The 2020 Chevrolet Express lasts around 200,000 miles, with some average transmission and brake wear issues reported. At $30,680 to $37,990, it’s cheaper than many other vans, making it a good choice for shoppers on a budget.
Is the 2020 Chevrolet Express a Good Used Van?
- Overall Rating 7/10 – 2020 is a good year for the Chevrolet Express since it can haul a lot of cargo and has low running costs. Owner reviews praise the strong engines, massive cargo capacity, along with the high towing capacity.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 6/10 – Interior materials are very simple and durable, the seats are comfortable on long trips, and the cargo space is also excellent.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2020 Express van. Avoid models from 2013 since they have engine problems, while 2014–2022 are all better.
- Performance 7/10 – All of the engine choices offer average performance, but the towing capacity is better than a lot of other vans on the market.
- Safety 6/10 – The 2020 Express earns 3 out of 5 stars in government crash tests, and comes standard with OnStar and a rearview camera. Optional upgrades include a forward collision alert system along with lane departure warning.
- Gas Mileage 7/10 – Fuel economy is fine for a van at up to 20 MPG, giving 620 miles of range from the 31 gallon tank. Gas costs are close to other vans at $378 per month.
- Value 8/10 – The 2020 Chevy Express is a good value since it’s cheaper than many other large vans on the market, while also offering reasonable depreciation rates as it ages.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Chevy Express?
- Car and Driver rates the 2020 Chevy Express at 6.5/10 and likes the diesel engine option, but doesn’t enjoy the very outdated stereo system.
- Edmunds rates the Chevy Express at 3.7/5, enjoying the high towing capacity for a van, but doesn’t like that the interior is outdated.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Express a 4.2/5, praising the powerful engines available, but owners don’t like that it’s missing the latest safety features.
What Common Problems Does the 2020 Chevrolet Express Have?
Common problems reported on the 2020 Chevrolet Express include rough gear changes, chipping paint, and excessive brake wear. Overall, these problems are similar to other full size vans on the market, but some of the repair costs are lower due to the relatively cheap parts.
Rough gear changes are the most widespread complaint from 2020 Express van owners at roughly 35,000 miles. There are some transmission controller issues, which show up as the van gets older. Replacing the transmission controller costs around $550, depending on local labor rates.
Chipping paint has been reported within the first 5,000 miles, especially on the front bumper and grille. The vertical design on the front of the van is prone to getting rock chips. Some people use touch-up paint to fill in some chips for around $75, while others repaint affected panels at a cost of around $850.
Excessive brake wear has also been mentioned by 2020 Chevy Express owners at around 10,000 miles. If you do use your van to haul a lot of cargo or tow trailers, then the brakes will wear out quicker. Replacing the brake pads costs around $250, while a new set of rotors is an additional $500.
There is only one recall on the 2020 Chevy Express, which is better than other full size vans on the market. The recall covers a tire failure, which may break. Chevrolet will replace the tires on affected models for free.
How Long Will the 2020 Chevrolet Express Last?
A well-maintained 2020 Chevy Express can last around 200,000 miles, which is similar to other vans like the Mercedes Sprinter. Regular annual maintenance costs are similar to other large vans, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $857 per year.
As a used 2020 Express van reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history report, owners should be prepared to replace the ignition switch for $150, the transmission oil pan gasket costing $250, along with the timing belt tensioner, which costs around $850.
How Is the Technology?
The standard entertainment technology is extremely basic, and only has a simple two-speaker stereo system with a 3.5mm AUX jack. Optional upgrades include a 6.5-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth and a more powerful stereo.
Standard safety technology is also worse than some competitors and only includes a backup camera. There’s an optional forward collision alert, blind spot monitoring, and lane departure warning system.
Is the 2020 Chevrolet Express a Good Value?
Yes, the 2020 Chevy Express is a good value since it offers a lot of room for passengers or cargo, while also being affordable to run. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $30,680 to $37,990, making it less than a Ford Transit or Ram ProMaster. When new, the price range was $33,795 to $39,795. Depreciation is similar to other vans, losing about 7% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Chevy Express?
There are two main models of the 2020 Chevy Express offered from the entry-level LS to the more well-equipped LT. It’s also offered with a standard or extended wheelbase version. All express models come with rear-wheel drive.
LS is the entry-level model with:
- Equipped with durable 16-inch steel wheels for resilience.
- Includes both front and rear air conditioning for passenger comfort.
- Comes with the convenience of power-operated windows and locks.
- Features a passenger-side 60/40 split swing-out door for easy access.
- Integrated technology includes a rearview camera and access to GM’s OnStar services.
- Basic audio enjoyment is provided through a two-speaker system with an auxiliary jack.
- Option to upgrade to the 3500 or 3500 Extended, which incorporates additional features like a tilting steering wheel and cruise control for enhanced driving comfort.
LT is a step up, adding:
- Enhancements include stylish front and rear chrome bumpers.
- Offers the ease of remote door locks for quick access and keyless entry.
- Interior comfort is upgraded with full-floor carpeting throughout.
- Driving assistance is enriched with features like cruise control, and safety alerts for forward collision and lane departure.
- The comfort of steering is improved with a tilting wheel feature.
- Optional technology upgrades include a 6.5-inch touchscreen equipped with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, a CD player, and a USB port for multimedia and assistance.
What Engines Come In the Chevy Express?
- The base engine is a 4.3-liter V6 that produces 276 horsepower and 298 lb.-ft of torque and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While its combined fuel economy is estimated at around 15 MPG. This engine offers a towing capacity of up to 7,400 pounds, suitable for light-to-medium towing needs.
- There’s also a more potent 6.0-liter V8 available, delivering 341 horsepower and 373 lb.-ft of torque. Its combined fuel economy is similar to the V6, at approximately 14 MPG. The V8’s increased power provides a noticeable improvement in acceleration and performance. This engine boasts a heightened towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds, catering to more robust hauling requirements.
- The 2.8-liter 4-cylinder Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine is another option, offering 181 horsepower and 369 lb.-ft of torque. Its combined fuel economy is around 20 MPG. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo-diesel is appreciated for its steady and reliable performance, particularly under load. The towing capacity for this engine is up to 7,000 pounds, slightly lower than the V6 and V8 but still very capable.
What Colors Does the Chevy Express Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Chevy Express?
The 2020 Chevy Express has been designed with a blend of functionality and comfort, keeping in mind the diverse needs of drivers and passengers alike, especially for those long drives or extensive usage typical of commercial vehicles. While it may not offer the high-end luxury of some passenger vehicles, it provides a level of comfort that is appreciable for a cargo van primarily built for utility purposes.
Firstly, the seating within the Chevy Express deserves a mention. The front seats are robust and supportive, with enough cushioning to make long periods of driving more bearable, and there’s enough legroom for both the driver and front passenger. However, it’s worth noting that rear passenger seating, particularly in the 12- and 15-passenger variants, is more utilitarian and best suited for short to medium-length trips. These benches are functional and durable, but they lack some of the comfort features found in more passenger-focused vehicles.
Ride comfort in the 2020 Express is generally satisfactory, considering its build and primary function as a cargo/passenger van. The suspension is tuned more for durability and load-carrying ability than outright comfort, but it manages to provide a ride that is relatively smooth and stable, especially when the vehicle is loaded. Noise insulation within the cabin is adequate, though not exceptional, allowing for a reasonably quiet environment that shields occupants from the most severe road and wind noise.
In terms of amenities, the 2020 Chevy Express offers several features aimed at enhancing comfort, such as available cruise control, power windows, and a sound system with AM/FM stereo with MP3 player. While it doesn’t have the extensive infotainment features of some competitors, the available options are enough for creating an enjoyable environment.
How Much Storage Space Does the Chevy Express Have?
In the cargo variant, the 2020 Chevy Express provides two notable wheelbase options: the regular wheelbase and the extended wheelbase. The regular wheelbase version boasts up to 239.7 cubic feet of cargo space, a generous amount for everyday utility needs. For those requiring additional space, the extended wheelbase model expands the cargo area to an even more spacious 284.4 cubic feet, catering to the needs of businesses and individuals who transport larger or more significant quantities of items.
In addition to the substantial cargo area, the Chevy Express is designed with smaller interior spaces to enhance organization and accessibility. The cabin features intelligently designed storage bins and pockets, including door-mounted compartments, a center console with a storage area, and overhead cubbies in some models. These additional storage solutions are invaluable for keeping necessary tools, documents, and personal items organized and within easy reach during transit.
Moreover, for the passenger variant of the Chevy Express, which is configured to carry a substantial number of occupants, the focus is on passenger comfort and convenience. While the cargo space is understandably less compared to the cargo version due to the seating arrangements, there’s still ample room behind the rear seats for luggage, equipment, or other cargo needs.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The Chevy Express van was introduced for the 1996 model year, and is still in production, making it one of the oldest vehicles still in production.
2015: 1500 series was discontinued, leaving only the 2500 and 3500 series models.
2016: Standard airbags on all models, and an optional Chevy MyLink stereo system offered.
2017: Four cylinder diesel engine replaces the V8 diesel, CNG removed from the lineup.
2018: New 4.3L V6 replaces the larger 4.8L V8, standard OnStar and rearview camera.
2019: Additional safety technology features added.
2020: Upgraded eight-speed automatic transmission on models with the diesel engine.
2021: A 6.0L V8 engine was introduced to replace the 6.6L V8, navigation system removed.
How Does the Chevy Express Compare to the Competition?
The 2020 Chevrolet Express is a good choice if you want an old-school full size van, although it is missing the high-roof options and more modern powertrains found on some competitors.
The Ford Transit is a popular competitor, which costs about $3,500 more. Cargo is easier to load into the back of the Ford Transit with its larger doors, while the Chevy Express has lower ownership costs. We recommend the Ford Transit since it has more features, although both are good vans for the money.
The Mercedes Sprinter is another large van, which is about $5,000 more. There’s a lot more space in the rear of the Mercedes Sprinter for either passengers or cargo, while the Chevy Express is easier to fix if anything goes wrong. We recommend the Mercedes Sprinter since it’s more practical, but it’s worth testing both out to see which you prefer.
