Chevrolet S-10 problems
The Chevrolet S-10 is a compact pickup truck produced by Chevrolet. It was the first domestically-built compact pickup of the big three American automakers. When it was first introduced as a "quarter-ton pickup" in 1981 for the 1982 model year, the GMC version was known as the S-15 and later renamed the GMC Sonoma. A high-performance version of the latter was released in 1991, called "Syclone." The pickup was also sold by Isuzu as the Hombre from 1996 through 2000, but only in North America. There was also an SUV version, the Chevrolet S-10 Blazer/GMC S-15 Jimmy. An electric version was leased as a fleet vehicle in 1997 and 1998. These models are sometimes internally referred to as the S/T series to denote two and four wheel drive models respectively (similar to the full size Chevrolet C/K trucks) despite all versions being badged with 'S' nomenclature.
In North America, the S-series was replaced by the Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon, and Isuzu i-Series in 2004.
The S-Series ended production in Brazil in 2012, being replaced by the Chevrolet Colorado, but still with the name S-10.
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Chevrolet S-10 model years
Common Chevrolet S-10 problems
The Chevrolet S-10 Pickup, produced from 1994 to 2004, is known for several common problems that have been reported by its owners. The most frequently reported issues are related to the engine, transmission, heater core, distributor, and fuel system.
- High and Reverse Gears Gone: This issue is also related to the transmission and is commonly reported in the 2002 model year. The average cost to fix this problem is around $1,800, with an average mileage of 76,000 miles. This problem is characterized by a loss of high gear and reverse, making the vehicle difficult to drive.
- Faulty Heater Core: The heater core is a common problem in the second-generation S-10 Pickup, particularly in the 1994-2004 model years. The heater core can become clogged or leak, leading to a lack of heat or a sweet smell in the cabin. Replacing the heater core requires removing the dash, steering column, and heater box, making it a challenging repair for DIYers.
- Distributor Problems: The distributor is a common source of issues in the S-10 Pickup, with symptoms such as engine misfires, difficulty starting, and a check engine light. The most common causes of distributor problems are a bad distributor cap and rotor or worn internal parts. Replacing the distributor can resolve these issues.
- Fuel System Issues: The fuel system, including the fuel pump and fuel level sensor, can also be problematic in the S-10 Pickup. The fuel level sensor, located in the fuel tank, can cause an erratic fuel gauge and inaccurate fuel level readings. Replacing the fuel level sensor requires removing the fuel tank, which can be a difficult task for DIYers.
- These are some of the most common problems reported by Chevrolet S-10 Pickup owners. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent some of these issues, but it's essential to be aware of the potential problems and their symptoms to address them promptly.
Why did Chevy stop making s10s?
Chevrolet discontinued the S10 pickup truck in 2004. This was 22 years after its first launch in 1982. It was replaced largely for the same reason that a lot of modern vehicles are: fluctuating trends of the ever-changing automotive industry and changing consumer demands.
Why is my Chevy S10 having trouble starting?
Electrical System Failures
Common issues include a dead or weak battery, corroded battery terminals, or a malfunctioning starter motor. A damaged ignition switch or faulty wiring can also disrupt the electrical flow, preventing your vehicle from starting.
What engine does an S-10 have?
Engine choices for the Chevrolet compact pickup truck consisted of a 120-horsepower 2.2-liter four-cylinder and a 4.3-liter six-cylinder engine generating 180 horsepower. With the V-6 engine, the S-10 is offered with both two-wheel and four-wheel drivetrain systems.
What transmission does a S-10 have?
Automatic variants were equipped with either a 4L60 transmission, or a 4L60E transmission (depending on the year). Both gearboxes were extremely capable, but time and mileage can take their toll, resulting in many Chevrolet S-10 transmission problems.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet S-10 years
We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet S-10 cars and compiled the top 3 most problematic Chevrolet S-10 model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet S-10 model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet S-10 years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chevrolet S-10 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet S-10 , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Visibility problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet S-10 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by S-10 model years
A total of 442 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by S-10 model years
There were a total of 38 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by S-10 model years
There were a total of 287 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by S-10 model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2961 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet S-10 . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet S-10 vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chevrolet S-10 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-11
- Date Complaint: 2020-06-30
- VIN: 1GCCT19W2S8
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: IDLES ROUGH IN NEUTRAL, RPM JUMPS FROM 1,000 RUNS HIGH AND KEEPS GOING TO 7,000 RPM I SHUT IT OFF CAUSE IT WOULD STAY AT 6,000 RPM.. THEN SHUT DOWN IT'S SELF AND NOT WANT START UP AGAIN I'VE REPLACE A LOT OF PARTS BUT THIS IS ALSO MY 5TH MOTOR IN THIS TRUCK...
Chevrolet S-10 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2019-05-28
- VIN: 1GCCS19Z4S8
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TAKATA INFLATORS--AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON AND STAYS ON EVEN AFTER I HAD ALREADY HAD IT RESET,THE DOME LIGHT BLOWS FUSES MORE THAN IT SHOULD SOMETIMES 3-4 TIMES A MONTH,THE BLINKERS ACT FUNNY SOMETIMES AND THE SEAT BELTS HANG UP AND U HAVE TO PULL ON THEM A FEW TIMES TO GET THEM TO RELEASE SO YOU CAN BUCKLE THEM,THE TRANSMISSION GRINDS WHEN YOU PUT IT INTO REVERSE,THE CLUTCH FAN CAME APART AND I HAD TO REPLACE IT AND MOST OF THIS HAPPENED WHEN I WAS SITTING STILL I HAVE THE RECALL#'S(N970033--N980043/NHTSA#98V150
Chevrolet S-10 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-16
- Date Complaint: 2018-07-09
- VIN: 1GCCS1943T8
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: MY TRUCK IS NOT RUNNING AT ALL FOR THE MOMENT.
Chevrolet S-10 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-03
- Date Complaint: 2018-04-25
- VIN: 1GCCS19Z4S8
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL DOES NOT LINE UP WITH FRONT WHEEL. PASSENGER SIDE REAR WHEEL IS INWARD APPROXIMATELY 1 TO 2 INCHES. DRIVERS SIDE REAR WHEEL LINE UP PERFECTLY WITH THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE WHEEL LOOKING FROM FRONT TO BACK AND VICE VERSA. I WAS INFORMED THAT THIS PROBLEM COULD BE CORRECTED BY INSTALLING AN ADJUSTABLE PANHARD BAR IF I COULD FIND ONE TO FIT.
Chevrolet S-10 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-12
- Date Complaint: 2018-03-13
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GCCS19W5T8
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS INVOLVED IN A TRAFFIC COLLISION IN WHICH MY BRAKES FAILED TO STOP MY VEHICLE. WHEN I PRESSED THE BRAKES DURING A SUDDEN STOP, THE BRAKES STARTED TO SLOW DOWN MY TRUCK BUT THEN THE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY DOWN TO THE FLOOR WITH A RUBBING NOISE AND MY TRUCK KEPT TRAVELING UNTIL I HIT THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME.
Chevrolet S-10 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-12
- Date Complaint: 2017-10-03
- VIN: 1GCCS19W0T8
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 CHEVROLET S10. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE ABS MALFUNCTIONED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ABS ENGAGED INDEPENDENTLY, AND PULLED THE VEHICLE TO THE LEFT. FURTHERMORE, THE VEHICLE LOST BRAKE FUNCTIONALITY COMPLETELY. GILCREST CHEVROLET BUICK GMC IN TACOMA, WASHINGTON WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THE VEHICLE NEEDED TO BE TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKES HAD BEEN SERVICED BY THE DEALER PRIOR TO THIS FAILURE, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL ON THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT CITED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 99V193000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) AS A POSSIBLE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 64,160.
Chevrolet S-10 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2016-05-22
- Date Complaint: 2016-06-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GCCT19W2SK
- Components: AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 CHEVROLET S10. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE BRAKES FAILED TO RESPOND AND THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A TREE. THE ANTI LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED PRIOR TO THE FAILURE AND THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 69,000. UPDATED 07/28/16*LJ
Chevrolet S-10 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-08
- Date Complaint: 2016-06-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1GCCS19X6TK
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT WOULDN'T LATCH. DRIVING AND SMELLED SMOKE. SAW SMOKE COMING FROM UNDER DRIVERS SIDE DASH. STOPPED AND SAW MELTED WIRES. SEATBELT INDICATOR LIGHT WENT OUT.
Chevrolet S-10 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-25
- Date Complaint: 2016-04-29
- VIN: 1GCCS14Z3RK
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: HARD BRAKE PEDAL, VEHICLE WAS MOVING ON A CITY STREET, BRAKING. ALL R/F BRAKING COMPONENTS CONTRIBUTED TO INCIDENT. POSSIBLY RECALL 991006000 WAS NEVER EXERCISED.
Chevrolet S-10 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-06
- Date Complaint: 2014-09-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: STEERING,AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE ACCIDENT WAS ALMOST HEAD ON MAINLY ON THE PASSENGER SIDE. THE IMPACT WAS HARD THE AIR BAGS WENT OFF IN THE OTHER CAR BUT NEITHER ONE OF OURS WENT OFF. FOR ABOUT A YEAR PRIOR TO THE ACCIDENT THE TRUCK WOULD STALL AT RANDOM TIMES. *TR
Chevrolet S-10 1996
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2014-03-18
- Components: STEERING,POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: FOR YEARS MY CHEVY S-10 1996 2WD TRUCK WOULD SUDDENLY SHUT OFF ON THE ROAD OFTEN AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS. CHEVY LOOKED AT THE TRUCK MANY TIMES AND ALWAYS SAID THEY COULDN'T DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. ONE TIME THEY TALKED ME INTO A BRAND NEW TRANSMISSION AT 36100 MILES. THEY DIDN'T HONOR THE WARRANTY EVEN THOUGH THEY SAID THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS THE SHUTOFF PROBLEM AND HAPPENED BEFORE THE 36K WARRANTY LIMIT. THAT COST ME NEARLY 4000 DOLLARS. THEY TRUCK CONTINUED TO SHUT ITSELF OFF WHILE DRIVING FOR YEARS. IT WASN'T TILL A MECHANIC NOT AFFILIATED WITH GM TOLD ME TO STOP USING MORE THAN ONE KEY ON MY KEYCHAIN. THIS GM IGNITION RECALL GOES WAY BEYOND 2005 AND COBALTS. IT GOES BACK TO EARLY 90'S S-10 TRUCKS. NOW WE SHOULD KNOW WHY GM NEVER ACCEPTED RESPONSIBILITY FOR MY TRUCK AND DROPPED THE S-10 IN THE MID 2000'S. *TR
Chevrolet S-10 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2013-12-20
- Date Complaint: 2013-12-22
- VIN: 1GCDT14Z7R8
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WAS DRIVING MY TRUCK DOWN MY DRIVEWAY WHEN I FELT THE BRAKE PEDAL DROP TO THE FLOOR. I QUICKLY PUMPED THE PEDAL BUT IT KEPT GOING TO THE FLOOR BOARD. I STOPPED BARELY AND SAW FLUID DRIPPING FROM UNDER NEATH THE TRUCK. HAD A MECHANIC CHECK IT AND FOUND THE BRAKE LINES ARE ALL RUSTED OUT AND JUST BLEW APART WITH NO WARNING! VERY DANGEROUS! *TR
Chevrolet S-10 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-29
- Date Complaint: 2013-03-30
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1GCCS1441TK
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE LADY TURNED IN FRONT OF ME AND I TBONED HER. *TR
Chevrolet S-10 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2011-09-25
- Date Complaint: 2012-03-13
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1994 CHEVROLET S10 BLAZER. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE ENGINE DAMAGE DONE BY TOW COMPANY. *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED SHE ADVISED THE TOW COMPANY, THAT WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS DROPPED OFF AT THE REPAIR SHOP, TO INFORM THEM NOT TO TURN ON THE ENGINE BEFORE DRAINING OFF SOME OF THE OIL. THE CONSUMER STATED THE TOW COMPANY DID NOT COMPLY WITH HER REQUEST, AND THEREFORE, WHEN THE ENGINE WAS TURNED ON, IT DESTROYED THE PISTON RODS.
Chevrolet S-10 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2011-06-22
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 CHEVROLET S-10. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS MALFUNCTIONED AND FAILED TO FUNCTION WHILE DRIVING IN INCLEMENT WEATHER. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO ADVISED HIM THAT THE MOTOR HAD FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 162,000.
Latest negative Chevrolet S-10 car reviews
Latest positive Chevrolet S-10 car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1994
I bought my Chevy S10 for $1000 dollars at 200k miles and it's been a great first vehicle. I used it to learn how to drive manual and it's still going strong. The little 2.2l 4 cylinder can move this truck pretty quick on the city streets, but I wouldn't recommend it for constant use on interstate highways. The gas mileage is great, insurance is cheap and it has maintained great reliability. The only part I have a problem with is the ignition module on top of the steering column under the dash, as it will go out about once or twice a year, but as soon as I did it once, it's a quick swap and the part only costs about $8. My truck has been beaten up a bit from previous owners and had me grind the gears while learning how to drive it, but it's still as strong as my dad's was when he had his. If I was to get my child a first vehicle, a manual 2.2l S10 would be first choice for its reliability, tolerance to abuse, and the great gas mileage.
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Vehicle year: 1994
Congratulations on owning your first truck with your dad! It sounds like you have a great little truck that is very dependable and has a bit of zip to it. Despite being a 1994 model, it has held up very well. Although it may be rusty and primarily used for work, it hauls very well. However, during the winter, it may handle poorly without weight in the bed due to the rear being too light. Additionally, changing the starter may be a bit of a challenge as the manual suggests removing the exhaust or motor. Overall, it sounds like you have a reliable and useful truck that you and your dad can enjoy together.
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Vehicle year: 1994
I've owned this vehicle for about a year now and I'm happy to report that I haven't had any major problems with it. It's got a quick 4.3 litre engine that really gets after it. I've only had a few minor issues, like having to replace a radiator hose and dealing with a cracked exhaust pipe. But since I took off the muffler, it's been running great and has earned the nickname 'the green machine'.
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Vehicle year: 1995
Make sure to keep up with maintenance using Lucas Oil additive and change the oil every 5,000 miles with good quality oil. This truck is built to last! The Bahama Blue over Black paint job from the factory is really cool. The T Vortex V-6 engine is a powerhouse. Even with just shy of 300,000 miles, this truck runs just as well as it did when I bought it new. I have had to replace the u-joints 8 times, but I just replaced the shocks at 275,000 miles.
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Vehicle year: 1996
This truck is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and fun ride. My 1996 ss with stock zq8 suspension and a modified vortec v6 has been a pleasure to drive. Despite some minor challenges with dialing in the supercharger with my other mods, I have found it to be fast, fun, and dependable. Additionally, the interior is well-organized and adds to the overall appeal of the vehicle.
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet S-10?
Pablo Daugherty 2025-08-14
Vehicle year: 1995
Hello there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my S10 truck. It's been with me since 2008 and it's still running strong even after 100000 miles! I've found that taking care of it has really paid off, and it's been a reliable companion for my daily 80-mile round trip to work. I'm proud to say that I'm getting 30mpg, which is great for my wallet and the environment. The only major issue I've had was with the water pump, but regular oil changes and tune ups have kept it running smoothly. I do have some rust on the lower cab, but that's to be expected living in NE Ohio with all the salt on the roads. Overall, I'm really happy with my S10 and I'm looking forward to hitting the 200000 mile club before the end of the year!
Judge Klocko 2025-08-08
Vehicle year: 1995
Hi there! When I first tried to drive this truck off the lot, I put it in reverse and let out the clutch, but I heard the gears grinding. I went back in and told the dealer that there was something wrong with the transmission. However, he assured me that it was normal and that I just had to wait 6 seconds after putting it in reverse before letting out on the clutch. Although that was a bit frustrating, I must say that other than the head gasket going at about 85,000 miles, the truck has been very reliable. It can be a bit of a handful to drive, especially around sharp turns and exit ramps at highway speeds. Thanks for listening!
Shaun Macejkovic 2025-07-22
Vehicle year: 1996
The 4.3 V6 models of my second s10 have a severe lack of power, which is a known issue with the 4 cylinder. However, the problem lies with the prehistoric overhead valve design that GM still uses in nearly all their vehicles, despite other manufacturers moving to overhead cam design. It is important to note that if the previous owner did not change their oil every 2000 miles or sooner, the lifters may mess up by 100,000 miles. In such cases, the only solution would be to invest $500 into the engine or buy a new one.
Kurtis Friesen 2025-06-15
Vehicle year: 1996
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my trucks. My first truck was a 4 cyl manual s-10 that I owned for a year with no problems. My second one was a 1996 4.3 v6 LS that needed a rebuilt transmission. I purchased another one in '98 and, unfortunately, I have had to replace several parts such as the starter, turn signal flasher, drive shaft, AC compressor, dryer, water pump, tensioner arm, and power booster. Whenever I bring it in for service, the mechanic is never surprised. I believe that a $20,000 truck should be more reliable than the s-10. I have contacted General Motors several times about the reliability of this truck, but unfortunately, they have ignored all of my correspondence. Thank you for listening to my experience.
Roscoe Hirthe 2025-05-26
Vehicle year: 1995
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with my truck. Over the past 3 years, I've put about 14k miles on it, bringing the total to 74k. While I've had to replace a few parts, including 2 O2 sensors, the alternator, the EGR valve, the exhaust system, the spider injector system, the ball joints, and 2 tires, I'm still hopeful that it will continue to serve me well. I have noticed some minor issues, such as plastic interior rattling and rusting on the bottom of the doors due to poor drainage, but overall, I'm satisfied with my purchase. Although it does leak from the front and rear differentials and the power steering, I'm confident that I can address these issues with the help of a trusted mechanic. While I was initially hoping to get 100k miles out of it, I'm still happy with my decision to buy this truck. Thanks for listening!