Intake gaskets leaking, upper and lower. Caused oil to be contaminated with anti freeze and anti ffreeze to be contaminated with oil. GM has since changed the gaskets to a different type of material. Mechanic stated that this problem is common with this type of vehicle.

- Columbus, IN, USA

I bought a used 1999 Chevrolet Venture with 54,500 miles on it. 7 months and 32,000 miles later, the van is at my local Chevrolet dealer with $1,650 $2,200 of engine damage, due to an intake manifold gasket failure. The vanS 3.4L engine was well-maintained, with frequent oil changes and inspections. The only warning sign that I got was that the coolant level had to be topped off about once a month. A mechanic said that the coolant loss was due to evaporation. My mechanic offered to replace the engine with a used one for $2,200. He would put a new intake manifold gasket on the replacement engine, so I would be less likely to run into the same problem again. I learned of GM technical service bulletin #03-06-01-010, with subsequent revisions appended a and B,  which describes a repair procedure for coolant leaks on 3.1L and 3.4L engines. The repair procedure is install a new design intake manifold gasket. The material used in the gasket has been changed in order to improve the sealing qualities of the gasket. When replacing the gasket, the intake manifold bolts must also be replaced and torqued to a revised specification. The new bolts will come with a pre-applied threadlocker on them. my son called Chevrolet customer assistance and spoke with john brooks, who told him that I would have to have my van evaluated by the service department of a Chevrolet dealer before he could offer any assistance. He gave me the following service number with which I could reference the call: 1-201938-040. The intake manifold leak was confirmed at the local Chevrolet dealer. The service manager estimated that the engine could be repaired for about $1,650, including parts and labor, but that he couldnT confirm the extent of the damage without getting into the engine. getting into the engine would cost $500, after which there would be no going back. he said there would be no assistance from Chevrolet, as I hadn't bought or had my vehicle serviced there.

- Roscommon, MI, USA

1999 Chevy Venture 47,827 miles had to replace intake manifold gasket. So far we are out $1027.54

- Huntington, MA, USA

The engine blew with no indication of major trouble while driving at 70 mph on interstate 5 at around 6pm. Major safety concerns with no power to the accessories, having to coast off the freeway exit and having to push the van to safety. Dealer says that it may be the cam shaft. I have read many cases of the cam shaft breaking or cracking in these vehicles, especially after having the intake manifold gasket replaced ( which I have at 45000 miles).

- Redding, CA, USA

Intake manifold gasket failed at about 64, 000 miles. Coolant was found leaking out in the rear corner of the intake. Also there were signs of coolant found in the motor oil after removing the valve covers. This repair has cost me almost $600 on a vehicle less than 4 years old. The auto repair shop that did my repair said they are changing 1 to 2 intake gaskets a week on these 3.4L V6 engines.

- Lockport, NY, USA

While traveling at any speed vehicle would stall without any indication. Dealer has been contacted, and could not duplicate problem. This was the fourth time. Manufacturer has been notified.

- Freeland, PA, USA

Temperature guage failed to show correct temperature for the engine. Engine would overheat without driver's knowledge & vehicle would stall out.

- Spearfish, SD, USA

Vehicle has quit on highway while in passing lane and heavy traffic almost, causing major accidents.

- Rochester, NY, USA