1997 Chevrolet Astro Engine cooling Problems
- Complaints
- 37about this part
- Share
- 10%of 360 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 63,005miles
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 37 complaints about the engine cooling of the 1997 Chevrolet Astro, 10% of the 360 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 63,005 miles. 3 a fire, according to the filers.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“My problem is that I have a 1997 Chevrolet Astro van with 63,005 miles on it and the main bearings failed. I took it my local dealer for a oil pressure drop, and they informed me that the bearings were bad. After some investigating on the internet I have found that Chevrolet may have been aware of a problem with the bearings, having issued a TSB[87-61-22]. Now that a new engine has been installed at my cost of $4600, I am looking for some help or information on how to recoup some or all of the cost. I have had all possible maintenance done and all recall work done since 1997. …”
NHTSA complaint #10021088, filed 2003-06, 63,005 miles“While driving 70 MPH vehicle commenced to lose speed. Vehicle would not accelerate more then 20-25 MPH. Consumer was able to drive the vehicle to the dealer, who informed consumer that the oxygen sensor/ EGR valve, and the catalytic converter malfunctioned. The consumer stated that the oxygen sensor/ EGR valve, and the catalytic converter melted down. The engine light was on.”
NHTSA complaint #10108989, filed 2005-02, 87,470 miles“The consumer's 1987 and 1997 Chevrolet Astro vans had faulty engine's.***no answer required***. The power windows failed, the driver's seat came loose, the rear door hatch broke and the transmission failed due to the torque converter slipping and valve body wear (90000 miles).”
NHTSA complaint #10117266, filed 2005-03, 30,000 miles“I have had a number of problems with this vehicle: both the left and right power windor motors; replace the key remote, both idler arms,front brake pad at 37,000 miles, serpentime belt, power steering pump - replaced twice, had to fix oil cooler lines twice, replaced distributor/rotor; replaced lower gasket due to intake manifold leak, and fuel pump modual. All of this was done before my car had 57,000 miles. The dealer has been very fair and repaired at low or now cost. …”
NHTSA complaint #763263, filed 2002-06“As you can see, I have had numerous problems with this van. The dealer nor Chevrolet have offered any assistance saying that after 36,000 miles they are not responsible. Obviously, there is something wrong with this car. I am a single mom and I cannot pay my car payment plus repairs every month. I cannot trade it in because I owe too much on it. If I turn it in, I do not have credit to buy another car. Can you assist me in any way? No safety defect listed.”
NHTSA complaint #727828, filed 2000-08Related service bulletins
- 10246631Sep 1, 2013Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10139019May 3, 2013This preliminary informational bulletin provides information on High Oil Pressure on Startup After Engine Replacement Concern.
- 10012145Jun 1, 2004Boom type noise during engine warm up. This service bulletin replaces 000605001a.
Engine cooling: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 3 | 5% |
| 2002 | 3 | 4% |
| 2001 | 4 | 4% |
| 2000 | 16 | 9% |
| 1999 | 10 | 8% |
| 1998 | 27 | 11% |
| 1997 | 37 | 10% |
| 1996 | 18 | 7% |
| 1995 | 28 | 6% |
| 1994 | 16 | 5% |
| 1993 | 9 | 7% |
| 1992 | 6 | 5% |
| 1991 | 2 | 2% |
| 1990 | 3 | 4% |
| 1989 | 5 | 9% |
| 1988 | 14 | 25% |
| 1987 | 3 | 10% |
Other parts of the 1997 Chevrolet Astro
67 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
62 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
53 complaintsFuel system
43 complaintsSteering
40 complaintsBody and structure
32 complaintsVehicle speed control
30 complaintsElectrical system
28 complaintsSuspension
24 complaintsAir bags
17 complaintsEquipment
16 complaintsSeat belts
15 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1997 Chevrolet Astro
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 27, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology