2004 Chevrolet S10

Introduction: The 2004 Chevrolet S10 is a compact pickup truck that was produced from 1982 to 2004. It was available with a variety of engine and transmission options, including:

• 2.2L I4 (120 hp, 145 lb-ft) paired with a 4-speed manual transmission
• 2.2L I4 (120 hp, 145 lb-ft) paired with a 5-speed manual transmission
• 2.2L I4 (120 hp, 145 lb-ft) paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission
• 4.3L V6 (190 hp, 250 lb-ft) paired with a 4-speed manual transmission
• 4.3L V6 (190 hp, 250 lb-ft) paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission
• 4.3L V6 (195 hp, 260 lb-ft) paired with a 5-speed manual transmission
• 4.3L V6 (195 hp, 260 lb-ft) paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission

The S10 was praised for its versatility, affordability, and capability, but it was also criticized for its lack of refinement and safety features.

Engine 2.2L I4 (120 hp, 145 lb-ft)

• Blown Head Gasket: Symptoms include overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, and loss of coolant. Solution: Replace the head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,500+
• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Symptoms include a vacuum leak, rough idle, and poor performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Timing Chain Tensioner Failure: Symptoms include a rattling noise from the engine, loss of power, and engine damage if not addressed. Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Recall 04V424000: Loss of power and stalling; caused by a faulty ignition switch

4.3L V6 (190 hp, 250 lb-ft)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Symptoms include a vacuum leak, rough idle, and poor performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Throttle Position Sensor Failure: Symptoms include erratic idle, poor performance, and increased fuel consumption. Solution: Replace the throttle position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Fuel Pump Failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, loss of power, and engine stalling. Solution: Replace the fuel pump. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
• Recall 04V486000: Faulty fuel pump relay; could lead to an engine fire

4.3L V6 (195 hp, 260 lb-ft)

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Symptoms include a vacuum leak, rough idle, and poor performance. Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Throttle Position Sensor Failure: Symptoms include erratic idle, poor performance, and increased fuel consumption. Solution: Replace the throttle position sensor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
• Catalytic Converter Failure: Symptoms include a rattling noise from the exhaust, loss of power, and increased emissions. Solution: Replace the catalytic converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Transmission 4-Speed Manual Transmission

• Grinding Gears: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, and damage to the transmission. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
• Shift Linkage Failure: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears or getting the vehicle out of gear. Solution: Replace the shift linkage. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

5-Speed Manual Transmission

• Synchro Failure: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises, and damage to the transmission. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $3,000+
• Input Shaft Bearing Failure: Symptoms include a whining noise from the transmission, loss of power, and transmission damage if not addressed. Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
• Recall 04V027000: Faulty transmission mount; could lead to transmission failure

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Torque Converter Failure: Symptoms include shuddering or slipping during gear changes, loss of power, and increased fuel consumption. Solution: Replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Transmission Solenoid Failure: Symptoms include erratic shifting, delayed engagement, or no engagement. Solution: Replace the transmission solenoid. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Recall 04V437000: Faulty transmission solenoid; could lead to transmission failure

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints: Symptoms include clunking and popping noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear, and loss of steering control. Solution: Replace the ball joints. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side
• Leaking Shock Absorbers: Symptoms include a bouncy ride, poor handling, and uneven tire wear. Solution: Replace the shock absorbers. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per pair
• Leaf Spring Failure: Symptoms include a sagging rear end, loss of handling, and potential wheelbase changes. Solution: Replace the leaf springs. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per pair

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Symptoms include dim lights, flickering gauges, and battery drain. Solution: Replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
• Starter Failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine, clicking noises, and complete failure to start. Solution: Replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
• Battery Drain: Symptoms include a dead battery even with limited use. Solution: Identify and fix the source of the parasitic draw. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the source

Exterior

• Rust: Symptoms include bubbling paint, peeling paint, and holes in the body panels. Solution: Repair or replace the affected body panels. Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the damage
• Tailgate Latch Failure: Symptoms include difficulty opening or closing the tailgate, or the tailgate opening on its own. Solution: Replace the tailgate latch. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Interior

• Seat Belt Retractor Failure: Symptoms include difficulty retracting the seat belts, or the seat belts not retracting at all. Solution: Replace the seat belt retractor. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+

Summary: The 2004 Chevrolet S10 is a relatively reliable vehicle, but it does have some common issues to be aware of. The engine and transmission issues are generally minor and can be repaired for under $1,000. The suspension and electrical issues are also typically affordable to fix. The most serious issue to watch out for is the leaf spring failure, which can compromise handling and safety. Overall, the S10 is a solid choice for those looking for a compact and affordable pickup truck, but it is important to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchasing to identify any potential problems.