2002 Chevrolet Sonoma 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.

2002 Chevrolet Sonoma

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Common 2002 Chevrolet Sonoma problems

The 2002 Chevrolet Sonoma has been known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. One of the most reported issues is the failure of the alternator, which has been reported twice. This can lead to a variety of electrical problems, such as dim headlights or interior lights, and can ultimately result in the vehicle being unable to start.

Another common problem with the 2002 Sonoma is a broken 3rd door latch, which has been reported three times. This can make it difficult or impossible to open the third door, which can be a major inconvenience for those who need access to the rear seats or cargo area.

The door handle has also been known to break, with two reports of this issue in the 2001 Sonoma. This can make it difficult or impossible to open the door from the outside, which can be a major safety concern.

The fuel gauge has been reported to stop working in the 2000 Sonoma, with two reports of this issue. This can make it difficult to determine how much fuel is left in the tank, which can lead to the vehicle running out of fuel unexpectedly.

The engine has also been reported to turn over but not start in the 2000 Sonoma, with two reports of this issue. This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a faulty ignition system or a lack of fuel, and can be difficult to diagnose and repair.

The interior of the 2002 Sonoma has also been reported to have issues, with nine complaints. This can include problems with the seats, controls, or other interior features.

The fuel system has also been reported to have issues, with eight complaints. This can include problems with the fuel pump, fuel injectors, or other fuel system components.

The engine has been reported to have issues, with seven complaints. This can include problems with the engine itself, such as engine failure, or problems with the engine's supporting systems, such as the cooling system or the electrical system.

The electrical system has been reported to have issues, with six complaints. This can include problems with the battery, alternator, or other electrical system components.

The cooling system has been reported to have issues, with five complaints. This can include problems with the radiator, water pump, or other cooling system components.

In summary, the 2002 Chevrolet Sonoma has been known to have several common problems, including alternator failure, broken 3rd door latch, broken door handle, fuel gauge stop working, engine turns over but won't start, interior issues, fuel system issues, engine issues, electrical system issues, and cooling system issues. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, and can be difficult to diagnose and repair. It is recommended that owners of this vehicle keep up with regular maintenance and address any issues as soon as they arise to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

2002 Chevrolet Sonoma engine

When did they stop making the Sonoma?

2004

During the final year of the GMC Sonoma in 2004, the crew cab was the only version of the truck available. In 2005, the GMC Sonoma was replaced by the larger Canyon mid-sized pickup truck.

How much weight can a 2002 GMC Sonoma carry?

Payloads range from 1,111 pounds for the Crew Cab, which comes only with V-6 power and 4WD, to 1,389 pounds for a 4WD extended-cab model. Sonomas can haul trailers that weigh as much as 6,000 pounds, depending on the model.

What size gas tank does a 2002 GMC Sonoma have?

17.5 gal

Used 2002 GMC Sonoma - Specs & Features

Fuel & MPG
EPA city/highway MPG14/18 MPG
EPA combined MPG15 MPG
Range in miles (city/hwy)245.0/315.0 mi.
Fuel tank capacity17.5 gal.

What years are the GMC Sonoma?

The GMC Sonoma and its counterpart Chevrolet S-10 were produced by GM from 1991 to 2004. In fact, this is the first domestic compact pickup of the Big Three American automakers.

Is GMC Sonoma a good truck?

Overall the GMC Sonoma is dependable, solid, and a fuel efficient truck.

What size tires go on a 2002 Sonoma?

For 2002, the dimensions for your Sonoma Pickup are:

235/70 R15.

How much weight can a 2002 GMC Sonoma carry?

Payloads range from 1,111 pounds for the Crew Cab, which comes only with V-6 power and 4WD, to 1,389 pounds for a 4WD extended-cab model. Sonomas can haul trailers that weigh as much as 6,000 pounds, depending on the model.

What kind of engine does a GMC Sonoma have?

Retail Price

Engine2.2L I-4, 4.3L V-6
MPGUp to 23 city / 29 highway
Seating3 Passengers
Transmission5-spd man w/OD
Power120 - 190 hp

2002 Chevrolet Sonoma car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Sonoma problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Latches/locks/linkages problems
  • Service brakes problems
  • Hydraulic problems
  • Air bags problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Chevrolet Sonoma vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2002 Chevrolet Sonoma complaints

The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Chevrolet Sonoma.

2008-04-28

LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2005-10-13
  • VIN: 1GTDT19W528
  • Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
  • Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET SONOMA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PLASTIC HANDLE ON THE REAR DRIVER SIDE DOOR HAS FAILED ON THREE DIFFERENT OCCASIONS. THE DEALER REPLACED THE DOOR HANDLE AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE. AFTER THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO OPEN THE DOOR FROM THE EXTERIOR OR INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER IS UNABLE TO EXPLAIN WHY THE HANDLE CONTINUES TO FAIL. THE CONTACT HAS PICTURES OF THE FAILED COMPONENT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,000.
2004-10-10

SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2004-10-10
  • Fire: 1
  • VIN: 1GTDT13W12K
  • Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
  • Summary: WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 45 MPH & 50 MPH I HAD TO BRAKE HARD THE BRAKE SYSTEM SHOT BRAKE FLUID ONTO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD AND STARTED A FIRE IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT DEALER IS CURRENTLY LOOKING AT TRUCK FOR REPAIRS. *NM
2002-08-23

AIR BAGS PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2002-08-19
  • VIN: 1GTCS195728
  • Components: AIR BAGS
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH THE CONSUMER RAN INTO A BOULDER HEAD ON AND NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. CONTACTED DEALER
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2002 Chevrolet Sonoma problems:

2002 GMC Sonoma Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
2002 GMC Sonoma Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2002-gmc-sonoma/problems

Problem with your 2002 GMC Sonoma? Our list of 22 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 GMC Sonoma.

2002 gmc sonoma 4x4: 4wd..engages..put back..4hi or 2wd nothing
2002 gmc sonoma 4x4: 4wd..engages..put back..4hi or 2wd nothing
https://www.justanswer.com/chevy/0v4km-2002-gmc-sanoma-4x4-will-not-shift-2wd-4wd-put.html

Sep 20, 2007 ... Chevy Mechanic: Mazda Ed. Verified auto service technician. replied 16 years ago ago. This is a common problem. It's most likely that you had a ...

2000 Chevrolet S10 - truck wont start after fuel pump replacement
2000 Chevrolet S10 - truck wont start after fuel pump replacement
https://repairpal.com/truck-wont-start-after-fuel-pump-replacement-323

Mar 12, 2013 ... But there IS a fuse! I own a 2000 Blazer, same setup as yours, and have fixed more chevy. pump problems than YOU can shake a stick at.

Common 2.2 Problems | S-10 Forum
Common 2.2 Problems | S-10 Forum
https://www.s10forum.com/threads/common-2-2-problems.289743/

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.

GM 2.2 engine problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
GM 2.2 engine problems — Car Forums at Edmunds.com
https://forums.edmunds.com/discussion/2658/chevrolet/x/gm-2-2-engine-problems

Dec 25, 2001 ... The 95 Sonoma with the 2.2 was far and away the worst one. Problems included a blown head gasket and cracked head( a common problem and ...

Other years of Chevrolet Sonoma

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Sonoma 2003
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Sonoma 1991
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chevrolet sonoma 1993 photo
Sonoma 1993
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Sonoma 1994
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chevrolet sonoma 1995 photo
Sonoma 1995
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chevrolet sonoma 1996 photo
Sonoma 1996
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2002 Chevrolet Sonoma photo