1999 Chevrolet Tracker
Introduction
The 1999 Chevrolet Tracker is a compact SUV powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four engine producing 120 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque. It comes standard with a five-speed manual transmission, while a four-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. The Tracker is praised for its affordability, versatile cargo space, and off-road capabilities, but it also has a reputation for reliability issues.
Engine
2.0L Inline-Four
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold, resulting in overheating or rough idling
- Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Timing Chain Guide Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rattles or grinding noises from the engine, particularly at higher RPMs
- Solution: Replace the timing chain guide
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Camshaft Position Sensor Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, misfires, or difficulty starting
- Solution: Replace the camshaft position sensor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Five-Speed Manual
- Shifting Difficulty
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, particularly into reverse
- Solution: Replace the shift linkage or transmission synchronizers
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
- Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Slipping or burning clutch, difficulty engaging gears
- Solution: Replace the clutch assembly
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
Four-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Slippage
- Description/Symptoms: Transmission hesitates or slips when shifting gears
- Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration while driving, particularly at low speeds
- Solution: Replace the torque converter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1500+
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Strut Bearing Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises while turning or driving over bumps
- Solution: Replace the front strut bearings
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear Leaf Spring Sagging
- Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than the front, reduced towing capacity
- Solution: Replace the rear leaf springs
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, dead battery, electrical system malfunctions
- Solution: Replace the alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
- Starter Failure
- Description/Symptoms: No response when turning the ignition key
- Solution: Replace the starter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust and Corrosion
- Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on the body, particularly around the wheel wells and undercarriage
- Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected parts (severity dependent)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies widely depending on severity and location
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracks or splits in the dashboard
- Solution: Replacement or repair of the dashboard (aesthetic only, does not affect functionality)
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (for replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1999 Chevrolet Tracker has a number of reported issues, particularly related to the engine, transmission, and suspension. The severity and cost of these issues can vary, but some can be expensive to repair. Potential buyers should thoroughly research and inspect potential vehicles to avoid costly problems down the road.