What transmission does the Chevy Blazer have?
The current Chevy Blazer uses a nine-speed automatic transmission across its engine options.
Since its 2019 redesign, the Blazer pairs a 9-speed automatic with either a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or a 3.6-liter V6, and it’s offered with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. There is no manual gearbox and no CVT in the lineup, making the 9-speed automatic the constant centerpiece of its drivetrain chemistry.
Transmission setup for the Blazer
Below is a concise look at how the transmission works with the Blazer’s engines and drive configurations.
- Transmission: 9-speed automatic
- Engines paired: 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 or 3.6L V6
- Drivetrain options: Front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD)
- Not offered: manual transmission or CVT
Before listing, here is a quick summary of the key transmission specs and how they pair with the Blazer’s options:
In everyday driving, the nine-speed automatic is designed to provide smooth shifts and efficiency, with available AWD improving traction in adverse conditions and the turbocharged engine delivering brisk acceleration.
Context and evolution
Understanding the Blazer’s transmission history helps explain why the nine-speed automatic is the defining feature of its drivetrain today.
Consistency across recent years
Since the Blazer’s modern revival in 2019, GM has employed the Hydra-Matic nine-speed automatic across all trims and engine choices, with software and drive-mode tuning evolving while the core transmission design remains unchanged.
Summary: The Chevy Blazer relies on a nine-speed automatic transmission for all current engine options, paired with either FWD or AWD, with no manual or CVT offerings. This setup emphasizes smooth, versatile performance for everyday driving.
Does the Chevy Blazer have transmission problems?
While the Blazer has transmission problems, this isn't unique to it as it's a point of failure for tons of vehicles. With the Blazer, the transmission would cause the vehicle to accelerate suddenly. This issue can range from being scary to harmful, needing immediate attention.
Does a Blazer have a CVT transmission?
No, the Chevy Blazer does not have a CVT transmission; it comes standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission regardless of the engine option. In contrast, the smaller Chevy Trailblazer is the model that uses a CVT, specifically with its standard 1.2-liter turbocharged engine.
Chevy Blazer
- Transmission: Nine-speed automatic transmission.
- Engine options: Standard 2.0-liter turbocharged engine or an available 3.6-liter V-6.
Chevy Trailblazer
- Transmission: Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) for the base engine.
- Engine options: Available 1.2-liter turbocharged engine (with CVT) or a 1.3-liter turbocharged engine (with a nine-speed automatic).
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 type of transmission is in a Chevy Blazer?
9-speed automatic transmission
Every Blazer features a 9-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard; all-wheel drive is available as an option.
