* Engine: The 2010 Chevy 3500 van came with different engine options (gasoline and diesel). A gasoline engine will get significantly lower MPG than a diesel. The specific engine (e.g., 6.0L gasoline, 6.6L Duramax diesel) drastically impacts fuel economy.
* Transmission: Automatic vs. manual transmission will also affect fuel economy.
* Driving conditions: City driving yields lower MPG than highway driving. Factors like terrain, speed, and even weather conditions play a role.
* Vehicle condition: Proper maintenance (tire pressure, tune-ups) impacts fuel efficiency. A poorly maintained vehicle will get lower MPG.
* Cargo weight: The heavier the load, the lower the fuel economy.
Therefore, there's no single MPG answer. To find a reasonable estimate, you should:
1. Identify the specific engine and transmission of the van. This information is usually found on the driver's side doorjamb sticker or in the owner's manual.
2. Consult the EPA fuel economy estimates for that specific configuration. The EPA website (fueleconomy.gov) is a good resource, but keep in mind that these are estimates and real-world mileage may vary.
3. Check online forums and reviews: Owners of the same van model and configuration often share their real-world MPG experiences.
Expect a range from the low teens (mpg) for a gasoline engine to potentially the mid-teens or low twenties for a diesel, but that's a broad range. Be specific about your van's configuration to get a more accurate estimate.
