2000 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 2000 Chevrolet S10 problems
The Chevrolet S10, produced between 1994 and 2004, is known for several common problems that owners have reported. This article will discuss these issues in detail, focusing on the symptoms, causes, and potential solutions.
- Distributor Problems: The distributor is a critical component of the ignition system, responsible for distributing the spark to the cylinders. Common problems with the distributor on the Chevy S10 include a bad distributor cap and rotor or worn internal parts. Symptoms of distributor problems include engine misfires, the engine turning over but not starting, and a check engine light for misfire codes P0300-P0306. To fix distributor problems, the distributor may need to be replaced or rebuilt, and the ignition system components, such as spark plugs, ignition coils, and spark plug wires, should be inspected and replaced if necessary.
- Fuel Pump Problems: The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the fuel tank to the engine. When it fails, the vehicle may experience starting problems, stalling, or reduced engine performance. Symptoms of fuel pump problems include a decrease in fuel pressure, difficulty starting the vehicle, and a whining or humming noise from the fuel tank. To fix fuel pump problems, the fuel pump and fuel filter may need to be replaced.
- Defective Vacuum Switch: The vacuum switch is responsible for controlling the power steering system. When it fails, the vehicle may experience hard steering or a loss of power steering assist. Symptoms of a defective vacuum switch include a hissing noise when the vehicle is started, difficulty turning the steering wheel, and a check engine light. To fix a defective vacuum switch, the switch may need to be replaced, and the power steering system should be inspected for leaks or other issues.
- Wheel Bearing Problems: Wheel bearings are responsible for supporting the weight of the vehicle and allowing the wheels to rotate smoothly. When they fail, the vehicle may experience noise, vibration, or a loss of steering control. Symptoms of wheel bearing problems include a grinding or growling noise from the wheels, a vibration in the steering wheel or seat, and a feeling of looseness in the steering. To fix wheel bearing problems, the wheel bearings may need to be replaced, and the wheel alignment should be inspected and adjusted if necessary.
In conclusion, the Chevrolet S10, produced between 1994 and 2004, is known for several common problems that owners have reported. These issues include faulty heater cores, distributor problems, fuel pump problems, defective vacuum switches, and wheel bearing problems. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and potential solutions for these issues, S10 owners can take proactive steps to maintain their vehicles and avoid costly repairs.
How many miles does a 2000 Chevy S10 get?
Based on data from 103 vehicles, 6,827 fuel-ups and 1,629,421 miles of driving, the 2000 Chevrolet S10 gets a combined Avg MPG of 19.40 with a 0.11 MPG margin of error.
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 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 won t my 2000 chevy S10 start?
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.
How many miles does a 2000 Chevy S10 get?
Based on data from 103 vehicles, 6,827 fuel-ups and 1,629,421 miles of driving, the 2000 Chevrolet S10 gets a combined Avg MPG of 19.40 with a 0.11 MPG margin of error.
What generation is 2000 S10?
Second generation
Second generation (1994)
Second generation | |
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Model years | 1994–2004 (S-10/Sonoma) 1996–2000 (Isuzu Hombre) |
Assembly | United States: Shreveport, Louisiana (Shreveport Operations); Linden, New Jersey (Linden Assembly) Brazil: São José dos Campos (GM Brazil) China: Shenyang (Jinbei GM) |
Designer | Jack Finegan (Brazilian version) |
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.
2000 Chevrolet S10 complaints
The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2000 Chevrolet S10.
You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.
2000 Chevrolet S10 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the 2000 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: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES WERE BUILT WITH INCORRECT PAYLOAD INFORMATION ON THE VEHICLE CERTIFICATION LABEL. THE PAYLOAD SHOWN ON THE LABEL IS GREATER THAN THE MAXIMUM VALIDATED PAYLOAD. IF THE VEHICLE WERE LOADED TO THE INCORRECTLY LABELED PAYLOAD, IT MAY NOT RIDE AND HANDLE IN THE MANNER THAT THE DRIVER EXPECTS.
- Consequence: THIS COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE OR AN INABILITY TO STOP THE VEHICLE WITHIN EXPECTED STOPPING DISTANCES.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE SENT A NEW LABEL FOR INSTALLATION ON THE DRIVER'S DOOR OF THE VEHICLE.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH TRW SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES. THE BUCKLE BASE OF THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND THEREFORE DO NOT PASS THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENT OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES."
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE VEHICLE'S SAFETY BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY DATE CODES AND, IF NECESSARY, WILL REPLACE ANY SAFETY BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIGHT DUTY PICKUP TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 4-WHEEL DISC BRAKES. SOME OF THESE VEHICLES HAVE AN ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) MOTOR CONTAINING AN OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION SPRING CLIP. THIS CLIP COULD ALLOW THE MOTOR BEARING TO BECOME MISALIGNED. IF MISALIGNMENT OCCURS, EVENTUALLY THE ABS WOULD BE NON-FUNCTIONAL.
- Consequence: THE BASE BRAKES WOULD REMAIN FULLY FUNCTIONAL, BUT THE DYNAMIC REAR PROPORTIONING (DRP) SYSTEM, WHICH OPTIMIZES FRONT TO REAR BRAKE BALANCE, WOULD BECOME INOPERATIVE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE BRAKE PRESSURE MODULE VALVE ASSEMBLY.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: S -TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH 2 WHEEL DRIVE. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE HAD THE RIGHT-HAND ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) MODULE FEED PIPE AND/OR BRAKE CROSSOVER PIPE TUBE NUTS TIGHTENED WITHOUT SEATING THE PIPE-FLARED-ENDS ENOUGH TO WITHSTAND NORMAL ASSEMBLY AND VEHICLE INPUTS WITHOUT PARTIALLY UNSEATING. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 105, "HYDRAULIC SERVICE BRAKE NORMAL, EMERGENCY, AND PARK BRAKING PERFORMANCE."
- Consequence: IF THIS OCCURRED, THE SEATING SEAL COULD BE BROKEN DURING VEHICLE ASSEMBLY, OR FROM EARLY ROAD INPUTS OR BRAKE FLUID CYCLING, AND A LEAK COULD OCCUR INCREASING THE BRAKE STOPPING DISTANCE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BRAKE PIPE UNION FOR SIGNS OF BRAKE FLUID, AND IF NECESSARY, INSTALL A NEW BRAKE PIPE UNION.
Negative 2000 Chevrolet S10 car reviews
Positive 2000 Chevrolet S10 car reviews
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You lucked out and got a great truck! It seems like the GM shop must have given out bonus checks the morning before this little truck was made. With 193,500 miles and no major mechanical problems, this truck is a real gem. Although it does have a few small issues, they don't take away from the fun of driving this 'Z'. The 4x4 system is fantastic, and with the ZR2 limited slip, the truck can go anywhere in the snow. The interior has held up well, with the seats looking new thanks to their covers. The dash has no cracks, and all the knobs and buttons still work. Unfortunately, you had to sell this truck today because you need more room for a new baby. It's a shame you couldn't keep it, but at least you have a new Tundra Crewmax to enjoy!
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to say that I really love my 2000 s10. It has 243,000 miles on it, but the motor is still going strong. The 4x4 works great, and it's been a lifesaver in the snow. Unfortunately, my driver's side window stopped working and there's some rust, but overall I'm still really happy with it!
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my s10 truck. I bought it with 94k miles and, unfortunately, the alternator went out shortly after. However, I was able to replace the front pads, rotors, and wheel bearings at 100k miles, and later on, I replaced the tires and front ball joints at 130k miles. Although I've had to replace the fuel pump twice, my truck now has 160k miles and it's still going strong! It's a really dependable truck, and with proper care, it can last as long as you want it to. While parts can be a bit pricey, I think it's worth it for the reliability. The gas mileage is great, although it's a bit underpowered with the 4cyl engine. However, I personally prefer the gas mileage over the acceleration. Lastly, if you're planning on lowering it like I did, just be prepared for some suspension components to fail. Thanks for reading!
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The 2000 S-10 is a reliable and sturdy workhorse that boasts an attractive appearance. Despite some challenges I faced with the truck, such as the transmission, third door handle, alternator, radiator, and starter breaking down, I am confident in its overall performance. While I am unsure of the previous owner's maintenance habits, I am pleased with the truck's durability and resilience. Although I experienced a blown engine due to a faulty heater core, I am still satisfied with the truck's capabilities. Despite some setbacks, I remain a loyal fan of GM cars and their quality craftsmanship.
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This truck is a fantastic purchase! I've put 104,000 miles on mine and it hasn't given me a single issue. It may not be the most flashy truck out there, but it's definitely worth every penny.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2000 Chevrolet S10 problems:
2000 Chevrolet S10 Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
Problem with your 2000 Chevrolet S10? Our list of 22 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2000 Chevrolet S10.
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 ...
2000 Chevrolet S10 - truck wont start after fuel pump replacement
Mar 12, 2013 ... For future reference, I had this same problem when replacing the fuel pump on my 2002 s10 4.3L. Searched forever for an answer. It turns out ...
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 ... 2000 s10 xtreme frederick md http://s202 ...
Common Problems with 2000 Chevy S10: Cranks but Won't Start ...
Nov 24, 2008 ... Fuel tank pressure sensor is the most common to fail causing extended crank times. This is due to the EVAP system purging during cranking. This ...
Mitchell Lubowitz 2025-08-19
I bought this truck brand new and I must say, it has been a lifesaver. Although I have encountered a few issues such as the driver side seat lever snapping due to its pot metal design, ball joint replacements, and a clogged heater core, I was able to fix the latter by simply blowing it out with some water. The only minor inconvenience I have experienced is the ABS system activating in dry weather, but I was able to resolve this by pulling the fuse. Who needs ABS anyway? I have only had one instance where the truck did not start in the past 10 years, which was due to a faulty fuel relay. Overall, I find this truck to be very dependable and the minor issues are manageable.
Perry Paucek 2025-08-12
I've owned a couple of 4-cylinder 2-wheel drive S-10s in the past and they were great little trucks for the price. However, they tend to have a lifespan of around 100,000 miles. My latest S-10 is a 4.3 4x4 and it's been a blast to drive with its good power and handling, as well as its excellent 4-wheel drive. However, I've had some issues with the wheel cylinders and ball joints, which can be quite expensive to replace. I've had to replace all the wheel cylinders at least once, which cost around $500 each. I also have to replace at least two ball joints every year, and there have been some other front suspension problems as well. Additionally, it's important to change the 100,000 mile coolant at 60,000 miles, or else the heater core can get clogged and the heat will stop working. Lastly, the gas gauge stopped working in my last two S10s, but unfortunately it was too expensive to fix.
Rollin Conroy 2025-08-11
Hi there! It sounds like you've had a bit of trouble with your car. The door hinge pins fell out just after the warranty ran out, and since then, some other things have been breaking and falling apart. You've had to replace a seat adjustment lever and a blower motor, and you've had some issues with the gas gauge and the A/C. But at least the A/C is working, and the cigarette lighter too! Let's hope things start looking up for your car soon.
Thurman McDermott 2025-07-20
Never left me on the side of the road, can't be grateful enough. However, this bastard has eaten up every bit of free money I've had for the past 6 months. Bought at 345k KMS, now at 380k KMS, so she's past her life span. In the past 35k KMS it's had 2 new sets of ac Delco spark plugs and wiring, new shocks, new rear leaf springs, lion's share of the front end replaced, rotors, wheel bearings, and pads, as well as prescribed maintenance, trans fluid and filter, regular full synth oil changes. Other things I can't recall. This truck will get you there, If you baby her. Overall the workmanship of it is Chevy. Not great. Prepare to spend money and constantly pay attention to how she's running and handling, because something will fail. 4l60e tranny is notoriously unreliable. Luckily mine is ok. Lord knows how long she'll last. Drive this truck only if your insurance covers theft, and prepare an alibi for when you finally dump the bastard in one of those liberal socialist hellholes like Portland as a barely mobile homeless shelter.
Price Heathcote 2025-06-20
The vehicle looked sporty at the dealer, but unfortunately did not perform as well on the road. In my experience, the only way to achieve good performance was with the v6 setup and manual transmission. I had the 4 with automatic and was disappointed with the performance. Additionally, the build quality was not up to par. The rotors went bad after only 20k miles, the transmission needed an overhaul after 30k, and at 56k the truck was having trouble starting. Although I was disappointed with my experience, I have since traded in the truck and purchased a Japanese vehicle. I value quality and reliability in my vehicles and have found that in Japanese brands. Thank you for considering my feedback.