2019 Chevrolet Express Cargo

The 2019 Chevrolet Express Cargo van is a full-size workhorse known for its robust capabilities and straightforward design. It was offered with a few engine options, including a 4.3L LV1 EcoTec3 V6 producing 276 hp and 298 lb-ft of torque, a 6.0L L96 Vortec V8 producing 341 hp and 373 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.8L LWN Duramax Turbo-Diesel producing 181 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The 4.3L V6 was paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, while the 6.0L V8 was paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The 2.8L Diesel was paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Owners generally appreciate the van’s reliability, spacious cargo area, and towing capacity. However, some common complaints include its outdated design, poor fuel economy, and basic interior features.

Engine

4.3L LV1 EcoTec3 V6

• Active Fuel Management (AFM) Lifter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, check engine light illuminated. Often caused by AFM lifters collapsing and damaging the camshaft.
  • Solution: Replace the damaged lifters and camshaft. Consider deleting the AFM system to prevent future issues.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L L96 Vortec V8

• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: Excessive oil consumption, blue smoke from the exhaust, low oil pressure.
  • Solution: Depending on the severity, solutions range from replacing valve seals to piston rings, or even a full engine rebuild.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $5,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.8L LWN Duramax Turbo-Diesel

• Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) System Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, reduced engine power, DEF level sensor malfunction, faulty DEF injector.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace the faulty component of the DEF system. This could include the DEF level sensor, DEF injector, or NOx sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

6-Speed Automatic (6L90 - paired with 6.0L V8)

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Abrupt or jerky shifts between gears, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush and filter change. If the problem persists, inspect the valve body for wear or damage, and rebuild or replace the valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

8-Speed Automatic (8L90 - paired with 4.3L V6 & 2.8L Diesel)

• Torque Converter Shudder
  • Description/Symptoms: A shuddering or vibration felt at highway speeds, often while under light acceleration.
  • Solution: Perform a transmission fluid flush using the updated Mobil 1 Synthetic LV ATF HP fluid. In some cases, torque converter replacement may be necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Sagging/Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sitting lower than normal, especially when loaded. Squeaking or groaning noises from the rear suspension. Visible cracks or breakage in the leaf springs.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Consider upgrading to heavier-duty leaf springs if the van is frequently used for heavy loads.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000+ per spring
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining overnight or within a few days, requiring frequent jump-starts.
  • Solution: Perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain. Common causes include aftermarket accessories, faulty door switches, or a malfunctioning Body Control Module (BCM).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the draw
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Lock Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door locks that do not work, or only work intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the door lock actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150-$300
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Sliding Door Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the sliding door, sticking, binding, or unusual noises.
  • Solution: Lubricate the door tracks and rollers. Inspect the rollers and replace them if worn. Adjust the door latch and alignment if necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $500+ depending on the severity.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor only working on certain speeds or not working at all.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2019 Chevrolet Express Cargo can be a reliable work van, but prospective buyers should be aware of the common issues. Engine problems, especially those related to AFM in the 4.3L V6 and oil consumption in the 6.0L V8, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, such as harsh shifting and torque converter shudder, are also prevalent. Suspension and electrical issues, while generally less expensive to fix, can still be inconvenient. Addressing these potential problems proactively through regular maintenance can help extend the life of the vehicle.