1994 Chevrolet S-10 4wd Blazer review from North America

The transmission was bad, but the dealer went halves with me on replacing it (84K).

I also had to replace the serpentine belt almost immediately after buying it (84K).

The fuel pump just went out again, 4th time in the 5 years I have had it (100K,110K,115K,132K).

I have replaced the water pump twice (90K, 128K).

The radiator needed replacement (120K).

The heater core has gone twice (90K, 125K).

The alternator went then the battery (123K), but the battery appeared original and 10 years or so is certainly good.

I had to replace the window motor on the driver’s side and all the window switches (90K).

The AC has been slowly leaking since I bought it, I switched it over to R-134a (90K) and it has lasted until this year (05), now it will only hold a charge for hours instead of weeks.

The 4WD vacuum switch on the transfer case went at about 110K.

The 4WD module is out (since about 128K), I need 4WD during the winter here in the mountains, but a new module cost almost a month’s SS.

The rubber window seals are all rotting and need to be replaced at this point (130K).

I bought this S-10 4WD Blazer in 2000. I did not have many choices since I wanted the old body style in the 2 door version, and where I was living at the time most that were available were 4 door. This one looked very good and an once-over (should have looked closer) indicated it was in good condition. Interestingly it is white, but the VIN Code says it is dark red metallic, it appears that it was t-boned in the drivers side door at some point in its life as the door skin is a cheap replacement and is rusting out (I would not have bought it if I had realized that at the time).

Some of the above repairs have obviously been due to lack of maintenance by previous owners; most of the rest are to be expected as a vehicle ages. You pay the bank, or you pay the mechanic, vehicles are just expensive to own. Interestingly until doing this report and looking at the repairs by mileage I was more upset than I am now.

I guess I am generally satisfied with the truck except for the heater core (stupid design that you have to pull out the whole dash to replace it), the recurring fuel pump problems (until I replace this one myself I will not know if it is design, or poor repairs that are responsible), and the electronic 4WD (the module is a very expensive dealer only part).