Five problems related to tailgate hinge have been reported for the 1996 Chevrolet S10. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
: the contact stated while kneeling on the tailgate both cables broke. The contact sustained minor injuries. The vehicle was taken to the dealership and the cables were replaced. There is a NHTSA recall, # 06v066000, regarding the tailgate cables. The vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it is not included in the recall due to the VIN. Updated 3/28/2006 -.
Failure of tailgate cable which holds up the tailgate. The cable just snapped into two peices. It broke in the middle. Sudden unexpected failure !!!.
The cables that hold the tailgate in the open position fail and break, allowing the tailgate to drop below the normal position. This is the third time the cables have broken. They were replaced in the past with parts from the chevy dealer. A friend with the same truck has also had the cables break. If someone was standing or sitting on the tailgate when it drops unexpctedly, serious injury could result.
Normal use prior to the failure; was loading a riding lawnmower into my chevy s-10 pickup when both tailgate cables failed, injuring my friend. I had to have the dealer replace the straps, as the part is not available outside the dealership. Cost was over $300!.
Cable that supports tailgate snapped & fell down. Consumer & child were siiting in the rear when it happened, but no one was hurt. Consumer will contact manufacturer.