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.
Social links
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
-
Hi there! I noticed that you've owned this pickup since 1997. That's really impressive!
-
For a 4 cylinder, it has a nice little bit of pep taking off. However, after 3rd gear, the torque numbers drop dramatically, mainly because of the gearing. It's a good truck for a commuter and can also hold its own when you've got the bed loaded down. I've hauled anything from four wheelers to 900 pounds of rocks in the back of it, and it never falters.
-
This sounds like a great little truck for a first vehicle! I got mine with 129K miles and it was reliable and a great daily driver with the 4-cylinder engine. Although it's not worth a lot of money, it gets you a bed and up to 26mph for an inexpensive purchase price. I just sold mine for something bigger, but I have fond memories of my time with it. Thanks for sharing your experience!
-
I've owned my S10 for quite a few years and it has been a reliable companion. With the zr2 package, it has proven to be a powerful and versatile truck that has never let me down. However, as I grow older, I realize that I need a larger truck. It's a shame to let go of something that has become almost like a family member to me.
-
This vehicle was truly a gem. You can tell that I loved it because I have driven it to the east coast and to the west coast and pretty much everywhere in between. I never had any huge problems until it got to be over 200,000 miles. Then it started nickel and diming me. However, I have nothing but good things to say about this vehicle. If they still made them, I would buy another one in a heartbeat.
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 ...
Chevy S10 Q&A: Common Problems, Relay Location, Bulb Sizes ...
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?
Hailey Beatty 2025-02-12
My gut instinct was not to buy this truck, but somehow that day I kinda liked it. The possibility of a few quirks would have been acceptable since I only needed it for home ownership purposes. When I took it to an independent mechanic I learned it couldn't even pass a simple state safety inspection. Poor build quality had sent it to be traded in, and the dealer wouldn't give it the help it needed without added cost. There are several, better choices out there for the consumer to choose from.
Gustave Gutkowski 2025-02-04
I bought my truck used in 2000 with 34k miles and sold it in 2011 with 240k miles. The pros of this truck are that I never had to replace the clutch, the brakes lasted a long time, and I never had to do any major work on it. It was also decent on gas and took the abuse I gave it. The motor and transmission are very good. However, there were some cosmetic and electrical issues, as well as some a/c issues (which I gave up on after the third time). It also started to leak oil at 100k miles and the cluster went out at 200k. Overall, I would highly recommend this truck if you are looking for a reliable and cheap option.
Kaleigh Boyer 2025-01-21
Overall, I like the truck, but there have been a few little problems that have irritated me. For example, the driver seat's recline handle is broken, and the lumbar support cable is also broken. Additionally, the paint is chipping off behind the tires, even though I don't drive on dirt roads. There are also some rattles inside, and the doors leak water in a good rain storm, while the wind whistles. I have also started to notice some gasket problems. I wonder what will be next?
Markus Weissnat 2025-01-18
This vehicle has been extremely reliable since the day I drove it off the lot. I have only needed very limited repairs over the 5.5 years that I have owned it. If you ask your mechanic about these 4.3 liter Vortec V6 engines, they will tell you that they are built for the long haul. I have used it to tow my 19' Sea Ray, haul mulch, furniture, and anything else that will fit in the bed, and I racked up about 60,000 miles the first 2 years working the MD/VA territory - all highway, and I don't baby this truck. It still runs like the day I drove it off the lot.
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.