When did the s10 Blazer come out?
The S-10 Blazer first appeared as a 1983 model-year vehicle.
The Chevrolet S-10 Blazer is the compact SUV variant built on the same platform as Chevrolet's S-10 pickup. It was introduced in the early 1980s as part of GM's effort to expand its SUV lineup, offering a smaller, more maneuverable option than the full-size Blazers and Jimmy models. This article outlines its debut and how it evolved in the following years.
Launch details and early years
Below are key launch details that explain when the S-10 Blazer entered the market and what it offered at the outset.
- Debut year: 1983 model year, as part of Chevrolet's newly formed S-Series lineup.
- Platform: Built on the same compact S-10 pickup chassis, sharing many components with the pickup.
- Body styles: Initially offered as a two-door SUV, with later additions of four-door variants in subsequent years.
- Drivetrain options: Available with rear-wheel drive and, in many trims, four-wheel drive; engine choices included inline-4 and V6 options over time.
- Lifecycle context: The S-10 Blazer remained in production with periodic updates through the 1990s as part of Chevrolet’s compact-SUV strategy.
These points capture the essential launch context: the Blazer began as a 1983 model, shared its underpinnings with the S-10 pickup, and evolved with new body styles and drivetrain options in the following years.
Summary
The S-10 Blazer’s introduction in the 1983 model year marked Chevrolet’s entry of a compact SUV in the S-Series, pairing a truck platform with SUV practicality. Over the years, it expanded from two-door to include four-door configurations and received various updates, reflecting GM’s broader shift toward compact SUVs in the market.
What years were the Chevy S10 Blazer made?
The S-10 Blazer was produced from the 1983 through 2005 model years. It went through two main generations: the first generation ran from 1983 to 1994, and the second generation was from 1995 to 2005. Production in the United States ended in 2005 for most models, with the final retail sales limited to two-door versions in the U.S.
This video provides an overview of the history of the Chevrolet Blazer: 1mThe Hopeless Car GuyYouTube · Mar 7, 2025
- First Generation (1983–1994):
- Initially available as a two-door model, a four-door version was added for the 1991 model year.
- In 1983, the Blazer was introduced alongside the S-10 pickup truck.
- Some 4WD models in this period were also known as the "T-10 Blazer".
- Second Generation (1995–2005):
- This generation was updated with a new design and improved interior.
- The "S-10" name was dropped from the model name in some markets, but it continued to be produced under the Blazer nameplate.
- Production of the four-door models in the U.S. ended before the 2005 model year, and retail sales were limited to two-door models only until the final production date.
- The final year for the Blazer was 2005.
You can watch this video to learn about the Chevrolet S10 Blazers from the 90s: 1mGarage of TimeYouTube · Aug 9, 2025
What Blazer had a V8?
K5 Blazer
The K5 Blazer was fitted with a 250 cu in (4.1 L) inline-six as standard through 1982. Available engines included small-block V8s of 305, 307, 350, or 400 cubic inches (5.0, 5.0, 5.7, and 6.6 liters), and a 6.2 L Detroit Diesel V8.
What year did Blaze change to Tahoe?
1995
Full-size Chevrolet K5 Blazer, based on the C/K pickup chassis and built from 1969 to 1995 (renamed Blazer in 1992 and renamed Tahoe in 1995 for the 2-door and 4-door model)
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.
