🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Geo

Model:

Tracker

Model Years Covered:

1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997

Brand Heritage:

Geo was a marque of Chevrolet, a division of General Motors (GM), used to market vehicles imported from Japan, primarily from Suzuki. The Geo brand existed from 1989 to 1997, with the Tracker being one of its most popular models.

Vin Code Start:

JS

Vin Code End:

1997 Geo Tracker

👋 Introduction

Original Market:

The Geo Tracker was positioned as an affordable, compact, and highly capable off-road-oriented SUV, often referred to as a 'sport utility vehicle' or 'mini-SUV'.

Target Demographic:

Appealed to a broad range of consumers seeking a versatile vehicle for daily commuting, light off-roading, and recreational activities.

Key Competitors:

Suzuki Samurai, Jeep Wrangler, Ford Bronco II, Toyota RAV4 (later years).

Unique Selling Proposition:

Compact size, lightweight construction, available 4WD, affordability, and a relatively simple mechanical design made it popular for its niche.

Manual Selling Points:

Professional quality, highly detailed, step-by-step instructions, exploded pictures and diagrams, covers the entire vehicle, same type used by professional mechanics, wealth of information, easy to use, printable.

Delivery Method:

Instant download, no shipping costs or waiting.

Cost Savings:

Save significant money on repair costs by performing maintenance and repairs yourself.

Vehicle Care:

Helps owners properly care for and maintain their vehicle for longevity and optimal performance.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage Area:

North America (USA, Canada)

Engine Coverage:

1.6L I4 (G16A), 1.6L I4 (G16B), 2.0L I4 (J20A - later models)

Transmission Coverage:

5-Speed Manual, 3-Speed Automatic, 4-Speed Automatic

Drivetrain Coverage:

2WD (Rear-Wheel Drive), 4WD (Four-Wheel Drive)

Estimated Page Count:

1000+

Type:

Factory-Type Service Repair Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete engine overhaul, cylinder head, block, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection (MPI/EFI), fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel filter, fuel tank, lines, evaporative emission control (EVAP).

Ignition System:

Spark plugs, ignition coils, distributor (if applicable), ignition timing, electronic ignition control.

Transmission Manual:

Clutch system, gearbox overhaul, gear shift mechanisms, input/output shafts, bearings.

Transmission Automatic:

Valve body, torque converter, planetary gear sets, hydraulic controls, transmission fluid cooler, electronic controls.

Drivetrain 4Wd:

Transfer case operation and overhaul, front and rear drive shafts, constant velocity (CV) joints, hub locking mechanisms.

Suspension:

Front independent suspension (struts, control arms, ball joints, bushings), rear solid axle (leaf springs, shocks), steering knuckles.

Steering:

Steering column, steering rack/gearbox, power steering pump, fluid, hoses, tie rods, linkages.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, master cylinder, brake booster, brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders, parking brake system.

Electrical System:

Battery, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor), lighting, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams, instrument panel.

Body And Frame:

Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, glass, convertible top (if applicable), interior trim, chassis diagnostics.

Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning HVAC:

Heater core, blower motor, AC compressor, refrigerant system, climate controls.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake fluid flush.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, and electrical issues, based on symptoms.

Repair:

Step-by-step instructions for component replacement and repair across all major systems.

Overhaul:

Complete rebuild procedures for engines, transmissions, and transfer cases.

Installation:

Guidelines for installing common aftermarket accessories and replacement parts.

Specifications:

Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic data.

Depth:

Comprehensive, from basic maintenance to full mechanical and electrical system overhauls. Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

Diagnostic Tools:

Includes information for basic diagnostic tools and interpretation of vehicle behavior.

Wiring Diagrams:

Detailed electrical wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems.

Exploded Views:

High-quality exploded views and diagrams illustrating component relationships and assembly/disassembly steps.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text content for quick information retrieval.

Printability:

Printable pages, allowing users to print specific sections or the entire manual.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Operating Systems:

PC & MAC Compatible

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code 1:

G16A

Engine Displacement 1:

1.6 Liters (1590 cc)

Engine Configuration 1:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC (Single Overhead Camshaft)

Engine Bore Stroke 1:

75.0 mm x 77.0 mm

Engine Compression Ratio 1:

8.5:1

Engine Horsepower 1:

78 hp @ 5500 rpm

Engine Torque 1:

87 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm

Engine Code 2:

G16B (Multi-Point Fuel Injection)

Engine Displacement 2:

1.6 Liters (1590 cc)

Engine Configuration 2:

Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC

Engine Horsepower 2:

95 hp @ 5500 rpm

Engine Torque 2:

98 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm

Engine Code 3:

J20A (Introduced in later models, around 1996)

Engine Displacement 3:

2.0 Liters (1998 cc)

Engine Configuration 3:

Inline 4-cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)

Engine Horsepower 3:

127 hp @ 6000 rpm

Engine Torque 3:

134 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm

Fuel Delivery:

Early models: Carburetor (for 1.6L G16A). Later models: Multi-Point Fuel Injection (MPI) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for 1.6L G16B and 2.0L J20A.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

Fuel Octane Rating:

87 Octane (Minimum)

🔧 Transmission

Type 1:

5-Speed Manual Transmission

Type 2:

3-Speed Automatic Transmission

Type 3:

4-Speed Automatic Transmission (introduced in later models)

Transfer Case:

Part-time 4WD system with a 2-speed transfer case (Hi-Lo range) on most 4WD models.

Gear Ratios Manual Example:

Typical 5-speed ratios: 1st: ~3.5-4.0, 2nd: ~2.0-2.2, 3rd: ~1.3-1.5, 4th: ~1.0, 5th: ~0.8-0.9, Reverse: ~3.0-3.5 (Exact ratios vary by model year and specific transmission)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (Check specific model for exact recommendation)

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Dexron-III (or equivalent) ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Approximately 86.6 inches (2199 mm) for most models.

Length:

Approximately 140.4 inches (3566 mm) for 2-door models.

Width:

Approximately 63.8 inches (1620 mm).

Height:

Approximately 63.6 inches (1615 mm) for hardtop, 62.6 inches (1590 mm) for soft top.

Ground Clearance:

Approximately 7.1 inches (180 mm) to 7.9 inches (200 mm), depending on configuration.

Curb Weight:

Approximately 2,100 - 2,500 lbs (950 - 1135 kg), depending on configuration (2WD/4WD, transmission, body style).

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Approximately 3,100 - 3,400 lbs (1400 - 1540 kg).

Cargo Volume Behind Rear Seat:

Limited, typically around 10-12 cubic feet. Can be expanded significantly with rear seats folded or removed.

Towing Capacity:

Typically around 1,500 lbs (680 kg) (check specific model year and local regulations).

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Rollover Rating Early Models:

Low (due to high center of gravity, typical for compact SUVs of the era).

IIHS Ratings:

Varied depending on year and testing methodology. Generally reflected the limitations of smaller SUVs of that period.

ABS:

Optional on some models, standard on later models and higher trims.

Traction Control:

Rarely available on models within this year range.

Airbags:

Driver-side airbag became standard in later years (around 1994/1995). Passenger airbag was uncommon.

Seatbelts:

Front and rear seat belts (lap belts in the rear on some early models).

Body Structure:

Body-on-frame construction, with a relatively robust chassis for its size.

💡 Technology Features

Radio:

AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Some later models may have had CD players as an option.

Speakers:

Typically 2 or 4 speakers, depending on trim level.

Cruise Control:

Optional on higher trims and later models.

Power Windows:

Optional on higher trims and later models.

Power Door Locks:

Optional on higher trims and later models.

Auxiliary Input:

Not standard. Aftermarket head unit installation typically required for AUX or USB connectivity.

Bluetooth:

Not available from the factory.

🔧 Maintenance

Engine Oil Change:

Every 3,000-5,000 miles (5,000-8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific interval based on driving conditions.

Oil Filter Replacement:

With every oil change.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 15,000-30,000 miles (24,000-48,000 km) or annually. Inspect more frequently.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km), depending on spark plug type (copper, platinum).

Coolant Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change Auto:

Every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change Manual:

Every 50,000-100,000 miles (80,000-160,000 km).

Brake Fluid Flush:

Every 2-3 years or 30,000-60,000 miles (48,000-96,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

10W-30 or 10W-40 API SG/SH or higher (refer to manual for exact viscosity grade based on climate).

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approximately 3.7 - 4.2 US quarts (3.5 - 4.0 liters) with filter change.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (e.g., Prestone or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Power Steering Fluid:

Dexron-III ATF or specific power steering fluid (check manual).

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4.

Common Problems Engine:

Timing belt failure (if not replaced per schedule), intake manifold gasket leaks, oil leaks, distributor issues (early models).

Common Problems Transmission:

Clutch wear (manual), transmission fluid leaks, automatic transmission shift issues.

Common Problems Suspension Steering:

Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings leading to play in steering and alignment issues. Leaks from power steering system.

Common Problems Electrical:

Corroded grounds, failing alternator, starter issues, issues with dashboard lights and gauges.

Common Problems Body:

Rust (especially on body panels, frame, and exhaust system), convertible top wear and leaks, door lock actuator failures.

📚 Vehicle History

Geo Brand Launch:

Launched in 1989 as GM's value-oriented brand, focusing on small, fuel-efficient imports.

Geo Brand Discontinuation:

The Geo brand was phased out in 1997, with Geo models being rebadged as Chevrolets.

First Generation:

1989-1998 (Japan/Global market), 1989-1997 (North America under Geo brand). Based on the Suzuki Vitara/Escudo.

Key Updates 1989-1997:

Introduction of fuel injection (G16B), optional automatic transmissions, improved safety features (airbags), and the larger 2.0L engine option.

Manufacturing Location:

Primary assembly in Japan by Suzuki, then exported. Some later assembly or component sourcing may have occurred in other GM facilities.

Body Styles:

2-door convertible soft top, 2-door hardtop, 4-door long wheelbase (less common in North America during the Geo era).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Off Road Capability Awards:

Often praised in reviews for its off-road prowess relative to its size and price point, especially when equipped with 4WD.

Value Awards:

Frequently cited as a good value for a compact SUV during its production run.

Consumer Reports Ratings:

Mixed, with generally good ratings for powertrain reliability (Suzuki origin) but average to below-average ratings for body integrity, electrical systems, and interior comfort/noise in some years.

Epa Fuel Economy Estimate:

Early 1.6L models: Approx. 20-24 MPG city / 24-28 MPG highway (depending on 2WD/4WD and transmission). Later 2.0L models: Slightly lower.