2001 Chevrolet S10 problems

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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.

2001 Chevrolet S10

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Common 2001 Chevrolet S10 problems

The 2001 Chevrolet S10, a compact pickup truck, is known for its reliability and versatility. However, like any vehicle, it is prone to certain common problems. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues based on complaints from owners of this car:

  1. Faulty Heater Core: The heater core is a crucial component of the heating and cooling system in the S10. When it fails, it can cause the truck's cabin to become too hot or too cold, and it can also lead to coolant leaks. Symptoms of a faulty heater core include a sweet smell of coolant in the cabin, a lack of heat, or the need to constantly add coolant to the system.
  2. Distributor Problems: The distributor is responsible for delivering the spark to the engine's cylinders. When it fails, it can cause the engine to misfire, hesitate, or stall. Symptoms of distributor problems include engine misfires, difficulty starting the engine, or a check engine light. Common causes of distributor problems include worn-out parts or a faulty distributor cap and rotor.
  3. Front Wheel Bearings: The front wheel bearings are responsible for supporting the weight of the truck and allowing the wheels to rotate smoothly. When they fail, they can cause a loud noise, vibration, or even a loss of steering control. Symptoms of bad wheel bearings include a grinding or growling noise from the front of the truck, especially when turning or braking.
  4. Fuel Pump Problems: The fuel pump is responsible for delivering fuel from the gas tank to the engine. When it fails, it can cause the engine to run poorly or not start at all. Symptoms of fuel pump problems include a lack of power, difficulty starting the engine, or a check engine light.
  5. Defective Vacuum Switch: The vacuum switch is responsible for controlling the power steering system. When it fails, it can cause the steering to become difficult or even lock up. Symptoms of a defective vacuum switch include a loud noise when turning the steering wheel, difficulty steering, or a check engine light.

It's important to note that these are just some of the common problems reported by S10 owners, and not all vehicles of this make and model will experience these issues. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these problems from occurring, and if they do occur, prompt attention can help minimize the damage and cost of repairs.

2001 Chevrolet S10 engine

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 is my 01 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.

Is the Chevy S10 4.3 engine reliable?

The Chevrolet 4.3 V6 is one of General Motors' most fuel-efficient engines as this engine has been servicing the clients for a long time. Although this is a long lasting and powerful engine, it does have certain flaws. The Chevy 4.3 V6 engine is extremely dependable, with a life expectancy of over 300,000 miles.

How many miles can a S-10 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 is my 01 S-10 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.

Is a 2001 Chevy S-10 4WD?

New for the year is a four-door 4WD crew cab configuration enabling you to bring along four of your friends. Headroom is ample and seats are supportive, but the driver sits low, facing a tall steering wheel and cowl.

Why did Chevy stop making the S-10?

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.

2001 Chevrolet S10 complaints

The NHTSA has received 0 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2001 Chevrolet S10.

You can leave your car complaint via the special form below.

2001 Chevrolet S10 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2001 Chevrolet S10.

2009-05-11
  • 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.
2009-04-07
  • 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.
2006-07-17
  • 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.
2006-06-29
  • 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.
2000-08-07
  • 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.

Negative 2001 Chevrolet S10 car reviews

  1. Abraham Kozey 2024-11-04

    The car has several issues that need to be addressed. The build quality is poor, resulting in wind noise and other problems. The brakes are clunky, and the power steering can be unreliable. Additionally, the transmission is not smooth when driving in the city. These issues can be resolved with proper attention and maintenance.

  2. Lavern Legros 2024-10-23

    This vehicle is a great compromise between a truck and a mid-size car. It provides adequate hauling and carrying capability with the V6, yet it is economical to operate if you drive a lot. The truck could benefit from a slight lift to make it look a little more muscular, much like Nissan did with their 2WD pickups. Other than that, the truck has been a solid performer. I would likely buy another one, or more likely the new Colorado due to replace it. Thank you for considering this vehicle!

  3. Emmanuel Doyle 2024-09-24

    If you're someone who spends a lot of time behind the wheel but still needs a truck frequently, this is a great option for you. With the optional 4.3L V6, it has the power to carry or tow most things, although it's not a substitute for full-size trucks in that department. I've had positive experiences with reliability, as I have with other S-10's I've owned.

  4. Ernie Fadel 2024-09-14

    It's a great vehicle!

  5. Kade Medhurst 2024-08-28

    This truck has performed really well! Although, I did have to get the left and right power windows fixed because the mechanicals would bind sometimes. Luckily, it was repaired under warranty. At 31,000 miles, I had to have one rear axle bearing replaced under warranty and the two-piece driveshaft balanced. But overall, it's been a great truck!

Positive 2001 Chevrolet S10 car reviews

  1. Ottis Crona 2025-01-03

    Your 2001 ZR2 sounds like a great vehicle! It's impressive that you've put 57K miles on it without any problems. I love how it looks and handles in the snow, and the push button four-wheel drive is a fantastic feature. It's great that you found a vehicle that is agile enough for city driving but also well-prepared for off-road activities. I can understand why you chose the Chevy over the Tacoma, Frontier, and Dakota - the comfort and convenience really stood out. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with your first domestic vehicle, and I hope it continues to serve you well!

  2. Tom Kuhn 2024-10-04

    This truck handles great! The ZQ8 sport suspension package hugs the road like a car, and the 16x8

  3. Jesse Lowe 2024-10-03

    I bought this truck with 15,000 miles on it and now have just over 155,000. This has been one of my best vehicle purchases. This truck has taken a lot of abuse and handled it well. I do a lot of hauling but have only had to do the front brakes once and have never done the rear. The intake gasket was replaced at 120,000 and the o2 sensors at 150,000. No other repairs were needed. It's a very well-built truck. It was a great purchase!

  4. Clint Huel 2024-08-16

    You have a nice truck with a great bed size! It seems to be a three door, extended cab, long bed truck with a 4.3L 6 cylinder engine, which is impressive. Although the gas mileage is not the best, averaging about 20 miles on the highway and 17 in the city, it's understandable, especially with the added weight of sandbags in the winter. It's had a few repairs, including two air pumps, air pump check valves (only once though), starter (which may need replacing again), front shocks, alternator, handle to third door (which is currently broken), and battery. You've had the truck for 2 1/2 years, since you bought it in 12/2005 with 6,000 miles, and it now has 36,000 miles on it. It's also had a full brake job, which is great for safety. Overall, it sounds like you've had some ups and downs with the truck, but it's still going strong!

  5. Milford Hansen 2024-07-27

    I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my truck. I bought it used and initially had some issues with the airbag light, brakes, and steering. However, the dealership was incredibly helpful and stood behind their product, fixing everything promptly. Since then, I haven't had any problems with it!

Leave your review of 2001 Chevrolet S10

Additional sources

More sources of information about 2001 Chevrolet S10 problems:

2001 Chevrolet S10 Problems and Complaints - 18 Issues
2001 Chevrolet S10 Problems and Complaints - 18 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2001-chevrolet-s10/problems

Problem with your 2001 Chevrolet S10? Our list of 18 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2001 Chevrolet S10.

Q&A: Troubleshooting 2001 Chevy S10 ZR2, Crew Cab, and ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 2001 Chevy S10 ZR2, Crew Cab, and ...
https://www.justanswer.com/chevy/fl005-2001-chevy-s10-i-m-having-trouble-getting.html

Nov 29, 2020 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.

2001 Chevrolet S10 - I need help bad!
2001 Chevrolet S10 - I need help bad!
https://repairpal.com/i-need-help-bad-745

Mar 3, 2011 ... from driving it, you may have ruined the cat converter. the s10 has many issues with the spider assembly under the upper intake. by the way, did ...

Common s10 problems | S-10 Forum
Common s10 problems | S-10 Forum
https://www.s10forum.com/threads/common-s10-problems.209547/

Oct 12, 2005 ... Common s10 problems. Jump to Latest Follow ... I do like my truck very much though. 2001 S-10 ZQ8 auto ... 1989 Chevrolet S10 2.8 Problem: While ...

Chevy S10 4x4 2001 4.3 Vortec: Common Problems ...
Chevy S10 4x4 2001 4.3 Vortec: Common Problems ...
https://www.justanswer.com/chevy/7w4ij-chevrolet-s10-4x4-2001-4-3-s10-4x4-running-rough-blowing.html

Jul 23, 2013 ... It sounds like the ignition timing may be off. Most of the time this is due to a worn out distributor shaft or a bad crank position sensor. It ...

Other years of Chevrolet S10

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