The contact owns a 2003 Chevrolet S10. The galvanized steel tailgate support cables that retain the tailgate in the full open (horizontal) position corroded, and then fractured. He contacted the dealer in reference to NHTSA action number RQ04012(structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support device ). he has been informed that the vehicle was not eligible for a free remedy because the sonoma and S-10 vehicles differ from C/K models in several ways: The vehicle height is lower; the tailgate displacement (drop) when not supported by the cables is smaller and the tailgate comes to rest at a less severe tip angle when not supported by the cables; the tailgate mass is smaller; and the size, payload, and usage characteristics are less demanding than C/K model vehicles. He was in the process of having the vehicle repaired. Despite the contrary, the differences have not been substantiated because the failure of this component with the S10 model has been commonly reported to GM. The failure and current mileages were 96000.

- Redmond, WA, USA

Went to open the tailgate of my 2003 Chevrolet S-10 pick-up, and both tailgate support cables broke. No injuries and no damage. Cost $10 each for the cables, but they need to be riveted to the bracket on the tailgate guide. I previously owned a 1994 Chevrolet S-10 pick-up with the same problem. I replaced the cables twice on that truck by welding the rivet.

- Cocoa, FL, USA