How safe are Chevy Blazers?

Chevy Blazers today are generally competitive in safety for a midsize SUV, with newer models offering moreAdvanced driver-assistance features. Exact safety ratings and available tech vary by model year and trim, so it’s important to verify the specific configuration you’re considering.

What makes the Blazer safe in practice

The Blazer sits in a crowded segment where structure, airbags, and driver-assistance technology work together to protect occupants. Chevrolet has offered a range of safety features as standard or optional equipment across recent generations. The emphasis in newer models tends to be on collision avoidance and driver awareness, alongside traditional protections such as airbags and reinforced crash structures.

• Forward Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) where equipped


• Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning


• Adaptive Cruise Control (available or standard on higher trims)


• Rear Park Assist and Rear Cross Traffic Alert


• Blind Spot Monitoring


• 360-degree camera systems on higher trims or with safety packages


• Front Pedestrian Braking where available


• Automatic High Beams in appropriate lighting conditions


• Teen Driver technology and other monitoring features in some years

These features collectively help mitigate common crash scenarios and aid the driver in maintaining awareness on highways and in urban driving. Availability depends on model year and trim level, so check the exact configuration for the vehicle you’re considering.

Crash-test ratings you should know

Official crash-test results from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) are essential references when assessing safety. Ratings are given for specific years and configurations, so it’s important to look up the exact model year and trim you’re evaluating.

Interpreting crash-test results

NHTSA awards overall star ratings based on various frontal, side, and rollover tests. IIHS assesses multiple categories, including crashworthiness in different impact scenarios, as well as the effectiveness of available front crash prevention and headlights. Because results can change with redesigns or feature updates, use the year-specific pages from NHTSA and IIHS for the most accurate picture.

• NHTSA overall rating (out of 5 stars) for the specific model year and drivetrain


• IIHS ratings by test category (e.g., small overlap, moderate overlap, head injury criteria)


• Availability and performance of advanced safety systems (e.g., AEB, pedestrian braking, headlight performance)

In practice, newer Blazer generations and higher trims tend to perform better on modern safety tests due to updated structures and more robust driver-assistance equipment. Always verify the exact year and trim to understand the current standing.

Safety features by model year and trim

As Chevrolet updated the Blazer lineup, more safety features moved from optional bundles to standard equipment on higher trims. The details below illustrate how safety tech tends to be distributed across recent years, but exact configurations vary by model year.

• Base trims: essential safety features (rearview camera, multiple airbags) with advanced driver aids more common in optional packages


• Mid trims: standard or optional Forward Collision Alert with AEB and Lane Keep Assist


• Higher trims: Adaptive Cruise Control, Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, 360-degree camera, and Front Pedestrian Braking where offered

When shopping, always confirm the exact list of safety features for the particular vehicle you’re interested in, since GM occasionally retitles packages or updates standard equipment across model years.

What to check before you buy

To ensure you’re getting the safety you expect, follow these steps tailored to the Blazer’s model year and trim you’re considering.

1. Identify the exact model year and trim, then look up the specific NHTSA and IIHS ratings for that configuration.


2. Verify which driver-assistance features are standard versus optional on the chosen trim.


3. Check the vehicle history for any safety-related recalls or service campaigns that could affect safety features.


4. Test the driver-assistance features during a controlled drive (maintain a safe pace) to confirm they operate as described.


5. Consider a higher trim or optional safety package if you want the fullest suite of safety tech.

Taking these steps will help you compare safety across different Blazer configurations and ensure you get the level of protection you expect.

Summary

The Chevy Blazer offers a solid safety proposition within its class, with a trend toward stronger standard and available driver-assistance features in newer model years. Crash-test results depend on the year and trim, so always consult the exact NHTSA and IIHS ratings for the vehicle you’re assessing. When shopping, prioritize the latest model year with the most comprehensive safety equipment your budget allows, and verify features directly on the vehicle you plan to buy. In short, safety for the Blazer improves with newer designs and better-equipped trims, but due diligence matters for an accurate read on any given vehicle.

What are the disadvantages of a Chevy Blazer?

The main cons of the Chevy Blazer include reliability issues, particularly with the transmission and engine, and potentially overly sensitive safety features. Some owners have also reported problems with sensors, the infotainment system, and premature brake wear. Older models may have issues like faulty fuel gauges, while newer models, especially the EV, may have concerns about the advanced driver-assistance systems.
 
Reliability and mechanical issues

• Transmission problems: Some owners report hard shifts, hesitation, or sudden acceleration, potentially caused by issues like a loose pin on the piston or problems with the engine control module. 
• Engine problems: Reports include overheating issues and other engine problems linked to components like the distributor. 
• Brake concerns: Premature wear on brake pads and rotors, along with potential issues with the anti-lock brake system, have been reported. 
• Fuel system issues: Some older models have had problems with the fuel gauge or fuel pump, and newer models may experience issues with the fuel filter or sensors. 
• Climate control problems: Some owners have reported issues with the heating system not working correctly. 

Technology and safety features

• Over-sensitive safety systems: The pedestrian and bicyclist warning system in the Blazer EV has been described as overly sensitive and annoying, sometimes leading to the desire to turn it off. 
• Unexpected warnings: The automatic reverse braking system has reportedly engaged unexpectedly when there was no obstacle. 
• Infotainment system issues: Some owners have reported problems with the sound system. 

Other drawbacks

• Dated design: Some reviews note that after several years, the design is starting to feel a bit dated despite updates to keep up with competition. 
• Variable reliability: Reliability ratings are inconsistent between different sources, so it is advisable to look at a specific model year's history. 

What is the #1 safest SUV?

There is no single "number one" safest SUV, as safety rankings vary by organization and vehicle class. However, many SUVs are recognized for outstanding safety, with the 2025 Kia Telluride https://www.motor and 2025 Mazda CX-70 earning both IIHS Top Safety Pick+ and 5-star NHTSA ratings. Other top contenders include the 2025 Mazda CX-50, 2025 Acura MDX, and 2025 Honda CR-V. 
Top-rated SUVs for safety

• Kia Telluride: This midsize SUV receives a 5-star NHTSA overall score and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ for 2025. It's praised for a comprehensive suite of standard safety features and a strong performance in crash tests. 
• Mazda CX-70 and CX-90: These models are recognized with IIHS Top Safety Pick+ ratings for 2025, with excellent performance in small overlap front and other crash tests. 
• Mazda CX-50: The 2025 model earned a 5-star overall rating from NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. It scores well in crashworthiness and has a good pedestrian collision avoidance system. 
• Acura MDX: A luxury midsize option that earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick status. Its standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control are highly rated. 
• Honda CR-V: While the specific safety awards can vary by year, the CR-V is frequently highlighted for its strong safety performance, particularly in the compact SUV category. The Honda Sensing suite is noted for its effective and usable safety features. 

How to choose the safest SUV

• Check crash test ratings: Look at the ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to see how a specific vehicle performs in various crash tests. 
• Look at safety features: Consider which safety and driver-assist features are most important to you, such as automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. 
• Consider your needs: The "safest" SUV depends on your individual needs. A family-friendly, three-row SUV like the Kia Telluride may be ideal for a larger family, while a smaller, more nimble option might be better for city driving. 

Are Chevy Trailblazers safe cars?

Yes, Chevy Trailblazers are generally considered safe cars due to their standard safety features and high ratings. The 2025 model, for instance, received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and includes a suite of standard features like automatic emergency braking and lane keep assist. However, some previous model years may lack certain features on the base trim, and visibility can be a concern in some models. 
Standard and available safety features

• Chevy Safety Assist: This standard suite includes automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, lane keep assist with lane departure warning, and front pedestrian braking. 
• Airbags: The Trailblazer is equipped with a robust airbag system, including frontal, knee, side-impact, and head-curtain airbags. 
• HD Rear Vision Camera: A high-definition camera provides a clear view behind the vehicle while backing up. 
• Teen Driver technology: This feature allows parents to set speed alerts, audio limits, and other safety-conscious parameters for teen drivers. 

Advanced safety options

• Lane Change Alert with Side Blind Zone Alert: Alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots. 
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert: Warns the driver of approaching traffic when backing up. 
• Rear Park Assist: Helps with parking by providing alerts when the vehicle gets close to an obstacle. 
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance from the car ahead. 

Safety ratings and considerations

• NHTSA rating: The 2025 Chevy Trailblazer received a five-star overall safety rating. 
• IIHS ratings: The 2024 and 2025 models showed good performance in certain crash avoidance tests. 
• Visibility: Some reviews note limited rear three-quarter visibility in certain models. 
• Base trim limitations: On some previous model years, advanced features like rear cross-traffic alert and blind spot monitoring were not standard on the base trim. 

Are blazers safe?

The Chevy Blazer has earned top safety scores after extensive National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing.