Chevrolet S10 pickup problems

General information about Chevrolet S10 pickup
Chevrolet S10 pickup years list
Overview of popular issues
Analysis of common problems
Сomplaints list
Recalls list

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.

photo of Chevrolet S10 pickup car production

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Common Chevrolet S10 pickup problems

The Chevrolet S10 pickup truck, produced from 1982 to 2004, has been a popular choice for drivers seeking a reliable and affordable pickup. However, like any vehicle, the S10 is not immune to problems and issues. This article explores some of the most common problems with the Chevrolet S10, based on complaints from owners and search results.

One common issue with the first-generation S10 is rust on the body and frame. This was a problem for many vehicles of this era, and the S10 was no exception. Rust on the body and frame could lead to structural damage, affecting the safety and reliability of the vehicle. Another common issue with the first-generation S10 was fuel pump failure. This could lead to the vehicle stalling or failing to start, which could be a major inconvenience and safety concern. In some cases, fuel pump failure could also lead to engine damage, which could be expensive to repair. Steering problems were also common in the first-generation S10, particularly in models produced between 1982 and 1986. This was due to issues with the steering gear, which could lead to excessive play in the steering wheel and difficulty controlling the vehicle. Engine misfires were another common problem with the first-generation S10. This could be caused by a variety of factors, including a malfunctioning fuel injector, spark plug, or ignition coil. If left untreated, engine misfires could lead to more serious engine problems, such as a blown head gasket or damaged piston. Brake system issues were also common with the first-generation S10, particularly in models produced between 1982 and 1984. This was due to issues with the master cylinder, which could lead to a loss of brake pressure and reduced stopping power.

For the second-generation S10, produced from 1994 to 2004, common problems include intermittent starting, an S10 that won’t start after sitting, an S10 that turns over but won’t start, and other issues like fuel pump problems. The heater core is also a common issue in the second-generation S10. Symptoms of a faulty heater core include a sweet smell of coolant, foggy windows, and a lack of heat from the heater. Distributor problems are also common in the second-generation S10, causing engine misfires, engine turning over but not starting, and check engine light for misfire codes P0300-P0306. The distributor cap and rotor, or worn internal parts, are common causes of distributor problems.

In summary, the Chevrolet S10 pickup truck, while a reliable and affordable choice for many drivers, is not immune to problems and issues. Rust, fuel pump failure, steering problems, engine misfires, and brake system issues are common problems with the first-generation S10. For the second-generation S10, common problems include intermittent starting, fuel pump problems, and distributor issues. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues are necessary to keep the S10 running smoothly and avoid costly repairs.

Why did GM discontinue the S10?

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 does my Chevy S10 sputter?

The most common cause of engine sputtering are issues with the fuel system. These can range from bad fuel filters, fuel pump issues, or fuel injector issues. The other possible source of the problem would be due to poor ignition - think spark plugs or ignition coil problems.

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.

Does a S10 have a 4L60E transmission?

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 S10 pickup years

We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet S10 pickup cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet S10 pickup model years:

Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet S10 pickup model years.

Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet S10 pickup years

We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:

Chevrolet S10 pickup car problems categorized by type of issue

After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet S10 pickup , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:

Tires problems
Seat belts problems
Equipment problems
Steering problems
Engine and engine cooling problems

The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet S10 pickup vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by S10 pickup model years

A total of 2 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 injuries by S10 pickup model years

There were a total of 2 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 S10 pickup model years

There were a total of 2 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 6 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet S10 pickup . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet S10 pickup vehicles.

List of Chevrolet S10 pickup complaints

Chevrolet S10 pickup 1988

Date Of Incident: 2016-01-10
Date Complaint: 2017-01-31
VIN: 1GNCT18Z5J0
Components: STEERING
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 CHEVROLET S10 PICKUP. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE STEERING COLUMN WOULD START TO WOBBLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 115,000.

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Chevrolet S10 pickup 1988

Date Of Incident: 2012-09-06
Date Complaint: 2012-09-11
Number Of Deaths: 1
VIN: 1GCBS14E4J2
Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
Summary: I AM A DETECTIVE WITH THE COUNCIL BLUFFS IOWA POLICE DEPARTMENT. THERE WAS A FATAL INCIDENT THAT OCCURRED IN WHICH THE ADULT MALE VICTIM HAD THE ENGINE RUNNING AND IN PARK. THE CARBURETOR WAS TAKEN APART AND THERE WAS A CAN OF CARBURETOR CLEANER WAS ON THE GROUND. A SINGLE BLADE OF THE COOLING FAN APPARENTLY BROKE OFF/CAME OFF OF THE FAN. THE BLADE CUT THROUGH THE PLASTIC 'PROTECTIVE' HOUSING. THE VICTIM WAS BELIEVED TO BE STANDING NEAR THE FRONT PASSENGER TIRE OR NEAR THE BATTERY (PASSENGER-SIDE HEADLIGHT AREA). A WITNESS REPORTED HEARING HIGH REVVING OF THE ENGINE AND IT WAS CONCLUDED THAT THE VICTIM WAS DOING SO MANUALLY. THE BLADE WAS FOUND RESTING ABOUT TEN FEET AWAY ON A STAIR APPROXIMATELY FOUR FEET OFF THE GROUND. THE VICTIM WAS FATALLY WOUNDED BY A DEEP CUT ACROSS THE LEFT SIDE OF HIS NECK WHERE HE LOST A SIGNIFICANT AMOUNT OF BLOOD. HIS WIFE FOUND HIM SHORTLY AFTER THE INCIDENT, MEDICS ARRIVED AND THE VICTIM WAS PRONOUNCED DEAD AT THE SCENE. PICTURES ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST. THANK YOU. *TR

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Chevrolet S10 pickup 1988

Date Of Incident: 2012-09-06
Date Complaint: 2012-09-07
Number Of Deaths: 1
VIN: 1GCBS14E4J2
Components: ENGINE
Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 CHEVROLET S10. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED WITH THE ENGINE IN OPERATION. THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE WAS PERFORMING AN UNKNOWN REPAIR WHEN ONE OF THE ENGINE COOLING FAN BLADES FRACTURED AND DISLODGED INTO THE AIR. THE BLADE THEN STRUCK THE OWNER SHARPLY IN THE NECK, IMMEDIATELY KILLING HIM. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR INSPECTED FOR THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 83,427. ...UPDATED 10/19/12 *BF THE CONTACT IS NOT THE OWNER OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT IS REPORTING THE INCIDENT ON BEHALF OF THE DECEASED FROM THE MEDICAL EXAMINER'S OFFICE. UPDATED 10/31/2012 *JS

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Chevrolet S10 pickup 1987

Date Of Incident: 2009-05-31
Date Complaint: 2009-06-29
VIN: 1GCCS14R5H2
Components: TIRES
Summary: DRIVING DOWN THE MASSACHUSETTS'S PIKE, TAKING EXIT 10 OFF IT, WENT THREW THE TOLL AND HIT A GIGANTIC POTHOLE. IT WAS ABOUT 9:30 AT NIGHT, SO IT WAS PITCH BLACK OUTSIDE WHEN TURNING ON TO THE RAMP AND NOT BEING ABLE TO SEE THE POT HOLE. A FRONT RIGHT TIRE WAS FLATTENED AND A FLAT BED TRUCK NEEDED TO COME TO BRING US 80 MILES HOME. A NEW TIRE WAS NEEDED, BOUGHT, AND PUT ON TRUCK. *TR

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Chevrolet S10 pickup 1986

Date Of Incident: 2007-07-08
Date Complaint: 2007-08-28
Number Of Injuries: 1
Crash: 1
Components: TIRES
Summary: 1986 CHEVROLET S-10 LEFT REAR TIRE FAILED CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOSE CONTROL. AFTER HITTING THE BARRIER WALL THE CONSUMERS VEHICLE FLIPPED OVER. *KB THE CONSUMER COMPLAINED OF SORENESS TO THE LEFT SIDE OF HIS NECK. OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT. *JB

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Chevrolet S10 pickup 1986

Date Of Incident: 2005-08-15
Date Complaint: 2007-02-22
Number Of Injuries: 1
Crash: 1
Components: SEAT BELTS,EQUIPMENT
Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK. IT ALLOWED ME TO HIT THE WINDSHIELD. *NM

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Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet S10 pickup

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet S10 pickup.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.

Model: Chevrolet S10 pickup 1986
Report Received Date: 2006-05-19
Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).

Model: Chevrolet S10 pickup 1987
Report Received Date: 2006-05-19
Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).

Model: Chevrolet S10 pickup 1988
Report Received Date: 2006-05-19
Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).

Model: Chevrolet S10 pickup 1991
Report Received Date: 2006-05-19
Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).

Model: Chevrolet S10 pickup 1992
Report Received Date: 2006-05-19
Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).