1990 Chevrolet S10

1990 Chevrolet S10

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 was a compact pickup truck offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. It was known for its ruggedness and affordability, making it a popular choice for both work and leisure.

Engine

• 2.5L Inline-4
  • Blown Head Gasket:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaking from the engine, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust.
    • Solution: Replace the head gasket and bolts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Leak:
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold area.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4.3L V6
  • Timing Chain Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioners, and guides.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Oil Pressure Sensor Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Low oil pressure warning light illuminated, loss of oil pressure.
    • Solution: Replace the oil pressure sensor.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Transmission Fluid Leak:
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid from the seals or gaskets.
    • Solution: Replace the leaking seals or gaskets.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Clutch Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, slipping clutch.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch assembly.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Torque Converter Clutch Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or hesitation during acceleration.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Transmission Pump Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: No gears engaging, loss of power.
    • Solution: Replace the transmission pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Ball Joint Wear:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or knocking noises when turning or hitting bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Leaf Spring Sagging:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sagging, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Charging System Malfunction:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, dim lights, electrical failures.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator, voltage regulator, or other charging system components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1,000
  • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign ID: 03V020001
• Starter Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t start, clicking noise from the starter.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels.
  • Solution: Rust treatment, body panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dependent on the severity of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found
• Bed Floor Rust:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust on the bed floor, especially in areas that accumulate dirt and moisture.
  • Solution: Rust treatment, bed floor replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Dependent on the severity of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Foam Deterioration:
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat foam becoming flat or uncomfortable.
  • Solution: Replace the seat foam.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 is a generally reliable and affordable compact pickup truck. However, like any vehicle, it has some common issues that owners may encounter. While the severity and cost of these issues can vary, they should be considered when researching and maintaining this vehicle.