2007 Chevrolet Express 3500

The 2007 Chevrolet Express 3500 is a full-size van popular for commercial use, often used as a cargo van, passenger van, or cutaway chassis for various applications. Engine options for the 2007 model year included a 4.3L V6 (around 195 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque), a 4.8L V8 (around 295 hp and 305 lb-ft of torque), a 5.3L V8 (around 310 hp and 335 lb-ft of torque) and a 6.0L V8 (around 300 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque). Transmission options are primarily the 4L60-E and 4L80-E 4-speed automatic transmissions, though some models may have a 6-speed automatic (typically later in the model year or in specific configurations). Owners appreciate the van’s cargo capacity, reliability, and ease of maintenance. Common dislikes include fuel economy, ride quality, and some common mechanical issues.

Engine

4.3L V6

• No Known Common Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

4.8L V8

• No Known Common Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, spark plug fouling, rough idling, and potential engine damage. These issues are often related to the AFM system which deactivates cylinders to improve fuel economy.
  • Solution: Disabling the AFM system (using an AFM disabler device or a custom tune) or replacing the AFM lifters with non-AFM lifters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ for AFM Disabler, $2000 - $4000+ for lifter replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• No Known Common Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: N/A
  • Solution: N/A
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: N/A
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60-E 4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifting between gears, especially 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd. Transmission slipping under load.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Sometimes a valve body replacement can address shifting issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 for valve body, $1800 - $3500+ for rebuild/replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

4L80-E 4-Speed Automatic

• Harsh Shifting/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Delayed or harsh shifting between gears, especially 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd. Transmission slipping under load.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Sometimes a valve body replacement can address shifting issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 for valve body, $1800 - $3500+ for rebuild/replacement
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sagging, especially when loaded. Broken or cracked leaf springs. Poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Consider upgrading to heavier-duty springs if the van is frequently used for heavy loads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800 per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Steering wander or looseness. Uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Intermittent or complete failure of the instrument cluster. Gauges may stop working or display incorrect readings.
  • Solution: Replace or repair the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power door locks failing to operate, or operating erratically.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 per door
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Around Wheel Wells and Rocker Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the lower body panels, especially around the rear wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Repair or replace rusted panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Headliner Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: The headliner fabric detaching from the backing and sagging down.
  • Solution: Replace the headliner.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2007 Chevrolet Express 3500 has a mix of potential issues. The 5.3L V8 engine is prone to AFM issues, which can lead to significant engine problems. Transmission issues are not uncommon in both the 4L60-E and 4L80-E models. Suspension and electrical problems are less severe but still require attention. Rust is a common issue that can be expensive to address. Overall, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, paying close attention to the engine, transmission, and body for rust. The severity and cost of the issues can range from minor repairs to major overhauls, so a pre-purchase inspection by a qualified mechanic is highly recommended.