226 responses so far ↓

• John J breton // May 17, 2004 at 5:55 am

  This problem extends back further than the date mentioned.The production on my sierra p/u is 6-98.its the same body type as the 99 thru 04.Will they cover all vehicles affected or just where they feel it needs to be addresed.I fell from my tailgate when the cable snapped and didnt report it to anyone.My tailgate is damaged and i have recovered from my injuries.Im sure there are others out there who have had this happen making gm’s incident numbers inaccurate.Thanks for listening,John J Breton

• Mark McDaniel // Jun 7, 2004 at 11:43 am

  I had my cables snap this weekend with only lowering the tailgate. You would think someone would know that they are rusting through and prevent the damage. My truck is a 98 Sierra and the tailgate has only be used 30 or 40 times as my 17 year old drives it to school.

• jay blount // Jun 11, 2004 at 1:45 pm

  are there any recalls on Avalanche 2002 models? I have a limited edition 1500,Z71.Please forward any faults found,I have 7000 miles left on warranty. JB

• RONALD J MCMURRY r // Jul 5, 2004 at 2:00 pm

  I RECIEVED A RECALL FOR MY TAILGATE STRAPS WHICH I LOST. DEALER STATES MY TRUCK DOES NOT APPLY,IF I HAVE RECALL SLIP THEY WILL REPLACE. BOTH STRAPS ARE BROKE AT THIS TIME. TRUCK IS 2oo1 sILVERADO VIN#1GCEK14VOIZ1OO270. MAILING ADDRESS 86 MAPLE ST. HUDSON FALLS N.Y. 12839

• gerry stagg // Jul 6, 2004 at 9:17 am

  Tailgate cable problem extends well beyond years & models stated in GM recall. My 99′ S-10 now has one broken and the other in the process of failing. I contacted dealer and was told my truck is not covered. To add insult to injury to replace cable means you also have to buy the latch bracket as cable is riveted to it, more money for poor design.

• Ken Kinsey // Jul 23, 2004 at 6:42 pm

  I had the cables break on my 2003 2500 HD 7-23-04.I had my new 4Wheller on the back. The tailgate came completely off and dumped my 4wheeler in the middle of the highway.Toataly destroyed!! The dealer would not offer any assistance other than get into the GM claims process. What if this would of have occoured on the interstate? I am pissed and will not let the squeek out of this one. Take pics and document.

• Patrick Smith // Jul 26, 2004 at 7:44 am

  2001 Sanoma. Tailgate strap broke while unloading motorcycle. Fortunatley not injured (me nor the bike, caught it prior to going down).

  Their comment: “We have documented this conversation and if your vehicle is added to the recall we will reimburse you the money you spend on it now to fix it, if you keep your reciept.”

  Customer appreciation there…

• Judd Belford // Aug 6, 2004 at 7:00 am

  I own a 99 S-10 my tailgate cables snapped as well. I have been a die hard chevy man as long as i can remember if chevy doesnt fix the problem they will have lost a customer.

• Judd Belford // Aug 6, 2004 at 7:42 am

  Everyone that has this problem needs to call GM at 800-222-1020 if we all call and complain they will have no choice but to fix our trucks . They need to include 98up S10 and sonomas as wll thanks all

• wiley parker // Aug 8, 2004 at 7:35 am

  i have a 2001 silverrado company truck that has 33,000 miles and uses two quarts of oil every 3000 miles. i know the 1999,s had a recall on the pvc valve. i just wonder if that recall would apply to this truck?

• Rex Garrett // Aug 18, 2004 at 1:30 pm

  I am on the phone with GM at this moment regarding my 2000 S-10 and the tailgate strap fracturing. They are saying at this point that there is no recall. I move on to the next level persisting in my argument. They now tell me that I must get a diagnosis from a GM dealership. Let’s do it. Appt for 9:00 AM Fri. Morn. No charge for diagnosis. More to follow.

• Craig A. Farrenkopf // Aug 31, 2004 at 3:00 pm

  They say there’s only been 134 minor injuries with no fatalities, that’s no longer true. On August 21, 2004 a Phillipsburg, Ohio man was killed when both cables broke on a Chevy Truck tailgate and he suffered a fatal head injury and another man suffered minor injuries. Let the records be corrected, this is a serious problem that the auto manufacturers need to address immediately before another fatality happens!

• Terry Taylor // Sep 9, 2004 at 7:32 pm

  09-09-04 The tailgate cables on my 2001 S10 Crew Cab both snapped at the same time with just lowering down and little weight applied. I am glad i was not loading or unloading anything Does anyone have any current info on if the S10 is covered in the recall as of Sept?

• Mark Twentey // Sep 13, 2004 at 9:16 am

  One of my tailgate cables broke on my 2001 2500 HD Crew Cab this weekend. Took the truck to the dealer and they said my truck was not covered under the recall. When the cable snapped, the tailgate twisted and damaged the hinge where the gate and truck attach. At first, they said that it would be covered, but after running the VIN, they said it would not be covered and I would have to pay for it. Why is this not covered for my truck??

• Terry Fultz // Sep 19, 2004 at 9:38 am

  My girlfriend and I where sitting on my tailgate of my 2000 Chevy S-10 when BOTH my tailgate cables snapped at the same time, and we slid to the ground. How we didn’t receive any injuries is beyond me, but my tailgate is dented now from the bumper. If GM ever decides to add the S-10 to it’s list of faulty cables on their trucks built “like a rock”, will they also , repair/replace the things the break caused, in my case, the tailgate?

• Mark Anthony // Sep 22, 2004 at 8:16 pm

  I own an older 1995 Chevy S-10 Pickup And mine snapped A Year after I bought It in 1996. I can see that their only covering newer vehicles. I just want to point out that it just does not happen to the newer vehicles.

• Stephanie Lopez // Sep 26, 2004 at 3:31 pm

  I have a broken tailgate cable on my 2000 Chevy S10. I can’t believe you have to buy the entire mechanism to replace a broken cable.

• Tony Calahan // Sep 28, 2004 at 2:17 pm

  I just purchased my 2001 3/4 ton Siverado a month and a half ago. While loading some small items from a feed store for my girlfriends horse, the young man doing the loading stepped from my utility trailer to my truck tailgate and that was all it took for both straps too break. This young man was only 160 pounds soaking wet. My concern is that the straps might get covered by GM but what about the damage to my tailgate from slamming the bumper? I hope to see that GM will cover this for the people that have this damage.

• Michael L Michaud // Sep 29, 2004 at 4:26 pm

  My nephew lost his life on Mother’s Day 2004 after the cables snapped while he was sitting on the tailgate of a chevy pickup. He was leaning back taking a drink when the cables broke, the tailgate dropped, he hit the back of his head on the truck. As far as I am concerned G.M. is responsible for his death. He was not the first and the firefighter in Ohio will not be the last. What is it going to take for G.M. to step up to the plate and actually do something ?

• L LaMere // Sep 29, 2004 at 10:59 pm

  I own a 1998 Chevy 3/4 ton pickup and both of my tailgate cables snapped at the same time (the summer of 2003) while I was standing on the tailgate, it was quite a jolt sending me to the ground and pushing my right wrist in the dirt,my wrist was sore for a couple of days, but it could have been worse.

• Tom Farrar // Oct 3, 2004 at 8:49 am

  I have a 99 silverado and also a 95 S10 that have the rotted tailgate cable problem they need replaced.

• Zach Carney // Oct 4, 2004 at 7:53 am

  I own a 2001 Chevy S-10. I bought it used and 3 days after i bought the truck i was loading my four wheeler in and the cables snapped and cracked the paint on my tailgate and put dents in it.

• Michael Magistro // Oct 4, 2004 at 1:32 pm

  I own a MY2000 S-10 Extended Cab, garage kept. The left side cable snapped as I was lowering the tailgate. Upon further investigation, the cable appeared to have rusted completely through. I’m sure the right side is next. Unfortunately, the S-10 is not covered under the current recall. The design of the part requires the purchase of the cable & LATCH, driving the replacement part cost up over the $50 mark for one side…come on Big Daddy GM, own up to the defect!

• Melissa // Oct 5, 2004 at 12:36 pm

  I bought a used 2000 S10 Pickup. After the purcahse I found out the cable from the tail gate have been recalled. My tail gate cables were snapped when I bought the truck. I can’t find just the cables anywhere so I can replace them.

• jeff gottesfeld // Oct 9, 2004 at 6:52 pm

  I lost the tip of my finger when the tailgate cable of a silverado snaped. Where is the class action lawsuit?

• Timothy Hanna // Oct 11, 2004 at 7:35 am

  I am an attorney in Akron, OH and I represent the family of a man that died and another man who suffered a serious brain injury as a result of the breaking of the sraps on a 2003 Sierra. Any information anyone would have regarding the straps would be greatly appreciated.

• Douglas McCormick // Oct 11, 2004 at 10:22 am

  Own a 2001 S-10 truck. Over the weekend one tailgate cable broke while my wife was sitting on it playing with our grandson. Neither hurt but this is starting to sound like a common problem with Chevy trucks. The break is in the middle of the cable, underneath the plastic coatiing. If there is a recall for the full size, why not for the “S” series?

• Noah Poe // Oct 21, 2004 at 9:21 am

  I have a 1988 Chev S10. My tailgate cables broke in 1993, Local chev dealer said there would be a recall, but not yet. Also my windshield wiper circuit board also went bad. I replace for 107 dollars. Was told there will be a recall later. Hope GM lets us now when there is a recall. Oct 2004

• Ken Burgess // Oct 26, 2004 at 5:34 am

  I have a 2001 Chevy S-10. On Oct 17, 2004 the passenger side tailgate cable broke. Since I was just letting the gate down no other damage occurred. One of the auto parts store sold me a replacement cable that now has to be returned because it can’t be fixed in that method. Help recall safety bulletins anyway we can get them to pay for it

• KEN REGISTER JR. // Oct 26, 2004 at 7:10 am

  I HAVE A 95 MODEL S-10 THAT I HAVE BEEN TRYING TO FIND CABLES AND BRADS TO FIX THE CABLES BACK LIKE THEY WERE. I BOUGHT THE CABLES ON-LINE BUT NOONE CARRIES THE BRADS. THIS IS BEGINNING TO BE A PAIN IN THE ASS. I WOULD LIKE TO HERE THAT THERE IS GOING TO BE A RECALL ON THESE TRUCKS. OBVIOUSLY SAFETY IS NOT A BIG CONCERN OF CHEVEROLET, MAYBE A CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT IS IN ORDER. IF THIS IS SOMETHING THAT YOU WOULD BE INTERESTED IN BEING A PART OF PLEASE CONTACT ME AT 910-876-2417.

• Anthony E Robertson // Oct 27, 2004 at 4:25 pm

  I bought a 2000 S10 ZR2 in January 2004 and both tailgate cables are broken.

• Jeff Woolf // Oct 28, 2004 at 6:05 am

  My name is Jeff Woolf and my father is the former firechief/firefighter that was killed by the faulty tailgate straps supplied on GM trucks. PLEASE take notice and pass the word NOT to use the tailgates for anything but opening and closing them until they can be fixed properly. I am so angered that GM did not step up and do a better job at notifing the public of this hazard before people die. I miss my dad sorely but only the anger towards GM fuels my need to get the word out about this debacle of informing the public of a severe and fatal hazard. The truck he was on was only 6 months old and the owner also did not receive any type of notification about the problem. He was a dedicated husband, father, grandpa citizen of the community and business owner that was robbed of a full life. I feel cheated as I feel we would have had many more years to spend together. Please be careful until you get the problem rectified as I do not want any other family or person to go through what my family and myself have from this unexpected and totally avoidable accident.

  Here’ an article on DAD.

  http://cms.firehouse.com/content/article/article.jsp?sectionId=39&id=34712

  Feel free to e-mail if you would like at Jeff_woolf@yahoo.com or jwoolfman@msn.com

• Ken Burgess // Oct 30, 2004 at 5:14 am

  After posting that my 2001 S-10 tailgate cable broke, I also emailed Chevy and various dealers. All dealers could do was price a repair at about $150- Chevy contacted me and said that for good customer relations that they will remburse me for the repair if I provide them with proof of repair and payment.

• Marilee Panna // Nov 1, 2004 at 5:07 pm

  I own a 1999 Chevy S-10 that I bought new. First it was the fuel gage that broke; then the door hinges started to weaken; and now both of my tailgate straps broke tonight while moving a washing machine. I’m afraid that Chevy’s advertisement “Like a Rock” might be better as “Like a Clunk”.

• Ron Masson // Nov 4, 2004 at 11:49 am

  I have a 2000 S10. Both straps broke simutanously at the same time I was pulling a deer up onto the bed. Talk about back breaking. What does engineering think is going to be going into the back of these trucks? Feathers!!! I mean com’n people, they are trucks. Lets build them like a truck, not a tinker toy. How about some sort of folding bracket that can’t break unless its hit by a tank or something.I have one question, does this recall cover the S10? I don’t see any documentation on the S10. Only Silverados and Sierras.

• Tom Kastner // Nov 4, 2004 at 11:57 am

  This problem occurs in more trucks than what the recent recall indicates. My ‘97 Chevy Silverado had both tailgate cables rust through and break at the same time causing the tailgate to slam into the bumper. I’m glad I wasn’t standing on it!

• Mike Russell // Nov 5, 2004 at 2:35 pm

  It seems that the problems are much more significant. i am preparing an email for Chevy. My 2000 Silverado, which spends much of its time in my garage or on my concrete drivway, has significant deterioration problems such as the one with the tailgate cables. The dist covers on my rear brakes have rusted through, and there is signifiant rust underneath.

  I contact my local parts dealer (GM dealership) and was told that these items are on back order! Give me a break. It appears that I may need backing plates as well. CHEAP STEEL!

• william lattuf // Nov 5, 2004 at 7:16 pm

  I have a 2002 avalanche 1500 and both sides cables broke at the same time ,but that is nothing compared to the problems that i’m having with the air conditioning sistem since i bought it and the humming noise coming from rear end @ 50 mph sustained and the water leak betwin back seat and cargo area

• scott // Nov 6, 2004 at 8:34 am

  My son has a 2002 Avalanche 2500. It cuts out while driving, and there are times when it will not start. Anyone else out there have this problem. He has spent a lot of money trying to figure out the problem.

• Phil Ruffolo // Nov 9, 2004 at 4:19 pm

  My cables broke too.

  I bought the truck new in 1999.

  My cables broke just after warranty ran out.

  Also my seat adjustments 3rd time.

  and the 3rd door latch 2nd time.

  I’ll be buying another Chevy..right.

• Barry Wright // Nov 9, 2004 at 5:22 pm

  Both of my tailgate cables snapped lowering the gate on my Chev S-10, 1997 truck. The trouble is more widespread than GM will admit. The cable design is terrible, in that it requires replacement of the complete latch assembly also.

• Leonard Skach // Nov 17, 2004 at 2:03 pm

  I just encountered the same failure on my 97 Chevrolet Z71 (K1500) pickup. Both of the tailgate cables snapped when the tailgate was lowered. The tailgate hasn’t been used that much. Since the cables are covered with black plastic you can’t see if they are deteriorated. I would guess the bending of the cable weakens them while moisture causes them to rust inside the covering. What happened to the old toggle link system? Sounds like the problem goes back further than Chevrolet and GM want to admit. Luckily I wasn’t on or under the tailgate when the cables broke.

  Leonard Skach - Oklahoma

• Toby // Nov 19, 2004 at 8:29 pm

  I have a 2001 Chevy S-10. On October 4th, 2004 I had my left tailgate cable break as I got in the back of my truck. I thought maybe I had damaged it in some way before, but the next week (On October 10th) the right cable broke. I called to see if there had been any other reports to my local dealer and they said they had not recieved any other calls. I started calling friends and family that have S-10’s and I found 12 others who had a cable or two break also. I called the dealer back and I was told they would all have to report it on an individual basis. Most of us have reported it to our local dealers and I am still waiting on a recall notice! If they know they had a problem with the full-size trucks and they have had some complaints about the S-10 models why is it taking so long for a recall to be issued! I would sure hate to have a problem with my truck that could possibly be unsafe because it may be too late by the time GM would issue a recall. That’s how this great nation works- Wait until someone dies before we fix the problem and then play dumb. I am a volunteer firefighter, I have seen this happen many times!! I hope someone from GM reads this and sees the “BIG Picture” I am trying to paint!

  Thank You for your time and please contact your local dealer so we can get their expensive (for us, not them) mistake fixed!!!!!!! Toby

• m.reisner // Nov 23, 2004 at 3:28 am

  we have a 1996 s10 our straps broke a couple of weeks ago. they need to deal with this issue and not avoid it.looks to me as though they would take care of the problem even on the older vehicles. think i will email them daily maybe they will get the point

• Gilbert Thornton // Nov 23, 2004 at 4:33 am

  We also have had both our tail gate straps break on our 1999 Chevy 1500 4×4, while unloading from the truck bed, also, we almost ran in to a convienent store, when the brakes failed to stop us, we were lucky they had cement parking stoppers. It’s hard to believe, The price of all trucks are more than we bought our house for, and our house has less problems, and houses increase in value almost yearly and vehicles decrease in value as soon as the papers are signed! HUMMMMMM?

  We have only owned this 1999 and DID NOT carry over any payments from our previous owned vehicle and we are finding that we are about $5000.00 difference in trade in value already. Somethings wrong here!

• R.A. Fisher // Nov 23, 2004 at 11:18 am

  I have a 2002 2500HD Silverado. On a sunny summer day, a friend and I were sitting on the tailgate at the Cape Cod Canal when both cables broke sending us to the pavement. I had no idea that there had been a recall on this and that our lives were in danger. Aside from bruises and cut limbs, I am so angry that I was not made aware of this horrible situation. I actually thought that someone had sabotaged my vehicle and was trying to hurt me. I decided today to check the web for any information on faulty tailgate cables and low and behold, I have found this……..Where is the justice!!!! How many people’s lives need to be in danger before the public is notified of the RECALL? Someone please do something!!!! Thanks, RAF

• Ashley Gavey // Nov 25, 2004 at 11:20 pm

  We own a 2000 sierra. We received the recell notification, but each time we went into the dealership to have the neccessary repairs, the service manager told us to check back some other time. Then, about two months ago while driving with the tailgate down due to a slightly overhanging piece of cargo (that was NOT placing any pressure on the tailgate), our tailgate just fell off never to be seen again. GM canada contacts have been unhelpful and patronizing at best, claiming there is nothing they can do.

  I notice that many of you listed here are asking for someone to do something about this. We got lucky - we weren’t injured, but many of you out there were. We ALL need to do something. Class action comes to mind. I’m going to do some research into this and post back soon.

  DON’T take no for an answer. GMC has shown extreme negligence. I’m going to start by contact every person listed at the following link: http://www.pistonslap.com/gmcontacts.htm and then probably my lawyer. If anyone has any advise, please post or email. My condolances go out to all injured.

• Brian Slagle // Nov 26, 2004 at 8:27 am

  Same trouble. I have a 96 S-10 and my girlfriend has a 2000 S-10. Both trucks have one broken cable. I bought replacement cables from an auto parts store but they won’t work. This is really a poor design. Tailgate cables should be able to be replaced by my 9 year old in about 5 minutes. They should be ashamed that their design requires disassembly of the latch assembly and replacement of the entire bracket that the cable is rivited to.

• Jonathan Falco // Nov 28, 2004 at 9:13 am

  I am having the same problems with my s-10 I haven’t seen any recalls for this as well which is total b.s. I will remember this when buying my next truck. I bought the replacement cables but they are a pain. I went to Gordon Chevy Dealership in Orange Park, FL and they were total jerks in the service department when I asked them if I could borrow a tool to get my cables off they wanted to stick me with paying the service guys to look at it. They acted as if this tailgate problem was normal.

  Also my heat in my 2000 s-10 has failed conviently right after 36,000 miles and I have been without heat for about two years now. I don’t feel like tearing apart my dash to fix this problem. Boo Hoo Chevy for your consumer neject.

• James Laster // Nov 30, 2004 at 6:45 pm

  This is the second time both cables have broken on my 2500 4×4 since purchased in 1999. Wondering if I’ll be included in the recall for the stainless steel cables?

• Dale Engler // Dec 1, 2004 at 6:42 pm

  I noticed a newspaper article in the Columbus Dispatch detailing the problem with full-size chevy tailgate cables snapping. Guess what?1? The problem isn’t isolated to full-size pickups. A tailgate cable on my 2000 S10 Xtreme snapped this summer. I agree–it’s time for the fine folks at GM to step up to the tailgate issue and resolve it before someone else is loading a stove or refrigerator and has the bottom drop out from underneath their feet.

• Ben Nogueira // Dec 1, 2004 at 6:54 pm

  My 98 s-10 has a broken tailgate cable on one side, and I keep looking at how complex the fix is. The whole bracket at the gate has to be replaced. What a terrible design. I’ll have to cut a two by four to prop up the gate if I’m going to stand on it. First and last Chevrolet truck I’ll ever buy.

  Ben

• Carlo Coletti // Dec 1, 2004 at 6:54 pm

  I have a 2000 chev S10 and my tail gate straps our broke

• tom taylor // Dec 2, 2004 at 6:27 pm

  i have a 1999 s 10 with fifty thousand on it and both cables broke in 2003 they were both rusted through. so i hope they recall these also. bought replacements at murray’s auto parts

• mike // Dec 3, 2004 at 12:51 am

  i have a 99 sonoma and a lil while back the cable snaped outta nowhere i think gm needs 2 look thiz matta over again and recall back alot more then 2000

• Mark Whitman // Dec 3, 2004 at 9:02 am

  My 2000 S10 has had both tailgate cables break and the dealer says it is not covered in the March 18 GM recall. What I want to know is why?

• Devin Grider // Dec 4, 2004 at 12:40 pm

  The Straps broke on my 2001 S10 as well. Go to http://www.nhtsa.gov and file a complaint. If NHTSA gets enough complaints maybe they will force GM to add the S series trucks to the recall.

• Devin G // Dec 4, 2004 at 12:47 pm

  Just saw that NHTSA opened an investigation on Nov 22 for 1996-2003 S10 and Sonoma pickups for tailgate cables breaking. So far they have 42 incidents listed. Go to http://www.nhtsa.gov and file a complaint so they have a record, especially if you have an S10 or Sonoma that has had this problem.

• Jessie F. // Dec 12, 2004 at 5:03 am

  I have the same problem with my 2001 S-10 ZR2 tailgate cables breaking. They should be included in the recall. http://www.nhtsa.gov

• Bill Daugherty // Dec 13, 2004 at 9:19 am

  I have a 97 Chevy full size with the same promlem. and it casts 65 bucks to get it fixed. my next truck won’t be a chevy. I would like to see them go back to the hinge.

• Crystal // Dec 14, 2004 at 5:17 pm

  I have a 2000 S10 ZR2 and my tailgate straps are broke too!!

• dennis Pavlik // Dec 15, 2004 at 12:02 pm

  I have a 1997 GM truck and one tail gate cable has broken and the other is ready to go. Is there any relief for trucks this old?

• Rod Edaburn // Dec 15, 2004 at 7:58 pm

  I have a 2000 S10 ZR2 and had both tailgate cables break while loading a small ATV. My injuries were minor, and no damage to the ATV but I’m very disgusted that I need to purchase a whole new tailgate now as it has a lot of damage from hitting the rear bumper as it came down, and GM doesn’t feel they have a problem with their S Series cables??

• Concerned GM Owner // Dec 17, 2004 at 11:44 am

  Check this site out concerning the GM tailgate strap problem

  http://www.gmtailgatestrap.com/

• C.L.Harmon // Dec 20, 2004 at 8:38 am

  I was lucky, just opened my tailgate one morning and the cables snappped. Last year on a 2002 chevy HD. I went to the chevy dealer had to buy new ones for about $50.00 .Is the now reinbursible to me from chevy dealer?

• R. Fuys // Dec 20, 2004 at 10:00 pm

  I lowered the tailgate on my 2001 Sonoma the other day to remove a few Christmas packages from the back and discovered that both cables were broken in the center. I was shocked to find them both broken. Since they were not under load when they failed, it must be some type of defective or inferior material. I suspect the cause may be stress corrosion cracking from bending when the tailgate is opened and closed. I very seldom put the tailgate down or put much weight on it. The local dealer wanted $86.00 plus labor estimated a $35-$75, to replace both cables. Made no mention of a recall. I’m looking for an alternative solution at this time.

• Don Faglier // Dec 21, 2004 at 8:32 am

  I, also, have had the tailgate cables on my 2000 S-10 fail simultaneously with less than 32,000 miles on the truck. This is not a work vehicle with continual use of the tailgate and I do not allow any heavy loads on it like some of you who transport ATVs. My tailgate was down while I crossed a field and when I got to the other side, both cables were snapped. I have registered my complaint with GM; if any of you have not, please do so!!

  It appears to me that there is a definite design flaw in these cables. My cables are coated, stranded copper wire. It is apparent that the folding design causes breakage to occur over time like any bending metal. Thank goodness, my only loss is the cables themselves.

• mary kay ruddy // Jan 1, 2005 at 1:02 pm

  I was driving a 1995 chevy s-10 4X4 and although this is not the first time the “anti-lock brakes just seized on me, i suffered injuries to my back and neck both of which i have had a cervical fusion , and a lumbar decompressive surgery, where i have 6 rods in my back. Supposedly all owners of this particulsr vehicle should be made aware of the anti- lock problem from the 1991 - 1996 models, as part of a 3.5 million vehicle recall. I was so deep into a ditch that the left rear tire was 3 feet in the air. Please check out the autopedia website to see if your vehicle is on the list. There are entirely too many fatalities that can and should be avoided, for you and your childrens sake please check this list. When i told my cousin about this after i returned from the hospital, she ended up selling her 96 Blazer after 1 year because of 3 close calls, one involving a tractor trailer. There was so much exterior damage to the vehichle from sliding, trying to avoid collisions. Anyone with a similar vehicle please contact if i can be of any help to you. From someone who lost a brother to a vehichle accident, there are unavoidable tragedies, but there a certainly avoidable ones, if only the responsible party would inform and follow up with their consumers.Please be careful, and make an informed decision before buying a chevy product. This message comes from someone who has owned nothing but s-10’s since 1992.

• Gene B. // Jan 8, 2005 at 4:57 pm

  I have a 2001 GMC Sonoma and the right cable snaped when I shut the tailgate and it failed to latch and fell back open.I am lucky that it happen then and not when I was loading a dryer a few weeks earlier. Nobody expects to be hurt or killed from a bad design on such an important part on a TRUCK.

• BILLY BASHAM // Jan 10, 2005 at 6:32 am

  I had to replace the tailgate cables on my ‘02 GMC Crew cab. I let the tailgate down and one snapped, I checked the other and when I flexed it, it broke also. As always, my truck had just went out of warranty at about 38xxx miles. I went to the dealership and purchased the replacement cables somewhere between 40-50 dollars. A month later I get a recall notice about the defective cables. What ever happened to the old solid metal hinges that were used a few years ago? Never heard much about them giving any problems.

• troy // Jan 11, 2005 at 2:31 pm

  i have had no problem with my truck it’s a 99 S-10 ext cab………i keep everything on my truck oiled hinges and all even the cables on my tailgate….sounds like other people need to do some preventive maintence to there trucks to keep this from happening……the best lubricant is white lithium grease on all hinges and wipe cables off with oil on a rag.

  never had a problem with my S-10 yet and i’m the original owner……it only has 33,000 miles on it….it’s a great truck.

  troy.

• Rodney Lovetinsky // Jan 12, 2005 at 6:26 pm

  I have a 2000 1500 4×4 in late october 2004 me and my son were loading a lawn mower onto my truck when I had both of the straps break yuo could see that they had rusted from the inside out then in december I heard of a recall from our local newspaper so I went to my local GM dealer and asked them about a recall he said that my vin muber was not on the recall list there something wrong with this !!

• Andre Hache // Jan 12, 2005 at 7:26 pm

  I own a 2003 sierra slt and frankly It’s a real joke what gm sells for 60 000$

  A real rip off..! I’m just about ready to sue them for all the stress that comes whit their vehicles. I’ve been to the garadge at least a dozen times for obvious problems of a knocking motor… a clonking transmission-very bad clonking whitch they call “back lash”… the vehicle pulls to the left for no reason… when windy a cop would probably think I’m drunk couse it’s all over the road… sometimes it’s like if the transmission is pushing the truck forward as I’m triying to brake…there seems to be a great deal of slack”back lash!!!”for no reason and it’s like if it slips and just slams the gears… as rough as a German tank over minor bums or holes(from one day to another. while using the auto 4×4 there’s deffinite grinding coming from the transfercase and it brakes the wheels enough while turning to make it slow down to a stop as if the brakes were on, it’s on auto so the wheels should’nt be catching as if it be in 4×4 low.. Gm dealers are selling pure crap to custumers at a high price. Do they realy think that they can get second buyers treating people like this…I know that I’m not the only one whit these problems as Gm vehicles are getting to be a little on the sour side of lemon’s. I was brushed off by Gm canada as if they wont do anymore work on my truck cause they cant “dupplicate the problem” What an insult when friends that I let drive notice just about everything in a little ride on the hyw.401. It acctualy feels verry scary to drive when it’s a bit windy…Swerve as if the truck weight was like mabe 500 pds.

  Gm told me that it was a normal carecteristic of these trucks! cuz its a “truck” No more gm product for me or anybody that just even sayed that it was a nice truck. The looks are there but she’s a bi_ _ch. (sorry!)

• KURT KASPRZYK // Jan 13, 2005 at 6:48 pm

  Has anyone had a problem with the fuel injectors leaking? This is the 4th time my 96 s10 has had this problem!

• Toyota Nextime // Jan 20, 2005 at 1:01 pm

  Have had 3 Chevrolet 4X4’s.

  Except for fuel pumps($850.00 a pop),waterpumps and manifold gasket leaks, replacement on each at around 70,000, Powertrain no problem.

  But the cotton picking cheap accesories they put on these products from China. Dang!Both doors I have to roll windows down to get out, fan switch works on one speed, windshield wipers work only when it isn’t raining, its just sad. And I take care of my trucks!

• Toyota Nextime // Jan 20, 2005 at 1:02 pm

  Have had 3 Chevrolet 4X4’s.

  Except for fuel pumps($850.00 a pop),waterpumps and manifold gasket leaks, replacement on each at around 70,000, Powertrain no problem.

  But the cotton picking cheap accesories they put on these products from China. Dang!Both doors I have to roll windows down to get out, fan switch works on one speed, windshield wipers work only when it isn’t raining, its just sad. And I take care of my trucks!

• B Smith // Jan 27, 2005 at 2:32 pm

  I have a 2001 S-10 that is not a work truck and both tailgate cables broke when I was just opening the tailgate, The truck only has 34000 miles on it.

• Tony Chacon // Jan 28, 2005 at 2:16 pm

  Wow! makes me feel very discouraged about buying my 2003 S10 ZR2 4X4. I hope i dont experience the pain in the ass problems everyone has unfortunately experienced, good luck to all us owners!

• Ron D // Feb 2, 2005 at 2:45 pm

  I have owned a 2004 sierra since may and find the brakes to be so mushie that they almost go to the floor before they stop. Anyone else having brake problems? I’m afraid to get to close to anyone in traffic in fear of not being able to stop in time.

• Denny // Feb 7, 2005 at 9:15 pm

  Driver’s side cable broke on my 2002 ZR2 about two weeks ago @34,000 miles. Other one is also about ready to let go. It appears both rusted from the inside out, beneath the plastic coating.

  Would have to agree that the assembly is poorly designed, since replacement appears to overly-complicated. By comparison, the older-style steel flat straps on my ‘91 S-10 still work like new.

  Only other problems I’ve had with the 2002, are a broken third door latch, driver’s side tail/marker lights quit working (stop/turn signal worked fine) and an unbalanceable BF Goodrich T/A that was replaced.

• chevy s-10 nothing but problems // Feb 13, 2005 at 2:36 pm

  I had a 2000 s-10.. what a problem child..service engine lite …kept blowing the fuse (7 times)that runs the pollution/emissions pump…Dealer could not correct it…LEMONLAW.. took care of that.. now have a 2001 chevy S-10…i have 60,000 on it now,, doing the same thing blowing fuses…the dealer told me its been a problemm, but no recall!!!I will buy Frord or toyota next time!

• George Kerr // Feb 14, 2005 at 5:50 pm

  I have a 1998 Sierra 3500 and a 2000 Sonoma, both trucks have had the tailgate cables rot and break in half. On the 1998 I am on my second set and today one cable broke.

• mr.mullins // Feb 18, 2005 at 4:41 pm

  I have a 1999 s-10 pickup and both tail gate strapes broke and the door latcheS and hinges and lock are really cheap made because you can’t drive down the road in it because you have one hand one stering wheel and holding the door with the other hand so you want fall out when going around a curve.And you have to purchase a whole new door to fix this problem because we took it to a body shop and they said it would cost $600.00 TO BE FIXED. THANKS FOR LETTING US HAVE A COMMENT.

• Terry Alvaro // Feb 18, 2005 at 7:06 pm

  My cables were replaced on my 2001 Silverado Sportside on a recall before I had a problem with them. I have had what I think to be a problem with the anti-lock brakes. I took the truck to my Chey dealer and told them about the left front feeling like it’s trying to kick in during a normal stop. They told me they ran all the necessary tests on the brakes and found nothing. It didn’t do it when they had it for tests. It did it twice today. Has anyone else had this happen to them? Also, they said the howling noise when I put it four wheel drive is natural. How about it? Let me know if you have had these problems. Thanks

• Jason Harmony // Feb 25, 2005 at 12:43 am

  I have a 2000 chevy S-10 stepside pickup.Within 1.5 years i have replaced the fuel pump 4 times, at 800.00 a pop.I called chevy and they told me to talk to to my State department. What good is that gonna do? My next truck wont be a chevy, thats for sure.

• bard stephens // Feb 25, 2005 at 5:33 pm

  2003 z-71 what a piece of crap.anybody had left seat front pop&snap leaning back or leaving from stop light?dealer tried to fix this 4 times i guess there hearing is bad.thanks brad stephens posted 2/25/05

• bard stephens // Feb 25, 2005 at 5:34 pm

  2003 z-71 what a piece of crap.anybody had left seat front pop&snap leaning back or leaving from stop light?dealer tried to fix this 4 times i guess there hearing is bad.thanks brad stephens posted 2/25/05

• wayne de mann // Feb 27, 2005 at 1:26 pm

  We bought our 2000, chevy 1500 4×4 new. Only complaint is on the ABS. It’s no good when doing 4×4 driving. There are times when you need to slide when breaking. Not being able to could get you over a cliff. This almost happened to us on our first ABS experience. For the highway and wet road conditions,I think it works great. Wonder if ABS could have an option switch installed? Just a thought. Wayne De mann

• no name // Feb 28, 2005 at 8:09 am

  you guys know why yor trucks keep breaking its because its not a ford

• LARRY // Feb 28, 2005 at 10:41 am

  I BOUGHT A 03 Z-71 EXTENDED CAB, THOUGHT I WAS GETTING A QUALITY PRODUCT.FIRST PROBLEM,STEREO JUST DIED,TWO TRIPS BEFORE THEY FIGURED OUT I NEEDED A REPACEMENT, NO PROBLEM.PROBLEM TWO, WEAR ON FRONT TIRE WIH A “THUD” SENSATION AND NOISE FROM FRONT LEFT TIRE, SOLUTION ;$69.00 ALIGNMENT AND LUBRICATION OF A “SEALED” BEARING,LASTED 6 MONTHS, ITS BACK. WENT TO AN INDEPENDANT SHOP THIS TIME WE’LL SEE. ALSO, ON A “I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN BETTER” NOTE, WHEN I PURCHASED IT I RECIEVED A VERBAL AGREEMENT FOR DEALER PRICE ON BEDLINER AND A GOOW TOW KIT WHEN I LAYED DOWN $28,000 NOTE FOR THE TRUCK,SUCKER. THREE MONTHS OF PHONE TAG AND UNRETURNED MESSAGES I COUGHED UP $750 FOR THEM. SO, BEFOR YOU SIGN, GET IT IN WRITING, BECAUSE AFTER YOU LAY DOWN THE CASH, THEIR MEMORY GOES BYE-BYE. SHOULDA BOUGHT A FORD.

• Summer Truck Rick // Feb 28, 2005 at 10:56 pm

  I have a 2001 Silverado 1500 StepSide that has had the straps fixed and the old ones still seemed fine. HERE IS SOMETHING NEW ABOUT CHEVY TRUCKS…

  Over the winter with driving in Canada the roads are covered with snow, salt, and some sand for traction. The StepSide has a plastic box and is held in place with steel rods running from the frame to different locations on the box to hold its shape and keep it from blowing off. Over the winter, ice had built up on one of the support rods under the truck (between the cab and the rear wheel). When it started to warm up this ice that was held in place by the rod started sliding down the rod until it wedged between the inside box and the leaf spring infront of the rear tile (Drivers side). The next bump in the road caused the ice to break out part of the box. My dealer contacted the Dist Service Manager to look it over. Her response was that when dealing with a severe winter you have to get under the truck to wash any ice build up off. When the truck is on the road or in a wash bay you have to lay on your back to see under the truck so you don’t damage other parts while you remove the ice that can rip your truck apart. Just visit your insurance agent to get it fixed, but they said it was a manufacturing defect and it should have some way of preventing this ice from sliding down unless it’s small enough to do no damage. The sales and service dept seem to think its not an idea to crawl under your $45,000 vehicle just to prevent ice problems on a TRUCK but the rep thinks different. GM won’t allow me access to another rep or someone above her to make a decision either. They stick to what she said and at this point have offered to pay 1/3 GM, 1/3 Dealer, and 1/3 my cost to get the problem solved. The dealership doesn’t agree, but have to go with GM’s decision.

  I’d like to find others with a broken box due to ice under the truck and see what we can do about this problem as well. Seems unless there are people killed GM doesn’t want to address the problem correctly.

  Any phone numbers other than Cust Service or web sites would be great.

  Thanks

• Summer Truck Rick followup // Feb 28, 2005 at 11:05 pm

  The repair cost is $1700.00 and now I should only drive in the summer. GM cannot stand the cold icy winters in Canada.

• T Grosche // Mar 1, 2005 at 12:15 pm

  I have a 2000 silverado that the anti-lock brakes would kick in right before the truck comes to a complete stop. You can feel and hear the brakes pulse and sometimes the brake pedal will lock up and you lose the brakes completely. If the brakes pulse this increases your stopping distance several feet. If the pedal locks up take your foot off the brake and hit again. Has anyone else had this problem?

• NORMAN DUBAY // Mar 1, 2005 at 3:13 pm

  MY TWO TAIL GATE CABLES ARE BOTH BAD. ONE IS ROTTED IN HALF AND THE OTHER ONE IS ALMOST ROTTED IN HALF AND I HAVE A 2001 GMC SONOMA.WHAT IS WRONG WITH ME BEING INCLUDED IN THIS.I ONLY HAVE 30;000 AND IT LOOKS NEW.

• summitshadow // Mar 1, 2005 at 9:10 pm

  I purchased a 2001 1500 HD Silverado about 1 year ago, it now has 91000miles. I have started to have vibration troubles, I have replaced the U joints in the front and rear drive lines, and new tires. Took it to a tire shop and they told me that the front rack and pinion, tie rods, and boots on the front end are shot, said to check into a recall because the front end should not be this bad. I trust the tire guy because he has been a friend of the family for many years. Anyone have any ideas? In addition, there is an air sucking sound when accelerating and decelerating under 25mph, but I cannot find any air leaks anyone have an idea if it could be from the differentials? In addition, has anyone else had troubles with the fender wells welds breaking? The drivers side rear fender well has every weld broken out. Passenger rear fender well is fine so far. Can anyone help or maybe point me in the right direction. Thanks

• Paul // Mar 7, 2005 at 6:52 pm

  Regarding Postings for anti-lock brakes engaging when slowing down. — There is a recall on the wheel speed sensor. (January 2005) “Vehicles may have a condition permitting corrosion to occur between the front hub/bearing assembly and the wheel speed sensor. If the brakes are applied while the vehicle is travelling at a speed greater than 6km/h (3.7 mph) but less than 16 km/h (10mph), the corrosion may cause an unwanted anti-lock brake system activation.”

• ALIEN // Mar 12, 2005 at 7:01 am

  1991 chev. 1500 turn signial switch, is also wiper switch & high beam switch Nothing works. Theres a conection under the hood that you can wiggle and the wipers will work.

  the 1995 had a recall. I have the same problem.

  Any Ideas ?

  AL

• Beauford Toney // Mar 16, 2005 at 9:46 am

  I have a 2002 chevy 2500 series Pick up with brake problems. With the engine off, step on the brake pedal it is normal. Start the engine and the pedal goes to the floor, also in any gear selection, however it holds the vehicle even when adding throttle. If the truck is moving the brake pedal is normal and firm until it comes to a complete stop, the it goes to the floor. I can hear winning when the pedal is on the floor (air?) and the steering wheel is difficult to turn when at stop with brake on floor. Release brake and steering is normal. This is a HD anti lock system. The anti lock activates normal however the pedal goes to the floor when complete stop. I deactivated the anti lock and get the same result.

  Any ideas?

• joe white // Mar 18, 2005 at 4:23 pm

  I have a 1997 1500 chevenny and from time to time the wiper will not come on does any abdy know why

• jim schmidt // Mar 18, 2005 at 4:54 pm

  i to have experienced the abs motor failure on my 1999 silverado. motor runs continually until you unplug underneath. lights for abs and brakes will remain lit when ignition in on position. you will not have abs brakes. does anyone know a recall ?

• h hopkins // Mar 19, 2005 at 8:05 am

  in response to t grosche i have a 2001 silverado which i had the same problem had the left hub replaced i think this is a gm recall would like to know of a tbs number posted march 19 2005

• kcendroski // Mar 21, 2005 at 8:59 pm

  2000 2.2 35000 mis cost me 400.00 plus.

  ignition was replaced .this should never happened with this low miles.

  dealer says this occours often,but didn’t say the cause??? just acts like its out of gas. calling GM to see if they will take care of costs if not i’ll never buy GM again. and they wonder why people go to other dealers.

• Mary D // Mar 31, 2005 at 4:36 pm

  We have a 2003 Silverado 4 x 4 and 2003 S10 Ext Cab. I swore I would never buy another Chevy product after my Chev Prism and look what I own. As soon as I can I am trading for a toyota.

  Silverado has mushy brakes. Have had it in shop twice. “Nothing wrong” Now we have a whining that is a bad wheel bushing on passenger’s side. FOr 40,000 what a piece of crap.

  I have had the transmission replaced at 1800 miles on S10. Yes 1800 miles. Just had brake pads replaced and they tried to tell me I need rotors turned at 50000 miles. The problem is the ABS brake system. If you brake the right ABS sticks on and sometimes will kick back on you. Better have plenty of time to stop when you re-engage the brake. It then sticks on and releases when it feels like. When I got it back from garage they told me it was going to be noisy because I hadn’t had the rotors turned. Guess I will take the boys for however many rides as necessary to get it fixed and then GM and I are going to go around. They have had braking problems for years from caliphers on.

  Never another Chevy for me! Last good they built was a 67 Impala

• Phil Hendrix // Mar 31, 2005 at 11:57 pm

  2003 Silverado, Purchased new in 9/03, 35,900 miles. Soon after purchase a “clunk” started in the driveline, Dealer said it was the steps my wife had professionally installed. (They told her this when she picked the truck up while I was out of country) I took the truck back upon my return, and they replaced several driveline components, output shaft, bearings, etc. Cluck returned, more driveline parts replaced, ie; propeller shaft, drive link, etc. Picked the truck up on Friday and it was clunking before I got home. Took it back Monday, left it all week, only to pick it up to being told that noise was normal and given a copy of the service tech sheet directing the mech’s not to try to fix it. I read the report and tossed it aside, trusting the manufacture of my $35,000 pride and joy. I was jolted awake in the middle of the night when it hit me what the tech sheet actually was saying!!

  The Tech sheet actually says that when shifting from 2-3 and 3-2, the transmission has ‘a momentary torque reversal of the output shaft’. Anyone else get that???? EVERY time that transmission upshifts from 2 to 3 or downshifts from 3 to 2, it momentarily goes into reverse!!!! If you want to know what that is doing to the drive line components, get to rolling to about 25-30 mph and just pop that sucker into reverse for a second, then shift it back into drive. That is on the up shift. Then when you pick your teeth out of the dash, you might want to see what is happening EVERY TIME YOUR TRANSMISSION down shifts also, jsut do it in reverse… you get the picture… The goodnews is that you really don’t even have to do the above exercize to tear the crap out of your vehicle, Chevrolet has designed a transmission to do it automatically, every $%^&* time it shifts!!!

  And the official Chevrolet position? That is normal for that transmission.

  Truck is now sitting in the driveway so I don’t pass the 36000 mile warrenty mark. Any Ideas GREATLY appreciated.

  orca_phil@yahoo.com

• Phil Hendrix // Mar 31, 2005 at 11:58 pm

  2003 Silverado, Purchased new in 9/03, 35,900 miles. Soon after purchase a “clunk” started in the driveline, Dealer said it was the steps my wife had professionally installed. (They told her this when she picked the truck up while I was out of country) I took the truck back upon my return, and they replaced several driveline components, output shaft, bearings, etc. Cluck returned, more driveline parts replaced, ie; propeller shaft, drive link, etc. Picked the truck up on Friday and it was clunking before I got home. Took it back Monday, left it all week, only to pick it up to being told that noise was normal and given a copy of the service tech sheet directing the mech’s not to try to fix it. I read the report and tossed it aside, trusting the manufacture of my $35,000 pride and joy. I was jolted awake in the middle of the night when it hit me what the tech sheet actually was saying!!

  The Tech sheet actually says that when shifting from 2-3 and 3-2, the transmission has ‘a momentary torque reversal of the output shaft’. Anyone else get that???? EVERY time that transmission upshifts from 2 to 3 or downshifts from 3 to 2, it momentarily goes into reverse!!!! If you want to know what that is doing to the drive line components, get to rolling to about 25-30 mph and just pop that sucker into reverse for a second, then shift it back into drive. That is on the up shift. Then when you pick your teeth out of the dash, you might want to see what is happening EVERY TIME YOUR TRANSMISSION down shifts also, jsut do it in reverse… you get the picture… The goodnews is that you really don’t even have to do the above exercize to tear the crap out of your vehicle, Chevrolet has designed a transmission to do it automatically, every $%^&* time it shifts!!!

  And the official Chevrolet position? That is normal for that transmission.

  Truck is now sitting in the driveway so I don’t pass the 36000 mile warrenty mark. Any Ideas GREATLY appreciated.

  orca_phil@yahoo.com

• Scott // Apr 9, 2005 at 8:30 pm

  IN RESPONSE TO T GROSCHE I ALSO HAVE A 2000 SILVERADO 4WD WITH THE SAME SYMPTOMS. WHEN GETTING READY TO STOP SURPRISE NO BRAKES OR ABS KICKING IN. I SEE A PATTERN DEVELOPING.

• Todd Chrunik // Apr 13, 2005 at 9:57 am

  I have a 2000 chev ZR-2…awesome looking truck. Tough?… Like A Rock?… This was a dream truck that has turned into a nightmare. I just clicked over 100,000km and in that time there has been door latch warranty, 3x transfer case warranty (kept kicking into 4×4 on the hi-way), worse gas mileage than I ever expected, and now the tail gate cables. My 107lb rottweiler was standing half in the box half on the tailgate when the cables broke. The weight of a small child could have easily broke these cables. I now found out that GM has recalled the cables on the full size trucks but not the s-10 size. WHY?… I am presently waiting for a call from GM to answer this question. From what I have read today on this and other forums GM should step up and recall these cables as well. Oh, my ZR-2 LOOKS awesome!!!

• Bill Barbee // Apr 13, 2005 at 11:26 am

  I have a 2000 GMC Sierra 1500 4X4.It is perfect except when it is going very slowly,less than 5 MPH ,the brake pedal gets very hard and won’t stop at all,it even seems to push back.I am heavy enough to mash very hard and finally get it to stop.Luckily I haven’t ran inot anything yet.Anone else with this problem or ideas?

• tom rinehart // Apr 13, 2005 at 10:35 pm

  i bought a 2001 silverado 1500 in late 2000. everything was fine up to about 59,500 when the tailgate cable problems developed. this was taken care of and I assume it was a vendor problem. shortly after, the abs started comming on about 1 out of 4 times when braking about 5mph. this led to my wife hitting a parking lot barrier and destroying the front bumper at probably 5mph and she was standing on the brake. I called the number my dealer gave me for problem resolution which was the number given in the new owner information. they set up an inspection from a independent inspector who determined the problem was from uneven wear in rear brake pads. huh?? I took the truck to red holman, an authorized gm dealer who for $82 told me that i had 2 bad wheel speed sensors. gm problem resolution said this was a “wear and tear issue” and refused to discuss paying for repairs. i would like to hear from anyone with similar problems

• Joe d. // Apr 15, 2005 at 7:01 am

  well to start off with i purchased a new 1999 chevy 4 wheel drive silverado truck the seat cover came apart i tried to work with my dealer with no luck so i called the chevrolet corperation in california and talked with the head of the so called management team i told them about my seat cover they replaced it but it was a total different color i called and ask if i could get one in the color of int.of my truck again i called the mamagement team in caifornia the head management told me they replaced it and thats all there doing and they would not respond to any further emails or calls on this matter as i was told by them color wasnt that big of a deal. huh iv had 4 different seat belts put in it which as of today still locks you in the seat and you cant move because it gets tighter as you try and work it free so now i use a clothes line pin so it wont lock you in tight. then i was going on a trip and low and behold the straps that hold up the fuel tank broke with a full tank of fuel i had some straps in the back of the truck straped the tank back up until i could get to the dealer and was told that my truck had just run out of warranty so there was nothing they would do about it a truck with only 37 thousand miles at the time always been garaged never run thru the mud. that cost me around a hundred dollars thats doing it myself dont know but that sure sounds like a safety issue to me then a month later my power steering pump went out. that little trip was 300 dollars which its still very stiff to try and turn if your moving slow but was told it has to have time to break in i was told it will loosen up as i use it. then the push button 4 wheel drive unit went that was 300 dollard out of pocket they had to put in the new push buttons so any of you out there that buys a new truck if your steering feels tight and hard to turn dont worry they tell me it will loosen up over time. i also ask the head management why there is hundreds of gm trucks running down the road with day light running lights burned out i was told it would be a added cost to put in a heavy duty lamp in every truck. hmm 30 some thousand dollars or more for a truck . a extra dollar or so to stop a major problem i guess would be asking a lot. now im told the rear seal of the motor is leaking needless to say i have bought chevys all my life and i had told the chevy corperation my next truck wont be a chevy the same management people i talked to told my to go buy a ford if i was that dissatified i will take her advise. toyota here i come on my next trade good luck all cheverlot owners

• Alfred // Apr 16, 2005 at 4:15 pm

  I have a 1996 S10 and I get water in side on ths right side I have no idea Please help me

• R. Torok // Apr 22, 2005 at 6:52 pm

  In answer to Ron D. 2004 Sierra brake problems. I have a 2004 Chevy Siverado and have the same problems. Scares the hell out of you when the peddle goes to the floor and you have to pump them to get the truck to stop. I am now talking to CHEVY in Detroit. Had it into dealer twice and they said nothing wrong with brakes because problem didn’t show up. Something is wrong with brakes and I suspect master cylinder!! Still waiting on answer from Chevy. If I get into an accident do to this, someone will get sued. My first car was a 57 Chevy and this will probably be my last. Had 4 Fords before buying this lemon!! Sincerely RT.

• Eddie Clark // Apr 24, 2005 at 3:51 pm

  have 2000 chevrolet silverado1500 and has had the fuel moduel replaced .it would take spells of not starting,the fuel pump would not make the sound it makes when you turn the key over,any ways still having same problem.engine will turn but will not start..also does this make and model have a fuel turn off switch and if so where?

• Edward Arnold // Apr 25, 2005 at 8:36 am

  Does anyone notice how many running lights on late model GM trucks are burned-out? If this is a case of using cheap vendors…makes me wonder whats going on with the rest of the truck.

• Jim Lipari // Apr 25, 2005 at 4:17 pm

  I have a 1999 chevy silverado extened cab .First the running light kept burning out every few months then the fuel pump went out twice ,then the parking breaks never worked and the dealership would fix them … Know there is a recall and Gm says out of the four million they recalled for the 1999 and 2000 silverados that they don’t think mine is on a recall…

  Gm will not stand behind there product ,and so I quess i will go back to the Japanees auto makers that never have recalls …

• carol bernardo // Apr 29, 2005 at 7:25 pm

  I HAVE A 2000 BLAZER HAD A PROBLEM WITH THE PULSE WIPER BOARD TOOK IT TO THE DEALER THEY SAID IT HAD CORSEN ON THE BOARD THEY CLEANED IT AND WIPERS WORKED FOR ABOUT 5 MIN AND STOPED. SO I WENT ON LINE AND PURCHASED A NEW ONE IT WORKED FOR ABOUT 2 MONTHS AND KNOW ITS DOING THE SAME THING THE DEALER SAYS THEIR NOW RECALL BUT I THINK IT SHOULD BE BECAUSE ITS A SAFTY ISSUE. THIS TRUCK IS NOTHING BUT PROBLEMS I HAD DIFFERENTIAL WORK DONE AXELS,BEARINGS,SWITCHES AND CABLE ASSEMBLES REPLACED . THE CHEVY DEALERS IN MY AREA DONT KNOW HOW TO FIX THEM . POOR WORK MAN SHIP BY CHEVY.THE REPAIRS WERE DONE ELSE WHERE.

• bob // Apr 30, 2005 at 8:16 pm

  2000 gmc sonoma dash problem

  light for battery on and charging is ok

  gas gauge dont work

  eat gauge dont work

  all append in the same time

  gear selector square dont work

• S. Ferguson // May 2, 2005 at 6:34 pm

  Bill Barbie-

  You have a problem with one of your wheel speed sensors, likely with the connector. when the wheel speed signal drops out, particularly at low speed, it looks like a locked wheel to the ABS computer. Your antilock brakes activate causing the pump to return fluid to the master cylinder (feels like a hard pedal). It also increases the stopping distance very slightly.

  To fix the problem, find a dealer that can replace the correct sensor/connector. It could be on the body harness side of the connection, so you have to get the right one.

  In the mean time, there are two things you can do:

  disable the ABS by pulling the fuse. I would not recommend that.

  if the problem occurs, quickly pull your foot off the brake and reapply very firmly.

• James E, Lumpkin Jr. // May 3, 2005 at 12:16 pm

  I have a 2001 GMC Sierra 2500 HD why is the head light adjusters all cracking after just 3or4 years. I have an 86 Chev van and there not cranking. There must be a problem in the suppliers who are making these parts. The dealership says it’s not under warrenty.Well somebody has to make the after market part? I don’t need the hole light thats 700.00$ at the dealer.

• earlene goodson // May 4, 2005 at 1:41 pm

  i have a 200 jimmy suv, my power lock do not work, i put new fuse on the side pannel and it is still not working, I can not unlock my door or get into the trunk area of the suv. can you give me some advise. sometimes i put on breaks and the presure go all the way down to the floor.

• tom rinehart // May 4, 2005 at 6:17 pm

  I just wanted to alert anyone with chevy pickup abs problems that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is having an investigation into 1999-2002 chevy and sierra pickups for corrosion on front wheel speed sensors that will cause the abs to activate when it shouldn’t. There have been quite a few complaints and a number of accidents from this problem. Anyone who has had this problem should file a complaint with the NHTSA. More complaints could lead to a recall for this problem

• RJ Wagner // May 5, 2005 at 10:23 am

  I own a 2001 GMC extended cab 4wd pick-up with the anti-lock speed sensor problem. I have had more than 10 close calls before yanking the fuse.(how safe is that) After asking around, everyone that I talked to with a full size pick-up or SUV had their anti-lock fuse pulled. I contacted GM before about their lousy brakes and got nowhere. Its no wonder that the arrogant assholes are in financial trouble. I encourage all of you with the same problem to contact the NHTSA and report the problem. Lets make them fix this dangerous situation at their expense.

• Tom // May 5, 2005 at 9:06 pm

  I think I have the “answer” to the ABS problem. At 75,000 mi, I bought a used 2000 Silverado X cab. It was beutiful and it only took one test drive for me to sign the papers. I felt I did a thorough inspection, until my 3 month waranty ran out and I discovered that the ABS fuse under hood was missing–also realized that since it atarted snowing, I did not feel ABS kick in like on wife’s Impala. No problem, installed a fuse. First trip to work and I “rolled” right through first stop sign into the city’s “no entry” vehicle lot—no crash, pulled fuse. This happend when stopping less than about 7 MPH. I then found some recalls and similar complaints listed on the Internet, so I went to speak with my local dealership. I had to talk to some joker in a suit–they never let you talk to the mechanic. He punched my VIN into a computer and said inteligently…”No sir, I don’t show that you have tha ABS brake option on that model.” I asked what model he was referring to. When he said the “Silverado sitting right in front of him” I taught him that every 2000 Silverado came with ABS as a standard option, that it was standard before 2000, and that he better do his homework before taking his next job telling people who have been greasy before what is and is not “on your truck.” Anyway, he had “a mechanic II” come speak with me. The mechanic echoed the rep that I do not have the ABS “option.” We opened the hood and I pointed to the master cylinder and asked what it was. Mechanic got the question right, rep adjusted hit pen in his shirt pocket. I then pointed to the open area in front of the Master and asked what is that. Mechanic and Rep both said nothing, but mechanic added that the ABS unit would have went there. I then asked the mechanic to humor me, to which he did. He laid on his back under the driver’s side of the vehicle and I directed his attention to the “black box” mounted along the frame rail. His response, “Hummmm.” I then taught him that every shop manual and diagram that I had been able to find in the last two weeks indicated the ABS “system” is mounted there. I then suggested the mechanic do his homework before taking his next gas station attendant job (no offense, I am friends with all of them in town). The Mechanic II then put a code reader on the truck and astonishingly advised the rep that this truck shows the ABS modules are present. The rep had the nerve to ask if I then wanted to schedule to have the tailgate cables replaced—he made it seem like a happy birthday present that the new recall “was now official.” The rep went back to the showroom after I stared at him a few seconds. The mechanic II called a mechanic I over–what is this military car fixing? Mechanic I then gave the usual well we’ll have to schedule it for a “diagnostics session.” I confirmed that he meant ie. $187 an hour for them to tell me what is wrong…then more bread to actually do something about the problem(s). I told him if his rep and mechanic II are as knowledgable as they seemed, I preferred the mechanic I not even unplug the code reader for me. I wrote down the number for NHTSA from this site. Conveniently, I’m off work tomorrow and NHTSA has another complaint as good as filed. If a recall comes out or I have other luck, I’ll post here. When I do get the ABS corrected on their dollar, I’m gonna find that rep and say “why don’t yall kindly throw in a pair o’ them there fancy new fangled wires that hold the bed lid up for me, won’tcha?” Teach him for giving me the redneck treatment for owning a truck when I sat in a classroom longer than him, and get greasy on a saturday–”for something to do.” –Losing faith in humanity…one person at a time–

• Paul D. Nauta // May 9, 2005 at 5:57 am

  I have an 1998 Chev. Silverado with a bad ABS. When coming to a stop all is okay until it gets below 7-8 mph then ABS will start to “chatter”, and unable to stop without letting off the brakes and them mashing them on again before hitting something or someone. I understand there has been a recall for this problem but no one seems to know about it. Is there or is there not a recall for this problem?

• James E, Lumpkin Jr. // May 11, 2005 at 5:31 pm

  My brakes are starting to get mushy when i try to stop at slow speeds.I think we all need to go after GM to solve this problem. I’ve only got 33,574 miles on my 2001 Sierra 2500.I know I should have bought a Ford !

• RanD // May 11, 2005 at 9:32 pm

  We have a 2001 Chevy silverado. It was the first vehicle we purchased as a married couple and we WERE so pleased. Since we bought it in Jan 2001, there has been a long list of troubles with the truck. First, we had the steering shaft replaced, twice. Then a U-joint went out. Followed by the tailgate straps and then we had to pull the ABS fuse for the same reason I have read about on this site. Recently we took the truck in for an alignment and discovered we needed a new inner tie rod. Now, the truck is missing at certain speeds and sometimes does not want to start. Our families have always been GM families and never strayed. This truck has changed my mind about this corporation. By the way, does anyone have any suggestions about the last problem I mentioned?

• FAY L DAVIS // May 15, 2005 at 12:29 pm

  I HAVE TWO TRUCK 2001 SILV AND 2003 TRAILBLAZER MY BRAKE DOING SOMETHING, THAT UNKNOWN TO ME .I NEED MORE ON THAT RE-CALL BEFORE I SPEND MONEY DUE TO LAZY GM EMPLOYEE

• Duane Rice // May 17, 2005 at 2:17 pm

  I have an 03 Chevy 1500 trk and the usual mushy/to the floor brake pedal. The service dept mechanic drove it across the parking lot and tromped on the brakes 3 times and then told me this was normal of all the chev trks in the lot…..have never had a ford pu do this with the brakes……..chev has a brake/truck problem and wont own up to it…

• Donnie Heaser // May 17, 2005 at 6:34 pm

  I’ve got a 1999 2-wheel drive, extended cab Silverado. I’ve had several problems that I think are a big deal, but the dealership isn’t concerned with.

  One of the problems is with the tailgate cables rusting through. I took it to the local dealership and was told my truck wasn’t included in the recall because it’s a 1999 model but the recall only covers 2000 models and newer. I’m being careful with it now, because I can’t find new cables. (I refuse to buy the overpriced replacements from Chevy, because we already know their cables are faulty!)

  The second problem is with the brakes. My ABS has failed several times. The last time it went out, the ABS motor ran continuosely even with the engine off and the key out. It ran so hot that you could feel heat coming through the floor boards. I pulled the fuse to disengage the ABS system. At the time, I had about 40,000 miles on the truck. Thinking this would be considered a safety issue, I took my truck to the local dealership. The Service Rep said that this was considered a “wear and tear” problem not covered by recalls or warranty and they would be happy to fix it for an estimated $1400.00 and about a week of down time. I was also told that because it is impossible to predict “wear and tear” repairs, I should be prepared to pay for this repair as often as every 40,000 miles or so. I declined their offer and fixed it myself for about $125 with ABS parts that I pulled from a local junkyard off of a brand new, already totalled, Z-71 Offroad pick-up. I was lucky to find the truck, and I would recommend to anyone getting junkyard parts to make sure the vehicle you’re pulling from did not crash because of bad brakes! In my case, the donor truck was flipped in an accident involving poor judgement, not faulty ABS.

  The only other problem I have with my truck is the fuel gauge doesn’t work. Chevy offered to do a diagnostic for $75 to tell me what’s wrong, but I don’t even trust them to know how to fix it anymore. If anyone has a guess, please, let me know.

  Something else that is more of an annoyance than a problem is the DRL & Automatic headlights system. I have a headlight on/off switch, but I can’t shut my headlights off. Some models have an override built into the domelight bottom, but this feature was not included in my Silverado. For my truck, the headlights are wired into a module that is attached to my parking break, ignition switch, gear shift, computer, DRL’s, light sensor, and at least 2 relays and 2 fuses. It incudes everything, apparently, except for the off switch. Chevy’s stance on the issue is that they developed the the system to avoid liability for accidents caused by drivers that did not have the sense to turn their headlights on by themselves when it got dark! It bugs me that Chevy engineers don’t think I’m capable of knowing when I do and don’t want my headlights on. These are the same guys that designed the crappy recalled tailgate straps and the same guys that designed an ABS system that can be rendered totally useless by pulling one 10 cent fuse. If anybody knows of a safe and reliable way of overriding the automatic lights, I would love to hear about it.

  Thank You

• Terrance W. // May 19, 2005 at 4:12 pm

  in response to Donnie Heaser on 05-17-05

  reguarding auto hd/lts. does your truck hd/lt switch have a dome light override?

  if so press it 3 times that will disengauge auto hd/lts .repeat this 3 times to reactivate it. it will reset automatically when you turn the truck off. good luck!

• Dennis Ripley // May 21, 2005 at 3:11 pm

  My 2001 S 10 Truck has 27,489 miles used for pleasure and to work and home. The tailgate cables snapped, both with no apparent load on them. HELP

• allen carroll // May 21, 2005 at 7:56 pm

  I have a 03 silverado and have been having trouble with the windshield wipers not shutting off. I have heard of earlier models having a recall with wiper problem, or is this a isolated problem?

• JAY // May 22, 2005 at 2:09 pm

  I HAVE A 1998 BLAZER AND MY WINDSHIELD WIPERS ONLY WORK WHEN THEY WANT TO

• Steve Cunningham // May 23, 2005 at 7:22 am

  My ‘99 6cyl GMC Sierra doesn’t like wet weather. After/during a rain, it misses, bucks, etc. I have replaced the distributor cap and rotor sev. times, also plugs, wires, etc. It works OK for a while but eventually the same thing occurs. Suggestions appreciated…

• Corey Pinchart // May 24, 2005 at 10:13 pm

  I can’t believe how many of you are having problems with your ABS. I too had the same problem on my 1998 silverado. I thought it was an isolated problem that only I was having. Here is the money saving good news. I usualy don’t go to an authorized Chevy dealer for repairs. I have a trustworthy mechanic in my hometown that knows more about all makes and models than Chevy knows about Chevy. Anyway, the problem with the ABS was definately the speed sensors. Now to replace them from either a local mechanic or an authorized dealer will cost a couple hundred dollars. My mechanic took them out and cleaned them up. The same thing happens to the sensors as your break pads…dust, dirt, and corrosion build up in them due to their location under the hood. He did say that there was no guarontee the problem won’t come back but said this was the cheaper solution right now. Total cost to repair…$25.00. Yep thats right. Less than an oil change. I hope this helps some of you out. It sure helped me. The problem has not come back. It has now been over 6 months and no fear of hitting the car, retaining wall or garage door in front of me. Good Luck Everyone. Take em out and clean them…Put your fuses back in and brake with confidence.

• Kenny Purvis // May 25, 2005 at 9:38 pm

  I have a 2000 chevy truck the fuel gage shows empty when you ffill it up and then it just goes back and forth from empty to full I have heard of several orther casses like this in this year model is their a recall on it

• Diane // May 27, 2005 at 5:50 pm

  Im having problems like others on a 1997 chevy truck with wipers working when they want. I can hear motor sometimes and sometimes not HELP this old lady!!!!!!!!!

• sam day // May 28, 2005 at 9:13 pm

  i have recently bought a 2002 avalanche 1500 z-71.my problems are when i krank it in the mornings or any other time it makes a tapping niose in the motorand someone said it could be the type of gas i’m useing,but i don’t think so cause i’ve went to a higher grade of gas and also anyone with a tire blowing out on them while going down the road yet, cause there where no problems before i loaded my 4-wheeler in the back of my truck and then i have a blow out. please let me know of anything like this with owners of avalanche .

• Robert Hoffman // May 29, 2005 at 7:06 am

  After reading all the braking issues on here I’ve come to realize that my problem was not just unique to me. The Rotors on my 01, 1500HD delaminated according to the dealer and this was not a recall issue, as a matter of fact the Service Mgr said this wasn’t very common.. this was “BS” since I’ve spent close to 500.00 ( and I get good deals at my local part shop) I’ve talked to 1/2 dozen people with the same problem. The dealer wanted to hit me for close to 900.00, while is was there getting the third set of tailgate cables, two of which where replaced while under warranty prior to the recall on that “GM cheapest vendor contract award”, by the way, it damaged the tailgate when the broke the last time and the dealer chose not to assist on this, I think they have the option and the contacts to customer satifaction at GM but didn’t… like it was going to come out of their pocket???? RIGHT. I’m telling you the issues on this are plenty and would love to hear from others who went thru this, save your parts & reciepts, It’s a matter of time before GM has to pony up to this.

• Bob Kennedy // Jun 1, 2005 at 12:41 pm

  I have a 2001 Silverado and have fuel gage that reads empty after it’s filled; a/c compressor that doesn’t always disengage; heater control that either roast you out or barely heats, no middle ground; tailgate cables that need to be replaced; ABS brakes that chatter under normal braking conditions; driving lights that constantly burn out; clunk from driveline when pulling away from stop. Seems to be the same complaints as everybody else, thanks General Motors!!

• Kev // Jun 3, 2005 at 2:15 am

  I have a 98 Blazer, and man!! I love it, but I hate it. My wipers decide not to work sometimes, usually when I need them to, and then when I turn them on, sometimes, they won’t go off for a while, even after shutting the darn things off. Back wipers don’t even work, both side-mirrors don’t work! I need to get it checked out. I don’t want to buy a new motor for the wipers if I don’t need to, then again, the switch probably isn’t all that ceap either. It’s just a buncha bull!

• Bill Jones // Jun 4, 2005 at 8:40 pm

  I’ve noticed that quite a few have commented on how their wipers only work whenever they feel like it. It is a simple fix, they had this problem for quite a few years on several models. There is a computer board on the wiper motor that causes this, it is easy to replace, any GM dealer will/should know exactly what you need. They cost anywhere from $30-$70, depending on how bad your dealer wants to rip you off. I know this don’t make it right, but at least you can fix your wipers. I own a 2004 2500HD and the tailgate cables have stickers on them that say “Made in China”, I don’t know if these are original since I bought the truck used, but if they break and damage the gate or gets someone killed or injured, I’ll be gettin’ even!

• Dan Link // Jun 5, 2005 at 11:27 am