The Trailblaze midsize SUV was created by the American carmaker General Motors under its Chevrolet division, and it was built from 2002 to 2009.
The Trailblazer is much less expensive on the market than other previous options, but this is not unjustified.
Despite being strong, the prior Chevy Trailblazer version has several transmission issues you should notice before purchasing. So what Chevy Trailblazer years to avoid?
In this article, let’s explore the most typical Chevy Trailblazer problems over the years, its longevity and dependability, and everything you should know about this line.
What Chevy Trailblazer Years To Avoid?
2002–2005 and 2007 models, which have a low-reliability coefficient and a cheap ownership cost compared to other existing ones, are the worst models you should avoid purchasing.
2002 – 2005 Chevy Trailblazer
There were a whopping number of complaints from buyers with these models, with 1290 and 1721 complaints in 2002 and 2005 models, respectively.
Although the first generation of Trailblazer from 2002-2005 experienced a wide range of recalls and registrations concerns, it is crucial to note that these models belong to the most-sold ones.
Also, a significant number of the complaints, which are frequent these days, was the result of issues that the recall fixed.
The electrical system and accessories were among the 2002–2005 models’ most troublesome components; each year, there were reams of feedback regarding this, including faulty lights, inoperable airbags, thumping noise when driving, and unresponsive seats.
Some users have reported the A/C, heater, or the stereo system in many SUVs did not work.
Worse yet, most TrailBlazers experienced these issues very soon after purchase, mostly not reaching the 100,000-mile benchmark.
These TrailBlazers, of course, have relatively high annual maintenance costs.
On average, owners spent an additional $500 repair cost for engine issues, which was quite a real headache for many owners. Some drivers even had to invest in a whole new engine to fix the problem.
2007 Chevy Trailblazer
The 2007 models are not the worst to invest in, yet they still manifest some noticeable issues.
The problem related to transmission lines is rather popular, with many owners reporting these lines rotting out soon.
One customer even shared that after spending $150 for the replacement cost, he had to replace them again after nearly 3 years.
Other issues include malfunctioning power windows, damaged fuel gauges, and poor fuel efficiency with excessive oil consumption. Most complaints also came up very early, after only about 55,000 miles.
What Problems Do Chevy Trailblazers Have?
Owners and prospective buyers of the TrailBlazer should be aware of certain typical issues that have been experienced:
General Problems
Drivers and vehicle reviewers have identified general flaws among the problems with Chevy Trailblazers.
One of them is the notion that Chevy made little design revisions to the TrailBlazer during manufacturing, giving the vehicle an old-fashioned appearance.
The vehicle’s handling was also thought to be overly sloppy.
Another issue is the caliber of the inside components. Chevy said in the middle of the 2000s that it would stop making the TrailBlazer after the 2009 design year.
Electrical
The electrical components of the TrailBlazer represent some of the most common occurring issues.
Issues related to dashboard gauges, such as the fuel gauge, tachometer, and flashing check engine light, are frequent pet peeves for drivers.
Other electrical issues include non-operating or broken windows and powerless automated door locks.
These issues can be challenging to identify because they could be caused by anything from a bad battery to issues with the cable or other electronic systems.
Automatic Climate Control Systems
Another minor issue for many TrailBlazers is the automatic climate control systems, which include heating and cooling systems.
These issues can occasionally be connected to electrical issues, such as a malfunctioning air compressor.
This problem may impact the rear or front vents. Some users have quoted about the TrailBlazer’s power loss, occasional complete stalling, or the air conditioning not working.
Safety Recalls
Additionally, there have been multiple car recalls involving the TrailBlazer due to safety features.
A recall covering over 17,000 automobiles was issued in 2005 to address car windshields installed incorrectly.
The second issue regarding the airbags also triggered a recall in 2002. Specifically, more than 133,000 vehicles in that year came with poor airbags, which might injure participants when activated.
Besides, some early TrailBlazers were recalled in 2004 for defective seat belt parts that might have prohibited them from performing safely in an accident or bad road conditions.
Frequently Asked Question
How Long Do Chevy Trailblazers Last?
With regular care, the Chevrolet Trailblazer can travel from 145k miles to 200k miles on average and even more.
Your Trailblazer will provide you with great service for roughly 13 years when you drive 15,000 miles annually.
What Chevy Trailblazer Years Are Good To Buy?
Chevrolet also made a Trailblazer EXT with an expanded wheelbase from 2002 to 2006. The EXT is 2.6 inches taller and 16 inches longer, providing an additional third-seat row.
The Chevy Trailblazer’s 2006 EXT model stands out as an above-average candidate if you need more space for your family members.
Otherwise, for a strong probability value, more reliable vehicles, and relatively low annual maintenance cost or maintenance schedule, think about a Trailblazer from 2008 to 2009.
Besides, the current generation Trailblazer models from 2021 and 2022 will unquestionably look the greatest if you prefer the older version to be more effective, have more contemporary features, and provide superior ride quality.
The Bottom Line
What Chevy Trailblazer years to avoid? In conclusion, the answer is 2002-2005 and 2007 models due to various reasons we have mentioned in the post.
If you are a Chevy Trailblazer lover, you can consider to take one without above versions for make sure we have a good experience with it.
The most common problems to name are errors in the electrical system, accessories and advanced features, and transmission lines.
Hopefully, this article has satisfied you with useful information about the worst years to purchase and the list of problems with chevy trailblazer.
Thank you for reading this post. See you next time!