1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker: Full Review
Updated: 11/23/08
1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker
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1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker
- Price Range: $600 - $2,300
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- 4WD traction (4WD)
- Fuel economy
Cons
- Ride
- Noise
- Rear-seat room
Vehicle Highlights
Originally marketed under the Geo name by Chevrolet dealers, this 4-wheel-drive (part-time) compact sport-utility came in 2-door wagon and 2-door convertible bodystyles. Suzuki marketed its own version as the Sidekick. Hardtop and convertible Trackers came in base and LSi trim levels. Both use a 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine. Power steering was not available, but Trackers had 5-mph bumpers and rear shoulder belts. Convertible tops fold backward part way, to produce a sunroof style effect.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Geo Tracker 2-door Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 1 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 29 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker.
Year to Year Changes
1991 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker:
Suzuki had offered rear-drive and 4WD versions from the start. This year, Geo added the 2-wheel-drive convertible, available only with 5-speed manual shift. All Trackers added antilocking for their rear drum brakes. Standard 4WD and base convertibles got new black bumpers, door handles, and bodyside moldings. Base models kept manual hubs, but LSi Trackers got automatic-locking hubs.
1992 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker:
Tilt steering wheel was a new option, and dashboards looked a little different.
1993 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker:
Except for new colors and revised radio controls, Trackers again showed nearly no change.
1994 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker:
California Trackers got a different engine: a 95-horsepower rendition with four valves per cylinder.
1995 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker:
All 4-wheel-drive Trackers adopted the 95-horsepower engine.
1996 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker:
All Trackers added dual airbags and a 4-door wagon was available for the first time. The 4-door measured 11 inches longer in wheelbase and 15 inches longer overall than the convertible. Trackers also had a revised front-end look and new wheels. Three-door hardtop bodies were gone. New options included 4-wheel antilock braking, which worked in both 2- and 4-wheel drive.
1997 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker:
The upscale 2-door LSi convertible was dropped for '97. Meanwhile, the base ragtop gained a folding rear bend seat as standard equipment.
1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker:
Tracker puts on a Chevy bow tie badge and loses its top LSi trim level for 1998. Other changes are minimal. An all-new Tracker, again under the Chevrolet name, was waiting for '99.
Our road test for the 1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
The initial 80-horsepower engine has sufficient power for decent acceleration and passing on the 2-door model. With automatic, you have to push the pedal to the floor often to keep up with traffic. That's true even with the 95-horsepower engine. In addition, four-doors are so sluggish with automatic that passing maneuvers have to be planned with care. Gas mileage is fine. We've averaged 24 mpg in a 4-wheel-drive convertible and 28.6 mpg with 2-wheel drive. Tall and narrow, a Tracker must be driven with care through turns due to a high center of gravity. Even if it's not quite as precarious as it may seem while cornering, the abundant body lean quickly grows frightening. The ride is undeniably choppy, and noise levels are high. Two-wheel-drive Trackers are softer suspended for easier going on rough pavement, but even they get choppy. A Tracker's interior is roomy for two in front, but the back seat is best for children. The driver's seat lacks much rearward travel, and suffers minimal space past one's left shoulder. Cargo space behind the rear seat is minuscule, but at least you can fold the seat forward if a load of parcels has to be transported. Controls operate smoothly; gauges are simple. Four-door wagons offer lots of head room, adequate rear leg space, and ample cargo area.
Value for the Money
More modern and refined than the paramilitary Jeep Wrangler, Trackers are appealing in many ways. Still, Trackers and Suzuki Sidekicks are just too rough and noisy for service as daily drivers.
More modern and refined than the paramilitary Jeep Wrangler, Trackers are appealing in many ways. Still, Trackers and Suzuki Sidekicks are just too rough and noisy for service as daily drivers.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Geo Tracker 2-door Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 3 | |
| Fuel Economy | 4 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 3 | |
| Quietness | 1 | |
| Controls/Materials | 3 | |
| Interior Room | 4 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 3 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 3 | |
| Value within Class | 3 | |
| Total Score: | 29 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Geo/Chevrolet Tracker includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Geo/Chevrolet Tracker .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Accessory belt:
Power steering pump bracket may cause serpentine belt to fray or break on 2.0-liter engine. Revised part is available. (1999-01)
Automatic transmission:
The Hydramatic (3L30) automatic transmission causes bucking and jerking due to a problem with the torque converter applying and releasing if the carmaker's modification kit is not installed. (1990-95)
Automatic transmission:
Automatic transmission hunting may be caused by a torque converter clutch that applies and releases too rapidly. (1990-95)
Engine misfire:
The PCV breather hose may freeze up while driving in cold weather causing a loss of oil and engine damage. (1990)
Exhaust system:
The two-piece muffler/tailpipe may rust out prematurely. If the tailpipe rusts through, heat can damage the rear floor and carpet. GM will install a heat shield over the exhaust system. (1990-91)
Keys:
The original keys were made with a soft metal compound that causes them to break. (1990)
Manual transmission:
Because of the rubber compound used to make the shifter boots, some vehicles may not go into four-wheel drive or they may pop out of 4WD. The boot will be replaced with one having softer rubber, at no charge. (1995)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $980 |
| Alternator | $395 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $740 |
| Brakes | $370 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $600 |
| Exhaust System | $475 |
| Radiator | $665 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $270 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $210 |
| Universal Joints | $175 |
Our price chart for this generation Geo/Chevrolet Tracker details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 1998 | |||
| Tracker 2WD | $1,800-2,400 | $1,200-1,600 | $300-400 |
| Tracker 4WD | $2,500-3,200 | $1,800-2,300 | $500-700 |
| 1997 | |||
| Tracker 2WD | $1,600-2,100 | $1,100-1,400 | $200-300 |
| Tracker 4WD | $2,200-2,800 | $1,600-2,000 | $400-500 |
| 1996 | |||
| Tracker 2WD | $1,500-1,900 | $1,000-1,200 | $200 |
| Tracker 4WD | $1,900-2,500 | $1,300-1,700 | $300-400 |
| 1995 | |||
| Tracker 2WD | $1,400-1,800 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| Tracker 4WD | $1,800-2,300 | $1,200-1,600 | $300 |
| 1994 | |||
| Tracker 2WD | $1,300-1,700 | $800-1,100 | $200 |
| Tracker 4WD | $1,700-2,100 | $1,100-1,400 | $300 |
| 1993 | |||
| Tracker 2WD | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| Tracker 4WD | $1,500-1,900 | $1,000-1,200 | $200 |
| 1992 | |||
| Tracker 2WD | $1,100-1,500 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
| Tracker 4WD | $1,400-1,800 | $900-1,200 | $200 |
| 1991 | |||
| Tracker 2WD | $1,000-1,300 | $600-800 | $100 |
| Tracker 4WD | $1,200-1,600 | $700-1,000 | $100-200 |
| 1990 | |||
| Tracker 4WD | $1,100-1,400 | $700-900 | $100-200 |
|
|
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This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Geo/Chevrolet Tracker include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door convertible | 4-door wagon |
| Wheelbase, in. | 86.6 | 97.6 |
| Overall Length, in. | 143.7 | 158.7 |
| Overall Width, in. | 64.2 | 64.4 |
| Overall Height, in. | 64.3 | 65.7 |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 2246 | 2434 |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 32.9 | 45.9 |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | -- |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 11.1 | 14.5 |
| Seating Capacity | 4 | 4 |
| Front Head Room, in. | 39.5 | 40.5 |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 42.1 | 42.1 |
| Rear Head Room, in. | 39.0 | 40.0 |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | 31.6 | 32.7 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Every Tracker holds a 1.6-liter overhead-cam 4-cylinder engine, which started at 80 horsepower. A more potent version, with four valves per cylinder and rated at 95 horsepower, went into California Trackers in 1994, all 4-wheel drives in '95, and all models the next year. A 5-speed manual gearbox was standard; 3-speed automatic transmission optional. On-demand, part-time 4-wheel drive went into all Trackers at first, with a floor-mounted transfer case. Manual-locking front hubs have to be adjusted by hand from outside the vehicle before 4-wheel drive can be engaged. LSi Trackers adopted automatic-locking hubs in 1991. A new 4-speed automatic transmission was available for the 5-door wagon in '96.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| ohc I4 | 1.6 / 97 | 80-95 | 94-98 | 5-speed manual: 24/26 3-speed automatic: 23/24 4-speed automatic: 22/25 |
5-speed manual: 24.8 3-speed automatic: -- 4-speed automatic: 24 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Canada, Japan
Drive Wheels: longitudinal front-engine/rear- or 4-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Geo/Chevrolet Tracker include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
| Test | 1997 Tracker |
|---|---|
| Front Impact, Driver | 2 |
| Front Impact, Passenger | 3 |
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
Learn about official auto recalls, reliability issues, and vehicle problems for the 1990-1998 Geo/Chevrolet Tracker directly from the NHTSA and manufacturers.
NHTSA Recall History
1990-91:
Front-seatbelt release button can break and pieces can fall inside, causing improper operation.
1995:
Steering-wheel hub to spoke weld on some vehicles can fracture, allowing steering wheel to separate.
1996 4-door:
Fuel tank can puncture during rear-end collision.
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