Used 2003 Chevrolet S-10 Consumer Reviews
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325,000 km and still runs like its brand new !
Ive had this truck for a year and a half , before that it was owned by my uncle . This truck has 325,000km on it , most are highway kilometers but it still runs like its brand new ! It has plenty of acceleration for what i need and hp ! The seats are very nice and great for long rides and easy to clean also . The back seat looks very decieving ; everyone before the go on think that it wil be very unconfourtable as you look at the size , but when they are sitting in it ( even for long trips ) they rather have this seat than the passangerseat because of all the leg room . I also love how it doesnt have carpet , easy to not get stains . I love this truck for many different reasons !
The Elk Hauler
Living in Central Montana and traveling over terrain that few people will ever experience in their life time I can attest to the durability and ruggedness of this truck. I've been able to go places that few 4X4 vehicles of full size could ever go. I've pulled a 23' travel trailer 450 miles over the Rockies with this smaller truck and rarely went below 50mph and still got 17mpg. I shouldn't have pulled that trailer but here in Montana one can get away with some things that elsewhere you can't. The truck was up to it and then some. I love this truck! I've owned personally and in my business approx. 23 new pickups of Ford and Chevy make and this truck is without doubt the best vehicle I've ever owned. The ONLY problem I've had is with the automatic shifter into 4X4. I had to install a manual cable pull device to ingage the front wheel drive. If I could find another one of these I would buy it one the spot.
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- S Truck S10MSRP: $1,5502 mi away
- LS Crew CabMSRP: $7,980545 mi away
- Base Regular CabMSRP: $7,995656 mi away
Not bad
I puchased this vehicle hoping for descent fuel mileage. I was a little disappointed. Power is great. It has been a reliable truck so far.
'03 Crew Cab Problems
Bought truck basically for light duty and travel to/from work. Has 77000 easy miles on it. Thus far, have gone thru 2 complete sets of tires, blown headgaskets twice, thermostat twice, water pump once, brakes twice. GM installed DEX-COOL may be eating engine gaskets; dealer is "unaware" of any DEX-COOL problems. I now have thick dark sludge in radiator overflow tank and in top of radiator. GM service mgr suggests I try to manually draw off sludge, clean out tank, and see if that helps, if not a thorough flush will have to be done. Fun to drive factor quickly failing.
Great Truck
Driving this truck has been a great experience, have only replaced a high been bulb in headlight, tires once, it has 70,000 miles. I change the oil every 3 months. Air is cold in 120 summers. The truck has great power when accelerated this has helped avoid serious accidents. I have been very happy with its performance and safety. The only thing is the gas mileage isn't as good, probably because of the 4x4 capability and crew cab feature. The spare tire underneath the bed is not accessible for me and the backseat is very uncomfortable in the middle (is raised in the middle) when 3 ppl have to sit in back. All in all, truck is a good buy and should be cont'd to be manufactured in my opinion.
Bang For The Buck
Having owned my '03 S10 4x4 I can honestly say that no compact truck can compare to it! Throttle response of the V6 is absolutely amazing, not to mention the fun factor off-road. Over the time I have fitted a cold air intake, which boosted horsepower to roughly 200, as well as a boost in mpg by about 2-3 mpg. It has seen many vehicles in the rear-view mirror when it comes to "highway cruising" and will not get boring. Not to mention, the ride quality is comparable to that of a Cadillac or Buick. It's a shame that GM discontinued it in North America. *Update. Was in a serious wreck with my s10, walked away without even a scratch on neither me, nor my friend. Still runs and drives, but sold it to another friend who really wanted it.
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Maybe i was just unlucky
So i have had my s10 for 2 years now. i bought it with about 85k on it and at the time it was 7 years old so i figured that was pretty low mileage so i shouldnt have too many problems boy was i wrong. In the last 2 years ive had to replace the radiator, alternator, ac system, ac hose assembly plus a new engine. Also for being a 2.2 the mpg are not very good and the performance of the engine is very sluggish even with the refurb.
great
I love my s-10. Best truck I have owned so far wish it would have been lifted up a little more tho but otherwise I love it.
Just a great little truck
Bought this truck new in 2003 presently have 140k on it, I opted for the high performance engine and my gas mileage is a little rough avg 12mpg city 16 high way besides and annoying problem with a vacuum switch for the front differential which is located on the transfer case ( it was trying to engage the four wheel drive when you didn't push the button made a really nasty noise while the front tried to engage when the transfer was lined up) Other than that on regular scheduled maintenance has been done to this truck just a nice comfy ride due to the torsion bar suspension (something it's replacement doesn't have the Colorado) and the truck has not once broken down. Good performance , good handling( unless you have to turn around in a narrow street) car like ride yet will haul and run like a little sports car. Was a shame when they discontinued it they finally got it right.
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Tough, Beautiful, Rugged, Awesome Truck
I've owned 28 pickup trucks of various Brands, Types, Sizes and Configurations from 1973 untill this years 2017. My 2003 S-10 4WD ZR5 is without doubt the best vehicle of any type I've ever owned.
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A TOUGH LITTLE WORKHORSE
Okay, I don't actually "own" my S-10 but as a state highway engineer it was assigned to me brand new in January 2003. I am the only one who drives it and it now has 116,000 miles. On the job I drive up onto highway medians, over curbs, into wooded areas, etc. It takes a beating and keeps on going. Been very reliable. Worse thing was a broken throttle cable at 60,000 miles. Routine maintenance only by our state mechanics. Has pretty good acceleration but terrible traction on snow and ice. I've taken it on several official business trips to upstate New York and it performed very well. Always starts, always gets me where I'm going. Been a good little workhorse and I'll miss it when it's gone.
ZR2 Wish They Still Made Them
I've always loved the stance of a ZR2. This truck has been extremely reliable with very few exceptions. The new Colorado is ugly so I was glad I was able to find the ZR2 and in my favorite color, arrest-me red. The wide stance of the vehicle makes it actually corner exceptionally well. Compared to my 1989 S10 Ext Cab 4WD the handling is like night and day. The 3.73 rear does seem to hurt mileage. With the taller 31" tires acceleration would probably suffer with a 3.42. Weak points, the taller springs give it very good ground clearance but it can't carry the load of my '89. The tank sender is a problem as is the plastic door handle for the 3rd door and the fogs are too high to be of any use.
ZR2
This is my second S10, the first was a 1989 regular cab 4x4. After 9 years and 199000 miles, I got out of the truck and owned a couple of cars. Now I've come back to the S10. So far, I love it!!
Not toooo bad...Not too impressed either
My chevy is slow. That's a fact. Edmunds claimed my four banger has a 0-60 time of 8 some seconds. That is a lie. The true time is around 15 seconds. it's ok off the line but it simply doesn't move once you get up there, and god forbid if you should try to pass anyone. The interior feels durable but also cheap and ugly in blobular chevy style. Gas mileage is pretty decent, i get around 23 average. The gearbox in my manual however, completely sucks. I've hit third on accident more than once at a stop sign because they are so darn close together, and the clutch feel unfriendly and prickly-if you want to shift smooth, you have to be extremely gentle. Not a terrible car but i won't miss it.
Great Offroad vehicle
Looks great, rides great and can tackle any obsticle you throw at it. It has a mean look to it with the lift kit and big tires that come from factory. I really like the third door option. Not bad mileage. I can tow my toys without any problems and when I feel adventurous the truck handles awesome off the beaten path. The best offroad truck I have ever driven that comes from factory. Good job GM,we're gonna miss the ZR2 in '04. Let's hope the Colorado keeps up the tradition.
Best off-road vehicle out the door!!
Though my ZR2 is a 2002, I must voice my opinion. This truck ROCKS! I have taken this vehicle to the nastiest places off-roading and it performs above all other trucks in it's class!! I have even towed Jeeps out of jams!! Hopefully, the Colorado will carry on the tradition of the ZR2!. To all those guys worried about the gas mileage, give it 10,000 miles and your gas mileage will increase dramatically after break-in :)
is it what you really wont
I have had nothing but problems. I have had this truck for 3 years. I have replaced at 47,000 as follows battery, tires, heater core, brakes rotors, cv driveaxles, front wheel hub bearings, slave cylinder, clutch assembly, gasket set for upper engine, fuel injectors, fuel pump asy air conditioner compressor, upper and lower ball joints, catalic converter, 3rd door handle (at 50.00 apop I made one out of stainless steel) latest is a mass airflo sensor and a 2nd gear sincro gear and the cheap interior seats ect. Thank god I'm an ex- gm tech. I paid no labor! I would feel for someone who had to pay for this fine gm product. I see why they are in the mess they are in.
Don't waste money!!! Trust me...
had a 97 model, Dexcool in a car is something you don't want- that's the new antifreeze. Person I bought truck from didn't change it because you're supposed to be able to go 60k with it- NOPE! let one little trickle of air (from a radiator cap), or green antifreeze,or let it get old and kiss your engine GOODBYE! ALSO- the suspenion after 40-50k starts to suck. Shock was leaking, tie rod ends were dead, I WILL NEVER OWN ANOTHER CHEVY ANYTHING AGAIN! Had bad problems withe a 1995 Formula Firebird LT1 at 80k miles!
ok truck
Its a Nice little truck but for me its not very comfortable (6,3) the extended cab woulda been better also the 2.2 is not a good on gas as I was hoping. I do like it because it gets me where I need to go and any extra work done. I use it every once in awhile to haul and have had no problems with that
Little red truck
Water collects inside the third door due to lack of drainage holes at the bottom. This caused a problem with rust that could have been avoided with proper drainage. The transfer case failed at about 60,000 miles. Not sure why - The truck had not been ill treated.
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The S-10
It is a simple truck and I recommend it only for commercial usage for it is not a family car (truck). It is not entirely good looking but once again, this truck is not for the style, but for the dirty and tough jobs. It is like a Blazer minus 3 seats and 1/2 of the roof. Has an old body design (dated back to about 1995). Oh yeah, there is one more thing, check out on this site the 2004 Chevy Colorado.
ZR2 Crazy
Great truck love it will not get rid of it. I get offers to sell it all the time. After 13 years i just put in about $4500. Head rebuilt, Brakes all around, suspension parts, radiator, water pump, fuel pump, Rides like a Bat out of Hell. Its still worth the $10K I spent 13 years ago. I get 19-25 mpg it varies on how you drive.
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I love my 95 s-10 4 cyl, normal cab
I actually bought the truck in mid 99. I have taken good care of the truck and it has taken great care of me. When I bought it, it had 88800 miles now it has 183200, with almost no problems. I replaced the water pump, the upper radiator hose twice( a 10 minute job) and just normal maintence. I never replaced the clutch, I dont think it is original, but it might be. It runs so nice still. It doenst burn or leak a drip of oil. I got it when I was 17, Im now almost 22. It starts up just the same way as the first day I drove it. It is not really fast, but thats ok. It has decent torque. I even delivered pizzas with it for a long time, and it was always great.
2003 ZR2
The ZR2 package has got to be the best available option yet on the S10. The heavier drive train, suspension, lift kit, and bigger tires has got to make one of the best stock off road trucks with the best bang for the buck
Not Happy
Nothing but trouble for me. Not even 2 yrs old an have had a new exhaust put on, had oil from a transfer case drip on A/C lines. Case and lines all had to be replaced. Have had to replace both headlights. Also,the window trim is falling out of the rear window. Now the service engine soon light is on 4 days after a service. Once again back in the shop because they are not sure what it is. All this before 27,000 miles!!
2003 S-10 still going strong
Purchased new in'03 the only trouble has been a battery replacement and a few exterior lamps. Still has original tires with 48000 miles. Good preventive maintenance is the key. The V6 4.3l engine is a bit rough on the wallet with gas prices as they are, but, all in all this truck can get out of its' own way when it has to.
2003 S-10 LS 2 dr
Bought brand new in June 2003, excellent value at time of purchase. Initially was a temporary replacement for my daily driver that needed transmission repair and planned to sell after 2 years of use but was extremely satisfied with overall performance, average 24-25 mpg and cheap maintenance. No breakdowns in 4 years, 50k miles that I held off selling and may just keep until another great deal comes along.
Why is this little giant attractive?
I decided to purchase the S-10 because it is well-known for design, reliability, and low pricing. The positive values of this pickup inspired me to learn everything there is to know about it and stay dedicated to keeping it on the road. The first thing I noticed about the S-10 was the design. When I started looking for a new car, the height of the body was a significant feature. Since I am hesitant to drive tall vehicles, I found that its low stature increases visibility while making maneuvering around fixed objects easy. The pickup sits relatively close to the ground, creating a comfortable entrance into the vehicle. This truck can endure heavy everyday wear. It is impressive how the car still holds a high standard of reliability while towing heavy trailers, even after having over 100,000 miles of use. Because it can handle this type of strain, I was able to move a couch set, an upright piano, and make plenty of Goodwill trips. Low pricing was the goal for the S-10, making it convenient for anyone to purchase. I bought my truck for $700 with needed repairs, paid $500 for new parts, and still drive it with over 127,000 miles on the odometer. It is unlikely that it will break down any time soon! Overall, this truck kept its promises. It transforms casual driving to a unique experience worth having every time I'm behind the wheel.
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Perfect for me
I just got my truck about a month ago. I love it so far. The truck feels solid, rides nice, and looks good to. Gas milage has been respectable for a truck, about 22 miles to the gallon. The seats are comfy and my 7 year old loves the jumper seat in the back. The truck dont sit to high for a kid to need lifted in and out either. I opted for the four cylinder and I dont regret it. Its got all the pep I need and wont dent my wallet at the pump. So far im very pleased and will keep you posted if I find any problems.
03 S10 ZR5
Great truck, love driving it and my leather seats are amazing. Cold AC and holds back great on mountains and hills. Good starter truck
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Should be back in production excellent truck!
I haven't seen anything wrong in the truck. Has plenty of power good mileage for a six. Truck has 39000 and is eighteen years old. I will be driving it till I die
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Best One Yet
Great overall truck. This is my third one and is by far the best. Good torque for off-road and the posi doesn't hurt either. The 190hp 4.3 moves the heavy S-10 model better than I thought it would.
Gets it done
Highly versatile truck does everything well. Just reached 50,000 miles with only a few cosmetic problems. Motor does a good job. Peppy, but no speed demon. Driver/front passenger in comfortable well laid out interior. Back seat room for children/ short trips only. 4.3L V-6 good torque/hp but geared for low-speed power & economy. Wide turning radius can be a problem in tight areas. Doesn't like quick turns either. Having bought the vehicle in one of it's later years of production. I expected to have less fit & finish problems already worked out. Slightly disappointed with that. Still this highly versatile vehicle just "Gets'er done.
If you are not looking to spin tires!
Bought this S-10 in May of 2005 overall is a great truck, but the flaws are it shift with a temperment some times she is happy sometimes she is mad! Really Mad!! Overall ride quailty is good on long trips and the wallet still has some cash in it after the 25MPG. If you dont mind a few MPG get the 6 - cylinder you will be glad you did! It is just more fun to drive and you dont have to ride with the hazard lights on while getting up to speed on the interstate! Overall cannot complane never been stranded or brokedown knock on wood!
Falling apart too soon
The air compressor went out at 39,000 miles, the rear wheel bearings and the U joints at 41,000. I am lucky I bought the extended warranty. This is my last S10!
My 7th S-10.......Yes I'm in a rutt.....
Poor excuse for a pickup bed, but the only thing you can't haul is a 2X4 (if you open the slider you can get a 12'in if you hang on to it :). Great mid life kids/yardwork/misc projects vehicle. Gas mileage sucks, but no worse than anything else in this league. The residual power, auto headlights, and power everything are awesome. Chevy did a great job improving the brakes for 2002. This is a fair/cold weather vehicle, like all S-10's over the past few years, the heater seems to always be on. The A/C works VERY well, but it seems odd that you cannot force cool air out of the system when it is 40deg outside without turning on the A/C.
Solid Truck
The S-10 LS crew cab 4wd (4.3L V-6) has been a very reliable vehicle for me. I've got 66,000 miles on my truck and have experienced no major problems. It tows my light trailer well. I live in snow country and have not had any of the 4wd problems I have read in other posts. I wish the mpg was better given current gas prices- I get 19 mpg for mostly in-town driving.
Three Door Pickup
I have had Chevy S-10 pickup trucks for over 10 years. And It was time for a new vehicle of course I had to get a third Chevy S-10. My first two S-10's I put over 300,000 miles on them. And am looking forward to putting 200,000 miles on this one.
great truck
i own a buss. and this is my dual duty truck as work and personal veh.at 100000 miles i put about 300.00 worth of parts it (besides the blown rear for overweight towing 5000lbs up to 8000lbs (iknow) REAR was a 900.00 repair,and a trip to nebraska towing a trailer w/car 5700lbs plus my stuff total trip 3000miles 2000 miles in 4wd and 19 mpg
Great Little Truck
My 2003 s-10 is a great truck , if you know how to drive a five speed you can really get this truck moving failry quick. The five speed is the way to go if you are going to buy the s-10 , you have a more powerful take off and accelerate alot faster.The trucks suspension is overall tight, and it gets 30 miles a gallon.I purchased this truck for work because it gets great gas mileage.The interior is nice , and the additional passengers side airbag is a great addition, with an optional on -off button.The truck rides very smooth. Overall this is a nice little truck and at 10,700 dollars Im not going to complain for a brand new truck.
Great little truck
I have owned small trucks for 30 years, starting with Datsun, 2 Mazdas, a Toyota, and now an S-10. This truck has been great so far....everything works, it's economical (over 23mpg in town, with canopy), very comfortable (I'm 6'1", 250lbs), and fun to drive. The rig also came with more accessories as standard then any other truck I've owned. I used my GM card to discount it to $8000 cash....I have been offered more than I paid for it by my brother, who is also impressed. The last small truck I had was a '90 Toyota, which was a great little truck too, but didn't have near the amenities and cost $7000 in '90 (after much haggling with the dealer). The Mazda's scored less-so.
S-10 Nice Power, some rattles
Multitude of options & great price. LS ext cab. 4.3L V6 has plenty of power. Rear end breaks free in the rain/snow. Steering is slow. Gauges are excellent,bucket seats extremely comfortable (I am 6'1).Low maintenance features like (144,000 mile) radiator fluid, 100,000 mile spark plugs, etc. Others-sliding rear window, third door, automatic-on headlight sensors, centre console etc. The automatic transmission is very smooth. Horrible gas mileage. Sandbags/patio stones are a must for winter driving. Lots of value in this truck and a proven design.
Dependable Truck
Have enjoyed this truck since purchasing. Ride is good for a truck, handles well, good gas mileage. Performs adequately on flat or rolling hills unless you are on an interstate. Do not get the 2.2L 4 cyl engine if you live in the mountains or hilly country. Also bad glare from instrument panel at night on back window. Would buy this truck again but with an engine upgrade. Never had one problem after leaving the dealership.
Not too great...
I have owned this 2003 S-10 for 8 months, I've had it in the service shop over 9 times... Tranmission shifts really hard, and big delay when slowing down, then speeding up.
Sweet Ride
A great truck turns alot of heads. Runs grat and looks good doing it!
Great little truck
Got truck for my daughter last year. She need transportation to work. It still looks new. Only had to replace the battery the other day. That was normal and good for 4 years. I put a top on it and it work well for shopping. No leaks.
Nice to own one
Great little truck. Bought it brand new. Never any real big problems. Very reliable. Put in a bedliner as soon as I purchased it.
badasstruck
it is a great truck. i have 100,000 miles on and it runs lake brandnew.i drive it every chance i get to.buy a chevy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
gtg
no power but very reliable
Bought new time to upgrade
Need a bigger truck.