2004 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 2004 Chevrolet Tracker problems
The 2004 Chevrolet Tracker is known for its reliability and durability, with many owners praising its ability to handle tough conditions and provide a comfortable driving experience. However, like any vehicle, the Tracker has its share of common problems.
One of the most frequently reported issues is engine overheating, which is particularly prevalent in the 2003 model year. This problem can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty thermostat, a damaged radiator, or a clogged cooling system. If left unaddressed, engine overheating can lead to serious damage and costly repairs.
Another common problem with the Tracker is a noisy rear differential, which can be caused by worn-out bearings or other components. This issue can be particularly noticeable when driving at high speeds or when turning, and can be a significant source of annoyance for drivers.
The Tracker has also been known to experience multiple electrical failures, which can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty wiring, blown fuses, or malfunctioning sensors. These failures can affect a wide range of vehicle systems, including the power windows, power locks, and lighting.
In addition to these specific issues, some Tracker owners have reported more general problems with the vehicle's performance and reliability. For example, some have noted that the Tracker's engine can run rough or die when hot, which can be a significant safety concern. Others have reported issues with the vehicle's suspension, brakes, or transmission, which can affect its handling and overall drivability.
Despite these common problems, the 2004 Chevrolet Tracker remains a popular and well-regarded vehicle, with many owners praising its durability, reliability, and versatility. However, it is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and to take steps to address them if they arise. Regular maintenance and inspections can help to identify and prevent many of these problems, and can help to ensure that the Tracker continues to provide safe and reliable transportation for years to come.
Is Chevrolet Tracker a good car?
Recent Reviews
Good looking and very practical car for everday driving. It does not have that lot of features compared to others but it gives you the amenity you need - comfort, safety, fuel economy, speed and power and you look handsome while you're driving the car. Tracker is the most macho crossover in the road.
What happened to Chevy Tracker?
On January 27, 2004, production of the Chevrolet Tracker was discontinued at the CAMI plant in Ingersoll, Ontario, and replaced with the Chevrolet Equinox.
Is Chevrolet Tracker made in China?
Positioned as a successor to the Trax (also called the Tracker in several markets), it is produced in Brazil and Argentina for the Latin American market, and in China by SAIC-GM for the Chinese market.
How many km per liter is the Chevy Tracker?
The All-New Chevy Trailblazer and Tracker Score Outstanding Fuel Efficiency Ratings of 20.87 km/L and 25.05 km/L from the AAP Economy Run.
2004 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:
- Suspension problems
- Air bags problems
- Steering problems
- Structure problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Chevrolet Tracker vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
2004 Chevrolet Tracker complaints
The NHTSA has received 15 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Chevrolet Tracker.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-10
- VIN: 2CNBJ134946
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I purchased a vehicle from a friend that is 20 years old but runs great and he takes great care of his vehicles. This one was his away car, in that he was here only 6 months of the year and drove this one mainly when he was here and only put on about 2-3 thousand miles per year. He told me he was scraping the car so I offered him scrap value but little to my knowledge that the total frame is rotted from inside to out and on driving it home it thumped, shook rattled and scared the crap out of me. I had no idea being a car person all my life that this vehicle would be allowed on the road with only 84k on it it is undriveable and even a pro welder would not work on it.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-13
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TAKATA INFLATORS RECALL DID NOT INFLATE ON IMPACT
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-19
- Number Of Injuries: 3
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2CNBJ134746
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE AIRBAGS ARE NOT LISTED ON THE RECALL. HOW EVEN ON DEC 19, 2016 THIS VEHICLE WAS TOTALED IN A FRONT END CRASH. NONE OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, THE DRIVERS SIDE SEATBELT CAME LOOSE.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-16
- VIN: 2CNBJ134046
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET TRACKER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE MANUFACTURER DID NOT NOTIFY THE CONTACT OF A MANUFACTURER'S SERVICE CAMPAIGN FOR RUST AND CORROSION ON THE CROSS MEMBER. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN IN FOR AN INSPECTION, AND THE VEHICLE FAILED. THE INSPECTOR INDICATED THAT THE CROSS MEMBER BAR HAD EXTENSIVE RUST AND CORROSION, WHICH NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INDICATED THAT THE STATUTE HAD EXPIRED FOR THE MANUFACTURER'S SERVICE CAMPAIGN FOR THE CROSS MEMBER. THE CONTACT WAS UNCERTAIN IF EITHER A DEALER OR A MECHANIC WOULD REPAIR THE VEHICLE TO PASS AN INSPECTION. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,932.
STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-18
- VIN: 2CNBJ134746
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: DRIVING ON EXPRESSWAY CAR STARTED TO VIBRATE AND SHAKE SEVERELY. THE CAR WAS PULLING TO THE LEFT AND STEERING BECAME DIFFICULT, EXPERIENCING PARTIAL LOSS OF CONTROL. I PULLED OVER TO SHOULDER OF HIGHWAY AND UPON INVESTIGATION NOTICED THE CROSS BEAM WAS RUSTED THROUGH AND THE LEFT DRIVERS SIDE CONTROL ARM HAD BROKE FREE. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE NEAREST CHEVROLET DEALER AND WAS TOLD THE VEHICLE WAS THREE MONTHS PAST THE EXTENDED COVERAGE. I HAD THE TRACKER CHECKED PREVIOUSLY FOR THIS PROBLEM WHEN I RECEIVED A LETTER FROM CHEVROLET ABOUT A POSSIBLE ISSUE AND WAS TOLD THERE WAS NOT AN ISSUE WITH MY CAR. REALLY! IF CHEVROLET KNEW THERE WAS A SAFETY ISSUE, IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN REPAIRED TO BEGIN WITH. *TR
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-24
- VIN: 2CNBJ134846
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET TRACKER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE BRAKE DUST SHIELD ON THE REAR BRAKES BECAME CORRODED. THE CONTACT WANTED TO REPAIR THE VEHICLE HOWEVER THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED HIM THAT THE PART WAS OBSOLETE AND NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 41,000.
SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-09
- Crash: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION,STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY CAR IS IN EXCELLENT SHAPE I STORE IT RIGHT AND WASH ALL THE SALT OFF DURING WINTER THERE WAS NO CORROSION OR AT LEAST I THOUGHT UNTIL I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD THE CAR STARTED SHAKING VIOLENTLY CAUSING ME TO GO OFF THE ROAD AND HIT A TREE COME TO FIND OUT MY FRONT CROSSMEMBER WAS EXTRREMEMLY CORRODED BUT THE METAL RIGHT NEXT TO IT WAS NOT CORRODED AT ALL SO THEY USED INFERIOR METAL THE ACCIDENT DAMAGED THE FENDERS BUMPER AND LIGHTS IT ALSO DESTROYED MY SWAY BAR LINKS STRUTS AND STRUT MOUNTS I TAKE GOOD CARE OF MY CAR AND WHEN I CALLED CHEVY THE TOLD ME THEY KNEW ABOUT IT AND THAT THE WOULD NOT DO ANYTHING ABOUT IT. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-02-23
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2CNBE134846
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET TRACKER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING IN THE SNOW, SHE LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE AND CRASHED THE FRONT OF END INTO AN EMBANKMENT. THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. THE CONTACT SUFFERED CONTUSIONS AND BRUISING TO THE TORSO REGION. A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 20,000. UPDATED 04/22/14*LJ THE CONSUMER STATED SHE HIT A PATCH OF ICE WHILE DRIVING, SHE VEERED OFF THE HIGHWAY LOST CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND FLIPPED OVER 3 TIMES. UPDATE 04/24/14
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-02-04
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 2CNBJ734X46
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MYSELF AND 2 DAUGHTERS WERE IN A HEAD ON WRECK 2/04/2010 WHEN A GUY PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF US, NEITHER OF THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. MY DAUGHTER HIT THE WINDSHIELD AND I HIT THE STEERING WHEEL AND DASH. THE PREGNANT ONE WAS THANKFULLY IN THE BACK SEAT. *TR
SUSPENSION,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-05
- VIN: 2CNBJ134146
- Components: SUSPENSION,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: THE LOWER ARM CONTROL PROBLEMS AND AIR CONDITIONING UNIT WITH MY VEHICLE, CHEVROLET TRACKER 2004. *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-01
- VIN: 2CNBY134246
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED EXCESSIVELY WHILE THE ENGINE WAS STARTED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP WHO COULD NOT DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE DEALERSHIP INSPECTION BECAUSE THE PROBLEM PERSISTED AND IT REPRESENTED A SAFETY RISK IF THE VEHICLE WOULD SHIFT TO DRIVE POSITION.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-17
- VIN: 2CNBE134946
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE SALES MAN , JAM JAMISON SOLD ME THIS CAR WHICH WAS BRAND NEW WHEN I GOT IT. THIS CAR HAS BEEN GIVING ME SO MANY PROBLEMS. THE CAR'S TRANSMISSION DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. I HAVE TRIED SO MANY TIMES TO FIX THE CAR BUT IT JUST COMES BACK TO ME THE SAME WAY. WHEN I RUN THE CAR THE TRANSMISSION MAKES A REALLY LOUD NOISE. ALSO WHILE I'M DRIVING THE CAR IT JUST TURNS OFF ALL OF THE SUDDEN I HAVE TOOK THE CAR TO THE MECHANIC, AND DONE ALL THE MAINTENANCE THE CAR NEEDS THE CAR JUST DOES NOT FUNCTION RIGHT. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-15
- VIN: 2HGEJ6341XH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: SQUEAK FROM FRONT AXEL/POWER TRAIN DURING COLD AMBIENT TEMPERATURES. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-08-18
- VIN: 2CNBJ134X46
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: THE TIRES WERE REPLACED FOUR TIMES IN ORDER TO STOP THE VIBRATION. VEHICLE VIBRATED WHEN GOING 65-70 MPH . DEALER STATED NO DEFECTS WERE FOUND ON THE VEHICLE. *AK *NM
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-03-26
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I PURCHASED A NEW 2004 CHEVY TRACKER. I HAD PUT 260 MILES ON IT IN SHORT TRIPS. ON MARCH 26, 2004 I WAS ATTEMPTING TO BACK UP AND TURN LEFT TO LEAVE A LARGE PARKING LOT IN A RURAL AREA. MY ATTEMPTS TO TURN THE WHEELS FAILED. WHILE TURNING THE STERRING WHEEL THE TIRES MOVED ON AN INCH OR SO. THE STERRING WHEEL "CHEVY LOGO" WAS UPSIDE DOWN. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO THE DEALERSHIP AND I WAS FINALLY TOLD THAT "FOUR PINS HAD FALLEN OUT OF THE STERRING MECHANISM." I WAS LIVID. I HAD BEEN DRIVING ALL OVER THE PLACE WITH MY GRANDCHILDREN ALONG AND IF I HAD BEEN ANYWHERE ELSE BESIDE THIS RURAL LOCATION WE COULD HAVE ALL BEEN KILLED. I REFUSED TO LEAVE WITH THE CAR AND INSISTED ON A NEW ONE. AFTER SEVERAL HOURS OF DEBATE A SALES MANAGER TOOK MATTERS INTO HIS OWN HANDS AND TOLD ME THAT GM WOULD BUY THE CAR BACK. IT TOOK TWO WEEKS TO GET ALL OF THE PAPERWORK COMPLETE BUT THE NEW ONE IS MINE. I HOPE THIS WAS A FLUKE AND I AM GLAD TO BE ALIVE.
Negative 2004 Chevrolet Tracker car reviews
Positive 2004 Chevrolet Tracker car reviews
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I love my Tracker! It's so much fun to drive, especially in the New York snow with its 4x4 capabilities. The design of the Tracker also makes it easy to see everything. Plus, it's very reasonably priced. I'm thrilled with my Tracker!
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I love this car. I have never enjoyed any car as much as this one. I would recommend it to everyone.
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I recently purchased the Tracker SUV and it has exceeded my expectations. After researching and comparing it to other similar vehicles, I ultimately chose the Tracker and I am glad I did. The leather interior adds a luxurious touch to the vehicle. The six-cylinder engine provides ample power and makes driving a joy. The storage capacity is more than enough for my needs, even when carrying groceries and my grandkids. The fit and finish of the vehicle are excellent. Thank you for providing such a great product!
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It sounds like you've got a fantastic vehicle! It's great to hear that it's able to handle all your needs, from off-roading to towing your utility trailer loaded with firewood. With ample room and the rear seats folded down, it seems like you've got plenty of space for whatever you need to transport. And the fact that it never breaks is definitely a huge plus! It's also great to hear that it's comfortable on long trips.
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So glad to hear that everything is in working order and that you're experiencing less road noise and roll than with the Cherokee. It's great to know that you're much happier now that you've returned to Chevy.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Chevrolet Tracker problems:
Attempting to buy a Tracker. Issues to look for? : r/geotracker
Aug 25, 2020 ... Common 1st-gen problems: Rust. Timing chain ... Engine / Mechanical problems: People can ... My buddy has a 2.5 ZR-2 package 2003 Chevy Tracker ...
Q&A: 2004 Chevy Tracker Engine Problems - Common Issues ...
Nov 19, 2021 ... Was this answer helpful? up Yes. down No. Finish.
2004 Chevrolet Tracker Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Oct 29, 2018 ... Faults: Catalytic converter flange rusted out at 50,000KM. Front stabilizer links rusted out at 54000KM. General Comments: Great ...
2004 Chevrolet Tracker Problems and Complaints - 6 Issues
Problem with your 2004 Chevrolet Tracker? Our list of 6 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2004 Chevrolet Tracker.
2004 Chevrolet Tracker Problems | Kelley Blue Book
How reliable is the 2004 Chevrolet Tracker? See the most common repairs performed and learn if your vehicle is at risk for major repairs in the next 12 ...
Other years of Chevrolet Tracker
Are you having problems with your 2004 Chevrolet Tracker?
Giovanni Schuster 2024-07-25
The cargo area is a bit small and the rear seats don't fold down all the way. Additionally, the front seats may feel a bit cramped for taller individuals.
Claude Brakus 2024-01-15
I have four Tracker vehicles - a 1998, a 2000, a 2001, and another 2001. I really enjoy them and I'm considering getting a new one in 2005.