Home FAQ

What are the most common problems with the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer?

The most commonly reported issues include transmission shifting problems, infotainment and electrical glitches, engine performance concerns, braking and steering noises, and HVAC/climate-control problems.

The 2021 Trailblazer has been praised for its value and versatility, but owner feedback and recall data highlight several recurring trouble spots. Variability exists between trims and production runs, and many issues can be addressed through software updates, recalls, or routine maintenance. This article outlines the categories most frequently cited by owners and how to approach them.

Most Frequently Reported Problems

The following list summarizes the problem areas most often cited by owners and reliability trackers. Each item reflects a cluster of complaints rather than a single defect.

Transmission and drivetrain issues — including rough or delayed shifts and hesitation during acceleration.

Infotainment and electrical glitches — such as unresponsive touchscreen, Bluetooth dropouts, navigation quirks, and intermittent sensor warnings.

Engine performance concerns — including rough idling, occasional misfires, reduced power, or inconsistent acceleration.

Braking and steering noises or feel — including brake pulsation, squeaks, or intermittent steering assist concerns.

HVAC and climate-control problems — such as inconsistent cabin temperature, blower operation problems, or sensor-related AC issues.

These categories encapsulate the most commonly reported experiences across model years and trims. Not every Trailblazer will encounter these problems, and many arise from software updates or standard maintenance needs.

What to Watch For and How to Address Them

If you own a 2021 Trailblazer or are considering one, these sections offer practical guidance on diagnosing and addressing the most frequent trouble spots. Always verify recalls for your vehicle by VIN, and consult a dealer for certified repairs.

Transmission and drivetrain

Watch for sudden or delayed shifting, shuddering during acceleration, or unusual transmission behavior. If you notice this, schedule a diagnostic with a dealer, as some issues may be resolved with a software update, calibration, or component replacement under warranty or recall. Regular maintenance and using the recommended transmission fluid can also help.

Infotainment and electrical

Look for a frozen or unresponsive touchscreen, dropped Bluetooth connections, or navigation inaccuracies. Software updates often remedy these woes; if problems persist, a dealer may re-flash the system or replace faulty modules. Keep the vehicle’s software and apps up to date and report any persistent electrical warnings promptly.

Engine performance

Be alert for rough idling, intermittent misfires, or reduced power, which can trigger the check-engine light. Causes can range from ignition components to fuel delivery or sensor faults. If symptoms occur, have the vehicle scanned for trouble codes and address any necessary repairs under warranty or recall coverage when applicable.

Braking and steering

Note any brake pulsation, abnormal noises, or warnings from stability/traction control systems. These can indicate pad/rotor wear, caliper issues, or software updates needed for electronic brake systems. Do not delay inspection if braking performance feels altered; timely service can prevent safety risks.

HVAC and climate control

Inconsistent cabin temperatures, blower failures, or sensor-related AC faults warrant inspection to identify faulty actuators, blower motors, or climate sensors. Some issues resolve with part replacements under warranty, while others may require diagnostic programming.

In summary, while the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer offers practical value and versatility, several recurring problems have been reported by owners. Addressing issues early, keeping up with recalls and software updates, and following recommended maintenance schedules can help minimize reliability gaps. Always verify any service campaigns tied to your VIN and consult a trusted dealership for definitive repairs.

What are the bad years for the Chevy Trailblazer?

Years to avoid for the Chevy Trailblazer include 2002-2004, 2006, and 2010-2012, due to common issues like engine, transmission, and electrical problems. 2003 and 2006 were particularly problematic, while more recent models like 2020-2023 and 2025 have reported issues with braking systems, transmissions, and other defects.

First Generation (2002-2009)

2002-2004: These years are plagued by engine and transmission problems, electrical issues, and steering problems.
2003: Especially problematic due to transmission and engine issues, and early problems with the AC blower resistor and cooling fan clutch.
2005: Generally considered one of the better years, with fewer major issues reported.
2006: Despite being a "Super Sport" model, it suffered from a high number of problems, including engine, transmission, and electrical issues.
2007-2008: Continued to have issues with the cooling fan clutch and electrical systems.

Second Generation (2020-Present)

2020-2023: These years have been subject to safety recalls and a number of common issues including electric brake boost failure, sluggish engine performance, and transmission problems.
2023: Reported problems include braking system malfunctions, electrical defects, and transmission performance issues.
2025: Has reported transmission and engine problems.

What is the problem with the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer?

In the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer, consumers reported total brake failures, the brakes bottoming out without engaging, the brakes squealing, and problems with the ABS. Squealing brakes were reported overwhelmingly more than the other issues, which is generally good as it is the least severe one.

Do Chevy Trailblazers have issues?

Common Chevy Trailblazer problems include issues with the fuel level sensor, cooling fan clutch, and a sticking camshaft actuator. Other frequent complaints involve electrical problems, noisy or vibrating engines, transmission slipping, and check engine lights caused by gas caps or worn valve seats.
You can watch this video to learn about common problems with older models of Chevy Trailblazers, including issues with the transmission and power windows: 1mHOWSTUFFINMYCARWORKSYouTube · Mar 16, 2022
Engine and powertrain

Sticking camshaft actuator: Can cause a rough idle, vibrations when stopped, and a check engine light.
Worn valve seats: May lead to engine misfires.
Cooling fan clutch failure: Can result in excessive fan noise and potentially a check engine light.
Transmission slipping: Some FWD models may experience a loss of forward gear or slipping, often related to the Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Engine vibrations: Can occur when the vehicle is stopped in drive.

Electrical and sensors

Fuel level sensor failure: The fuel gauge may show empty even when the tank is full.
Electrical issues: Problems can affect various components like power windows, door locks, or the radio.
Check engine light: A loose gas cap is a common and easy fix, but other causes include the cooling fan or engine problems.
Rear light issues: The rear lights may fail due to a bad light socket plate.

Are there any recalls on the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer?

The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer has several recalls, including an issue with the emergency jack, which could fracture if not positioned correctly. There are also recalls for potential problems with the electronic brake boost system, due to sensor contamination, and for missing rear attachment bolts on the front seats. Additionally, there are recalls for incorrect tire information on the certification label and an issue with the engine control module (ECM) for emissions-related codes.
Key recalls for the 2021 Chevy Trailblazer:

Emergency Jack: The emergency jack may fracture when in use, which could lead to the vehicle collapsing or a loss of control.
Electronic Brake Boost: A contaminated sensor connection can interrupt the electronic brake boost system, requiring more pedal force to stop the vehicle.
Front Seat Bolts: The rear attachment bolts for the front seats may be missing, which could cause the seat to move during a crash.
Tire Information: The certification label may be missing the correct tire size and cold pressure information, which can be a safety issue if tires are over- or under-inflated.
Engine Control Module (ECM): Certain models may have an issue where the ECM doesn't properly clear a "permanent status" emissions-related code (DTC P0521), potentially causing the vehicle to fail emissions tests.

How to check for recalls and get repairs:

Check by VIN: Visit the NHTSA website and enter your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see a list of any open recalls for your specific car.
Contact a dealer: Your local Chevrolet dealer can diagnose and fix recalls for free.
Schedule an appointment: You can use the Asbury Automotive website or other dealer sites to schedule a service appointment online.

Kevin Bennett

Company Owner

Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.