Does the Chevy Blazer have any problems?
Like many modern SUVs, the Chevy Blazer has some reported issues, though experiences vary by model year and trim. The most frequently mentioned concerns are transmission behavior with the nine-speed automatic, infotainment glitches, and some interior wear or fit-and-finish quirks. Overall reliability tends to be mixed by year, with improvements seen in later updates.
Common problems by powertrain
2.0L turbo engine and 9-speed automatic
Owners and reviewers frequently point to transmission-related symptoms as the main drawback for the 2.0L turbo pairing. The most commonly reported issues include shifting hesitations, abrupt or rough up/downshifts, and occasional drivability quirks during acceleration.
- Transmission behavior: hesitations, rough or abrupt shifts, and occasional shudder.
- Driveability: brief surges or inconsistent throttle response in some scenarios.
- Fuel economy: real-world mpg can vary and sometimes fall short of EPA estimates in city driving.
Notes: General Motors has issued software updates and service bulletins aimed at mitigating some of these symptoms; results can vary by individual vehicle and dealer implementation.
3.6L V6 with 9-speed automatic
The larger V6 option shares some of the same transmission-related concerns, though reports of this issue tend to be less frequent than for the 2.0L turbo. When present, shifts can feel abrupt or delayed in certain conditions.
- Shifts and hesitation: occasional abrupt or slow shifts, especially at highway speeds or during cold starts.
- Overall reliability: less frequently reported than the 2.0L turbo, but still noted by some owners.
As with the 2.0L turbo, maintenance records and software updates can influence the severity of these symptoms.
Infotainment, interior, and ride quality
Beyond powertrain concerns, some Blazer owners report issues with electronics and interior fit and finish. These problems can affect daily usability and comfort, particularly in earlier model years.
- Infotainment: touchscreen lag or unresponsiveness, Bluetooth dropouts, and occasional navigation glitches.
- Interior quality: creaks, rattles, or trim gaps reported by a subset of buyers, more common in lower trims.
- Ride and noise: some highway wind or road noise and a firmer ride compared with some rivals, depending on trim and tires.
GM has rolled out software updates and trim refinements over time, which have helped reduce some of these complaints on later builds.
Recalls and safety campaigns
Chevrolet and the U.S. safety regulator maintain recall records for the Blazer across model years. Recalls can address safety-critical components and certain software issues. It is essential to verify recall status for any specific vehicle using its VIN.
To check recall status and related service history, follow these steps:
- Check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or SaferCar.gov with the vehicle’s VIN to see active or completed recalls.
- Also verify recall history and repair status on Chevrolet’s official owner portal using the same VIN.
- Ask the seller or dealer for documentation showing completed recalls and any related service work.
Recalls are performed at no cost to owners, and confirming that all applicable recalls have been addressed is an important part of due diligence when buying used.
Reliability ratings and owner sentiment
Industry surveys and automotive press have delivered mixed results for the Blazer. Some model years are viewed as more reliable than others, and overall impressions often depend on powertrain choice, maintenance history, and how well updates were applied. In general, the Blazer is considered competitive within the mid-size SUV segment, but it does not consistently outperform top reliability leaders. Individual owner experiences vary, with many drivers enjoying the vehicle for daily use and long trips when properly maintained.
Buying tips for used Chevy Blazer
If you’re shopping used, use these guidelines to reduce risk and find a well-maintained example:
- Obtain a complete vehicle history report and verify service and recall work.
- Have a qualified mechanic inspect the transmission, electrical system, and infotainment hardware/software, and pay attention to any shifting irregularities during a test drive.
- Test drive in multiple conditions—cold start, highway cruising, and around-town driving—to observe how the transmission and engine respond.
- Check for software updates and confirm warranty status or certified pre-owned options where available.
- Prepare a checklist for recalls and ensure all open campaigns have been completed.
With careful buying practices, a Blazer can offer strong value in the mid-size SUV segment, especially for buyers drawn to its styling and versatility.
Summary
The Chevy Blazer delivers a compelling blend of style and practicality, but it has some commonly reported problems, particularly related to the 9-speed automatic transmissions, infotainment systems, and interior fit in certain model years. Recalls and software updates have addressed several issues, yet reliability can vary by year, trim, and maintenance history. Prospective buyers should verify recall status via the VIN, seek a thorough inspection, and consider a test drive that stresses transmission behavior to ensure the vehicle meets expectations.
How reliable are Chevy Blazers?
For the modern Chevrolet Blazer, 2022 is the model year with the highest owner satisfaction ratings from Consumer Reports, even if it doesn't have the best reliability ratings. It was also subject to only one recall and just 14 consumer complaints were logged by the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA).
What issues does the Chevy Blazer have?
What are the known issues for the Chevy Blazer? Some areas that the Blazer has seen some problems with are the engine, brakes, climate system, transmission, and suspension. While these may seem like an automatic dealbreaker, they aren't in fact most vehicles have some issues at some point in their various generations.
Why is Chevrolet discontinuing the Blazer?
The gas-powered Chevy Blazer is being discontinued after the 2025 model year to shift production to an all-electric facility, reflecting a broader move towards electric vehicles. This decision comes as internal combustion engine (ICE) SUV sales have been declining, and Chevrolet is focusing on the Blazer EV as a key part of its future product strategy.
This video explains why Chevy is discontinuing the gas-powered Blazer and focusing on the electric version: 1mEveryman DriverYouTube · Feb 16, 2025
- Strategic shift to EVs: General Motors is converting its factory in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico, to an all-electric facility, which will produce the Blazer EV and other EVs like the Equinox EV and Cadillac Lyriq EV.
- Focus on EV growth: The company is prioritizing the Blazer EV as a more central part of its portfolio and its overall strategy to increase electric vehicle output.
- Declining gas model sales: Sales of the mid-size gas-powered SUV have been on a downward trend for several years, with many buyers opting for larger three-row SUVs or smaller compact SUVs instead.
- EV challenges: While the gas model is being retired, the Blazer EV has faced its own challenges, including initial software issues that temporarily halted sales in late 2023. However, sales of the Blazer EV have since grown significantly.
What year to avoid Chevy Blazer?
Years to avoid for the Chevy Blazer include 1994, 2000, and 2001 due to widespread engine and fuel system problems. Additionally, the 2021, 2022, and 2023 models should be approached with caution because of various electrical, engine, and electronic issues.
Classic Blazer (1983–2005)
- 1994: Considered by some to be the worst year due to numerous engine problems, with high complaint and recall numbers.
- 2000: Logged a high number of complaints and recalls, with issues including fuel gauge problems, transmission failures, and powertrain issues.
- 2001: Experienced engine and ignition problems caused by a faulty distributor.
- 2002: Prone to coolant leaks and intake manifold gasket failures, which could lead to long-term engine damage if unaddressed.
Modern Blazer (2019–present)
- 2021: Has been flagged by sources like Consumer Reports as an SUV to avoid, though specific issues are less detailed in the provided snippets.
- 2022: Common problems reported by owners include electrical system failures (dashboard/display issues, power loss), and issues with the service brakes.
- 2023: Recalls and owner-reported problems include engine issues (cylinder head, head gasket) and problems with the in-car electronics, like the display freezing.
- 2024: Is predicted by some sources to be less reliable than the average new car.
