2000 Chevrolet B7

The 2000 Chevrolet B7 is a commercial bus chassis that was primarily used for school buses and shuttle buses. It was often paired with either a gasoline or diesel engine, with popular choices including the 5.7L Vortec V8 gasoline engine (around 255 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque) and the 6.5L Turbo Diesel V8. Transmission options typically included the Allison automatic transmissions, specifically the AT545. Owners often appreciated the B7’s reliability, durability, and robust chassis for heavy-duty use. However, they sometimes faced challenges related to parts availability for specific chassis components and issues related to the heavy-duty nature of the vehicle. It is a very practical vehicle, but it can be somewhat uncomfortable and unwieldy for everyday use.

Engine

5.7L Vortec V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, rough running engine, possible overheating.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket with an updated design.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Misfires, poor fuel economy, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty fuel injector.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400 per injector
  • Recalls: None Found

6.5L Turbo Diesel V8

• PMD (Pump Mounted Driver) Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Stalling, hard starting, no start condition.
  • Solution: Relocate the PMD to a cooler location (away from the injection pump) and replace it with an updated unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Cracked Cylinder Heads
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, white smoke from exhaust.
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder heads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2000 - $4000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Allison AT545

• Shifting Problems/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed shifting, slipping between gears, erratic shifting.
  • Solution: Service the transmission (fluid/filter change), repair or replace valve body, or overhaul the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (service) - $3000+ (overhaul)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering, stalling, lack of power.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle leaning to one side, rough ride, reduced load capacity.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500 per spring
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Shocks/Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive bouncing, poor handling, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the shocks/struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Wiring Harness Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, malfunctioning lights, starting issues.
  • Solution: Inspect and repair the wiring harness, replace damaged sections.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the extent of the damage
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking noise when trying to start, no start condition.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Especially in Northern Climates)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around wheel wells, undercarriage, and body panels.
  • Solution: Remove rust, repair damaged areas, and repaint.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ depending on the extent of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lighting Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Blown bulbs, malfunctioning lights, corroded sockets.
  • Solution: Replace bulbs, clean sockets, repair wiring.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: No air blowing from vents, weak airflow.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges not working properly, intermittent failures.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary: The 2000 Chevrolet B7 experiences common issues related to its age and heavy-duty application. Engine problems like intake manifold gasket failures (5.7L) and PMD failures/cracked heads (6.5L diesel) are prevalent and can range from moderate to severe in cost. Transmission problems with the Allison AT545 can also be costly. Suspension wear and electrical gremlins are also frequent. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor in maintenance and repair costs.