1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer Problems & Reliability

If you’re a fan of classic SUVs or just someone who appreciates the rugged charm of vintage vehicles, the 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer might have caught your eye. This compact SUV, with its boxy design and no-nonsense attitude, was a staple of the early ’90s automotive scene. Whether you’re considering buying one or just curious about its legacy, understanding the common problems and overall reliability of the 1990 S10 Blazer is crucial. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the quirks and challenges that owners have faced over the years, as well as the aspects that have kept this vehicle on the road for decades. While the S10 Blazer has its fair share of admirers, it’s not without its issues. From engine troubles to electrical gremlins, this SUV has presented some headaches for its owners. However, it’s not all doom and gloom. Many enthusiasts swear by its durability and off-road capabilities, making it a beloved choice for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. So, whether you’re reminiscing about your first ride or contemplating a restoration project, join us as we explore the ups and downs of the 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer and see if it’s still worth the investment today.
Body Components

Parts Assessed:

Windows, power locks, manual locks, doors, trunk, tailgate, mirrors, power and manual seat controls, seat belts, sunroof, convertible top, glass defects.

Reported Problems:

  • Door Locks Stop Working

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer seems to have some issues with door locks stopping working, which can be a bit of a hassle for owners. While this problem isn’t uncommon in older vehicles, it can be frustrating when it happens unexpectedly. Overall, if you’re considering this model, it’s worth keeping in mind that you might need to address this issue at some point.

Parts Assessed

Brake pads, brake rotors, brake calipers, anti-lock braking system (ABS), brake lines, brake master cylinder, brake booster, parking brake, brake sensors, regenerative braking system (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Heater Core Under Right Side of Dashboard May Leak Engine Coolant

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer has a known issue with the heater core located under the right side of the dashboard, which may leak engine coolant. This problem can lead to reduced heating efficiency and potential engine overheating if not addressed promptly. While this issue is a notable concern, addressing it with timely maintenance can help maintain the vehicle’s overall reliability.

Parts Assessed

Air conditioning compressor, AC condenser, AC evaporator, heater core, blower motor, automatic climate control system, refrigerant leaks, HVAC electrical components, temperature sensors, ventilation system.

Reported Problems:

  • ABS Light Due to Brake System Control Unit Failure

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer has a known issue with the ABS light coming on due to a failure in the brake system control unit. This problem can be a bit of a headache, as it affects the reliability of the braking system, which is obviously pretty important. If youre considering this vehicle, its something to keep in mind, especially if you want to avoid unexpected repair costs.

Parts Assessed

CV joints, driveshaft, axles, differential, limited-slip differential (if applicable), traction control system, electronic stability control (ESC), four-wheel-drive (4WD) components, all-wheel-drive (AWD) components, transfer case, driveline vibration.

Reported Problems:

  • Replace Fuel Filter Every 30,000 to Prevent Fuel Pump Failure

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer is generally a reliable vehicle, but one key maintenance tip is to replace the fuel filter every 30,000 miles to prevent potential fuel pump failure. Staying on top of this simple task can help you avoid more significant issues down the road and keep your Blazer running smoothly. Overall, with regular maintenance, the S10 Blazer can be a dependable ride.

Parts Assessed

Infotainment system, GPS navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, touchscreen display, phone pairing, backup camera, rear entertainment system, head-up display, instrument cluster, digital gauges.

Reported Problems:

  • Transmission Output Seal May Leak Fluid

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer has a known issue with the transmission output seal potentially leaking fluid. This problem can lead to decreased transmission performance and might require regular checks and maintenance to ensure it doesn’t escalate. While it’s a manageable issue, it’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering the overall reliability of this vehicle.

Parts Assessed

Radiator, radiator hoses, cooling fan, water pump, thermostat, antifreeze leaks, engine coolant reservoir, overheating prevention system, intercooler (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Power Window Motors May Fail From Overheating

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer has some issues with power window motors, which can fail due to overheating. This problem might be a bit of a hassle, especially if you rely on your windows frequently. Overall, while it’s a known issue, it doesn’t necessarily overshadow the vehicle’s other aspects, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering this model.

Parts Assessed

Alternator, battery, ignition switch, ignition coil, spark plugs, ignition wires, engine control module (ECM), electronic ignition system, auto stop/start function, battery cables, engine wiring harness, fuse box, relays, starter motor.

Reported Problems:

  • Intake Manifold Gaskets May Leak Coolant or Engine Oil

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer has a known issue with its intake manifold gaskets, which can lead to leaks of coolant or engine oil. This problem can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, as it may cause engine performance issues or overheating if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help mitigate these concerns and keep the Blazer running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Engine rebuilds, cylinder head, head gasket, timing chain, timing belt, camshaft, crankshaft, connecting rods, turbocharger or supercharger (if applicable), valve train, piston rings, oil control system, engine knocking, engine misfires.

Reported Problems:

  • Internal Faults in Distributor Can Cause Engine Problems

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer has been known to experience engine problems due to internal faults in the distributor. This issue can lead to misfires and poor engine performance, which might be a headache for owners. While it’s a common problem for this model year, regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep the Blazer running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Muffler, catalytic converter, exhaust manifold, heat shields, exhaust pipes, oxygen (O₂) sensors, resonator, exhaust leaks, emissions control system.

Reported Problems:

  • Electrical Contacts in the Ignition Switch May Fail

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer has had some issues with the electrical contacts in the ignition switch, which can lead to failure over time. This problem might cause difficulties starting the vehicle or even lead to unexpected stalling. While it’s a known issue, regular maintenance and timely repairs can help keep the Blazer running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel rail, fuel pressure regulator, throttle body, fuel gauge sensor, evaporative emissions system, EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve, charcoal canister, fuel filter, fuel tank, vapor leaks.

Reported Problems:

N/A

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Flagship-One-Engine-Computer-In-Stock
Onboard Electronics

Parts Assessed

Cruise control, keyless entry system, push-button start, wiper motor, warning lights, power mirrors, interior lighting, exterior lighting, dashboard indicators, electronic parking brake, tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS), alarm and security system, remote engine start, heated and ventilated seats, heated steering wheel, wireless charging pad.

Reported Problems:

  • Distributor Shaft O-Ring Seal May Leak Oil

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer has a known issue with the distributor shaft O-ring seal, which may lead to oil leaks. While this problem can be a bit of a hassle, it’s a relatively common issue for vehicles of this age and can usually be fixed without too much trouble. Overall, if you’re considering this classic SUV, just keep an eye on the seals and be prepared for some maintenance to keep it running smoothly.

Parts Assessed

Dashboard rattles, squeaks, wind noise, door seals, weather stripping, water leaks, air leaks, excessive road noise, suspension noise, drivetrain noise, exhaust rattles, engine bay noises.

Reported Problems:

  • Leaking Water Pump May Cause Coolant Loss and Overheating

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer has a known issue with a leaking water pump, which can lead to coolant loss and potential overheating. This problem can affect the overall reliability of the vehicle, as overheating can cause significant engine damage if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential to keep the Blazer running smoothly and to prevent more serious issues down the line.

Parts Assessed

Paint durability, clear coat protection, rust prevention, corrosion resistance, body panel alignment, door seals, window trim, plastic trim, metal finishes, fading, cracking, peeling.

Reported Problems:

  • Flush brake fluid every 60,000 miles

Analysis:

No major problem has been reported

Parts Assessed

Struts, shocks, control arms, sway bars, ball joints, tie rods, wheel bearings, power steering pump, power steering fluid leaks, electronic power steering (EPS), steering rack and pinion, steering linkage, alignment issues, torsion bars, springs, air suspension (if applicable).

Reported Problems:

  • Failed alternator can cause “no charge” condition

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer is known to have some reliability issues, particularly with the alternator. A failed alternator can lead to a “no charge” condition, which means the battery won’t get charged and could leave you stranded. It’s something to keep an eye on if you’re considering this vehicle or already own one.

Parts Assessed

Transmission rebuild, transmission replacement, torque converter, transmission solenoids, gear selector, gear shifting, transmission control module (TCM), transmission fluid leaks, clutch (manual transmission), automatic transmission valve body, CVT (continuously variable transmission) components, dual-clutch transmission (DCT) components.

Reported Problems:

  • Service transmission every 30,000 miles

Analysis:

The 1990 Chevrolet S10 Blazer is known for its rugged build, but one of the common issues reported is the need for frequent transmission servicing every 30,000 miles. While this might seem like a hassle, staying on top of these services can help maintain the vehicle’s overall reliability and performance. Regular maintenance is key to keeping this classic SUV running smoothly on and off the road.

Conclusion

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