1991 Chevrolet S10
1991 Chevrolet S10
The 1991 Chevrolet S10 is a compact pickup truck that offers a range of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 2.5-liter inline-four with 120 horsepower and 150 lb-ft of torque. A 4.3-liter V6 with 160 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque is also available. Both engines can be paired with a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
The S10 is known for its reliability and affordability. However, it has also been plagued by several notable issues over the years.
Engine
2.5-liter Inline-Four
Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant and oil leaks, overheating, engine misfires Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+ Recalls: None Found
Valve Cover Gasket Leak Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve cover area Solution: Replace valve cover gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found
4.3-liter V6
Cylinder Head Cracking Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, white smoke from exhaust Solution: Replace cylinder head(s) Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+ Recalls: None Found
Intake Manifold Gasket Leak Description/Symptoms: Coolant and/or oil leaks, overheating Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Five-Speed Manual
Clutch Master Cylinder Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, clutch pedal feels spongy Solution: Replace clutch master cylinder Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 Recalls: None Found
Transmission Mount Failure Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration, difficulty shifting gears Solution: Replace transmission mount(s) Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found
Four-Speed Automatic
Throttle Position Sensor Failure Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, engine stalling, reduced fuel economy Solution: Replace throttle position sensor Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found
Transmission Fluid Leaks Description/Symptoms: Transmission fluid leaks, slipping gears Solution: Repair or replace leaking component(s) Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source of the leak Recalls: None Found
Suspension
Front Ball Joint Wear Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from front suspension, uneven tire wear Solution: Replace ball joints Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found
Rear Leaf Spring Failure Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, reduced load capacity Solution: Replace leaf spring(s) Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600 Recalls: 91V106000, 91V070000
Electrical
Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical system not charging Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 *Recalls:** None Found
Battery Drain Description/Symptoms: Battery drains quickly after parking Solution: Test and replace faulty component(s) that are draining the battery Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500 *Recalls:** None Found
Exterior
Rust Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on body panels, frame, and undercarriage Solution: Preventative maintenance (waxing, rust-proofing), repairs as needed Estimated Cost to Fix:** Varies depending on severity *Recalls: None Found
Interior
Dashboard Cracking Description/Symptoms: Cracks in dashboard material Solution: Replace dashboard or cover with dash pad Estimated Cost to Fix:** $300 - $500 *Recalls: None Found
Air Conditioning Blower Motor Failure Description/Symptoms: No air flow from vents Solution: Replace blower motor Estimated Cost to Fix:** $150 - $250 *Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1991 Chevrolet S10 is a generally reliable vehicle, but it has experienced some significant issues over the years. The most serious problem is the potential for cylinder head cracking in the 4.3-liter V6 engine. This issue can lead to catastrophic engine failure and expensive repairs. Other common issues include intake manifold gasket failures, transmission fluid leaks, and rust. Overall, the severity and cost of these issues vary depending on the specific problem and the condition of the vehicle.