What is the last year of the S-10 pickup?
The last model year for the Chevrolet S-10 pickup was 2003. The compact truck, a staple of GM's lineup since 1982, ended its U.S. run with that model year as GM shifted to the newer Colorado/Canyon duo for 2004.
Timeline and context
To understand the S-10’s end, it helps to place it in its production arc. The S-10 spawned two generations over two decades, before GM phased it out in favor of more modern compact pickups.
Before presenting a concise production timeline, note these key milestones that frame the S-10’s lifecycle:
- 1982: Chevrolet introduces the S-10 as a compact pickup, sharing development with its GM siblings.
- 1982–1993: First generation runs with ongoing updates and a range of cab configurations.
- 1994: Second generation arrives, featuring styling updates, more modern interiors, and improved options.
- 2003: Last model year for the S-10 in the United States; GM announces the replacement by the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon for the 2004 model year.
The two generations of the S-10 reflect GM’s efforts to keep a competitive compact pickup lineup through the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s, culminating in a transition to newer designs in 2004.
End of production and replacement
GM ended S-10 production as part of a broader shift to the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon, introduced for the 2004 model year. These new models offered updated platforms, improved efficiency, and modern features that aligned with market demand at the time.
Summary
In summary, the Chevrolet S-10’s final model year for the U.S. market was 2003. Production ended after that year, and GM replaced the S-10 with the Chevrolet Colorado (and its GMC Canyon counterpart) for the 2004 model year, marking the end of the S-10’s 21–22-year run depending on counting of model years.
What are the common problems with a Chevy S10?
Common problems with the Chevy S10 include leaks from intake manifold and oil pan gaskets, fuel system issues like failing fuel pumps and cracked fuel lines, and distributor problems with the 4.3L engine. Other frequent issues are a faulty heater core, electrical problems such as failing ignition switches and a malfunctioning ABS control unit, and front-end suspension wear.
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with the Chevy S-10/GMC Sonoma (1998-2004): 54sI Fix ShetYouTube · Jun 27, 2023
Engine and fuel system
- Intake manifold gaskets: These can leak coolant or oil, especially on 4.3L engines.
- Fuel system: Fuel pumps are prone to failure, and plastic fuel lines inside the intake manifold can crack and cause leaks, leading to poor performance or stalling.
- Distributor: The distributor, particularly on the 4.3L V6, can have internal faults or shaft O-rings that leak oil.
- EGR valve: The EGR valve is known to get stuck open due to carbon buildup, causing rough idling or stalling.
Electrical
- Ignition switch: The electrical contacts inside the ignition switch can fail, preventing the truck from starting.
- ABS control unit: A faulty ABS control unit is a common cause for the ABS light to turn on.
- Alternator: A failed alternator can result in a "no charge" condition.
- Body control module: Faulty wiring or a bad module can cause unexpected electrical issues, such as the headlights or horn activating on their own.
Leaks and fluids
- Heater core: The heater core can leak engine coolant, typically under the right side of the dashboard.
- Transmission: The transmission output seal is a common spot for fluid leaks.
- Oil pan gasket: Replacing the oil pan gasket can be a difficult repair, especially on 4WD models.
Suspension and other
- Front suspension: Worn control arm bushings and loose sway bar end links can cause clunking noises, and 4WD models have smaller lower ball joints that wear prematurely if not properly lubricated.
- Power windows: The power window motors can fail from overheating.
- Door locks: The power door locks may stop working.
When did they stop making S-10 trucks?
2004
After 22 years on the market, the Chevrolet S-10 pickup truck concluded production after the 2004 model year.
What is a Chevy S10 worth today?
Prices for a used Chevrolet S-10 currently range from $1,850 to $99,999, with vehicle mileage ranging from 60,697 to 186,816.
What did Chevy replace the S10 with?
The Chevrolet Colorado replaced the Chevy S-10 in the North American market, with the S-10 being discontinued after the 2004 model year. The Colorado was developed as a joint venture between GM Brazil and Isuzu and was first introduced to North America around the same time the S-10 ceased production.
This video explains the history of Chevy trucks, including the S-10 and its replacement, the Colorado: 52sAll Cars with JonYouTube · Mar 23, 2024
- The S-10 was phased out in North America following the 2004 model year.
- The Colorado was introduced as the S-10's successor in the compact pickup truck segment.
- The Isuzu i-Series was also discontinued around the same time and was part of the same replacement strategy.
You can watch this video to see the design and features of the new Colorado: 57sAutoTrend YouTube · Apr 11, 2025
