1998 Chevrolet S10 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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Common 1998 Chevrolet S10 problems
The Chevrolet S10, produced in 1998, is a popular compact pickup truck known for its reliability and durability. However, like any vehicle, it is prone to certain common issues and problems. This article will explore these issues in detail, based on complaints from owners of this car.
One of the most common issues with the 1998 Chevrolet S10 is transmission failure, which can lead to the vehicle becoming inoperable. This problem can manifest in various ways, such as slipping, difficulty shifting, or a complete failure of the transmission. In many cases, transmission failure can be traced back to a lack of regular maintenance or the use of low-quality transmission fluid. To avoid this issue, it is essential to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule and use high-quality transmission fluid.
Another common issue with the 1998 Chevrolet S10 is brake system problems. This can include issues with the brake pads, rotors, and calipers, which can lead to decreased stopping power, increased stopping distance, and noise or vibration when braking. In some cases, brake system problems can also lead to issues with the ABS system, such as warning lights on the dashboard. To avoid these issues, it is essential to regularly inspect and maintain the brake system, including checking the brake pads and rotors for wear and replacing them as needed.
Electrical problems are also common with the 1998 Chevrolet S10. This can include issues with the alternator, starter, or battery, which can lead to the vehicle failing to start or stalling while driving. In some cases, electrical problems can also lead to issues with the fuel system or transmission. To avoid these issues, it is essential to regularly inspect and maintain the electrical system, including checking the battery and alternator for signs of wear and replacing them as needed.
Fuel system problems are another common issue with the 1998 Chevrolet S10. This can include issues with the fuel pump, fuel filter, or fuel injectors, which can lead to poor fuel economy, rough running, and stalling. In some cases, fuel system problems can also lead to engine damage or failure. To avoid these issues, it is essential to regularly inspect and maintain the fuel system, including checking the fuel filter and replacing it as needed.
Finally, steering problems are also common with the 1998 Chevrolet S10. This can include issues with the power steering pump, steering gear, or tie rods, which can lead to difficulty controlling the vehicle and increased steering effort. To avoid these issues, it is essential to regularly inspect and maintain the steering system, including checking the power steering fluid level and replacing it as needed.
In conclusion, the 1998 Chevrolet S10 is a reliable and durable vehicle, but it is prone to certain common issues and problems. By staying on top of regular maintenance and promptly addressing any issues that arise, owners can ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicles.
How many miles can a S10 last?
It can haul and tow whatever it is you need to haul and tow, and it's built to last, with drivers reporting an average lifespan of 250,000 miles.
What is the value of a 1998 Chevy S10?
1998 Chevrolet S-10 Value - $259-$1,673 | Edmunds.
Why is my 98 S10 idling rough?
The most common reasons a Chevrolet S10 has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
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.
What is the value of a 1998 Chevy S10?
1998 Chevrolet S-10 Value - $259-$1,673 | Edmunds.
Why is my 98 S10 idling rough?
The most common reasons a Chevrolet S10 has rough idle are a vacuum leak, an issue with the spark plugs, or a problem with the ignition coil.
Why did Chevy stop making 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.
How many miles can a S10 last?
It can haul and tow whatever it is you need to haul and tow, and it's built to last, with drivers reporting an average lifespan of 250,000 miles.
1998 Chevrolet S10 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Chevrolet S10.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
1998 Chevrolet S10 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 11 recalls for different components of the 1998 Chevrolet S10.
- Manufacturer: DOPE, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
- Summary: DOPE, INC. IS RECALLING 42,540 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DOPE, INC. WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 28, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT DOPE, INC. AT 1-626-272-1798.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: DELPHI
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:PRESSURE RELIEF DEVICES
- Summary: CERTAIN DELPHI FUEL PRESSURE REGULATORS, P/NOS. FP10020-11B1, FP10026-11B1, AND FP10027-11B1, SOLD AFTER JANUARY 9, 2007, AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE UNIVERSAL PRESSURE REGULATORS (UPR) WERE PRODUCED WITHOUT AN O'RING AND RETAINER.
- Consequence: FUEL MAY LEAK, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DELPHI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE UPR FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 23, 2007. OWNERS CAN CONTACT DELPHI AT 877-411-8770.
- Manufacturer: AJ MOTORSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.
- Manufacturer: AAI MOTORSPORTS USA, LLC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AAI MOTORSPORTS COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LIST PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT."
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH
- Remedy: AAI MOTORSPORTS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE LAMPS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 1, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AAI MOTORSPORTS AT 909-923-9188.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: ELECTRIC PASSENGER VEHICLES AND PICKUP TRUCKS CONTAINING A NICKEL METAL HYDRIDE (NIMH) BATTERY PACK. THESE VEHICLES CONTAIN SOFTWARE WITHIN THE BATTERY PACK MODULE INTENDED TO DISABLE THE VEHICLE FROM BEING DRIVEN IF THE ELECTRICAL RESISTANCE WITH THE BATTERY PACK EXCEEDS A PRESCRIBED VALUE. AFFECTED VEHICLES WILL ILLUMINATE THE "SERVICE NOW" AND "REDUCED PERFORMANCE" TELLTALES AND CONTINUE TO FUNCTION IN A REDUCED PERFORMANCE MODEL INSTEAD OF BEING DISABLED.
- Consequence: IF THE TELLTALES ARE IGNORED AND THE AFFECTED VEHICLE CONTINUES TO BE DRIVEN, HEAT COULD BUILD UP AND A FIRE COULD RESULT.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL REVISED SOFTWARE IN THE BATTERY PACK MODULE.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHTS BUILT WITH A CANDELA VALUE GREATER THAN 3,000 CANNOT BE MOUNTED HIGHER THAN 864MM ABOVE THE ROAD SURFACE.
- Consequence: THESE VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 108.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REVISED WIRING HARNESS THAT CHANGES THE DRL'S FROM HIGH BEAM TO LOW BEAM DRL'S, AND INSTALL NEW LONG-LIFE LOW BEAM BULBS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: ELECTRIC PICKUP TRUCKS. A CONDITION IN WHICH THE FUEL-FIRED HEATER FILL PIPE GROUND STRAP CONTACTS THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE BRAKE PIPE.
- Consequence: THIS COULD WEAR OFF THE CORROSION PROTECTION ON THE BRAKE PIPE, LEADING TO PREMATURE CORROSION AND EVENTUAL LOSS OF BRAKE PIPE INTEGRITY. WHEN BRAKE PIPE INTEGRITY IS LOST, BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE CAN OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL RELOCATE THE GROUND STRAP ATTACHMENT, INSPECT THE BRAKE PIPE FOR WEAR, AND REPLACE THE BRAKE PIPE IF NECESSARY.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRIC DRIVE. RAPID FOGGING OF THE INTERIOR GLASS CAN OCCUR WITHIN TWO MINUTES AFTER THE HEAT IS TURNED ON IF (1) THE OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE IS BETWEEN 35 AND 76 DEGREES FAHRENHEIT AND (2) WATER HAS COLLECTED ON THE HEAT EXCHANGER DURING PREVIOUS OPERATION OF THE AIR CONDITIONING.
- Consequence: IF RAPID FOGGING WERE TO OCCUR DURING DRIVING, IT COULD OBSTRUCT THE DRIVER'S VISION INCREASING THE RISK OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: OWNERS ARE BEING PROVIDED WITH A CAUTION LABEL AND SUPPLEMENTAL INSERT FOR THEIR OWNER'S MANUAL ADVISING THEM TO FOLLOW A "STOP AND WAIT" PROCEDURE TO HELP AVOID WINDOW FOGGING WHILE DRIVING.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS AND MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES. AN ENGINE ELECTRICAL WIRING-HARNESS CLIP CAN MELT AND DRIP ONTO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD.
- Consequence: THE CLIP MATERIAL ON THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD CAN IGNITE AND SUBSEQUENTLY IGNITE OTHER COMBUSTIBLE COMPONENTS RESULTING IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS ARE CONTACTING OWNERS BY TELEPHONE TO HAVE THEIR VEHICLES TOWED TO THE DEALER AND ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION PROVIDED TO THEM UNTIL THE DEALER CAN REROUTE THE ELECTRICAL WIRING-HARNESS.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS AND MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. A FATIGUE FRACTURE OF THE REAR AXLE RIGHT-HAND BRAKE PIPE CAN OCCUR CAUSING A SLOW BRAKE FLUID LEAK RESULTING IN A SOFT BRAKE PEDAL. IF THE BRAKE PIPE BREAKS, THE DRIVER WOULD EXPERIENCE A SUDDEN DROP IN THE BRAKE PEDAL, THE INSTRUMENT PANEL BRAKE LIGHT WOULD ILLUMINATE, AND THERE WOULD BE A LOSS OF REAR BRAKE PERFORMANCE.
- Consequence: PARTIAL LOSS OF BRAKING AT A TIME WHEN MINIMUM STOPPING DISTANCE WAS REQUIRED COULD RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE BRAKE PIPE.
Negative 1998 Chevrolet S10 car reviews
Positive 1998 Chevrolet S10 car reviews
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You've got yourself a great truck with solid riding and handling! I'm impressed to hear that you managed to get an average of 19 MPG on an 80mph trip from California to Colorado and back. It's also great to hear that you had no problems traveling 160 miles of dirt roads across the North Nevada deserts. Sounds like you've got a reliable vehicle on your hands!
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I really like how it runs, especially the great fuel economy!
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The high-energy ignition module tends to wear out the wires every 25K miles. It can be a bit unsettling until you realize what's happening. As soon as you feel that first stutter, especially on a wet day, it's best to change the wires immediately. Once you have good wires, the car runs like a champ. I've driven 103K miles so far and still get 28MPG on my commute. On a recent trip with the 5-speed, 4-cylinder engine, I even got as high as 35 MPG!
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I've owned this truck for almost 3 years and I must say, my Chevy has been the most reliable one yet. In fact, I've owned Fords and Dodges before, but neither one has come close to the level of reliability that my Chevy has provided me. It's interesting to note that where I'm from, I see a lot more S-10's than Fords and Dodges combined.
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I have to say that my '98 s-10 is the best car I have ever owned. It is powerful, comfortable, looks great and, above all, very dependable. Over four years of ownership and 98000 miles, it has only been in the shop three times for minor repairs. I have driven it in all types of climates and roads, from deserts to mud, dirt roads and highways. Whether I'm getting groceries or going camping, this truck does it all. It's amazing!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Chevrolet S10 problems:
1998 Chevrolet S10 Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
Problem with your 1998 Chevrolet S10? Our list of 20 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1998 Chevrolet S10.
Common 2.2 Problems | S-10 Forum
Apr 11, 2007 ... Common 2.2 Problems. Jump to Latest Follow ... 2000 chevy xtreme s10 step side 2.2 5speed show truck ... 2.2 clutch problem. my 98 2.2 S-10 5-speed ...
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Mar 8, 2013 ... I have a 98 Chevy S10,2.2l,145k mi. Major lighting problems. Hazards work, but only in front. mount brake light works, - Answered by a ...
Common s10 problems | S-10 Forum
Oct 12, 2005 ... Fuel pump/gas gauge. Coolant leakage or turning brown eventually turning to mud. Engine noise. AC compressors. Ignition switches. Not a lot of ...
Chevy S10 1998: Common Oxygen Sensor Problems | JustAnswer
Aug 13, 2012 ... The reference voltage is generated by the PCM and since with two different O2 sensors the voltage drops out, it does appear that the PCM is not ...
Other years of Chevrolet S10
Are you having problems with your 1998 Chevrolet S10?
Porter Rolfson 2024-11-19
The side seat handles have been replaced three times, but unfortunately, they still do not work. Additionally, the passenger compartment is smaller than expected and the interior plastic used by GM is of poor quality. The transmission was overhauled at 40000 miles, but it started slipping again after a year. Despite having it checked before the extended warranty expired, no action was taken. Currently, the brakes are weak and require attention. However, I am confident that these issues can be resolved with the right expertise and attention.
Tre Collier 2024-10-08
Hey there! I wanted to share with you my experience with this truck I bought back in 2001. At the time of purchase, it had 80,000 miles on it. Unfortunately, I've had some issues with it since then. I've had to replace the starter, fuel pump, and several gaskets. It's left me stranded a few times, and the locks tend to ice up when the temperature drops below 20. Additionally, the transmission grinds when I put it into 1st gear, and there's a pesky squeak in the clutch that I just can't seem to locate. Overall, it's been a bit of a headache, but I'm hopeful that I can get it running smoothly again soon!
Dante Weber 2024-09-13
I love my truck! It all started with a big Chevy, but I always wanted a smaller version of the larger truck from 1976. Unfortunately, it didn't happen until 1994 when the shortbed stepside was finally produced. That's when I fell in love at first sight and bought mine in 2005. It has been an absolute treasure to me, and I drive it on the road for over 200 miles a day, five days a week. At one point, I overheated the 2.2 4 cyl engine by driving with the radiator cap off when it had 288k on it. But I didn't give up on it and replaced the motor, driving it for another year on the road. Eventually, I decided that I wanted more horsepower, so I upgraded the drivetrain to v6 power with an automatic transmission, and now I have the truck of my dreams. I even considered adding a v8, but I changed my plans due to the high mileage I drive daily.
Emiliano Grady 2024-07-19
I have a 1998 Chevy S-10, 4WD extended cab, with only 55000 miles. Unfortunately, I have experienced some issues with the truck, such as the driveshaft snapping out and dropping out of the truck. I am curious to understand how this could have happened. Additionally, I have had some problems with the interior, such as the visor and passenger seat adjustment breaking off in my hand, as well as intermittent power window issues. On the exterior, I have noticed some chipped paint and rust spots after washing and waxing regularly, as well as a cracked side view mirror casing and the 3rd door handle breaking off. Mechanically, the front cv joint boot just came off, the spare tire holder broke, and the brakes are less than par. While I have had some issues with this truck, I would not recommend it for purchase.
Garrison Hansen 2024-06-26
Hey there! I have a S10 LS extended cab with the four cylinder and manual transmission. While the four cylinder may not be the strongest engine, it definitely gets great mileage! Unfortunately, I've had a few issues with my truck, including interior rattling, a bolt falling off the exhaust manifold, and broken seat handles on both the passenger and driver's side. Even after getting the passenger side handle fixed, it broke off again! Additionally, my wipers would only work intermittently after the first year. It's surprising that General Motors, the largest car company in the world, hasn't been able to make a seat with recliner handles that won't fall off!