2018 Chevrolet Express Cargo

The 2018 Chevrolet Express Cargo van is a full-size workhorse favored for its spacious cargo area, robust body-on-frame construction, and relatively simple mechanical design. It offers a good balance of utility and value. What people dislike about the vehicle is the outdated design and lack of modern features compared to competitors, along with mediocre fuel economy. Engine options include a 4.3L V6 (276 hp, 298 lb-ft of torque), a 6.0L V8 (341 hp, 373 lb-ft of torque, or 301 hp and 333 lb-ft of torque), and a 2.8L Duramax diesel (181 hp, 369 lb-ft of torque). All are paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Engine

4.3L V6

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, requiring frequent top-offs between oil changes.
  • Solution: In some cases, a PCV valve replacement may resolve the issue. More severe cases may require engine repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 (PCV Valve) - $3,000+ (Engine Work)
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• Valve Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise coming from the engine, rough running, misfires, and potentially catalytic converter damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty lifters, often requiring camshaft replacement as well.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.8L Duramax Diesel

• Fuel Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough idling, misfires, reduced power, and potential engine damage.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty fuel injectors.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (All Engines)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard or jerky shifts between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Some cases can be resolved with a transmission fluid flush and filter change. Others may require valve body repair or replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (Fluid Flush) - $1,500+ (Valve Body)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the van sitting lower than normal, reduced load-carrying capacity, and potentially a harsher ride.
  • Solution: Replacement of leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks failing to lock or unlock, or intermittent operation.
  • Solution: Replacement of the faulty door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Side Door Roller Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the side cargo door, grinding noises.
  • Solution: Replacement of the side door rollers and possibly the track.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat Belt Latch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat belts failing to latch securely or releasing unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Replacement of the seat belt latch assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary The 2018 Chevrolet Express Cargo has a mix of relatively minor and more serious issues. Engine-related problems like valve lifter failure can be costly. Electrical and suspension problems are more common and can cause general headaches, but are usually less expensive to fix. Overall, while the Express is a dependable work van, potential buyers should be aware of these common issues and factor them into their purchasing decision.