2003 Chevrolet Tracker
Introduction:
The 2003 Chevrolet Tracker is a compact SUV available with either a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine or a 2.5L V6 engine. The 2.0L engine produces 120 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, while the 2.5L engine produces 170 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque.
The Tracker offers a choice of a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission for the 2.0L engine and a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission for the 2.5L engine.
The 2003 Tracker is lauded for its compact size and affordability, but it also has some drawbacks, including a cramped interior and lackluster fuel economy.
Engine
2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine:
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak: Oil leaks from the valve cover gasket due to premature failure.
- Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
- Transmission Cooler Line Leak: Transmission fluid leaks from a cracked or damaged transmission cooler line.
- Solution: Replace the transmission cooler line.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $250
2.5L V6 Engine:
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Coolant leaks from a defective intake manifold gasket.
- Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $450
- Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: The timing chain tensioner fails, causing the timing chain to skip and potentially damaging the engine.
- Solution: Replace the timing chain and tensioner.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200
Transmission
5-Speed Manual Transmission:
- Synchro Failure: Synchronizers wear out prematurely, causing difficulty shifting gears.
- Solution: Replace the worn synchronizers.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Shift Linkage Malfunction: The shift linkage disengages, making it impossible to shift gears.
- Solution: Replace the shift linkage.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
4-Speed Automatic Transmission:
- Transmission Slipping: The transmission slips and fails to engage gears properly.
- Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2500
- Torque Converter Failure: The torque converter fails, causing the transmission to shudder and slip.
- Solution: Replace the torque converter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
Suspension
- Strut Mount Failure: The strut mounts prematurely wear out, causing a clunking or rattling noise over bumps.
- Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Sway Bar Link Failure: The sway bar links break due to wear and tear.
- Solution: Replace the sway bar links.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
Electrical
- Alternator Failure: The alternator fails, causing the electrical system to malfunction.
- Solution: Replace the alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Starter Failure: The starter fails to engage the engine, preventing it from starting.
- Solution: Replace the starter.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
Exterior
- Rear Hatch Leak: Water leaks into the rear of the vehicle through a faulty hatch seal.
- Solution: Replace the hatch seal.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
- Fog Light Malfunction: The fog lights fail to operate due to electrical issues.
- Solution: Troubleshoot the electrical system and replace any faulty components.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
Interior
- Dashboard Rattling: The dashboard rattles and vibrates over bumps.
- Solution: Install anti-rattle clips or foam padding to secure the dashboard.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
- Door Handle Malfunction: The door handles become loose or break, making it difficult to open the doors.
- Solution: Replace the door handles.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
Summary:
The 2003 Chevrolet Tracker has a moderate number of potential issues across its various components. While some of these issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix, others, such as timing chain tensioner failure or transmission slipping, can be more severe and costly to repair.
Overall, the Tracker is a reliable and affordable SUV, but potential buyers should be aware of these common issues before purchasing one.