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2004 Chevrolet Venture Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

Rating: 4.28
Based on 27 Owner Reviews ▶
Eugene S | March 31, 2025
The 2004 Chevrolet Venture is a minivan, a popular choice for families needing space and versatility. Produced from 1997 to 2005 (under various names), the Venture offered a practical solution for hauling passengers and cargo. Key trims included the base, LS, and Plus models. When new, the price ranged approximately from $20,000 to $30,000. Its sliding doors and spacious interior contributed to its popularity.
The Good

The 2004 Chevrolet Venture offered a spacious and comfortable interior, appealing to families seeking practicality. Its smooth ride and adequate power were appreciated. The minivan provided good value for its price, especially on the used market. For emotional buyers, it represented family road trips and memories.

The Bad

Known weaknesses of the 2004 Chevrolet Venture include potential issues with the transmission, particularly in higher-mileage vehicles. Power door malfunctions are also common. Owners should also inspect for coolant leaks and electrical problems. Rust can be a concern in certain climates, so examine the undercarriage.

2004 Chevrolet Venture: Quick Overview

  • Engine Options: 3.4L V6
  • Horsepower: Approximately 185 hp
  • Fuel Economy: Roughly 18 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (actual figures may vary)
  • 0-60 Times: Estimated around 10-11 seconds
  • Towing Capacity: Up to 3,500 lbs when properly equipped
  • Trim-Level Features:
    • Base: Included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows and locks, and a basic audio system.
    • LS: Added features like upgraded cloth upholstery, rear air conditioning, and premium audio options.
    • Plus: Offered enhanced features such as alloy wheels, driver information center, and sometimes leather upholstery.
  • Other Key Specs:
    • Seating Capacity: Typically 7 passengers
    • Transmission: 4-speed automatic
    • Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
    • Safety: Dual front airbags, ABS (depending on trim and options)
  • Additional Notes: Trim levels could vary slightly depending on specific packages and regional availability. Consider researching specific packages for detailed option information.

2004 Chevrolet Venture Specifications

Vehicle Information
Year 2004
Make Chevrolet
Model Venture
Trim -
Style Extended
Type Van
Category Cargo Van
Manufacturing Details
Made In United States
Manufacturing City DORAVILLE
Dimensions
Doors 4-Door
Curb Weight 3838 pounds
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating 5357 pounds
Overall Height 68.10 inches
Overall Length 200.90 inches
Overall Width 72.00 inches
Wheelbase Length 120.00 inches
Standard Seating 7
Engine & Performance
Engine 3.4-L V-6 OHV 12V
Engine Size 3.4L
Engine Cylinders 6
Transmission 4-Speed Automatic
Transmission Type Automatic
Transmission Speeds 4-Speed
Drivetrain Front-Wheel Drive
Additional Features
Anti-Brake System 4-Wheel ABS
Steering Type Rack & Pinion
Pricing
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) $26,675
Invoice Price $24,141
Delivery Charges $715

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What Problems Does the 2004 Chevrolet Venture Have?

The 2004 Chevrolet Venture, like many minivans of its era, has faced its share of reported problems. One of the most common concerns is the transmission, with some owners reporting slippage, rough shifting, or complete failure, especially at higher mileage. Power sliding door malfunctions are also frequently cited, often involving the door motor or latch mechanisms.
Coolant leaks, particularly from the lower intake manifold gasket, are another known issue. Electrical problems, such as issues with the power windows, locks, and radio, have also been reported.
Recalls have addressed issues like faulty windshield wipers and potential problems with the anti-lock braking system (ABS). Long-term reliability concerns revolve around the durability of the transmission and the longevity of various electrical components. Corrosion, especially in areas prone to road salt, can also contribute to long-term issues. Owners should diligently inspect for rust, particularly on the undercarriage and around the wheel wells.
Prior model years (e.g., early 2000s) exhibited similar problems, indicating these are recurring issues across the Venture's production run. Checking the vehicle's history for completed recall work and thorough pre-purchase inspections are highly recommended.

How long will the 2004 Chevrolet Venture last?

With proper maintenance, a 2004 Chevrolet Venture can potentially reach 200,000 miles or more. However, longevity heavily depends on consistent care. Many reach 15-20 years of service. Long-term durability is often challenged by transmission wear and tear, electrical component failures, and rust. Regular fluid changes (transmission, coolant, oil) are crucial. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into major repairs. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten the vehicle's lifespan and increase the risk of costly breakdowns.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2004 Chevrolet Venture offered basic tech and entertainment features for its time. Standard models came with a basic AM/FM radio and cassette player. Higher trims often included a CD player and rear-seat audio controls, enhancing the entertainment experience for passengers.
Driver-assistance features were limited, mainly consisting of standard power steering and, depending on the trim level, cruise control. There were no advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like lane departure warning or automatic emergency braking available on this model.
Safety features included dual front airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS) as an option or standard on higher trims. Side airbags were sometimes available as an optional extra. The Venture also featured child safety locks on the rear doors.
Crash-test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) should be consulted for specific safety performance data. It's important to note that safety standards have evolved significantly since 2004, so modern vehicles generally offer superior protection in collisions.
Optional features included a sunroof, premium sound systems, and sometimes a DVD entertainment system for rear passengers. These features enhanced the comfort and convenience of the vehicle, but were not standard across all trims.

What Colors Options are Available?

Exterior Colors
Dark Blue Metallic
Light Driftwood Metallic
Summit White
Dark Cherry Metallic
Silver Metallic
Interior Colors
Medium Beige
Graphite

2004 Chevrolet Venture Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2004 Chevrolet Venture's price ranged from approximately $20,000 to $30,000, depending on the trim level and options. Today, on the used market, prices typically range from a few thousand dollars down to scrap value, heavily influenced by condition, mileage, and location. Minivans generally depreciate significantly, and the Venture is no exception. Factors affecting resale value include mechanical condition, absence of rust, and a clean title. High mileage and deferred maintenance dramatically reduce value. Limited demand for older minivans further impacts resale.

2004 Chevrolet Venture Cost of Ownership

Insurance costs for a 2004 Chevrolet Venture are relatively low due to its age and value. Fuel costs are moderate, reflecting its V6 engine and age. Maintenance and repair costs can be higher than average due to potential mechanical issues and the age of the vehicle. Parts availability is generally good. Long-term ownership costs can be unpredictable. While initial purchase price is low, potential repairs can make it costly, depending on the vehicle's condition. Overall, it is not necessarily the most economical choice for long-term ownership.

2004 Chevrolet Venture Fuel Efficiency

Fuel Type Gasoline
Fuel Capacity 25.00 gallons
City Mileage 19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage 26 miles/gallon

2004 Chevrolet Venture Safety Rating

NHTSA
Side Driver Rating
Frontal Passenger Rating
Rollover Rating
Side Rear Passenger Rating
Frontal Driver Rating
IIHS
Rear Crash Protection/Head Restraint Ratings Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test Results Poor
Side Impact Test Results Not Tested

2004 Chevrolet Venture Recalls & Defects

Latches/Locks/Linkages:doors:latch
Recall date 2004-12-22
Recall no. 04v597000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Minivans Equipped With Second-Row Bucket Seats or Captain's Chairs and A Power Sliding Door ON THE Passenger Side OF THE Vehicle, A Passenger Using THE Interior Handle TO Open THE Power Sliding Door Could BE Injured.
Consequence IF A Passenger Uses THE Interior Handle TO Open THE Power Sliding Door and Holds Onto THE Handle While IT IS Being Opened BY THE Motor, THE Passenger's ARM MAY BE Pushed Into THE Seat Back or Armrest and A Wrist or Lower ARM Injury MAY Result.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Power Sliding Door Interior Handle ON THE Passenger-Side. IF THE Vehicle IS Equipped With A Power or Manual Sliding Door ON THE Driver-Side, THE Interior Handle Will Also BE Replaced FOR Appearance Reasons. Note: Before THE Vehicle IS Serviced, GM Advises Owners TO NOT USE THE Interior Door Handle TO Open THE Door. THE Driver CAN Open and Close THE Door From Switches AT THE Driver's Position or BY Using THE Remote KEY Fob. THE Driver Should Tell Passengers TO USE THE Switch Located IN Front OF THE Door TO Open or Close IT. THE Driver Should USE THE Override Switch TO Prevent Operation OF THE Power Door BY Children or BY Others WHO ARE NOT Familiar With ITS Use. THE Owner Notification Letter Mailing Will BE Conducted IN Phases With THE First Phase Beginning ON MAY 31, 2005. THE Second Phase Mailing Began ON July 18, 2005. THE Recall Began ON MAY 31, 2005. Phase 2 Began ON July 18, 2005. Phase 3 (Final Phase) Began ON August 24, 2005, TO All Remaining Customers. Owners Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438; Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668; or Oldsmobile AT 1-800-630-6537.
Notes GM Recall NO. 04110.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Fuel System, Other:storage:tank Assembly:pressure Relief Devices
Recall date 2007-03-12
Recall no. 07e021000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators, P/Nos. Fp10020-11b1, Fp10026-11b1, and Fp10027-11b1, Sold After January 9, 2007, AS Aftermarket Equipment FOR Various Passenger Vehicles Listed Above. THE Universal Pressure Regulators (Upr) Were Produced Without AN O'ring and Retainer.
Consequence Fuel MAY Leak, Possibly Resulting IN A Fire.
Remedy Delphi Will Notify Owners and Replace THE UPR Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON April 23, 2007. Owners CAN Contact Delphi AT 877-411-8770.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Delphi Fuel Pressure Regulators and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed BY General Motors.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Equipment:other:labels
Recall date 2004-04-08
Recall no. 04v177000
Source NHTSA
Summary Certain Minivans Fail TO Conform TO THE Requirements OF Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard NO. 213, "child Restraint Systems." These Vehicles DO NOT Have Text and Formatting ON THE Warning Label Attached TO THE Available Second-Row Integral Child Restraint AS Specified BY Amendments TO THE Standard.
Consequence
Remedy Owners Will BE Provided With Replacement Labels and Installation Instructions. Owner Notification Began ON July 23, 2004. Owners Should Contact Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438 or Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668.
Notes GM Recall NO. 04022.customers CAN Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline AT 1-888-Dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Steering
Recall date 2009-02-17
Recall no. 09e005000
Source NHTSA
Summary Dorman IS Recalling 979 Steering Knuckles, Dorman P/Nos. 697-902 and 697-903, Sold Under Dorman's "OE Solutions<sup>tm</Sup>" Brand Name, and Napa P/nos. 7-8502 and 7-8503 Which Were Sold FOR Replacement USE ON THE Various Vehicles Listed Above. A Potential Material or Design Defect Could Result IN THE Steering Knuckle Breaking IN THE HUB Area.
Consequence A Broken Steering Knuckle Could Result IN Loss OF Steering Control and A Possible Crash Without Warning.
Remedy Dorman Will Notify Owners and Replace THE Defective Steering Knuckles Free OF Charge and Reimburse THE Repair Facility or Owner FOR Labor. THE Recall Began ON February 23, 2009. Owners MAY Contact Dorman's Toll-Free Hotline AT 1-800-523-2492 and Press 5.
Notes This Recall Only Pertains TO Aftermarket Dorman Steering Knuckles and HAS NO Relation TO ANY Original Equipment Installed ON Vehicles Manufactured BY General Motors Corporation.owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO <A Href=http://Www.safercar.gov>http://www.safercar.gov</a> .
Fuel System, Gasoline:storage
Recall date 2007-08-08
Recall no. 07v349000
Source NHTSA
Summary ON Certain Vehicles, Variations IN THE Manufacturing Process or Exposure TO High Ambient Temperatures MAY Lead TO Fracture OF THE Fuel Tank Inlet Check Valve (Icv).
Consequence A Fracture MAY Allow Fuel Vapors TO Pass Through and Allow Droplets OF Fuel TO Accumulate ON THE Side OF THE Fuel Tank. Fuel Leakage, IN THE Presence OF AN Ignition Source, Could Result IN A Fire.
Remedy Dealers Will Replace THE Fuel Tank. THE Recall Will BE Mailed IN Two Phases With THE First Phase Beginning ON December 4, 2007. THE Second Phase Will BE Mailed ON December 13, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Buick AT 1-866-608-8080; Chevrolet AT 1-800-630-2438; or Pontiac AT 1-800-620-7668. THE Vehicle Population Includes Buick Rendezvous and Pontiac Aztek Vehicle Built IN MAY 2003; Chevrolet Venture and Pontiac Montana Vehicles Built From June Through August 2002; and All Vehicles Registered IN Nevada, Arizona, Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Hawaii.
Notes GM Recall NO. 06230.customers MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.

2004 Chevrolet Venture Warranty

Basic
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty 36 months / 36,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired
Rust
Original warranty 72 months / 100,000 miles
Estimated remaining Expired

2004 Chevrolet Venture Insurance

Insurance for a 2004 Chevrolet Venture is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Van with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.

How Does the 2004 Chevrolet Venture Compare to Other Van?

The 2004 Chevrolet Venture competed against minivans like the Honda Odyssey, Toyota Sienna, Dodge Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country, and Ford Windstar. In terms of performance, it was adequate but not exceptional. Features were comparable to its rivals, with options for entertainment and convenience. However, reliability was a notable weakness compared to the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna, which consistently ranked higher in reliability surveys. The Dodge Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country offered more innovative seating solutions (like Stow 'n Go) in later years.
Price-wise, the Venture was often more affordable than the Odyssey and Sienna, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the lower price came at the expense of reliability and resale value.
Alternatives to consider include:
  • Honda Odyssey: Known for its reliability and resale value.
  • Toyota Sienna: Offers a smooth ride and strong reliability.
  • Dodge Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country: Provided innovative seating and affordability.
Depending on budget and priorities, the Odyssey or Sienna are generally better choices due to their superior reliability, even at a higher price point on the used market.

Ranks #74 Van

1 2023 Toyota Sienna (5.0★)
2 2023 Honda Odyssey (4.0★)
3 2001 Mazda MPV (4.0★)
4 2024 Ford E-Series Cutaway (0.0★)
5 2023 Mercedes-Benz Metris Passenger Van (0.0★)
6 2023 Chevrolet Express Passenger (0.0★)
7 2021 Nissan NV200 (3.0★)
8 2023 GMC Savana (0.0★)
9 2023 Ram ProMaster (0.0★)
10 2021 Rolls-Royce Dawn (0.0★)
11 2013 Volkswagen Routan (4.0★)
12 2007 Buick Terraza (0.0★)
74 2004 Chevrolet Venture (5.0★)

Final Verdict: Is the 2004 Chevrolet Venture a Good Van?

The 2004 Chevrolet Venture is suitable for budget-minded buyers needing a spacious minivan and willing to accept potential maintenance challenges. It's ideal for short-term use or as a temporary family vehicle. It's not generally recommended for long-term ownership due to reliability concerns. A used Venture might be worth considering if it's been meticulously maintained and thoroughly inspected by a trusted mechanic. Look for models with detailed service records and minimal rust. Given its age, buying is only advisable if the price reflects its potential maintenance needs and shorter lifespan. Compared to newer and more reliable minivans, there are better choices.

2004 Chevrolet Venture Owner Reviews

4.28
Consumer Rating, Based on 27 Consumer Reviews
Overall rating
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The Magee's on April 14, 2024

Why Chevy, Why stop making something so good?

It is April 2024 and I'm so mad at Chevy for stopping in 2005 making this van. I have a 2004. I have 255,000 miles on it. It had 77,000 on it when I purchased it in Nov 2007. Normal maintenance and love and she still rolling. I've been looking at newer vans for the longer roadtrips and such and I really hate looking while I love the one I have so much!! This van has carried 2 youngsters to and from sports. Friends. Church activities. Family activities. Although I don't necessarily have to have a van again, it's what I want. It's what I'm comfortable with. I am NOT into the SUV and they ALL look alike these days. The Venture wasn't over the top fancy and we have dearly enjoyed it. Maintaining your venture is the key!!

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danski on February 24, 2023

Would love to own a 2nd 1 but maybe the 2005

I bought mine 9yrs ago with 136,00 miles i not had any issues, it got close to 200,000 miles,still get same mpg as when new

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ADE on September 17, 2020

Runs Forever, Difficult to Work On

Bought for $1500 from a garage at around 180k miles. Needed a new alternator at time of purchase, which was installed before I came to pick it up. Have since had front brake discs resurfaced, brake lights replaced, and new headlight assemblies installed. Currently at 215k and engine is in perfect health. With a service or two I could see it reaching the half-million mark. It's a good thing the 6-cylinder LS is nigh bulletproof, because it's like playing autopart tetris when you have to go under the hood. To get the deep slope in the front profile, GM had to pack everything tight and awkward. The fusebox hangs over the battery by a prop bar, both of which have to be unbolted and moved to get access to the terminals. The gear linkage has to travel at a weird angle that will strain and eventually break the connector if you shift into specific forward gears too often, especially 1st. (Firsthand lesson. Repaired with baling wire.) Aside from a slow leak in the rack & pinion that causes occasional groaning in the power steering, the only issues are with the electronics. Sensor in the fuel pump is defunct so the fuel guage only ever says 100% full or "omg you're running on fumes". A faulty sensor in one wheel hub also makes the ABS warning lamp stay on. The parts and labor to fix these would cost as much or more than what I paid for the whole vehicle. (Mechanics hate working on this thing as much as I do.) Instead I just pour in an extra bottle of PSF every few months and make a point to keep the tank topped up every couple trips.

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diverdownFL on November 9, 2019

A solid, reliable car.

I bought this car in 2010 with 96,000 miles. Here we are 9 years later and it just passed 335,000 miles and still running solid. Its life has been a mix of multiple trips several states away, a few winters of severe cold and snow, several years of a 100+ mile daily commute, and mostly being parked outdoors. It has carried 7 passengers on one day, and been packed full of tools the next. It has never had a major engine or transmission issue....no rust or structural issues either. I've been told to get rid of it for a newer car, and sometimes a new car sounds nice. But at this point I want to see how long I can hold on to this one. It hasn't let me down yet!

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Gomer on July 21, 2019

Most reliable car I have ever owned

Since the vehicle has turned 250k miles we have taken it from MN to NJ twice, OK and MT. I run synthetic high mileage oil which I change when the onboard system tells me to. And except for a sensor here or external device there I have had nothing serious go wrong since I bought it used in 2013 with 135k miles. The body has encountered major rust from MN winter's but the under carriage is still strong. My wife says she going to bury it in the back yard or use it for her own tombstone. As of right right now it has 358k miles and still looking to go a long time yet.

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Robert on June 17, 2019

Very Dependable

This has been a great vehicle for our family for long trips on vacations as well as around town trips. It is very roomy for a minivan.

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HappyDriver on March 6, 2019

Great Van. Shame on Chevy for ending them.

Perfect van for toting things around:people, dogs, “stuff”. Great engine, It is 15 years old, has 115,000 miles on it and only recently needed a new transmission. I gladly got a new one at AAMCO, (half the price of the dealer), and it runs great. I expect another 100,000 miles, with sane driving and 3,000 mile oil and lube. If Chevrolet was still making this model, I’d be buying a new one!

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oldirongearhead on July 10, 2018

have been my best running car to this date

I love my venture van it has always been reliable. It has always been there when i needed it and It even runs better than when I first bought it. It is still going at 231K

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Bob's Van.. on May 25, 2018

great vehicle.........

I have a 2005 Venture, bought on 2010 with only 27,000 miles, now has 55,000. Only issue I have is the body rust ahead of the left rear wheel. Every one I've seen have the same problem. GM body man said it's a design flaw with these vehicles. Chevy should fix these. What do you think?.

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Wittyjny on December 4, 2017

I've owned my last one for 9 years!

Car is great for large families or remove the seats can move a household! Great on gas and reliability!

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Eugene S

Eugene is an automotive enthusiast with over 15 years of experience in the used car market. As a writer at VINCheck.info, he brings deep industry insight and a passion for cars, helping readers make smart, informed decisions. Eugene has written hundreds of used car reviews and is known for breaking down complex automotive topics into clear, actionable advice. Over the years, he has driven and worked on a wide range of vehicles—starting with tuning street cars in his early days and eventually focusing on performance upgrades and reliability improvements. Today, he specializes in evaluating used vehicles through the lens of real-world ownership and enthusiast needs. A longtime fan of Porsche, Eugene especially appreciates vehicles that blend durability with driving enjoyment.