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BrakesPart report

2004 Chevrolet Express Brakes Problems

Complaints
6about this part
Share
29%of 21 total for the year
Median mileage
65,000miles
Trend
Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.

NHTSA recorded 6 complaints about the brakes of the 2004 Chevrolet Express, 29% of the 21 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 65,000 miles. 2 recall campaigns on record are filed under a similar system.

Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.

Example complaints

Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.

“On june 20th, 2008 we brought our van in for a routine brake inspection and wheel alignment at 36,117 miles. We also noticed a noise in the rear when making a turn. The mechanic indicated that the brake backing plates on both sides were rusted, and the left rear backing plate was rotted to the point that it had holes in it. The mechanic indicated that the replacement parts were inexpensive, but the labor was intensive and would probably cost in the neighborhood of $600. …”

NHTSA complaint #10245517, filed 2008-10, 36,117 miles

“My anti-lock brakes activate at low speeds. We first noticed it around 37,000 miles, but now it occurs almost every time we apply the brakes at low speed at 39,000 miles. We discussed the problem with two chevy garages - both admitted that it was a common, known corrosion problem that requires either cleaning the brake sensors for approximately $200 or replacing them at a cost of approximately $460. This is a huge safety issue for us. The van drifts forward too far when we stop and we are concerned that we will either hit another car or possibly a pedestrian. …”

NHTSA complaint #10245516, filed 2008-10, 37,000 miles

“Vehicle has continued to evidence problems similar to what's described by NHTSA campaign id no. 04v452000. Power steering pump and belts have been replaced and GM dealer performed hydro boost inspection test and it passed; said no further action required. Bus has again lost power steering and brakes to cause a dangerous condition. Dealer says it is not a vehicle that recall applies to.”

NHTSA complaint #10455608, filed 2012-04, 118,000 miles

“While traveling down a steep grade while applying the brakes, a severe shaking of the steering wheel and wheels occurred. It was so severe the steering wheel shook out of my hands. Once back on level grade for a mile or so, applying the brakes didn't result in the severe shaking. From that point on while driving on any steep hill or mountain, the same thing occurs. The brake pads and rotors were replaced last year, but that has not fixed the issue.”

NHTSA complaint #10415957, filed 2011-07, 65,000 miles

“This vehicle was sold for use over US highways, as repairable condition . After going to a mechanic shop, I was advised, because of sever rust the rear leaf spring hangers were completely rusted thru, the rear axle assembly could come off or the frame could break in half, by just going over say, a railroad crossing. The mechanic said they would not repair this vehicle for use to drive on roads. I am requesting a local representative to help evaluate if this vehicle is safe to travel on Oklahoma roads.”

NHTSA complaint #11445566, filed 2021-12

Related recalls

Related service bulletins

Brakes: other model years

YearComplaintsShare of year
2021431%
2020212%
2019225%
2018218%
20171362%
2016320%
2015225%
201417%
2013627%
2012431%
2011325%
2010320%
2008321%
2007317%
200618%
2005626%
2004629%
20031119%
20021018%
2001716%
20001821%
19991218%
1998417%
1997310%
1996213%

Other parts of the 2004 Chevrolet Express

Fuel system
4 complaints
Seat belts
3 complaints
Steering
2 complaints
Body and structure
2 complaints
Air bags
1 complaints
Electrical system
1 complaints
Engine
1 complaints
Engine cooling
1 complaints
Suspension
1 complaints
Transmission and drivetrain
1 complaints
Visibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
1 complaints

← All problems reported for the 2004 Chevrolet Express

About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 30, 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