1990 Chevrolet Tracker problems
The Chevrolet Tracker, formerly the Geo Tracker, is a mini SUV produced for Chevrolet and Geo by CAMI Automotive in Ingersoll, Ontario. Although appearing as a compact SUV, the Tracker was actually certified as a light truck due to its off-road capabilities and body on frame construction. The Tracker was produced under many brands in several different editions and in many countries.
First generation
The Geo Tracker was a mini SUV introduced in late 1988 as a 1989 model. It was developed by CAMI which was a joint venture between General Motors of Canada and Suzuki. North American models were to be built in CAMI's Ingersoll, Ontario, Canada plant alongside its almost identical twin, the domestic-built Suzuki Sidekick (Escudo). Nearly all 1989 and some 1990 Trackers were built in Japan and imported to the US because of delays at the CAMI factory in Canada. In late 1989, production began in Ingersoll with about 6,100 Geo Trackers finished, with annual production projected to be around 200,000 units. In the beginning, all Canadian-made Trackers were sent to the United States to circumvent the 25 percent Chicken Tax; the Canadian market was supplied entirely from Japan. Suzuki Sidekicks were added to the production line during 1990.
The Tracker was originally powered by Suzuki's 1.6L SOHC four-cylinder engine producing 80 hp (60 kW). The trim levels in 1989 were base convertible, base two-door hardtop, two-door XL bed, and LSi hardtop. LSi equipment included air conditioner, chrome rally wheels, intermittent wipers, rear window wiper/washer, spare tire cover, three-speed GM Turbo-Hydramatic 180 automatic transmission, tinted glass, and special red/black front and rear bucket seats. In 1990 the LSi trim was made available on the convertible models also. All Trackers were four-wheel drive until a base two-wheel drive convertible was introduced in 1992. The two-door hardtop models were available until 1995 when they were discontinued to make way for the four-door hardtop wagon that was to be introduced the following year. The two-door XL bed was a North America only edition which came with four more inches in the rear and a sealed two door cab. Although Suzuki started importing four-door Sidekicks in 1991, CAMI did not start producing them until the 1996 model year, when America got a four-door Geo Tracker, now powered by Suzuki's G16B 16-valve 1.6L boasting 96 hp (72 kW). In 1997, the Geo nameplate was merged back into Chevrolet and all Geo models, including the Tracker, Tracker XL, and all subsequent editions were rebadged as Chevrolet in 1998.
The Tracker was different from most other light SUVs on the market in that it is based on a rugged light-truck chassis and certified as a light truck. Although it appeared to be a comfortable passenger SUV, it was bolstered by a sturdy off-road four-wheel-drive system with a conventional light truck engine and transmission coupled to a hi-lo, 2-4 transfer case. The Tracker had a strong front suspension with a rugged recirculating ball steering box. The conventional front differential was rigidly mounted ahead of the engine, with CV axles connecting the coil-spring front hubs to the differential case. The rear axle was a conventional light truck unit on coil springs. As a result of the truck-like underpinnings, the Tracker had a fairly truck-like ride, but the benefit was its notable durability in harsh conditions.
The production of the first-generation model of the Tracker (and Sidekick) came to an end in Ontario after 1998 in order to make way for the second generation of Tracker/Vitara. However, the first generation Sidekick continued in production in other countries until 2004.
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Common 1990 Chevrolet Tracker problems
Common Problems with the Chevrolet Tracker 1990
- Transmission Problems
Transmission issues are a common complaint among Chevrolet Tracker 1990 owners. Some owners have reported difficulty with the transmission shifting into certain gears, especially during highway driving.
Possible causes for these transmission problems include computer issues, output speed sensor failure, or worn-out transmission components. A code scan at a local Chevy dealership might help diagnose the issue.
- Engine Oil Leaks
Engine oil leaks are another common problem with the Chevrolet Tracker 1990, particularly from the front crankshaft seal. This issue can lead to reduced engine performance and increased oil consumption, potentially causing further damage if left unaddressed.
- ECM (Engine Control Module) Failure
Some Tracker owners have reported issues with the ECM, which can cause the vehicle to run poorly or not at all. One owner mentioned that their Tracker had been worked on extensively and had a new ECM, but it still ran poorly, idling at around 3,000 RPM and stumbling on acceleration. This issue can be challenging to diagnose and may require the expertise of a professional mechanic.
- Throttle Body Issues
Throttle body problems can also affect the Chevrolet Tracker 1990, leading to poor idling, stumbling on acceleration, and difficulty maintaining speed on hills or during passing. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirty or failing throttle body components, vacuum leaks, or fuel system problems.
- Brake Pad Wear
Some Tracker owners have reported that they go through brake pads relatively quickly, especially if the vehicle is used for daily commuting in heavy traffic or with larger passengers. This issue can be addressed by replacing the brake pads more frequently or upgrading to higher-quality pads designed for heavier use.
- Rust Issues
Rust is a known problem with the Chevrolet Tracker 1990, particularly in areas where the vehicle is exposed to salt and moisture. Rust can affect various parts of the vehicle, including the frame, rockers, body mounts, floorpan/rocker joint, firewall, inner fenders, and strut mounts. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent or address rust issues.
- EGR Valve Failure
The EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve is another component that can fail in the Chevrolet Tracker 1990. One owner reported that their Tracker's EGR valve was shot, causing the "service engine soon" light to come on. Replacing the EGR valve can help address this issue and improve overall engine performance.
- Fuel System Issues
Fuel system issues, such as problems with the fuel pump, fuel filter, or fuel injectors, can also affect the Chevrolet Tracker 1990. These issues can lead to poor engine performance, difficulty starting, or stalling. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address fuel system problems.
In summary, the Chevrolet Tracker 1990 can experience a variety of common problems, including transmission issues, engine oil leaks, ECM failure, throttle body problems, brake pad wear, rust, EGR valve failure, and fuel system issues. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent or address these issues, ensuring the vehicle remains safe and reliable for years to come.
What engine does a 1990 Geo Tracker have?
1.6 L
Used 1990 Geo Tracker - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 1.6 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 80 hp @ 5,400 rpm |
Is a 1990 Geo Tracker fuel injected?
Tracker is powered by a 1.6-liter, fuel-injected, 4-cylinder engine that develops 80 horsepower.
Are Geo trackers and Chevy trackers the same?
This is a chevy tracker a little bit newer. And branded as a chevrolet not a geo. Let's take a look at this. One. Obviously a product of its period with all of its rounded.
When were Chevy trackers made?
Chevrolet Tracker (Americas)
| Geo/Chevrolet Tracker | |
|---|---|
| Production | 1988–1990 (Japan) 1989–2004 (Canada/U.S.) 2004–2007 (Argentina) 1996–2016 (Ecuador) |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Mini SUV Compact SUV |
| Body style | 4-door SUV 2-door convertible 2-door SUV |
What engine does a 1990 Geo Tracker have?
1.6 L
Used 1990 Geo Tracker - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 1.6 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 80 hp @ 5,400 rpm |
Is a 1990 Geo Tracker fuel injected?
Tracker is powered by a 1.6-liter, fuel-injected, 4-cylinder engine that develops 80 horsepower.
Is the Chevy Tracker a Suzuki?
The Geo Tracker was a mini SUV introduced in late 1988 as a 1989 model. It was developed by CAMI which was a joint venture between General Motors of Canada and Suzuki.
Are Chevy Tracker and Geo Tracker the same?
So yeah these geo trackers were basically rebranded japanese manufactured vehicles chevy wanted to be competitive with all these japanese automakers bringing in their little bitty compact vehicles
1990 Chevrolet Tracker car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Tracker problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Chevrolet Tracker vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1990 Chevrolet Tracker complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Chevrolet Tracker.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-12-18
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2CNBJ18U1L6
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MY CAR WAS RUNNING IN FRONT OF A PIZZERIA AND THE CAR BEGAN TO SMOKE THEN BEGAN TO GO UP IN FLAMES UNDER THE HOOD .
Other years of Chevrolet Tracker
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