 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 72.0 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 72.0 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3838 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 136.7 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 25.0 | |
| Seating Capacity | 7 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.8 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 39.9 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 38.9 | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 38.9 | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Only one powertrain was available in Uplanders: a 3.5-liter V6 engine, mated to a 4-speed automatic transmission. This engine produced 200 horsepower and 216 lb-ft of torque in front-wheel drive models, with all-wheel drive versions having 196 horsepower and 213 lb-ft of torque. For 2007, a 240-hp 3.9-liter V6 replaces the 2006 Uplander's 201-hp 3.5-liter V6.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohv V6 | 3.5 / 213 | 196-200 | 213-216 | 4-speed automatic: 18/24 | 4-speed automatic: 18 |
| ohv V6 | 3.9 / 237 | 240 | 240 | 4-speed automatic: 18/25 | 4-speed automatic: -- |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: USA
Drive Wheels: transverse front-engine/front- or all-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Chevrolet Uplander include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 2005 Chevrolet Uplander |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 5 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 5 |
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 2005-2008 Chevrolet Uplander directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
2005 Uplander:
In a side impact crash, the rear latches on 2nd-row bucket seats may disengage. Dealer will replace the rear seat latch release lever.
2005 Uplander:
The emergency brake may not fully disengage when released, causing unintended braking while accelerating, decelerating, or coasting. Dealer will inspect the parking brake lever and replace the rear brake calipers as necessary.
2006 Uplander:
Some vehicles may have a misprinted tire and loading label that lists inaccurate capacity weights. Others may not have the label at all. Dealer will replace or add the label.
2006 Uplander:
These cargo vans were shipped without a tire and loading information label. Owners will be provided with new tire and loading information labels and certification labels. At the customer's option, a dealer can perform the installation for them.
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