1997 Chevrolet VAN
Only 27 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 27 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
- Complaints
- 27
- Recalls
- 0
- Investigations
- 0
- Top problem
- —
Too few to rank
None on file
None on file
Not enough data
Complaints per year
1997: 27 complaints
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1983 | 4 |
| 1991 | 4 |
| 1992 | 8 |
| 1993 | 19 |
| 1994 | 11 |
| 1995 | 20 |
| 1996 | 28 |
| 1997 | 27 |
| 1998 | 16 |
| 1999 | 15 |
| 2000 | 22 |
| 2001 | 14 |
| 2002 | 11 |
Known problem areas
Only 27 complaints on file for this model year — too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
Power train
7 of 27 total reports mention: power train, most commonly citing automatic transmission and manual transmission.
Show complaint excerpts
Consumer stated vehicle experienced a coolant leak.(Consumer no longer ownes vehicle)
NHTSA ODI report, 2002-09-17
Also filed under Engine and engine cooling and exterior lighting
Equipment
4 of 27 total reports mention: equipment, most commonly citing air conditioner.
Structure
4 of 27 total reports mention: structure, most commonly citing hinge and attachments and door.
Show complaint excerpts
Side doors have no gust locks to hold them open, allowing doors to close on passenger's ankles/legs.
NHTSA ODI report, 1997-08-28
Side doors have no gust locks, allowing doors to close on passenger's legs/ankles.
NHTSA ODI report, 1997-08-28
Service brakes
4 of 27 total reports mention: service brakes, most commonly citing hydraulic.
Engine and engine cooling
4 of 27 total reports mention: engine and engine cooling, most commonly citing gasoline and emission control.
Safety timeline
No recalls on file for this model year.
0 recalls · 0 investigations · oldest first
To check one car, enter its VIN on the NHTSA recall page. Check a VIN →
Buy-smart checklist
1997 Chevrolet VAN — pre-purchase inspection
Inspect
- Power train: 7 reports on file for this year.
- Equipment: 4 reports on file for this year.
- Structure: 4 reports on file for this year.
FAQ
- Is the 1997 Chevrolet VAN 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 VAN?
- The most-reported component is power train, accounting for 26% of complaints on file.
- How many recalls does the 1997 Chevrolet VAN have?
- No recalls are on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-11-01 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.