2003 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.

2003 Chevrolet Sonoma

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Common 2003 Chevrolet Sonoma problems

The 2003 Chevrolet Sonoma, a compact pickup truck, is known for its reliability and durability. However, like any vehicle, it has some common problems that owners have reported.

One of the most common issues with the 2003 Sonoma is the failure of the alternator. This problem has been reported by several owners, and it can cause the vehicle to stall or fail to start. The alternator is responsible for charging the battery and providing power to the electrical system while the engine is running. If it fails, the battery can drain, and the vehicle may not start. Replacing the alternator is the most common solution to this problem.

Another common issue with the 2003 Sonoma is the failure of the fuel gauge. This problem has been reported by several owners, and it can cause the vehicle to run out of fuel unexpectedly. The fuel gauge is responsible for measuring the amount of fuel in the tank and displaying it on the dashboard. If it fails, the driver may not know how much fuel is left in the tank. Recalibrating or replacing the fuel gauge is the most common solution to this problem.

The third door latch is another common problem with the 2003 Sonoma. Several owners have reported that the latch on the third door has broken, making it difficult or impossible to open or close the door. The latch is responsible for securing the door and allowing it to be opened and closed. If it breaks, the door may not be secure, and it may not be possible to open or close it. Replacing the latch is the most common solution to this problem.

The door handle is another common problem with the 2003 Sonoma. Several owners have reported that the door handle has broken, making it difficult or impossible to open the door. The door handle is responsible for allowing the driver or passenger to open the door. If it breaks, the door may not be accessible. Replacing the door handle is the most common solution to this problem.

The interior of the 2003 Sonoma is also known to have some problems. The interior is made of cheap plastic, which can crack, creak, and rattle over time. This problem is not unique to the 2003 Sonoma, and it is common in many vehicles of this age. However, it can be annoying and affect the overall driving experience.

The engine turning over but not starting is another common problem with the 2003 Sonoma. This problem can be caused by several factors, including a faulty ignition system, a clogged fuel filter, or a dead battery. Diagnosing and fixing the underlying problem is the most common solution to this issue.

In conclusion, the 2003 Chevrolet Sonoma is a reliable and durable vehicle, but like any vehicle, it has some common problems. The most common issues include alternator failure, fuel gauge failure, broken third door latch, broken door handle, interior problems, engine turning over but not starting, and fuel system problems. These issues can be fixed by replacing or repairing the faulty parts. Regular maintenance and care can also help prevent these problems from occurring in the first place.

2003 Chevrolet Sonoma engine

What transmission is in a 2003 Sonoma?

Automatic transmission. Tag #1MSD, 1SHD.

Is a Sonoma a GMC?

About Sonoma

Introduced as the S-15, the smaller GMC pickup truck officially adopted the Sonoma name in 1991. In 1994, an all-new version of the GMC Sonoma featured modernized styling, improved suspension and a refreshed engine line-up.

How much weight can a 2003 GMC Sonoma hold?

Used 2003 GMC Sonoma - Specs & Features

Dimensions
Curb weight4,039 lbs.
Maximum towing capacity5,200 lbs.
Maximum payload1,111 lbs.
Gross weight5,150 lbs.

How big is the gas tank on a GMC Sonoma?

Mechanical

T155/90D16 compact spare tire w/16" x 4" steel wheelStandard
19 gallon fuel tankStandard
P205/75R15 all-season SBR BSW tiresStandard
Rearview mirrorStandard
Aluminized stainless steel exhaust systemStandard

What transmission is in a 2003 Sonoma?

Automatic transmission. Tag #1MSD, 1SHD.

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

What is the firing order of the 2003 GMC Sonoma 4.3 L?

4.3L Engines Firing order: 1-6-5-4-3-2.

How big is the gas tank on a GMC Sonoma?

Mechanical

T155/90D16 compact spare tire w/16" x 4" steel wheelStandard
19 gallon fuel tankStandard
P205/75R15 all-season SBR BSW tiresStandard
Rearview mirrorStandard
Aluminized stainless steel exhaust systemStandard

2003 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:

  • Power train problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Chevrolet Sonoma vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

2003 Chevrolet Sonoma complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chevrolet Sonoma.

2003-07-29

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-07-29
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: CONSUMER STATES DEALER HAS THREE TIMES CHANGED THE MODULE SENSOR FOR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. DEALER STATED, WILL BUY BACK THE VEHICLE. *AK
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 2003 Chevrolet Sonoma problems:

2003 GMC Sonoma Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
2003 GMC Sonoma Problems and Complaints - 20 Issues
https://repairpal.com/2003-gmc-sonoma/problems

Problem with your 2003 GMC Sonoma? Our list of 20 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2003 GMC Sonoma.

2003 Sonoma fuel problems? | S-10 Forum
2003 Sonoma fuel problems? | S-10 Forum
https://www.s10forum.com/threads/2003-sonoma-fuel-problems.874912/

Oct 28, 2023 ... ∙1996-1999 GMC P3500 -V6 4.3L. www.ebay.com. in my stable: 03 s10 Xtreme 4.3l sportside , 57 chevy 2dr sedan 6.0l LSX , (sold)21 Dodge ...

GMC Sonoma Problems and Complaints - 35 Issues
GMC Sonoma Problems and Complaints - 35 Issues
https://repairpal.com/problems/gmc/sonoma

Top GMC Sonoma Problems · ABS Light Due to Brake System Control Unit Failure · Internal Faults in Distributor Can Cause Engine Problems · Replace Fuel Filter Every ...

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. fuel pump · 2. fuel filter ($80 flex fuel) · 3. down pipe · 4. cat · 5. tranny · 6. belt tensioner · 7. valve cover gasket · 8.

Q&A: Troubleshooting 2003 GMC Sonoma ZR5 Fuel Gauge ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 2003 GMC Sonoma ZR5 Fuel Gauge ...
https://www.justanswer.com/gm/20il2-hav-2003-gmc-sonoma-crew-cab-zr5-4x4-fuel-guage-stopped.html

Apr 19, 2009 ... Hi, I'm James. I think you may have a wiring issue between fuel tank & PCM. The wires you need to check are the purple & black/white. If you ...

Other years of Chevrolet Sonoma

chevrolet sonoma 1991 photo
Sonoma 1991
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chevrolet sonoma 1993 photo
Sonoma 1993
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chevrolet sonoma 1994 photo
Sonoma 1994
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7

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chevrolet sonoma 1995 photo
Sonoma 1995
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chevrolet sonoma 1996 photo
Sonoma 1996
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chevrolet sonoma 1997 photo
Sonoma 1997
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  • 1

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2003 Chevrolet Sonoma photo