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1994-2004 Chevrolet S-Series Reliability
Date Published: 2/20/08
Our reliability study for this generation Chevrolet S-10 includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Chevrolet S-10.
1994-2004 Chevrolet S-Series Reliability
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.
Engine knock: Knock in the 4.3-liter engine is usually eliminated by using an oil filter with a check valve. If this does not fix it, GM has revised PROMs for the computers and will even replace the main bearings. (1994-95)
Engine temperature: Overheating and coolant loss may be due to rough surface on radiator filler neck. Neck should be sanded smooth and cap replaced. (1999-2000)
Oil consumption: High oil consumption on 2.2-liter engine may be due to a loose baffle in the valve cover. (1998-2000)
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 $550
Alternator $255
Automatic Transmission or Transaxle $750
Brakes $210
Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing $545
Exhaust System $460
Radiator $410
Shocks and/or Struts $345
Timing Chain or Belt $420
Universal Joints $190
NHTSA Recall History
1994 2WD/4WD: The windshield wiper motor may fail on certain vehicles. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
1994 w/2.2-liter engine: Vacuum hose can detach from power-brake-booster check valve, as a result of engine backfire.
1994-95 Postal Vehicle: Loose/worn steering shaft can result in separation from steering gear.
1994-96 w/4WD and ABS: Increased stopping distances can occur during ABS stops while in 2WD mode.
1994-97: Seatbelt webbing on certain models can separate during frontal impact.
1995 w/air conditioning and V6 engine: Rivet can break and allow fan blade to separate from hub.
1996 2WD manual-shift w/2.2-liter engine: Drive wheels could seize and lock while truck is moving.
1996: Top coat of paint on a few trucks peels severely.
1996-97 w/V6 engine: Front brake line can contact oil pan, causing wear that may result in fluid loss.
1997: The windshield wiper motor may fail on certain vehicles. Dealer will inspect and replace affected parts.
1997-98 electric: Fuel-fired heater-pipe ground strap contacts rear brake pipe, leading to premature corrosion and eventual loss of brake-pipe integrity.
1998: Daytime running lights do not meet FMVSS No. 108 requirements.
1998: Fatigue fracture of rear-axle brake pipe can occur, causing slow fluid leak and resulting in soft brake pedal; if pipe breaks, driver would face sudden loss of rear-brake performance.
1998: Wiring-harness clip can melt and drip onto exhaust manifold, possibly resulting in fire.
1999: Safety-belt retractor may not meet the locking requirements, leaving the occupant improperly restrained in a collision.
2000 w/2WD: On certain vehicles, right-hand ABS module feed pipe and/or brake crossover pipe-tube nuts could have been tightened improperly; seal could have been broken, causing leakage and increasing stopping distance.
2000 w/all-disc brakes: Out-of-spec spring clip in ABS motor could allow bearing to become misaligned; eventually, ABS and Dynamic Rear Proportioning system would become inoperative.
2000-01: Some seatbelt assemblies were not properly heat treated and do not pass the load-bearing requirement.
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