TroubleAtlas Score
CHEVROLET SSR (2003–2006): Full Technical Specs & OBD2 Diagnostics
Built 2003–2006 · all production years covered on this single page
5.3L V8 • Gasoline
© Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA
TroubleAtlas Score
An independent value score for the Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006) — reliability, safety, cost, parts, upkeep and documentation. Owing nothing to the manufacturer.
Scorecard · each voice 0–10
Reliabilityn/a
Safety & recallsn/a
Repair cost8.4
Parts & repairability5.0
Maintenance & durabilityn/a
Documentation & support9.1
Independent · Verified · Never for sale
Every figure on this Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006) page is aggregated and cross-checked against more than 6.6 million real workshop operations, NHTSA records and OEM technical sources — and updated continuously. No invented estimates.
The Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006) uses ACDelco dexos1 5W-30 engine oil. It is powered by a 5.3L V8 engine. Its OEM tyre size is 215/55 R16. Use the sections below for verified fluids, battery, OEM tyres, the maintenance schedule, recommended parts and the most commonly reported OBD2 fault codes for this vehicle.
Common problems
Common repairs
Fluids & lubricants
Battery
Fault codes (OBD2)
Dashboard lights
Parts comparator
Accessories & tools
Tyres
Recalls & TSB
Complaints
Workshops nearby
COMMON PROBLEMS
Engine overheatingFREQUENT
Engine temperature over limits — check coolant level, thermostat and radiator.
Related codes: P0217
Oil pressure sensor: low signalFREQUENT
ECU detects insufficient oil pressure — check oil level and sensor.
Related codes: P0522
Insufficient oil pressureFREQUENT
Oil pressure below critical threshold — stop the engine and check immediately.
Related codes: P0524
Engine control module (PCM) faultFREQUENT
Faulty ECU processor — requires specialist workshop diagnosis.
Related codes: P0606
Throttle actuatorFREQUENT
Throttle actuator motor circuit open — loss of throttle response.
Related codes: P2100
COMMON REPAIRS
Front brake pads
Difficulty: Medium
1.2h
€84 – €108
Rear brake pads
Difficulty: Medium
1.2h
€84 – €108
Engine oil change
Difficulty: Easy
0.5h
€35 – €45
ABS Module
Difficulty: Hard
2.4h
€168 – €216
AVERAGE INDICATIVE COSTS
Prices may vary by area and workshop.
Full service
€ 120 – € 200
Full brake service
€ 180 – € 300
Spark plug replacement
€ 80 – € 140
Electronic diagnosis
€ 40 – € 70
OFFICIAL LABOUR TIMES (OLP)
Standard labour hours from a database of 6.6M+ real shop operations, with an indicative labour-cost estimate for your country.
Brakes8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| ABS Module | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| ABS Pump | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| ABS Tone Ring | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Front | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| ABS Wheel Speed Sensor - Rear | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Brake Bleed - All Four | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Brake Booster | 3.6h | € 162–€ 270 |
| Brake Booster Check Valve | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
Cooling8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Coolant Bypass Pipe | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Coolant Flush | 0.8h | € 36–€ 60 |
| Coolant Reservoir | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Coolant Temperature Sensor | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Cooling Fan Assembly | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Cooling Fan Motor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Cooling Fan Relay | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Engine Oil Cooler | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
Electrical8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airbag - Driver | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Airbag - Passenger | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Airbag - Side | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Airbag Module/Computer | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Alternator | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Alternator Belt | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Amplifier | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Antenna | 0.6h | € 27–€ 45 |
Engine8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Camshaft Position Sensor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Camshaft R&R | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Connecting Rod Bearings | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Crankshaft R&R | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Cylinder Head R&R | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Cylinder Head Resurface | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Engine Mount - Front | 3.6h | € 162–€ 270 |
Exhaust8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Injection Check Valve | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Catalytic Converter - California | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Catalytic Converter - Direct Fit | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Catalytic Converter - Universal | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Downpipe | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| EGR Cooler | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| EGR Tube | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| EGR Valve | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
Fuel system8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Charcoal Canister | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| EVAP Purge Valve | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| EVAP Vent Valve | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Fuel Cap | 0.4h | € 18–€ 30 |
| Fuel Filler Neck | 3.6h | € 162–€ 270 |
| Fuel Filter | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Fuel Filter - In-Tank | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Fuel Injector - Single | 3.6h | € 162–€ 270 |
HVAC8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| AC Accumulator | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Clutch Coil | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| AC Compressor | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Compressor Clutch | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Compressor Oil Add | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Condenser | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Evaporator | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| AC Expansion Valve (TXV) | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
Steering8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Center Link/Drag Link | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Electric Power Steering Module | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Electric Power Steering Motor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Idler Arm | 1.2h | € 54–€ 90 |
| Pitman Arm | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Power Steering Fluid Flush | 0.5h | € 22–€ 37 |
| Power Steering Gear Box | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Power Steering Hose - High Pressure | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
Suspension8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Air Line | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Air Spring/Air Bag | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Air Suspension Compressor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Air Suspension Height Sensor | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Air Suspension Valve Block | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Ball Joint - Lower | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Ball Joint - Upper | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Ball Joints - Upper and Lower | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
Transmission8 operations
| Operation | Labour hours (OLP) | Est. labour cost |
|---|---|---|
| Clutch Cable | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Clutch Disc | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Clutch Kit | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Clutch Master Cylinder | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Clutch Slave Cylinder | 2.4h | € 108–€ 180 |
| Flywheel Resurface | 5.4h | € 243–€ 405 |
| Kickdown Cable | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
| Neutral Safety Switch | 1.8h | € 81–€ 135 |
WORKSHOP LABOUR RATES BY COUNTRY
Average independent-workshop hourly labour rates, to estimate repair costs in your country.
🇩🇪Germany€95/h
🇪🇸Spain€55/h
🇫🇷France€75/h
🇮🇹Italy€45/h
🇬🇧UK£80/h
🇺🇸USA$120/h
Reference rate
€45/h
Source: Eurostat 2024
💧 FLUIDS & LUBRICANTS
📋 RECALLS & TSB (1)
NHTSA 05V552000
Equipment › Other › Labels
Date: 07/12/2005
CERTAIN TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SHIPPED WITH TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABELS LISTING AN INACCCURATE VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHT.
COMMON OBD2 CODES TO CHECK
P0420
Catalyst System Efficiency Below Threshold Bank 1
Powertrain
P0171
System Too Lean Bank 1
Powertrain
P0300
Random/Multiple Cylinder Misfire Detected
Powertrain
P0441
EVAP Incorrect Purge Flow
Powertrain
P0128
Coolant Thermostat Below Regulating Temperature
Powertrain
P0455
EVAP System Leak Detected (Gross Leak)
Powertrain
P0700
Transmission Control System (MIL Request)
Powertrain
P0507
Idle Air Control System RPM Higher Than Expected
Powertrain
P0174
System Too Lean Bank 2
Powertrain
All documented fault codes for this vehicle
The most documented diagnostic codes for this model, by system and severity. Tap a code for the full guide.
P1014
powertrain
MODERATEP1012
powertrain
MODERATEP1011
powertrain
MODERATEP1516
powertrain
HIGHP1811
powertrain
HIGHP1884
powertrain
LOWP1875
powertrain
MODERATEP1870
powertrain
HIGHP1860
powertrain
MODERATEP1812
powertrain
CRITICALP1810
powertrain
HIGHP1632
powertrain
HIGHP1629
powertrain
HIGHP1626
powertrain
HIGHP1599
powertrain
MODERATEP1554
powertrain
MODERATEP1517
powertrain
HIGHP1515
powertrain
HIGHP1514
powertrain
HIGHP1483
powertrain
HIGH
DASHBOARD WARNING LIGHTS — UNIVERSAL GUIDE
53 warning lights classified by urgency. Appears on your vehicle? Check the urgency level.
Show all dashboard warning lights
🔴 IMMEDIATE STOP — pull over
Oil Pressure WarningEngine
Engine Temperature WarningCooling
Brake System WarningBrakes
Immobilizer / Key FaultSecurity
🟠 WARNING — check soon
Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) / Check EngineEngine
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)Emissions
Battery / Charging SystemElectrical
Low Fuel WarningFuel
ABS WarningBrakes
Brake Pad Wear IndicatorBrakes
Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)Brakes
Power Steering WarningSteering
ESC / Stability Control FaultChassis
Tire Pressure Warning (TPMS)Chassis
Transmission Temperature WarningTransmission
Transmission / Gearbox FaultTransmission
Airbag / SRS WarningActive safety
EGR / Exhaust Gas Recirculation FaultEmissions
Catalytic Converter / Emissions FaultEmissions
AdBlue / DEF Level LowEmissions
Coolant Level LowCooling
Hybrid / EV System WarningHybrid
EV Charge System FaultHybrid
12V Battery (Hybrid/EV Auxiliary)Hybrid
Suspension Fault / Air SuspensionSuspension
CAN Bus / Network Communication FaultNetwork
Water in Fuel FilterFuel
Diesel Injector FaultFuel
Steering Angle Sensor FaultSteering
Turbo / Boost Pressure FaultEngine
Regenerative Braking Fault (Hybrid/EV)Hybrid
🟡 MONITOR
Fuel Cap / Evap SystemEmissions
4WD / AWD SystemDrivetrain
Bulb Failure WarningLighting
Headlight Range / Leveling FaultLighting
Service / Maintenance DueMaintenance
A/C System FaultHvac
Clutch Wear WarningTransmission
Cruise Control / ACC FaultADAS
🔵 INFORMATION
Engine Temperature Low (Blue)Cooling
Glow Plug / Diesel PreheatEngine
Traction Control / ESC OffChassis
Seatbelt ReminderActive safety
Rear Fog Light IndicatorLighting
Lane Departure / LDWS WarningADAS
Forward Collision Warning (FCW/AEB)ADAS
Blind Spot Monitor FaultADAS
Rear Parking Sensor / Camera FaultADAS
Windshield Washer Fluid LowMaintenance
Door Open WarningBody
Hood / Trunk Open WarningBody
Gear Shift Indicator (Manual)Transmission
Sport / Performance Mode ActiveTransmission
REPORTED COMPLAINTS & PROBLEMS (NHTSA)
74 owner complaints filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Chevrolet Ssr across model years 2003–2006. These are real, verified reports submitted by vehicle owners.
2 injuries
Complaints by model year (most reported first)
Model year 200531
Model year 200428
Model year 200310
Model year 20065
Most reported components (all years)
Latches/Locks/Linkages20
Electrical System19
Structure19
Engine And Engine Cooling5
Power Train5
Service Brakes3
Sample reports
ENGINE OVER HEATS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS, SPEEDOMETER CLUSTER MALFUNCTIONS, CENTER SWITCHES MALFUNCTION, CENTER SWITCH FAILURES. FUEL SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS, FUEL SYSTEM DELIVERY SYSTEM MAKE VEHICLE STALL. REAR TRANSMISSION SEAL LE… (MY 2005)
TRANSMISSION GEARS HARD TO ENGAGE. ABS LIGHTS ON, FUEL SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS WITH ON BOARD COMPUTER SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS. ALSO DOOR PANEL LOCK WILL NOT OPEN DOORS. CATALYTIC CONVERTER MALFUNCTIONING. *TR (MY 2005)
POSSIBLY THE IGNITION SWITCH. BRAND NEW BATTERIES CANNOT HOLD A CHARGE. MECHANIC CANNOT FIND THE PROBLEM. *TR (MY 2003)
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 CHEVROLET SSR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE WOULD RISE AND THE VEHICLE WOULD OVERHEAT WHEN IDLING. AS OF DECEMBER 7, 2007, THE DEALER HAD NOT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT FELT THAT THE… (MY 2004)
Source: NHTSA complaints database (U.S. data.gov). Figures cover production years 2003–2006.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Chevrolet Ssr have any safety recalls?
Yes — 1 official NHTSA recall campaign(s) affect this model, mainly: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS. Check the recalls section for your exact year/VIN.
What does fault code P0003 mean on the Chevrolet Ssr?
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Low This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0002 mean on the Chevrolet Ssr?
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit Range/Performance This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
What does fault code P0001 mean on the Chevrolet Ssr?
Fuel Volume Regulator Control Circuit/Open This code is among the most documented for this model — tap it in the OBD2 section for the full step-by-step guide.
Are brakes problems common on the Chevrolet Ssr?
Yes — 5 of 72 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the brakes. One owner reported: “ENGINE OVER HEATS, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS, SPEEDOMETER CLUSTER MALFUNCTIONS, CENTER SWITCHES MALFUNCTION, CENTER SWITCH FAILURES. FUEL SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONS, FUEL SYSTEM DELIVERY SYSTEM MAKE VEH…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are electrical problems common on the Chevrolet Ssr?
Yes — 14 of 72 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the electrical. One owner reported: “I WAS CHECKING THE OIL ON MY 2003 CHEVROLET SSR. IT WAS PARKED OUTSIDE WITH THE HOOD UP AND HELD BY THE HOOD PROP ROD. A SMALL GUST OF WIND HIT THE HOOD AND SHOOK IT SLIGHTLY. I JUMPED BACK JUST TO SE…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
Are engine problems common on the Chevrolet Ssr?
Yes — 15 of 72 real owner reports filed with NHTSA mention the engine. One owner reported: “WAS TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY AT 60MPH, ENGINE CUT OUT AND LOST ALL POWER. HAD TO COAST TO SHOULDER IN TRAFFIC CREATING DANGEROUS SITUATION. DIAGNOSED AS FAULTY IGNITION SWITCH. *TR…” See the owner-reported complaints section below for more.
What tyres does the Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006) use?
The original OEM tyre size for the Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006) is 215/55 R16. Compatible alternative sizes: ["245/45R19", "255/45R19", "295/40R20"]. See the Tyres section on this page to compare offers from the main suppliers.
What engine oil should I use on the Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006)?
The engine oil specification for the Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006) is ACDelco dexos1 5W-30. Always use the viscosity grade approved by the manufacturer: a different oil can reduce engine protection and void the warranty. Check the change interval in the Maintenance section.
Which OBD2 fault codes are commonly documented for the Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006)?
Commonly documented OBD2 codes across many vehicles include: P0420, P0300, P0171. Find the full description, likely causes and estimated repair costs in the OBD2 Codes section on this page.
How often should the Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006) be serviced?
Routine maintenance for the Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006) typically includes an oil change every 6,000–9,000 miles (10,000–15,000 km), an air filter every 12,000–18,000 miles (20,000–30,000 km) and a brake inspection every 12,000 miles (20,000 km). Check the full plan with specific intervals in the Scheduled Maintenance section on this page.
Have a specific fault code on your Chevrolet Ssr (2003–2006)? Search the code in the OBD2 section of this page or use the full TroubleAtlas DTC database. Need tyres? Compare prices and compatible sizes in the TroubleAtlas comparator.