2000 Chevrolet Tracker

The 2000 Chevrolet Tracker is a compact SUV known for its affordability and off-road capability. It was offered with two engine options: a 1.6L inline-4 producing around 95 horsepower and 98 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.0L inline-4 generating approximately 127 horsepower and 134 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often appreciate the Tracker’s simple design, ease of maintenance, and off-road prowess, while common dislikes include its limited power, basic interior, and susceptibility to rust.

Engine

1.6L Inline-4

• Rough Idle/Stalling
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine idles roughly, hesitates during acceleration, or stalls, especially when cold.
  • Solution: Clean or replace the Idle Air Control (IAC) valve. Check and replace vacuum lines if cracked or leaking.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (IAC valve replacement)
• Check Engine Light - P0300 (Random Misfire)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light illuminates, indicating a random misfire across multiple cylinders. Engine may run rough.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace spark plugs, spark plug wires, distributor cap and rotor. Consider checking fuel injectors and performing a compression test.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+ (depending on the cause)

2.0L Inline-4

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks from valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, or rear main seal. Visible oil drips under the vehicle.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+ (depending on the location of the leak)
• Check Engine Light - P0420 (Catalytic Converter Efficiency Below Threshold)
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light comes on. This code indicates that the catalytic converter is not functioning correctly.
  • Solution: Replace the catalytic converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Delayed or Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Noticeable delay before the transmission engages a gear, or harsh shifting between gears.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid level and condition. Perform a transmission fluid and filter change. In severe cases, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (fluid change), $1500 - $3000+ (rebuild or replacement)
• Transmission Slipping
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine revs high, but the vehicle doesn’t accelerate properly or loses power while driving.
  • Solution: Check transmission fluid levels, fluid change. In severe cases, the transmission may need to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (fluid change), $1500 - $3000+ (rebuild or replacement)

Suspension

• Worn Suspension Components
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and excessive body roll.
  • Solution: Inspect and replace worn shocks, struts, ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ per component (depending on which parts need replacing)
• Sagging Rear Suspension
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear of the vehicle sits lower than normal, especially when loaded.
  • Solution: Replace worn leaf springs or add-a-leaf.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery drains overnight or within a short period, making it difficult to start the vehicle.
  • Solution: Perform a parasitic draw test to identify the source of the drain. Common causes include a faulty alternator, a failing interior light, or an aftermarket accessory.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+ (depending on the cause)
• Headlight Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights flicker, dim, or fail to operate.
  • Solution: Check and replace headlight bulbs, fuses, and relays. Inspect the headlight switch and wiring harness for damage.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $10 - $100+

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust is a common issue on older Trackers, particularly in areas with road salt. Rust can appear on the rocker panels, quarter panels, frame, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair can range from minor surface treatment to welding in new panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $1000+ (depending on severity)

Interior

• Cracked Dashboard
  • Description/Symptoms: The dashboard is prone to cracking, especially in hot climates.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or install a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
• Door Handle Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: The interior door handles are made of plastic and can break easily.
  • Solution: Replace the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $20 - $100+

Recalls:

• 99V291000 (Seat Belt Buckle): Certain 1998-2001 Chevrolet Trackers may have seat belt buckle assemblies that were not manufactured to specification. This could lead to the seat belt unlatching during a crash.

Summary

The 2000 Chevrolet Tracker, while a capable and affordable vehicle, is prone to several common issues. Engine and transmission problems can range from minor inconveniences to costly repairs. Suspension wear and tear is expected in a vehicle of this age. Rust can be a significant concern, especially in regions with harsh winters. Electrical issues can also arise. Overall, potential buyers should thoroughly inspect the vehicle, paying close attention to the engine, transmission, suspension, and rust, and budget for potential repairs. The severity of the issues varies, but costs can quickly add up, especially with rust remediation or major mechanical repairs.