1999 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 1999 Chevrolet S10 problems
The Chevrolet S10, produced from 1982 to 2004, has been a popular compact pickup truck due to its versatility and affordability. However, like any vehicle, the S10 has had its share of common issues and problems. This article will focus on the 1999 Chevrolet S10, specifically the base model, and the common problems that owners have reported.
One of the most common issues with the base model S10 is rust and corrosion, particularly in the rocker panels, wheel wells, and bed floor. This can weaken the vehicle's structural integrity, leading to safety concerns and the need for costly repairs.
Brake system problems are also common with the base model S10. 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.
Electrical problems are another common issue with the base model 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.
Fuel system problems are also a common issue with the base model 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.
Steering problems are also common with the base model 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. In some cases, steering problems can also lead to issues with the suspension system.
In summary, the 1999 Chevrolet S10, particularly the base model, has had several common issues and problems. These include rust and corrosion, brake system problems, electrical problems, fuel system problems, and steering problems. If you own a 1999 Chevrolet S10, it's important to stay on top of regular maintenance and promptly address any issues that arise to ensure the safety and reliability of your vehicle.
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.
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 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.
What causes a Chevy S10 not to start?
Common issues include a dead or weak battery, corroded battery terminals, or a malfunctioning starter motor.
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 causes a Chevy S10 not to start?
Common issues include a dead or weak battery, corroded battery terminals, or a malfunctioning starter motor.
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.
What engine is in a Chevy S10?
With the V-6 engine, the S-10 is offered with both two-wheel and four-wheel drivetrain systems.
1999 Chevrolet S10 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Chevrolet S10.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
1999 Chevrolet S10 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1999 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.
Negative 1999 Chevrolet S10 car reviews
Positive 1999 Chevrolet S10 car reviews
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Congratulations on getting your dream truck back in Aug of '06! It's a '99 with the 2.2 5speed and you love it. You've added an intake and exhaust, which sounds great and runs great. The power for the mods you have on it aren't bad. It's great that there are a lot of parts that can be changed out and you're planning to lower it a bit and put rims and tires on it soon. It's clear that you really love this truck and it's the best one you've had so far!
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It's always tough to say goodbye...
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Fairly well built truck, although I personally prefer Ford. Everything about this truck is well-built and fairly easy to take care of and operate, including the V6 Vortec engine which makes it easy to control larger 2-3 horse trailers.
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The S-10 extreme has been an exceptional vehicle for its price range. You can't beat the value for money. Since buying it used in 2000, I've put 34000 miles on it and it has only needed new front brake pads, oil changes, and filters. It's loaded with accessories and has been a great investment. The exterior looks great and the interior has held up well. The only minor issue with the vehicle is that the 4 cyl. motor is somewhat underpowered for all the other features of the vehicle.
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I've always wanted a Chevy. I haven't been disappointed. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing against my Ranger, it's a sharp truck. But the S10 is built like a tank but rides like a car. I love it!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Chevrolet S10 problems:
1999 Chevrolet S10 Problems and Complaints - 18 Issues
Top 1999 Chevrolet S10 Problems · ABS Light Due to Brake System Control Unit Failure · Internal Faults in Distributor Can Cause Engine Problems · Fuel Level ...
Chevy S10 1999: Common Problems & Q&A | JustAnswer
Jan 1, 2012 ... AS far as the fuel gage, the problem is probably the fuel level sender in the fuel tank. These senders are known for breaking the tabs off of ...
Common 2.2 Problems | S-10 Forum
Apr 11, 2007 ... Common 2.2 Problems · 1. head gaskets · 2. water pump · 3. Valve cover gasket. Image. 2001 Xtreme Sold! · 4. starter. 1995 S-10 2.2L Manual · 5.
Chevy S10 Common Problems - 2nd Gen 1994-2004 - 1A Auto
Nov 24, 2020 ... Top Issues on the 2nd Generation Chevy S-10 (1994-2004) · 1. Faulty Heater Core · 2. Bad Intake Manifold Gaskets · 3. Distributor Problems · 4.
overall reliability/weak points of the s10? | S-10 Forum
Nov 29, 2013 ... 2000 Chevy S10 2.2 auto 1996 Chevy S10 5spd ... Less common problems; ... Shift Points Too High??? I have driven a 1999 Blazer LT for some years ...
Other years of Chevrolet S10
Are you having problems with your 1999 Chevrolet S10?
Greg Wiegand 2025-08-18
I'm glad to hear that you've had a great experience with your truck for the past five years! It's impressive that it has over 100k miles and has only needed a few minor repairs. The 4cyl engine is capable of getting you up to speed, but if you plan on hauling or commuting on freeways, I would recommend looking for a V6. The ZQ8 suspension can make for a rough ride and doesn't offer exceptional cornering abilities, but softer shocks can help with bottoming out. The cabin is spacious and comfortable, even for someone over 6ft and 200lbs like yourself. The truck has a unique and sharp look, with a speedy appearance. The only minor issue seems to be that changing the spark plug wires can be a bit of a headache. Overall, it sounds like you have a great truck that has served you well!
Rick Kshlerin 2025-07-28
I've owned a '89 S-10 Reg Cab 4cyl/5spd, a '91 S-10 Reg Cab 4cyl/5spd, and now a '99 S-10 Ext Cab 6cyl/5spd. While I enjoyed the older models, I have to say that the '99 has not been my favorite. It tends to squeak and rattle while driving, and the automatic headlights, radio that stays on after the ignition is turned off, and interior light that comes on after removing the ignition key can be a bit much. Additionally, I feel that the newer S-10s are not built as well as the older models. In my experience, this has been the worst S-10 I've owned. If you're considering purchasing an S-10, I would recommend looking for a pre-94 model.
Horace Boehm 2025-07-27
I replaced the rear end twice in the first year I owned it. I had the third door handle replaced and it is broken again. Neither of the seats recline anymore, and both handles have broken.
Fermin Hirthe 2025-04-24
I own a 1999 Chevrolet S/10 Sport. While I appreciate the aesthetics of the vehicle, I have experienced significant mechanical issues. As other owners have noted, the seat lever broke with minimal force, and I have also encountered engine problems. However, I am confident in my assessment of the vehicle's shortcomings and believe that these issues can be addressed with proper maintenance and repairs.
Jaylen Aufderhar 2025-01-14
I've owned a '89 S-10 Reg Cab 4cyl/5spd, a '91 S-10 Reg Cab 4cyl/5spd, and now a '99 S-10 Ext Cab 6cyl/5spd. While I enjoyed the older models, I have to say that the '99 has not been my favorite. It tends to squeak and rattle while driving, and the automatic headlights, radio that stays on after the ignition is turned off, and interior light that comes on after removing the ignition key can be a bit much. Additionally, I feel that the newer S-10s are not built as well as the older models. In my opinion, this is the worst S-10 I've owned. If you're considering purchasing an S-10, I would recommend looking for a pre-94 model.