1997 Chevrolet Express 3500
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1997 | 2 |
| 1998 | 3 |
| 1999 | 4 |
| 2000 | 4 |
| 2001 | 11 |
| 2002 | 3 |
| 2003 | 12 |
| 2004 | 16 |
| 2005 | 17 |
| 2006 | 15 |
| 2007 | 11 |
| 2008 | 11 |
| 2009 | 9 |
| 2010 | 4 |
| 2012 | 5 |
| 2013 | 1 |
| 2014 | 1 |
| 2019 | 2 |
| 2021 | 1 |
| 2024 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: suspension.
Show complaint excerpts
I WAS PICKING UP ITEMS IN A HOME DEPOT PARKING LOT, WHEN THE BRAKES WENT TO THE FLOOR, AND I DISCOVERED THE BRAKE LINES TO THE REAR HAD RUSTED THROUGH AND EMPTIED OUT ALL THE BRAKE FLUID.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120104
1 of 2 total reports mentions: service brakes, hydraulic.
Show complaint excerpts
I WAS PICKING UP ITEMS IN A HOME DEPOT PARKING LOT, WHEN THE BRAKES WENT TO THE FLOOR, AND I DISCOVERED THE BRAKE LINES TO THE REAR HAD RUSTED THROUGH AND EMPTIED OUT ALL THE BRAKE FLUID.
NHTSA ODI report, 20120104
1 of 2 total reports mentions: engine.
Show complaint excerpts
I SEEM TO BE EXPERIENCING THE EXACT KIND OF IGNITION SWITCH MALFUNCTION THAT HAS BEEN THE CAUSE OF THE MASSIVE GM RECALL THIS YEAR. THE ONLY PROBLEM IS THAT THE RECALL DOESN'T SEEM TO GO BACK TO 1997.
NHTSA ODI report, 20141123
1 of 2 total reports mentions: electrical system.
Show complaint excerpts
I SEEM TO BE EXPERIENCING THE EXACT KIND OF IGNITION SWITCH MALFUNCTION THAT HAS BEEN THE CAUSE OF THE MASSIVE GM RECALL THIS YEAR. THE ONLY PROBLEM IS THAT THE RECALL DOESN'T SEEM TO GO BACK TO 1997.
NHTSA ODI report, 20141123
SAFETY TIMELINE
No recalls on file for this model year.
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1997 Chevrolet Express 3500 — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for suspension issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for service brakes, hydraulic issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for engine issues (1 reports on file for this year).
FAQ
Is the 1997 Chevrolet Express 3500 reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1997 Chevrolet Express 3500?
The most-reported component is suspension, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1997 Chevrolet Express 3500 have?
No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.