By Josh RosenbergIn 1998, the Geo Tracker, along with all other Geo models, were added back into the Chevrolet fold, marking the beginning of the Chevy Tracker era which continued through the 2004 model year. And while getting harder and harder to find, they are still out there.
We always found the Tracker surprisingly maneuverable with impressive capabilities for the price ... particularly with the 4-wheel drive. The main difference for the Tracker from most other light SUVs it competed with was the fact that it was based on a rugged light-truck chassis and was certified as a light truck.
It was also equipped with a very competent 4-wheel drive off-road system, a conventional light truck engine and transmission that was coupled to a hi-lo, 2-4 transfer case. In addition, the Tracker featured a solid front suspension with a sturdy recirculating ball steering box.
The result was a "tough little SUV" that possessed some capable as well as fun performance abilities. The Tracker's seating is also fairly comfortable, while its gas mileage performance is also respectable for a truck-based and relatively inexpensive SUV, coming in at 19 mpg city and 22 mpg on the highway.
But also, two very important suggestions ...
1. Things To Do When Considering A Tracker:
Locate Lower Mileage Vehicles: They are certainly out there to be found with careful and patient shopping. Be willing to drive a distance if you have to.
Vehicle History and Maintenance: Ask for the vehicle history report (CarFax or AutoCheck) as well as documented maintenance and repair records. If not provided by the dealer or private seller, it's best to move on.
Pre-Purchase Inspection: Have the vehicle independently inspected before making a final decision. This usually will cost in the $150-$200 range but is well worth it given the potentially thousands in savings over the long term.
2. Know How To Get The Lowest Used Car Price:
Get Dealers To Compete For your Business: When you are searching vehicles to possibly purchase, the following is the absolute best way to get the lowest price, and it is extremely easy and stress-free.
Just go to a national car listing site, (I happen to prefer CarsDirect.com for their massive dealer participation and ease of use, although others will get the job done as well) and find several listed vehicles that you may be interested in.
Then write something like the following in the "Check Availability" box or "Contact Dealer" box or whatever the site you are using uses.
"Hello, I've contacted several dealers about cars I am interested in and am looking for the best value. I am also a serious buyer planning to make a decision soon. Please send me your best out-the-door price. Thank you.
After receiving the offers, follow up by explaining that based on the price, you're leaning in another direction but still really like their car and would certainly consider another offer. When dealers drop out, you'll know you're at the best price.
Using the internet to get dealers to compete for your business is extremely important. More details on this and how to intereact with the dealers can be found here at Best Used Car Buying Techniques.
For the 1999 model year, Chevrolet redesigned the Tracker. While both a 2-door convertible and a 4-door wagon versions were produced, their boxy look became more rounded and aerodynamic but still kept the separate body-on-frame construction. While the wheelbase wasn't changed, the 2-door added 5 inches in length and the 4-door added one.
It's width was also increased by 2 inches in both versions. The result was added interior roominess and the 4-door now seated five instead of four.
The standard engine powering the Tracker convertible was a 95-horsepower, 1.6-liter 4-cylinder, while optional on the convertible and standard on the wagon was a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder that produced 127 horsepower.
The standard transmission was a 5-speed manual and models with the 2.0 engine also offered a 4-speed automatic. And for the 2001 model year, 4-door ZR2 and LT models got a 2.5-liter DOHC V6 good for 155 horsepower and 160 lb-ft of torque.
Trackers can also be found with either rear-wheel drive or 4-wheel drive with shift-on-the-fly capability between 2WD and 4-High, and also featuring a 4-Low range.
Following only base 2-door and 4-door models, three trims were introduced for 2001: base, ZR2 and LT. The ZR2 was a sportier, 4-wheel-drive only model with 5-spoke aluminum wheels, wider tires, a blacked-out grille and wheel opening moldings.
The LT was the more upscale model with premium cloth interior (some can also be found with the optional leather), full power accessories, a chrome grille and silver body-side cladding.
Chevrolet Tracker shoppers should also note model-year changes:
2000: A special Hang Ten Edition appearance option, with a surfing theme, was offered on the Tracker convertible, including unique headrests, floor mats, spare-tire cover, and decals.
2001: A V6 engine was made available for LT wagon and ZR2 models. The ZR2 was also available in convertible form, but only with a 4-cylinder engine. In addition, the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine was discontinued. New standard features on all models included air conditioning and a cassette player, while convertibles could also now be optioned with power windows, locks, and mirrors.
2002: A CD player became standard while wagons got a standard roof rack and ZR2s could also be optioned with leather upholstery.
2003: The Tracker added a monochromatic yellow exterior choice for the LT wagon and optional deep-tinted glass.
2004: Only the Tracker's 4-door version was produced.
1998 - 2004 Chevy Tracker Possible Mechanical Problems
If you can find a good candidate, these are some of the more common reported issues that have been noted by owners that should be included in an inspection before buying:
Engine Problems: Some drivers reported issues with the engine, such as oil leaks, especially in higher mileage vehicles. Ensuring regular oil changes and maintenance could help mitigate these problems.
Transmission Concerns: There were occasional reports of transmission problems, including rough shifting or premature failure in some instances.
Rust and Corrosion: In certain regions with harsh weather conditions or where roads are salted in winter, rust and corrosion on the underbody were reported by some owners.
Electrical Issues: Instances of electrical problems, such as issues with power windows, door locks, or dashboard instrument cluster malfunctions, were reported by a few owners.
Suspension and Steering: Some drivers experienced problems with the suspension and steering components, including premature wear on ball joints or tie rods.