🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Chevrolet

Model:

Venture

Model Years Covered:

1997-2005

First Generation Years:

1997-2005

Platform:

GM U-body

👋 Introduction

Segment:

Minivan

Target Audience:

Families and individuals requiring flexible cargo and passenger space.

Key Competitors:

Dodge Grand Caravan, Plymouth Voyager, Ford Windstar, Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna.

Versatility:

Designed for passenger comfort and cargo hauling, with configurable seating.

Value Proposition:

Offered a balance of features, space, and affordability within the minivan segment.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Focus:

Owner's Information and Basic Maintenance

Additional Coverage:

Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only)

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed (Actual count not specified, but described as 'COMPLETE')

Type:

Owner's Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

Downloadable:

YES

Compatibility:

All Versions of Windows & Mac

Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader

📖 Manual Coverage

Interior Systems:

Instrument Cluster, Entertainment Systems, Climate Controls, Locks and Security, Seating and Safety Restraints

Exterior Systems:

Lights

Driver Interface:

Driver Controls

Mechanical Components:

Engine Compartment, Engine Oil, Battery, Fuel Information, Air Filter(s)

Driving Operations:

Driving

Maintenance Tasks:

Basic Maintenance, Refill Capacities

Troubleshooting Assistance:

Customer Assistance, Reporting Safety Defects (U.S. Only)

Depth:

Covers operation, basic checks, and maintenance for the average owner. Focuses on user-friendly, step-by-step instructions.

Visual Aids:

Tons of pictures and diagrams

User Skill Level:

Easy to follow for any skill level

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Printability:

All pages are printable

Binding:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Paper:

Not Applicable (Digital Download)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Payment Methods:

All Major Credit/Debit Cards, PayPal

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

3.4L V6 (3400 SFI)

Engine Code:

LA1

Horsepower Approx:

180 hp @ 5200 rpm (varies slightly by year)

Torque Approx:

205 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm (varies slightly by year)

Fuel Delivery:

Multi-Port Fuel Injection (MPFI)

Recommended Fuel:

87 Octane Unleaded Gasoline

Engine Oil Type:

SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend or Full Synthetic (refer to manual for specific viscosity and API service classification)

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 4.5 US quarts (4.3 liters) with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity)

Air Filter Part Number Example:

e.g., AC-Delco A2163C, Fram CA8008 (vehicle specific, consult manual or parts catalog)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type:

4-Speed Automatic Transaxle

Optional Transmissions:

None specified for this model generation.

Transmission Fluid Type:

Dexron-III (or Dexron-VI if backwards compatible)

Transmission Fluid Capacity:

Approximately 10.8 US quarts (10.2 liters) for refill with filter change (refer to manual for exact capacity)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approximately 199.7 inches (5072 mm)

Width:

Approximately 72.5 inches (1841 mm)

Height:

Approximately 68.9 inches (1750 mm)

Curb Weight Approx:

4,100 - 4,400 lbs (1860 - 2000 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr Approx:

5,700 - 5,900 lbs (2585 - 2676 kg) (refer to vehicle placard)

Cargo Volume Behind First Row:

Highly configurable due to removable/folding seats, estimates range from ~120 to ~160+ cubic feet.

Cargo Volume Behind Second Row:

Approximately 80-100 cubic feet (depending on seat configuration).

Cargo Volume Behind Third Row:

Approximately 20-30 cubic feet (depending on seat configuration).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver Rating Example:

4-Star (for models equipped with airbags and seatbelts properly used).

NHTSA Frontal Impact Passenger Rating Example:

4-Star (for models equipped with airbags and seatbelts properly used).

IIHS Crash Test Performance:

Mixed results across model years and specific test configurations, consult IIHS archives for detailed reports.

ABS Brakes:

Available, standard on some later models/trims.

Traction Control:

Available on some higher trims or as an option.

Airbags:

Driver and front passenger airbags standard from 1997.

Seat Belt System:

Three-point seat belts for all outboard seating positions, lap belts for center seats.

Child Seat Anchors:

Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system introduced on later models/rear seats.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

AM/FM stereo with cassette and/or CD player, optional premium sound systems with multiple speakers.

Rear Seat Entertainment:

Optional rear-seat entertainment systems (like overhead video monitors with VCR or later DVD players) were available on higher trims.

Cruise Control:

Standard on most models.

Auxiliary Inputs:

Not typically available on factory systems. Aftermarket head unit upgrades are common.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used (refer to manual for exact recommendation).

Tire Rotation Interval:

Approximately every 5,000-7,500 miles.

Transmission Fluid Change Interval:

Typically every 30,000-50,000 miles, or as per severe service schedule (refer to manual).

Coolant Change Interval:

Initial change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000 miles thereafter (for extended life coolant).

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron-III Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF)

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based, 50/50 mix with distilled water (often referred to as Dex-Cool for later GM vehicles, but check manual for specific type).

Common Problems:

Head gasket failures (particularly on earlier models with the 3.4L V6), intake manifold gasket leaks, power steering pump leaks, transmission issues ( Sonnax valve body improvements sometimes recommended), window regulator failures, rear axle seal leaks.

Preventative Maintenance Focus:

Regular fluid changes, monitoring for coolant leaks, and addressing minor oil leaks promptly can prevent more serious issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

General Motors (GM)

Introduction Year:

1997

Major Updates:

Minor styling tweaks and feature updates throughout its production run, no full redesign within this generation.

Production End Year:

2005

Platform Sharing:

Shared the GM U-body platform with the Chevrolet Uplander, Pontiac Montana, Buick Terraza, and Saturn Relay (which replaced the Venture in their respective lineups).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Auto Line Up:

While not heavily awarded, the Venture was a consistent player in the highly competitive minivan segment, often praised for its utility and value.