1985 Chevrolet S-10 2WD review from North America
"A reliable workhorse"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
The timing chain went south at 170,000.
Radiator needs to be replaced.
Brake proportioning valve went bad.
Rear main seal replaced at 150,000.
Door seals shrunk.
General comments?
This is a very durable and rugged truck. The performance and handling suffer badly though, the 2.8L engine is extremely durable and can pull just about anything, but for some reason it drinks gas like a V8 and it takes forever to reach the speed limit.
Handling is another serious problem with this truck, it has no sway bars so when you go through a turn it leans badly, which is very unsafe.
Until I had this vehicle I had been a Chevy hater due to my experience as a mechanic, but this truck has really changed my opinions, it has never let me down and has always done what was asked of it. Its reliability far outweighs its down-sides (what good do comfortable seats do you if your truck doesn't run?).
I recommend this truck to anyone who wants a reliable workhorse.
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![]() ![]() | $600 well spent |
![]() ![]() | 1985 - S-10 Long Bed 2.5 Liter Tech IV A very strong truck, with great power |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 1987 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2001 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.8 V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 3/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 4/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 38000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 180000 miles |
| Previous car | Toyota Hi-lux |
| Date of Entry | 2nd June, 2001 |

