2000 Chevrolet Metro

The 2000 Chevrolet Metro is a subcompact car known for its fuel efficiency and affordability. It was offered with two engine options: a 1.0L inline-3 engine producing around 55 horsepower and 58 lb-ft of torque, and a 1.3L inline-4 engine producing around 70 horsepower and 74 lb-ft of torque. The transmissions available were a 5-speed manual and a 3-speed automatic. Owners generally appreciate the Metro’s simplicity, low running costs, and ease of parking. Common dislikes include its lack of power, basic interior, and limited safety features.

Engine

1.0L Inline-3 Engine

• Check Engine Light Due to Faulty Oxygen Sensor
  • Description/Symptoms: The Check Engine light illuminates, and a diagnostic scan reveals a code related to the oxygen sensor. The engine may run rough, have poor fuel economy, or fail an emissions test.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idle Air Control (IAC) Valve Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough or erratic idle, stalling, particularly when coming to a stop.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the IAC valve.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+
  • Recalls: None Found

1.3L Inline-4 Engine

• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, difficulty starting, or complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, visible leaks around the engine. Common leak points include the water pump and radiator hoses.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the leaking component (water pump, hoses, etc.).
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ depending on the component.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Clutch Wear and Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clutch slippage, difficulty shifting, unusual noises when engaging the clutch.
  • Solution: Replace the clutch disc, pressure plate, and throw-out bearing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

3-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Problems/Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, delayed or harsh shifting, failure to shift properly.
  • Solution: Fluid and filter change can sometimes help. In more severe cases, transmission rebuild or replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 (fluid/filter change) to $800-$2000+ (rebuild/replacement)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Shocks and Struts
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, excessive body roll, and noise when going over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the worn shocks and struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per axle.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, clunking noises from the front end, uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery light on the dashboard, difficulty starting, or complete failure to start.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clicking sound when trying to start the engine, failure of the engine to crank.
  • Solution: Replace the starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on the body panels, especially in areas prone to moisture and salt exposure (e.g., wheel wells, rocker panels, undercarriage).
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies greatly depending on severity, from $100 to thousands for extensive work.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• No Issues Found

Summary

The 2000 Chevrolet Metro, while appreciated for its fuel efficiency and affordability, is prone to certain mechanical and electrical issues typical of older, budget-friendly vehicles. Engine problems, particularly with the distributor and oxygen sensors, and transmission issues, especially with the automatic, are common. Suspension components also wear out over time. Rust can be a significant concern in regions with harsh weather conditions. Repair costs can range from relatively inexpensive fixes like sensor replacements to more substantial expenses like transmission rebuilds or bodywork, making thorough inspection and maintenance crucial for potential buyers.