What transmission did the S-10 have?
The S-10 was offered with both manual and automatic transmissions during its years of production, with the most common setups being a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic. Early models also used three-speed automatics before GM rolled out four-speed units across more trims.
Overview of the S-10 transmission lineup
The Chevrolet S-10 (and its GMC sibling Sonoma) spanned 1982 to 2004. Engine choices ranged from a four-cylinder to a 4.3-liter V6, and the drivetrain was paired with a range of transmissions designed to suit light-duty pickups. Over the years, GM shifted the lineup from older three-speed automatics to a four-speed automatic, while the manual options remained a mainstay for enthusiasts and work-truck buyers.
Manual transmissions
Chevrolet offered a manual drivetrain primarily as a five-speed option, making it the standard manual configuration for most S-10 buyers. The exact availability varied by year and engine, but the five-speed manual was the most common choice for the majority of production.
- Five-speed manual transmission (the most common manual option throughout the S-10's run)
For many buyers, the five-speed manual provided a balance of performance and efficiency, particularly with the four-cylinder engines. Some later or specialty configurations may have had different manuals, but the five-speed remained the core manual option.
Automatic transmissions
Automatic transmissions in the S-10 progressed from early three-speed units to later four-speed automatics. The most widely used four-speed automatic in later years was GM's 4L60-E, which was paired with the 4.3-liter V6 and, in some configurations, with inline-four engines.
- Three-speed automatic (early S-10 models used a conventional GM three-speed auto)
- Four-speed automatic (4L60-E, electronic control, became the standard in later years)
As GM updated the S-10 with different engines and model years, the four-speed automatic became the dominant choice, offering overdrive and improved drivability for highway cruising.
What to consider when buying a used S-10
If you’re evaluating a used S-10, verify the transmission type listed on the vehicle, check for smooth shifting, and review service records for the transmission’s maintenance. Automatics may show wear in third and fourth gear, while manuals should show consistent clutch engagement without slipping. Confirm that the transmission fluid is clean and at the proper level, and look for any signs of overheating or fluid leaks.
Summary
The S-10's transmission options reflect its role as a versatile light-duty pickup: a popular five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic, with earlier years also using three-speed automatics. The choice depended on year, engine, and trim, but the four-speed automatic (4L60-E) became the standard in the later, more common configurations, while the five-speed manual remained favored by drivers seeking extra control and efficiency.
