2007 Chevrolet Tracker

2007 Chevrolet Tracker

Overview

The 2007 Chevrolet Tracker, a compact SUV, offered a blend of utility and affordability. While generally considered a decent option for its class, like any vehicle, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common technical problems beyond routine maintenance, providing insights into potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers or current owners. Understanding these potential pitfalls can help in proactive maintenance and budgeting for repairs.

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Engine

2.0L 4-Cylinder

Oil Leaks

• Symptoms: Visible oil spots under the vehicle, burning oil smell, low oil level.
• Solution: Replacement of seals and gaskets (e.g., valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket).
• Cost: $250 - $600

Cooling System Issues

• Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, heater not working.
• Solution: Replacement of radiator, thermostat, water pump, or hoses.
• Cost: $300 - $700

2.5L V6

Timing Belt Failure

• Symptoms: Sudden engine shutdown, loss of power, engine misfires, ticking noise from the engine.
• Solution: Replacement of timing belt, tensioners, and idler pulleys. If failure occurred, potential engine damage repair.
• Cost: $600 - $1200 (belt replacement), $2000+ (engine repair)

Head Gasket Failure

• Symptoms: Overheating, white smoke from exhaust, coolant in oil, milky oil.
• Solution: Replacement of head gaskets and associated components.
• Cost: $1000 - $2000

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

Slipping Gears

• Symptoms: Engine revs up but vehicle doesn’t accelerate, delayed engagement, harsh shifting.
• Solution: Transmission fluid and filter change, solenoid replacement, or transmission rebuild.
• Cost: $300 - $800 (fluid/filter/solenoid), $1500 - $3000 (rebuild)

Transmission Overheating

• Symptoms: Burning smell, rough shifting, transmission warning light.
• Solution: Transmission cooler flush or replacement, transmission fluid service.
• Cost: $200 - $500

Suspension

Standard Chassis

Worn Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, loose steering, uneven tire wear.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints and tie rod ends.
• Cost: $300 - $600

Strut Mount Bearing Failure

• Symptoms: Popping or creaking noise when turning the steering wheel, especially at low speeds.
• Solution: Replacement of strut mount bearings.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Electrical

General Electrical System

Alternator Failure

• Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, dead battery, electrical components not working.
• Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not working, window stuck in the down or up position.
• Solution: Replacement of the window regulator mechanism.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Exterior

Body and Trim

Rust on Body Panels

• Symptoms: Visible corrosion, bubbling paint, holes in body panels, particularly around wheel wells and rocker panels.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or panel replacement.
• Cost: $300 - $1500+ (depending on severity)

Tailgate Latch Issues

• Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the tailgate, latch not engaging properly.
• Solution: Lubrication or replacement of the tailgate latch mechanism.
• Cost: $150 - $300

Interior

Cabin Components

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or air only coming from certain vents, regardless of fan speed setting.
• Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor and resistor.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Door Lock Actuator Failure

• Symptoms: Power door locks not working, manual locks difficult to operate.
• Solution: Replacement of the door lock actuator.
• Cost: $150 - $300

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Summary Verdict

The 2007 Chevrolet Tracker, particularly with the 2.0L engine, generally presents fewer major issues than the V6 variant. Common concerns across models include potential oil leaks and cooling system problems. The 2.5L V6 is more prone to significant issues like timing belt failure and head gasket problems, which can be costly. Transmission issues such as slipping or overheating are also reported. Suspension components like ball joints and tie rods can wear out, leading to steering and noise problems. Electrical issues like alternator failure and interior problems such as HVAC blower motor failure are also noted. Rust can be a concern on older models. Overall, while not plagued by widespread critical failures, owners should be aware of these potential repair areas and budget accordingly, especially for the V6 models.