Do S10s get good gas mileage?

Across the Chevrolet S-10 lineup, fuel economy varied widely by engine, drivetrain, and year. While some configurations could deliver respectable highway efficiency, others were notably thirstier. Overall, S-10 pickups are older designs, so their mileage generally trails behind modern compact pickups and small SUVs.

A quick snapshot of S-10 mpg by engine

Fuel economy depended on engine choice and drivetrain. Here’s a practical guide to what owners typically saw across common configurations.

• 2.2-liter inline-4 — the most fuel-efficient S-10 option. Rough combined mpg commonly fall in the mid-20s to high-20s, with city around 20–24 mpg and highway often in the upper 20s to low 30s. A 2WD setup tends to be a bit better than 4WD.


• 4.3-liter V6 — the workhorse engine, but less efficient. Rough combined mpg typically hover around the low 20s or high teens, with city mpg around the mid-teens to upper teens and highway mpg in the 20s. 4WD versions are noticeably thirstier.


• 2.8-liter V6 — an older V6 option that tows a smaller load with modest efficiency. Rough combined mpg generally in the upper teens to low 20s, with similar 2WD vs 4WD penalties as the 4.3L.

These ranges reflect EPA-era estimates and typical real-world results; exact figures vary by year, transmission, cab/bed configuration, and condition. In practice, a clean, well-maintained 2.2L S-10 2WD will usually be the best bet for mileage, while V6-powered trucks sacrifice efficiency for payload or torque.

What factors influence real-world mileage?

Even within a single engine family, an S-10’s fuel economy can swing based on several variables. Understanding these factors helps buyers and current owners set realistic expectations.

• Engine condition and maintenance: worn ignition systems, dirty air filters, and failing oxygen sensors can reduce mpg significantly.


• Drivetrain and transmission: two-wheel drive configurations generally incur less drag than four-wheel drive; manual transmissions can sometimes offer better economy than automatics of the era, depending on gearing and driving style.


• Towing, payload, and aftermarket modifications: heavy loads and aftermarket gear increase energy use and drop efficiency.


• Tire condition and inflation: underinflated tires raise rolling resistance and waste fuel; proper alignment and balanced tires help maintain efficiency.


• Weight and aero: roof racks, heavy campers, and metal canopy add weight and drag; removing unnecessary items and improving aerodynamics can help.


• Driving conditions: urban stop-and-go traffic, hilly terrain, and high-speed expressway driving all influence real-world mpg; steady cruising on flat highways is typically more efficient.

Because the S-10 was produced from the early 1980s through 2004, mileage reports span several generations and technology updates. Real-world results will differ from EPA labels depending on maintenance history and how the vehicle has been used over time.

Tips to maximize fuel economy in an S-10

Owners looking to squeeze more miles out of an S-10 can adopt practical habits and small fixes. The following steps are commonly recommended by maintenance experts and experienced owners.

• Keep tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and ensure alignments are up to date.


• Perform regular maintenance: replace spark plugs, clean or replace the air filter, and check fuel and oxygen sensors as part of routine service.


• Lighten the load: remove unnecessary cargo and unused accessories; consider a lightweight bed cover to reduce wind resistance.


• Drive smoothly: avoid rapid acceleration, plan trips to minimize stop-and-go driving, and maintain steady speeds on highways.


• Limit use of air conditioning on long highway drives; when possible, use ventilation instead of cooling systems to save fuel.


• Keep an eye on fluids and engine health: clean oil, proper coolant levels, and a well-maintained exhaust system help overall efficiency.

Implementing these practices won’t turn an S-10 into a modern efficiency marvel, but they can help maximize the vehicle’s existing potential and make everyday driving a bit cheaper at the pump.

Summary

In short, some S-10 configurations—most notably the 2.2-liter inline-4 in 2WD form—could deliver relatively decent mileage, especially on highways. V6 options, especially with 4WD, tended to be much thirstier. Because the S-10 is no longer in production, prospective buyers should expect mileage in the low to mid-20s for many configurations, with better numbers from the 2.2L and worse numbers from the V6s and 4WD variants. For those prioritizing fuel economy, careful selection of engine and drivetrain, along with diligent maintenance and economy-minded driving, can help maximize efficiency. In today’s market, however, modern compact pickups offer substantially better fuel economy and advanced efficiency technologies.

How many MPG does a 4.3 V6 get?

4.3L V6: 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. 2.7L Turbocharged Four-Cylinder: 19 mpg city and 22 mpg highway. 3.0L Turbocharged Six-Cylinder Diesel: 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

Are Chevy S10's reliable?

The Chevy S10 is generally considered reliable, especially the 4.3L V6, known for its longevity with proper maintenance. Owners frequently cite its dependability, with many trucks reaching high mileage with minimal major repairs beyond routine maintenance, starter, and alternator replacements. However, some common issues include potential intake gasket leaks and problems with the CPI "spider" injection system on certain engines, though these are often manageable. 
Positive aspects of S10 reliability

• Longevity: Many S10s have proven to be long-lasting, with owners reporting their trucks running well for over 200,000 miles. 
• Durable engines: The 4.3L Vortec V6, in particular, is frequently praised for being a strong and reliable engine. 
• Simple mechanics: The trucks are known for their simple design, which contributes to their reliability and makes them easier and cheaper to repair. 
• Positive owner reviews: Many reviews highlight the S10 as a reliable "workhorse" that requires little attention for basic performance. 

Potential issues to consider

• Intake manifold gaskets: Some owners report issues with leaking intake manifold gaskets, which can be a common repair.
• CPI "spider" injector system: The CPI (Central Port Injection) system on some 4.3L engines can have issues with the fuel pressure regulator or "spider" injector. Replacing this unit can often resolve the problem and ensure continued reliability.
• Dex-Cool: Some owners advise that the Dex-Cool coolant used in later models is not great and should be changed frequently to avoid engine issues. 

Other considerations

• 4WD reliability: The 4x4 models are praised for their performance in snow and ice, but like any 4x4 system, their reliability depends on proper maintenance. 
• Safety systems: Be mindful of potential issues with the service brake system and airbags, which may require professional inspection and repair. 

Is S10 good on gas?

Over all truck did well, really no issues at all. Gas mileage for trip was 10.2 mile per gallon. The lowest I seen was 6.4 in Oklahoma will a very strong head wind.

How many miles can a S10 last?

A Chevy S10 can last for 200,000 to over 300,000 miles with proper maintenance, with some owners reporting even higher mileage. Factors like regular oil changes, addressing issues like rust, and avoiding excessive abuse are key to extending its lifespan. While generally reliable, some years had specific issues like electrical problems on older models, and certain engines may require more upkeep.
 
Factors that influence lifespan

• Maintenance: Sticking to the recommended maintenance schedule, especially frequent oil changes with good quality oil, is crucial for longevity. 
• Rust: Rust can be a major issue, particularly in snowy or humid climates, and can lead to significant body and frame damage over time. 
• Engine and transmission: While many S10s achieve high mileage, individual component lifespan varies. Some owners report major repairs on transmissions, while engines like the 4.3L4.3 cap L4.3𝐿 V6 are often noted for their durability. 
• Driving habits: How the truck is driven matters. Abusive driving can shorten its life, while moderate use with proper care allows it to last much longer. 

Tips for longevity

• Regular oil changes: Change the oil and filter at the recommended intervals. 
• Address rust: Inspect the underbody and address any rust before it becomes severe. 
• Warm-up period: Allow the engine to warm up for about 30 seconds to a minute before driving to ensure proper lubrication. 
• Proper load management: Avoid constantly overloading the truck, especially if you have a smaller engine. 
• Listen for issues: Pay attention to any strange noises or changes in performance and get them checked out.