New here - Own a 2004 Venture

Just bought a 2004 Venture 2 weeks ago. So far - we love it.

Seeing a lot of posts about leaky intakes, broken cams etc...

are these bugs worked out by 2004?

whats the best preventitive maintenance suggestions for these problems? other than normal oil changes and what not.

Thats about all you can do, is routine maintenance. I've heard that the newer ones, say 2002+ have far less intake gasket problems, but I don't know. I have a '99 and had to have mine repaired, but it runs great.

Change the Dexcool every year. Don't let it go 150,000 like it says you can....It doesn't... Good timely oil changes are a key. This 3.4 is a good engine, when they are running right. Good Luck....

I hope that have all the electrical mysteries fixed on the 02 model. They sure didn't on my 98.....Did you know that you can shut the radio off by turning on the windsheild wipers??? Must be a new saftey feature! :)

well - in a heavy down pour, its best to focus on the road - not the radio :) so, yeah, its a saftey feature :)

thanks for the tips. No problems what so ever with our '04.

the only thing that doesnt work is the "panic" button on the key chain

will do a search here first before i post "how to fix"

thanks again

I'd like to add to Broughy's comment , you should also keep an eye on your resivoir coolant tank and keep that level where it should be.A sudden drop, or having to constantly "top off'' the coolant is a sign of trouble. Check your oil regularly for signs of coolant intermixing and the appearance of gunk that resembles dirty mayonnaise. While it is hoped that the problems that plagued pre-2003 Venture have been taken care of, it is still a good idea to keep a vigilant eye out for signs of problems. I think that any problems that are out there should start manifesting themselves this year on the forum as owners add more mileage to their vehicles, and those problems that occur post 50K miles rear their ugly heads.It will be interesting to see as time goes on what problems if any, still plague the Venture past 2003, or what new problems crop up.