2017 Chevrolet Express Review: Reasonably Reliable Full Size Van With Average Ownership Costs

Alex Showalter
Jun 15, 2023

The 2017 Chevrolet Express lasts around 250,000 miles with some engine starting issues along with sliding door issues reported. At $26,900 to $45,000, it’s pricey, but is a good choice if you want an old-school cargo van that holds up to the test of time.

VehicleHistory Image
likeFilled The Good
The towing capacity is higher than competitors, the V8 engines are strong and the cabin has durable materials.
dislikeFilled The Bad
There’s no high roof option, the interior is outdated and it’s not very fuel efficient.

Is the 2017 Chevrolet Express a Good Used Van?

  • Overall Rating 7/10 – 2017 is a good year for the Chevy Express, although it’s really focused more on commercial customers. Owner reviews praise the cargo space, reliable engines, along with the decent handling for a large van.
  • Interior, Comfort & Cargo 6/10 – Interior materials are relatively utilitarian, the seats are comfortable, cargo space is fantastic with plenty of room to move lots of items.
  • Reliability 8/10 – There are no major problems reported on the 2017 Express. Avoid models from 2013 which have some engine issues, while 20142022 are all good choices.
  • Performance 7/10 – Performance is similar to other large vans, while the towing capacity is great at up to 10,000 pounds.
  • Safety 6/10 – The 2017 Express is reasonably safe, earning 3 out of 5 stars in government crash tests. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera system.
  • Gas Mileage 6/10 – Fuel economy is okay at up to 20 MPG, giving 620 miles of range from the 31 gallon tank. Gas costs are $54 higher than average at $427 per month.
  • Value 8/10 – The 2017 Express is cheaper than some other large vans with reasonable depreciation rates, making it a decent value as it ages.

Positive Owner Reviews

accountCircle Penny E
City express. Enough room for anyone who has a small business.
It rides a little rough, but not long after we bought it the transmission went out and it spend three weeks at the dealership having a new one put in. Other than those two things it is a fairly nice vehicle. I didn't believe that I was going to enjoy it at first as much as I do. I use it to haul my product to and from festivals and it is perfect for that.
accountCircle daniel S
It gets decent gas mileage.
I really dislike how bumpy it is. It doesn't take bumps well at all. The air conditioning kicks a*s in it.
accountCircle tracey C
A fun, versatile yet handy~ in the way of travel transport vehicle.
It is a very easy to drive and is very good handling. The dealership (Chevrolet) was extremely helpful and the have given me great service maintenance. It does not need much though. It gets great gas mileage in town and highway. The only drawback is you have to get used to not using a rear view mirror, there is none, as well as no back window. It rides well and has a great stereo system. It was very affordable, also!
accountCircle Rosa R
Everyone fits in my van, we all love it.
It has a huge cargo, and can load up to 11 people. It is great for travel, but it is bad on fuel, it can take up to one 100 dollars to fill it up. Gut my family likes that we can all go in one car together to visit everyone else. We all love this van, it is a great family van until the next fill up.
accountCircle Charles R
It handles well on ice and snow.
I can vet everything I need I it for the job storage room for tools and equipment plus ladder space and room left over for people.
accountCircle Jennifer S
That we turn wide and we need other to let us into traffic at times.
I love the room and captains chairs for each person. I thought it would be hard to drive with the size, but it really isn't. I do wish it had a sliding door on each side.
accountCircle Chris M
It has a lot of space for stuff.
The van is good for business moving stuff. Its gets great gas mileage. Small to get into and out of tight spaces. Accommodates all of my bands sound equipment.
accountCircle Glenn H
The 2017 Chevrolet 3500 passenger class - a jack of all trades.
My 2017 Chevrolet express 3500 passenger series van may just be the best vehicle I have owned. I am more of motorcycle rider but as far as four-wheels go, it has been the most reliable vehicle I have owned. The tuning for the overall engine performance and maneuverability, both on-road and on highway, has kept the fuel usage incredibly low. In comparison to the 2004 Chevrolet express 3500 cargo, the alterations I have made by removing the internal padding and passenger air conditioning system actually make it a better commercial cargo asset than the cargo model. While there were many recalled modifications the manufacturer needed to make to the 2004 model, the 2017 model's restructured design has kept me needing little repair at all and has offered a 4,800 lb carrying capacity vehicle with about 2 more feet of room for commercial transportation needs. Even without a carrying load it is a smooth ride with sound electrical work and a much more responsive and reliable computer. I am hoping the future years of the model do not overdue or take away too much to what they accomplished to the 2017.

Negative Owner Reviews

accountCircle Sean R
Cargo van … do not buy poor quality.
It has rough ride its poorly made bad starter gone at 35k miles bad braking system also gone at 35k miles. Has transmission issues slips regularly. It's a basic vehicle no features.. For a newer truck it's very simple but very cheap. Low headroom and very uncomfortable.
accountCircle Joann V
Overall it nice and roomy.
The outside mirror still leave a blind spot, the foot board on the side of the driver is not made for heavy people - my daughter who is 285 lbs. Has made the foot board creak, the seat belts get locked very easy, and the one on the driver is big enough for overweight people like my daughter. I also wish there was passenger doors on both sides.

What Do Critics Say About the Chevy Express?

  • Consumer Reports says the 2017 Chevy Express is a great choice if you’re looking for a commercial van, with good owner satisfaction ratings.
  • Edmunds rates the Express at 4.2/5, enjoying the strong V8 engines, but doesn’t like the lack of a high-roof cargo option.
  • Kelley Blue Book users give the Express a 4.2/5, praising the high towing capacity when properly equipped, but owners don’t like the poor fuel economy.

What Common Problems Does the 2017 Chevrolet Express Have?

Common problems found on the 2017 Chevy Express include the engine failing to start, issues with the sliding door, along with premature brake wear. Overall, these problems are similar to other large vans on the market, leading to average repair bills as the Express ages.

The engine failing to start is one of the most widespread complaints on the 2017 Express at around 25,000 miles. Usually the problem is caused by an issue with the starter relay. Replacing the part is fairly easy, costing around $50. There are also some reports of dead batteries, although those are considered consumable, and have to be replaced as they age.

Issues with the sliding door have also been mentioned on some 2017 Express models in the first 10,000 miles. Often if you have loose cargo in the back of the van that hits the sliding door, it can throw it off the track. Having the door realigned and fixed usually costs around $150, depending on local labor rates.

Premature brake wear is another problem on the 2017 Chevy Express, showing up at around 15,000 miles. When you carry a lot of weight in the van, the brakes tend to wear down faster than average. Replacing the brakes costs around $350 for pads, and an additional $500 for new rotors if they have been worn down.

There are six recalls on the 2017 Chevy Express, which is worse than some other vans. The most serious recall covers climate control wiring, which can short out in the headliner. Chevrolet will replace the wiring on affected models for free. Other recalls cover window glass, along with the rearview camera.

How Long Will the 2017 Chevrolet Express Last?

A well-maintained 2017 Chevrolet Express can last around 250,000 miles, which is similar to other cargo vans like the Ford Transit. Regular annual maintenance costs are slightly higher than some other vans on the market, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $559 per year.

As a used 2017 Express reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the brake hose for $175, suspension ball joints costing $300, along with the fuel injectors which cost $500.

accountCircle Ashley s

No the only problem is that it eats up a lot of my gas. Often times I spend a majority of my time at the gas station.

accountCircle Valerie L

No problems at all so far. We have been quite happy with it and have pit 20,000 miles on it just since Dec. 21st.

How Is the Technology?

Standard entertainment technology is very basic, only offering a two-speaker audio system with an AM/FM stereo and 3.5mm AUX input. Optional upgrades include a 6.5-inch screen and a more powerful stereo.

There’s no standard safety technology offered on the 2017 Express Van. Optional upgrades include a rearview camera.

Is the 2017 Chevrolet Express a Good Value?

Yes, the 2017 Chevy Express is a good value if you’re looking for a van for hauling cargo or a lot of passengers. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $26,900 to $45,000, making it similar in price to the Nissan NV or GMC Savana. When new, the price range was $30,745 to $47,550. Depreciation is similar to other vans, losing about 8% of its current value per year.

What are the Different Models of the Chevy Express?

There are two main models of the 2017 Chevy Express offered for 2017, from the entry-level LS through to the more luxurious LT. The Express is offered with rear-wheel drive standard, while 4-wheel drive is available as an optional upgrade.

LS is the entry-level model with:

  • Available in two load ratings: 2500 and 3500.
  • Standard 16-inch steel wheels.
  • 60/40-split opening passenger door.
  • 12-passenger seating (2-3-3-4 with a 50/50-split back row).
  • Air-conditioning.
  • Power windows and locks.
  • Driver information display.
  • Vinyl upholstery and floor covering.
  • GM’s OnStar emergency communications.
  • Two-speaker audio system with AM/FM stereo and auxiliary port.
  • Tilt-only steering wheel and cruise control (standard on 3500, optional for 2500).
  • Extended-wheelbase 3500 option includes rear air-conditioning.
  • Optional features include power-adjustable heated mirrors, rear parking sensors, heavy-duty locking, rear differential, remote vehicle start, and more.
  • Can be ordered in an eight-passenger (2-3-3) configuration.
  • Paratransit package available for 3500 extended-wheelbase models, removing the rear seat and reverting to vinyl floor coverings.

LT is a step-up, adding:

  • Available in two load ratings: 2500 and 3500.
  • Front and rear chrome bumpers.
  • Remote locking and unlocking.
  • Cloth upholstery.
  • Carpeted flooring.
  • Rear air-conditioning.
  • Tilt-only steering wheel and cruise control added to the 2500 model.
  • Many LT features are available as options on LS models.
  • Optional 6.5-inch touchscreen with integrated rearview camera display, Bluetooth, CD player, USB port, and navigation system.
  • Optional rearview camera with display located in the rearview mirror.
  • Other stand-alone options include power-adjustable heated mirrors, rear parking sensors, a heavy-duty locking rear differential, remote vehicle start, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, power-adjustable front seats, satellite radio, and a 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot.
  • Can be ordered in a 15-passenger (2-3-3-3-4 seating) configuration for the extended-wheelbase model.
  • Can be ordered in an eight-passenger (2-3-3) configuration for standard-wheelbase 2500 and 3500 models.
  • Paratransit package available for 3500 extended-wheelbase models, removing the rear seat and reverting to vinyl floor coverings.

What Engines Come In the Chevy Express?

  • 4.8L V8: This engine produces 285 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, it offers decent power for everyday driving and light towing. The combined fuel economy stands at around 14 mpg. When properly equipped, the towing capacity for this engine is up to 7,400 pounds.
  • 6.0L V8: The bigger V8 generates 342 horsepower and 373 lb-ft of torque. This engine also uses the 6-speed automatic transmission. It provides more robust acceleration and a higher towing capacity, up to 10,000 pounds. The combined fuel economy is slightly lower at around 13 mpg due to its increased performance.
  • 2.8L Turbo-Diesel I4: For those valuing fuel efficiency, this engine offers 181 horsepower and a notable 369 lb-ft of torque. The turbo-diesel is also has a 6-speed automatic transmission. Its fuel economy is significantly better, at around 20 mpg combined. The towing capacity for the turbo-diesel engine is similar to the 4.8L V8, at about 7,000 pounds.

What Colors Does the Chevy Express Come In?

How Comfortable Is the Chevy Express?

The 2017 Chevrolet Express delivers a comfort level that’s relatively good for a full-size van. The seating configuration can vary, depending on whether it’s the cargo or passenger version. The cargo variant typically has two front seats, providing ample head and leg room, along with firm and supportive seating surfaces.

The passenger variant can seat up to 15 people across multiple rows, with each seat designed for maximum comfort during long rides. While the Express may lack some of the luxury amenities found in high-end SUVs or minivans, the cabin is spacious and provides a satisfactory level of comfort for all occupants.

However, it’s important to note that as a utilitarian vehicle, the 2017 Chevy Express places more emphasis on functionality than luxury. It does its job effectively, offering a comfortable and practical option for those needing a large and reliable means of transportation.

How Much Storage Space Does the Chevy Express Have?

The 2017 Chevrolet Express is a full-size van with plenty of cargo room. It offers two main configurations for space: the standard wheelbase model and the extended wheelbase model. For the standard wheelbase, the cargo space is a generous 239.7 cubic feet. This is large enough to comfortably fit standard size appliances, such as a refrigerator or a washing machine. Larger and longer items, like pieces of lumber or pipes, would also easily fit within this space.

If you require even more room, the extended wheelbase model might be your preference. This configuration boosts cargo capacity up to an expansive 284.4 cubic feet. This additional room could accommodate larger pieces of furniture, such as a full-size couch or a dining room set. Both models, therefore, provide substantial space for personal or commercial hauling needs. Whether you are transporting equipment for your business or helping a friend move, the 2017 Chevy Express promises ample storage for a wide variety of items.

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What Are the Differences Between Years?

The first generation of the Chevy Express was introduced in 1996, and is still in production.

2015: 1500 series of the van removed from the lineup, only leaving the 2500 and 3500 models.

2016: Standard airbags along with optional MyLink stereo system.

2017: Diesel V8 was replaced by a four-cylinder diesel engine, CNG engine no longer offered.

2018: 4.8L V8 replaced by a 4.3L V6, OnStar and Rearview cameras are standard.

2019: Lane departure warning and forward collision alert offered.

2020: New eight-speed transmission for the diesel engine model.

2021: New 6.0L V8 replaces the 6.6L V8 engine, optional navigation system no longer offered.

How Does the Chevy Express Compare to the Competition?

The Chevrolet Express is a good choice if you’re in the market for a full size van to haul lots of passengers or cargo, although it’s not the most technically-advanced can on the market.

The Ford Transit is another large van which is available for around $3,000 more. Standard technology is more advanced in the Ford Transit, while ownership costs are lower in the Chevy Express. We recommend the Chevy Express van since it has fewer problems, although both are nice large vans.

The Chevy Silverado is a pickup truck competitor, which costs about $5,000 more. Off-road performance is better in the Chevy Silverado, while the Chevy Express is a more reliable choice for the 2017 model year. We recommend the Chevy Express if you want a van, otherwise the Silverado is a good choice for hauling with a truck.

Ranks #5 Fullsize Vans by Owners

1
car
5
2
car
4.67
5
Tie
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4.29

Do Owners Recommend the Chevrolet Express?

accountCircle Ashley s

Yes, it runs pretty well and gives me little to know problems. I purchased it off of someone and got it for a good price.

accountCircle Karen C

Yes. It doesn't have a lot of bells and whistles but it has been very reliable and capable of towing our travel trailer all around the country, up and down the mountains.

accountCircle Mike D

Yes because it takes me wherever I need to go and I only pump gas once every two weeks. I never had to take it to a mechanic.

Owner Reviews

accountCircle marck H on June 1, 2021
I like it, has all the qualities you looked for.
The vehicle has not presented problems its technology is very good it is also profitable the payments are very comforting it is one of the best vehicles I have had, in addition to being spacious and comfortable for the whole family, it is all-terrain, unique, above all it has no faults in nowhere.
accountCircle Linda c on May 30, 2021
Good for work or play but it is a bit squirrelly in the handling as you exceed 55.
I like the gas mileage. I loved the price. The seats are not so comfortable. The air conditioning seems to fade out and in a lot.
accountCircle Glenn H on May 17, 2021
The 2017 Chevrolet 3500 passenger class - a jack of all trades.
My 2017 Chevrolet express 3500 passenger series van may just be the best vehicle I have owned. I am more of motorcycle rider but as far as four-wheels go, it has been the most reliable vehicle I have owned. The tuning for the overall engine performance and maneuverability, both on-road and on highway, has kept the fuel usage incredibly low. In comparison to the 2004 Chevrolet express 3500 cargo, the alterations I have made by removing the internal padding and passenger air conditioning system actually make it a better commercial cargo asset than the cargo model. While there were many recalled modifications the manufacturer needed to make to the 2004 model, the 2017 model's restructured design has kept me needing little repair at all and has offered a 4,800 lb carrying capacity vehicle with about 2 more feet of room for commercial transportation needs. Even without a carrying load it is a smooth ride with sound electrical work and a much more responsive and reliable computer. I am hoping the future years of the model do not overdue or take away too much to what they accomplished to the 2017.
accountCircle Carolyn P on March 28, 2021
I think that it is great on gas.
Chronic small malfunctions keep me from loving my van. The dealer service center want to keep the vehicle for several days without giving me a loaner. This is my only vehicle so I must rent or get rides from family and friends in order to get anything fixed.
accountCircle luke H on January 29, 2021
Great car that will always get the job done.
This vehicle is reliable. I seem to have to get the breakers checked out more than usual, but that is not a huge problem since this vehicle is so good. It gets decent gas mileage and I can take so many people at once. It is so comfortable, and I love all of the features it has to offer. This is a great vehicle.
accountCircle Rosa R on December 7, 2020
Everyone fits in my van, we all love it.
It has a huge cargo, and can load up to 11 people. It is great for travel, but it is bad on fuel, it can take up to one 100 dollars to fill it up. Gut my family likes that we can all go in one car together to visit everyone else. We all love this van, it is a great family van until the next fill up.
accountCircle Janet P on November 29, 2020
Great vehicle for transporting dogs.
I use this vehicle to transport my four dogs to dog events. I have removed three of the seats to make room for dog crates. I really like the way it drives and it is better on gas mileage than the motorhome I had before this. I have had this vehicle for eight months and have had no problems at all with it. I bought it used from a car dealership. The only complaint I have is that the running boards are not wide enough. I had a suburban before that had much wider running boards.
accountCircle Joann V on October 12, 2020
Overall it nice and roomy.
The outside mirror still leave a blind spot, the foot board on the side of the driver is not made for heavy people - my daughter who is 285 lbs. Has made the foot board creak, the seat belts get locked very easy, and the one on the driver is big enough for overweight people like my daughter. I also wish there was passenger doors on both sides.
accountCircle Penny E on August 25, 2020
City express. Enough room for anyone who has a small business.
It rides a little rough, but not long after we bought it the transmission went out and it spend three weeks at the dealership having a new one put in. Other than those two things it is a fairly nice vehicle. I didn't believe that I was going to enjoy it at first as much as I do. I use it to haul my product to and from festivals and it is perfect for that.
accountCircle tracey C on August 24, 2020
A fun, versatile yet handy~ in the way of travel transport vehicle.
It is a very easy to drive and is very good handling. The dealership (Chevrolet) was extremely helpful and the have given me great service maintenance. It does not need much though. It gets great gas mileage in town and highway. The only drawback is you have to get used to not using a rear view mirror, there is none, as well as no back window. It rides well and has a great stereo system. It was very affordable, also!
accountCircle Sean R on May 3, 2020
Cargo van … do not buy poor quality.
It has rough ride its poorly made bad starter gone at 35k miles bad braking system also gone at 35k miles. Has transmission issues slips regularly. It's a basic vehicle no features.. For a newer truck it's very simple but very cheap. Low headroom and very uncomfortable.
accountCircle Sharon S on April 12, 2020
We love our Chevy express.
Roomy and I love it. Fits my entire family and our pets comfortably. I love how the middle seat lays all the way back and the last row comes out. We have camped in this van and it was great. It drives great and you cannot feel the road when you are driving.
accountCircle Tracy C on May 27, 2019
Convenience, economical, easy handling; economical with amenities.
This is a very economical and low maintenance vehicle. Great stereo and lots of room for transporting anything and everything. The only maintenance I have done is oil changes, tire rotations. There is only seating for 2. It has no fold down seating, that is the only real drawback.
accountCircle daniel S on April 7, 2019
It gets decent gas mileage.
I really dislike how bumpy it is. It doesn't take bumps well at all. The air conditioning kicks a*s in it.
accountCircle Charles R on February 23, 2019
It handles well on ice and snow.
I can vet everything I need I it for the job storage room for tools and equipment plus ladder space and room left over for people.
accountCircle Chris M on February 20, 2019
It has a lot of space for stuff.
The van is good for business moving stuff. Its gets great gas mileage. Small to get into and out of tight spaces. Accommodates all of my bands sound equipment.
accountCircle Jennifer S on December 11, 2018
That we turn wide and we need other to let us into traffic at times.
I love the room and captains chairs for each person. I thought it would be hard to drive with the size, but it really isn't. I do wish it had a sliding door on each side.
avatar Alex Showalter
Alex is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. He brings a wealth of knowledge to Vehicle History as our Staff Writer and has written hundreds of used car reviews helping buyers make informed purchasing decisions. He is a member of the Automotive Press Association, and keeps up-to-date on the latest changes in the industry. Over the years, he has driven hundreds of cars, working on many of them. His mechanical experience evolved from modifying off-road trucks as a teen to focusing on automotive electrical systems as he got older. He now specializes in reviewing used cars as an automotive journalist. Some of his favorite brands are Toyota and BMW. The Toyota Land Cruiser is one of his favorite vehicles of all time since they’re built to last forever and can go anywhere. One of his current cars is a Lexus LX570, built on the same platform as the 200-series Land Cruiser, but it’s a better value in the used market.