Target Audience:
Families, fleet operators
Key Competitors:
Dodge Grand Caravan/Voyager, Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna
Van Strengths:
Spacious interior, comfortable ride, flexible seating configurations
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides DIY mechanics and owners with factory-level repair and maintenance information
Engine:
3.4L V6 (L32), 3.8L V6 (L36, Supercharged in later years for Park Avenue/Bonneville, not Venture)
Transmission:
4-Speed Automatic (4T65-E)
Drivetrain:
Front-Wheel Drive (FWD)
Suspension:
Front MacPherson struts, Rear torsion beam axle with trailing arms
Brakes:
Front disc, Rear drum (ABS optional)
Steering:
Power assisted rack and pinion
Electrical:
All electrical systems, lighting, instruments, HVAC controls, body controls
Body:
Body panels, doors, interior trim, glass, chassis, frame
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (including front and rear systems)
Safety Systems:
Airbags, seat belts, ABS (if equipped)
Diagnostic Troubleshooting:
Extensive diagnostic procedures, DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) interpretation
Maintenance:
Routine maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks
Engine Repair:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head removal/installation, timing component replacement
Transmission Repair:
Transmission removal/installation, internal component repair, torque converter service
Brake Service:
Brake pad/shoe replacement, rotor/drum service, caliper/wheel cylinder repair, ABS bleeding
Suspension Steering Repair:
Strut/shock absorber replacement, ball joint/tie rod end replacement, power steering pump/rack repair
Electrical Diagnostics:
Wiring harness repair, component testing, sensor diagnosis
HVAC Repair:
A/C system recharge, component replacement (compressor, condenser, evaporator), heater core service
Body Panel Repair:
Door hinge adjustment, panel alignment, rust repair, interior trim removal/installation
Troubleshooting Guides:
Step-by-step troubleshooting for common and uncommon issues
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to complete engine/transmission rebuilds)
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostics with component testing and system analysis
Repair Detail:
Detailed step-by-step instructions with high-quality photos and exploded diagrams
Wiring Diagrams:
Includes detailed electrical wiring schematics for all systems
Specifications:
Includes all necessary torque specifications, clearances, and fluid capacities
Engine Type:
3.4L SOHC V6
Displacement:
3.4 Liters (207 cubic inches)
Bore X Stroke:
3.50 in x 3.54 in (88.9 mm x 89.9 mm)
Horsepower Peak:
180 hp @ 4700 rpm (approx.)
Torque Peak:
205 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (approx.)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Port Fuel Injection (SFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended)
Oil Type Specification:
API SG or SH, ILSAC GF-2 or GF-3; SAE 5W-30
Oil Capacity:
4.5 US Quarts (4.3 Liters) with filter change
NHTSA Rollover Resistance:
3-star rating (indicative, actual ratings may vary by year/configuration)
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (Optional)
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seat Belts:
Three-point seat belts for all occupants, front seat belt pretensioners
Oil Change Interval:
Every 3,000-7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for specifics)
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on inspection
Spark Plug Replacement:
Typically around 100,000 miles for platinum-tipped spark plugs (verify with manual)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 30,000-50,000 miles, or under severe usage conditions
Coolant Type:
GM Recommended (Green color, ethylene glycol based - check manual for specific P/N)
Engine Mounts:
Premature wear of engine mounts, leading to vibration and noise
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Leaking intake manifold gaskets (especially the upper plastic manifold on some V6 engines) leading to coolant/vacuum leaks
Transmission Harsh Shifting:
Harsh shifting or delayed engagement in the 4T65-E transmission, often related to solenoid issues or fluid degradation
Window Motors Regulators:
Failures of power window motors and regulators
Rear Climate Control:
Issues with rear climate control systems not functioning correctly
Manufacturer:
Chevrolet (Division of General Motors)
Mid Cycle Refresh:
Minor updates around 2001-2002 (e.g., updated interior styling, new transmissions/engines in some GM platforms)
Assembly Location:
Doraville, Georgia, USA; and Tarrytown, New York, USA
Platform Sharing:
Shared platform with Pontiac Montana (later), Oldsmobile Silhouette, and Buick GL8 (China)
