What are the drive modes on a Chevy Blazer?

The Chevy Blazer offers a set of drive modes that adjust throttle response, transmission behavior, steering feel, and traction control to fit conditions and driving style. In practice, most models include Normal, Sport, Snow/Ice, Tow/Haul, plus a customizable My Mode for personalized settings.

Standard drive modes

These modes are designed to optimize everyday driving as well as performance or adverse conditions you may encounter on the road.

• Normal — the default setting that balances comfort, efficiency, and performance for everyday driving.


• Sport — sharpens throttle response and shifts for a more dynamic, engaging drive, often with a firmer feel in steering and handling.


• Snow/Ice — reduces wheel spin by softening throttle response and adjusting traction control and transmission behavior for slippery surfaces.


• Tow/Haul — tunes the transmission and engine feel to support towing or hauling by maintaining higher torque and steadier shifts.

These modes provide versatility for daily commuting, weather conditions, and light towing, with Normal as the default unless you actively choose another setting.

Customization options: My Mode

Beyond the fixed modes, select Blazer trims offer a customizable My Mode feature that lets you tailor how the vehicle responds to input. You can typically adjust elements like throttle response, steering effort, and transmission shift characteristics, then save and recall your preferred profiles.

• My Mode (Custom) — enables user-defined presets for throttle, shifting, and steering, allowing quick switching between personalized drive feels. Availability varies by trim and model year.

My Mode gives drivers a personalized driving experience, but its presence and exact options can differ depending on the year and trim level of your Blazer.

Availability by trim and model year

Not every Blazer model or year includes My Mode, and the specific customization options may shift with updates or new generations. Always refer to your owner's manual or a current Chevrolet spec sheet for your exact configuration.

Summary

The Chevy Blazer's drive modes—Normal, Sport, Snow/Ice, and Tow/Haul—cover typical daily driving, weather, and towing needs, while My Mode adds a layer of personalization on models that support it. Availability of specific modes and customization features can vary by trim and model year, so checking your vehicle’s documentation or a dealer-listed specification is recommended for the exact configuration.

What are the modes on the Chevy Blazer?

The Chevy Blazer has several drive modes to adjust performance, including Normal (or Tour) for everyday driving, Sport for a more responsive, dynamic ride, and Snow/Ice to improve traction in slippery conditions by moderating throttle response. Many models also include Off-Road for challenging terrain, Tow/Haul for heavy loads, and a customizable My Mode for personalized settings. These modes are typically selected using a dial on the center console or through the vehicle's touchscreen.
 
This video demonstrates how to change drive modes on the Chevy Blazer: 57sPhillipsChevyYouTube · Jul 21, 2025
Common drive modes and their uses

• Normal/Tour: This is the standard mode for daily driving, balancing performance and fuel efficiency. 
• Sport: This mode provides a more engaging experience by sharpening acceleration, steering response, and braking. 
• Snow/Ice: Use this mode on slippery roads to help prevent wheel spin. It adjusts throttle response and torque to improve traction. 
• Off-Road: Designed for rough or unpaved surfaces like dirt, gravel, or mud, this mode optimizes performance for challenging terrain. 
• Tow/Haul: This setting is for when you are towing a trailer or hauling a heavy load. It adjusts transmission shift points and throttle mapping to improve control and stability. 
• My Mode: On certain models, this customizable mode allows you to fine-tune the settings for the engine, brakes, steering, and more to your personal preference. 

How to select a drive mode

• Using the selector dial: Rotate the dial on the center console clockwise or counter-clockwise to cycle through the modes until the desired one is displayed. 
• Using the touchscreen: Navigate to the "Drive Modes" app or menu on the vehicle's central display and select your desired mode from the options presented. 

What year Blazer to stay away from?

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. 

What does Sport mode do in a Blazer?

Sport — Steering response is tightened, suspension calibration is more responsive and hydraulic dampers provide a fun-to-drive, sporty performance ideal for dry roads.

What is the best drive mode to drive in?

The best drive mode depends on the driving conditions, but Normal is generally the best choice for daily driving as it offers a balanced experience. For fuel efficiency, select Eco mode, especially for highway or stop-and-go traffic. Use Sport mode for a more engaging and responsive drive, and Comfort mode for a smoother, more relaxed ride over long distances. 
Common driving modes

• Normal: This is the default mode, designed to balance performance and fuel efficiency for everyday driving. It provides moderate throttle response and light steering. 
• Eco: This mode prioritizes fuel efficiency by adjusting throttle response to be less sensitive and encouraging the transmission to shift to higher gears sooner. It is a good choice for conserving fuel on the highway or in heavy traffic. 
• Comfort: Ideal for long commutes and long journeys, Comfort mode softens the suspension and lightens the steering for a smoother, more relaxed ride. 
• Sport: This mode makes the driving experience more thrilling and aggressive by making the throttle more responsive, tightening the steering, and stiffening the suspension. It's best for more spirited driving on curvy roads or when you want extra responsiveness. 

How to choose the right mode

• For daily driving: Use Normal mode for a balanced and predictable experience. 
• For maximum fuel economy: Use Eco mode for highway trips or in city traffic. 
• For a smoother ride: Use Comfort mode on long drives to make the journey more plush. 
• For a more engaging drive: Use Sport mode on winding roads or when you want extra acceleration. 
• For slippery conditions: Some cars have a specific mode for snow or rain that reduces acceleration and wheel spin to maintain traction. Consult your car's manual for its specific settings.