2004 Chevrolet Tracker

The 2004 Chevrolet Tracker is a compact SUV that was offered in both two-door and four-door configurations. It was known for its affordability and off-road capability, making it a popular choice for budget-minded buyers who wanted a capable vehicle. However, it was often criticized for its lackluster fuel economy, dated interior, and unrefined driving experience. Engine options included a 2.0L inline-4 producing 127 horsepower and 134 lb-ft of torque, and a 2.5L V6 producing 165 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.

Engine

2.0L Inline-4

• Timing Chain Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially on startup. Can lead to engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain, tensioner, and guides.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level. Common leak areas include the valve cover gasket and oil pan gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the leaking gasket or seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5L V6

• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Sweet smell of coolant, low coolant level, overheating. Commonly caused by a leaking water pump or intake manifold gasket.
  • Solution: Replace the water pump and/or intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oxygen Sensor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Check engine light, poor fuel economy, rough idling.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty oxygen sensor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifts, slipping between gears, delayed engagement.
  • Solution: Fluid change and service, may need a transmission rebuild or replacement depending on severity.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (fluid) - $2000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or vibration, especially at highway speeds. Can also cause stalling.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Worn Ball Joints
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noises when going over bumps or turning. Loose steering.
  • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Sagging Springs
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle sitting low, especially in the rear. Poor ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace the sagging springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, intermittent operation. Often caused by a faulty window motor or switch.
  • Solution: Replace the faulty window motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+ per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Anti-Theft System Malfunction
  • Description/Symptoms: Vehicle not starting, security light flashing.
  • Solution: Reset or reprogram the anti-theft system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $75 - $250+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust forming around wheel wells, rocker panels, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Cut out and replace rusted metal panels.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ per panel
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking or becoming difficult to use.
  • Solution: Replace the broken door handle.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracking on the dashboard, especially in areas exposed to sunlight.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Upholstery Tears
  • Description/Symptoms: Tears in the seat upholstery.
  • Solution: Repair tears or replace upholstery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2004 Chevrolet Tracker, while affordable and capable off-road, is prone to a number of common issues related to its age. Engine issues like timing chain problems (2.0L) and coolant leaks (2.5L) can be costly to repair. Transmission issues such as harsh shifting can lead to expensive rebuilds. Suspension components like ball joints and springs wear out over time. Electrical glitches and rust are also common. Overall, potential buyers should carefully inspect the vehicle and be prepared for potential maintenance and repair costs. The severity and cost of these issues can range from minor inconveniences to major repairs.