Used 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV Consumer Reviews
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No Good Chevy!
Have had this SUV since new. Will never own another Chevy. Build quality is lacking. Gas mileage is horrendous. Getting 14.5 mpg according to onboard computer. Bought the top of the line with all the extras for $36000, now trade in is only about $17500! why did this loose value so quickly? Does Chevrolet know what junk they are selling? Have replaced the wiper motor twice due to recall, replaced taillights twice under warranty, and now need to replace again. Electric mirrors were replaced under warranty, now they need to be repaired again. Great Bose Stereo, but Chevy didn't build that. Reccomend Ford or foreign made vehicle next time. Very uncomfortable leather seats for front passangers.
Solid family transportation
I bought my 2002 TB in May 2005 from the company I worked for. It was our vice president's vehicle. Therefore I knew it had been serviced regularly and well maintained. It had a 105,000 mile on it when I bought it and now had 159,000. In 2006 I had to replace the part that shifts the vehicle from 2WD to AWD, it cost about $400. I have not had any more problems with that part. I also have had problems with the hatch on the rear door. Sometimes it locks and sometimes it doesn't. I should have it looked at, but it doesn't happen that often, so I've learned to live with it. It's been very realiable transportation, and nice for hauling around a family of four. I drive 80% highway miles and avg 19.5/gal
- LTZ 4dr SUVMSRP: $5,49561 mi away
- LS 4dr SUVMSRP: $9,99596 mi away
- LTZ 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,499193 mi away
Love my Chevy!!!!!!
Its everything I ever wanted in an SUV. I love this truck more than I love my wife!
Don't Waste Your Hard Earned Money
Not only have I had this car in for service at least 10 times, I lost a ton of money in its resale value. The build quality is terrible, half the problems I have had were deemed as "could not duplicate" by the dealership and went unfixed. Now, I am trying to unload this hunk of junk and getting hosed by the resale. This is the fourth Chevy in a row I have owned that has NOT performed well, you would think I would have learned my lesson by now.... Don't make the same mistake I made!!!
Trail Blazer LTZ
I am so happy with this car
No Resale Value
The TrailBlazer as well as all GM vehicles has no resale value. The vehicle that you paid $30000 18 months ago is now only worth $17000 in excellant condition.
Unhappy
When we bought the c truck it was good ride after a couple of month I started hearing air zipping in from outside and I took it in and they told me that that was the outside mirror design but I did not swallow that, then a couple of recalls came in and I learn to live with it. After I finish it paying off the car about a year later the problems began and after a ton of trips to the dealer and about $ 7000.00 dollar I regret the day I purchase that vehicle, from transmission to coils, spark plugs sensor etc, etc is been change on that vehicle and steal have problems. So I will never again by a Chevrolet vehicle in my life. I'm a very unhappy car owner.
Don't buy it
Since Novemeber 2001 I've had my T'Blazer in 21 times. First to go was the 4whd selector switch, then the oxygen sensor, then the 5 recalls, one of which was done last october and I got another card on yesterday! The gas gauge does not work anymore. I've had the front diff. seals fail.
TOO MANY TRIPS TO MECHANIC
We have had our TB LT 4x4 for 2 years and we have had it in for repair at least 8 times. At least three were for recalls, two times for the rear windshield wiper, two other times because it was stalling and failed to start, and another for the driver window coming off track. It's too bad because we reallly like the style and features of the vehicle. The ride and power are great, but you shouldn't have to deal with these problems wiith a $34,000 vehicle. This could be a great vehicle once the kinks are worked out.
POWER! but at a price
we needed one big car for the fam. home projects and a kid on the way. the t'blazer seemed to be perfect! HUGE power, good amount of room, and a reasonable price. but the interior comfort really leaves a lot to be desired, the audio system isn't very good at all, and the mileage (understandably) is poor. but what's dissappointing is that the 4x4 switch becomes inoperative in the cold. guess when i need the 4x4 to WORK?!
Vibration between 58-60 MPH
As described in Liz and NewOwners comments regarding the vibration around 60 mph, I have the exact same problem and have brought this problem to the attention of the selling dealership more than a few times. Although the service department was extremely friendly and sympathetic, diagnostics could not reveal the source of the problem nor any solution from GMC that would correct the problem. They mentioned that the problem could be anything from the engine to the transfer casing. The dealership said that GMC was aware of this problem and may be able to correct it via reprogramming of the vehicles computer. If I hear of any correction, I'll post here again.
Take This Truck And Shove It!!!
I purchased this truck in oct, 2001. it has been in the shop more than 15 times within 6 months. Sometimes it will not start. Sometimes it cuts off while driving. Not a good feeling at all. Everytime it has been to the shop, they can't seem to find anything wrong. So to add to my list of problems, I continue to hear wind noises, problems with the seatbelts, cd changer has been replaced... the list is endless. I WOULD NOT RECOMMEND THIS VEHICLE TO MY WORST ENEMY.
Not bad but not so good either
TrailBlazer has solid feel, good power, comfortable. Gas mileage not what I had hoped. Started at 13mpg in town. I can now coax 16mpg on average in town. Highway mileage averages 19mpg. The TrailBlazer trouble free up until I took an 1100 mile trip. It developed a high pitch squeal, turned out to be seals in the transfer case. Then I developed a bad oil leak. This all happened with just 28K on vehicle. My old 4Runner never had these kinds of problems until I had well over 200K. For the cost, $30K+ this vehicle should be trouble free, at least up to 100K. Maybe this is just typical of a first year design model and I'm just shaking out the bugs.
Just Buy it !!!!
I read the "expert reviews" and I read the consumer reviews. The consumers have it right, this is one great car. There is no loud noise over 50 mph, the car is quiet, powerful and great looking. I bought the LTZ fully loaded, black with pewter trim. I suggest getting all the options especially the Bose Stereo !!!! Rock and Roll with the Trailblaxer. FYI I am a 44 year old 5'9 not skinny man and it couldn't be more comfortable
So far so good
Only 900 miles so far, mostly city, and driving, comfort, sense of security and somewhat fresh styling are all making me glad I bought it. Vehicle is a big hit with family and friends, partly due to plush LTZ features. But the truck has a nice sturdy feel. While I give a slight edge to Envoy's exterior, I went for "it is what it is" simplicity of the Chevy interior vs. the Envoy "wanna be luxury" styling. Flexible dealer, great price made this a value not to walkaway from.
Love my Car...........................
I was a previous 12 year owner of a 1985 S-10 Blazer. Shopped long & hard for the right SUV for my family, settled with Trailblazer. I love it. At first, with all of the electronics, I wasn't so sure I'd like it. WOW. it's great. Kids can't lay down comfortably in the backseat, but its not made to be a motorhome :-). Well worth $.
Just OK
This truck has had its ups and downs. Just when you think it's all OK, somthing else is just not working right. I like the truck, and have hauled a lot of stuff in it, but it just can't pass up a dealer. I think it likes to have people looking under its hood.
Chevy Rocks!!!
This is by far the best looking SUV in it's class! Great power and oohh so smooth on the Highway. Took it off road with no regrets...took on the bayou with ease. This SUV has the power, looks and spunk to take on anything domestic and overseas!!! Like a ROCK!!!
Think twice
Excessive body roll at any speeds above 55MPH. Multiple recalls on critical systems. Sound system stinks with no tone control unless you like rap. Ride is smooth at all speeds just don't turn fast. Shift points are poor and slow. It is like driving a boat, smooth but no control. If you test drive any TrailBlazer drive it at 65MPH or higher and carefully try fast lane changes.
I Love My TrailBlazer
I have had my vehicle for 4 years now and still love driving it. It is very comfortable for short and long distance driving. The only mechanical problem was the left tailight had to be replaced, under warranty, and the tires only lasted 32,000 miles. The paint looks the sames as when I bought it. Still has a great shine to it. The gas mileage is OK, expected for the type of vehicle it is. So if you want a vehicle that handles well, gives you the power when you need it, and comfort, this is great!
My first year review
I've owned the LTZ for a year now and have been pretty happy with it. I've experienced a few minor problems (transfer case mysteriously shifting on its own, power windows that do not reset), but the vehicle has been reliable. My only complaint would be in build quality. Seams do not appear even and when driving off road. When driving off road (forest roads) the body does not feel tight over bumps. But having own two GMC Jimmys before this, it was expected.
Never Again
I have owned this car since new. The first time it was in the shop was 10 days after I bought it due to a "flapping" sound on the highway. It took 3 additional trips to determine that there were screws missing in the wheel well. The build quality on this car is terrible, it has been in the shop 30+ times for all manner of problems. Now I am looking to get a new car (Toyota) I find that my $30k SUV is worth almost nothing. GM has forever lost a customer with this vehicle.
5 Years now - Still Best SUV
It has been 5 years now owning this TrailBlazer. I have to say I still will not trade it for anything else thats on the market. It has not let me down, ever. Whether it was heavy rain, sleet, or snow, I always feel safe in this SUV. It still has a very smooth drive, as if you are in a limo. Great looking SUV, elegant with a touch of a muscle look. I have to admit, I do cater to this car, keeping up with all its scheduled maintenance, and boy has it ever returned its dividends. I have been a Chevy fan since the beginning. I have no reason to buy anything else.
My Chevy Trailblazer
I have been very pleased with the overall performance of my Trailblazer. It is very comfortable for long and short driving periods, with adjustments for a drivers height and back comfort preferences. Despite the reviews about poor performances on handling on curves, I have found my Trailblazer to be very smooth on curves which I usually take at above average speeds. I have enjoyed it so much, as have my children, that my daughter purchased a 2006 Trailblazer also. This is one of the best midsize SUVs on the road without the need for the Lexus or Cadillac prestige price tags and logos. I can drive it off road, which I do, wash it and go to church or to a social function in style.
Poor
Tens of mechanical problems, roof lining fell off, engine got stuck in first gear, needed towtruck, hydro sterring wheel pump failed, needed towtruck, had to replace motor and sensor of fan, 4x4 selector on dashboard had problems, jump from one gear to another, had to be replaced, to check the air pressure in the spare tire requieres to lower the tire from its niche. Big problem. Stops lights connectors are tiny wires that with vibration get loose, you have to put them apart to tighten them. Drivers seat is as comfortable as sitting on nails, the rest of the seat are ok. Wheather trim on right front door fell off. Can´t wait to sell it. Too bad it´s a company car and have to wait a year.
Too Many Problems
I am a big GM fan, but this vehicle has issues. The ignitions switch went bad at 60k miles. My 4wd selector switch has been replaced, but is already acting up again. I love the look and ride of the vehicle, but a $35k vehicle is supposed to be reliable for more than 1 year!!!!!
Most Nice
It is a great vehicle to drive. I love it. The truck in my opinion is one of the best SUV's to come out in 2002
Trailblazer LTZ
Gas mileage not very good, for the first few months got 9 mpg, now, in third year of ownership it is getting 13 mpg. Still has not reached the 15 city 20 highway that was on the window sticker! Lots of little things never did or do work right, even after telling the dealership. Example: the mirrors on the side of the vehicle take on a life of their own and move and readjust so that they are rarely in place when you need them. Other than that, the vehicle looks okay, but I would not buy it again.
TrailBlazer Justifies Return to GM
After 20 years of buying only Japanese cars we have finally given GM another chance in the last three years. The 2002 TrailBlazer is as well engineered and built as our six Toyotas and Hondas. The same can be said of our 2000 Chevrolet Venture. The major disappointment with the TrailBlazer is gas mileage--about 17 MPG, most of it freeway.
Disappointed
Don't let the looks of this car persuade you into buying it. This car devours gas and is far from being reliable. Atleast mine has continously given me transmission problems. It's interior is very roomy, but there are plenty of other SUV's with the same attribute and better quality.
2002 trailblazer
We bought our trailblazer new in July, 2001. We were attracted by the size (not too big) and design. We occasionally pull an 18 foot boat and the towing ability is excellent. Also, it is very comfortable for trips and safe for my wife to drive around town. Our LTZ came with all of the "bells and whistles" availabe when they first came out. We had a choice between a DVD player or sunroof, and chose the roof.
Moneyblazer
I have had numerous warranty issues. I am on my third radio because the buttons are painted on with black paint. Very cheap looking interior. Would not recommend buying. Too much money for poor quality.
Great Truck
Great truck on the highway, cruising the interstates with ease and comfort. 20 mpg on the road and highway speeds but a little short in the city due to the big hp. Interior is comfortable on long trips. Back and forth to Myrtle Beach non-stop except for gas and a snack and no physical problems from the seating. Passengers (3) had no complaints whatsoever.
So much hope, so little in return
I purchased a new TB over 3 yrs ago, with the intention of this being my "I finally made it!!" vehicle.... well, I have made it to the dealership and various repair shops countless times.... almost all of the problems you can read in other reviews, I have experienced them as well.... wind whistling with the windows up, tail light failures, mysterious rattles/noises, shifts into 4wd by itself.... the most disconcerting problem is the transmission, which bucks from first to second when cold, and also lunges just before coming to a complete stop.... the transmission finally blew up at 83k, of which 95% were highway miles.... cannot wait to rid myself of this scourge.... never again!!
Not in love
Great sized vehicle. The new 6 cylinder engine is silky smooth and full of torque and power at a reasonable MPG. The handling and design quaality of this vehicle is top-notch. My hats off to Chevrolet Engineering for a great concept, design and build. Now, if you could just do something about the after- sale service offered by your dealer network. It leaves much to be desired. 3 return trips for nagging little problems that should be resolved FIRST TIME. The outside mirrors that move and don't move back, the electrical "glitch" that they cannot locate, etc, etc. I bought a fully loaded $36K vehicle, I expected no excuses, I've had nothing but.
Too many little problems in the 1st yr
I had a lot of little problems. The power mirrors don't go back to original setting, the right front speaker squeeks, the passenger heated seat went out several times, etc. I like the car but the 1st year models has a lot of bugs to work out.
Never Again
Before 26,000 miles,weather stripping cming off,display not functioning bumper wrinkles(already wrinkled again),vibrations coming from heat shield on transmission. Then the major things:Transmission sun cluster completely shears in transmission. Dealer kept 4 weeks.Returned after one week did not make it home.Kept 3 more weeks drove two days then shifting problems check engine light on.One more week light back on.GM engineer says we have problem at about 30,000 miles and the power valve goes bad. Warranty will be out @60,000 when it goes again!!!NO SERVICE AFTER THE SALE!!!Still driving with light on. HOPE IT BLOWS UP.
And they wonder why GM is going under??
Fell in love with the front face of this SUV in july 2001, went to test drive it in August, made a deal in September, and $30,000 later, I had my brand new Chevy Trailblazer. In the first 6 months, it was in for repairs 4 times, electrical, brakes, 4wd switch, more electrical, yet more electrical, etc. A year later, with around 28K miles, I got stuck out in VA (Im from NY). Tranny was locked, key locked, etc. Contacted GM, "take it to a dealer and theyll fix it". I manually unlock the tranny and had to drive 450 miles w/o int. lights, turn signals. Took it to dealer, They told me I had too many miles! The worst vehicle ever!
Awesome!!!
Purchased vehicle in October of 2006, and I love it. This is my first SUV. Was looking at a Ford Explorer and other SUVs, but no other stacked up against the Trailblazer. We have had no major problems with it. No major check-ups. Drives great and looks great. A lot of room inside for the family. Runs smoothly and has a lot of power. Very reliable and I would highly recommend the Trailblazer to anyone who would ask!
Trans & 4WD ; Update
Bought it at 155k, and even with a screwed up and rusted frame, got it from Boston to Maine. Frame welding was not an issue. But the Transmission is constantly taking it's time getting ready to shift, now requiring a warm up. And now the 4x4 switch is acting up, when going from 2wd to 4wdLow, the switch's Drive Light won't settle down to a specific Drive when trying to go back from 4wdLow to 2wd. The rest of the TB is great, and makes you wonder why Chevy never kept at this design when it was a clear winner, like the old Impala was. It's way past time for Chevy and GMC to leave their basic design's alone, and let them evolve, instead of trying to re-invent the wheel ever 3 years. The TB makes that case, and in flying color's ; - Update 7/28/21 - TB at 165,000 and still running strong, especially in the snow and ice. Swapped out the 4L60e tranny for another and the 4l60 issue's keep on coming. Looking to do a COMPLETE AFTERMARKET 4L60 SWAP FOR A 'MONSTER' 4L60, and junk the factory one. Otherwise, for GM to not let this TB design evolve, instead of doing an complete 'reinventing the wheel', is proof that Some in Detroit need to GO, and not come back. GM, in the 2002 to 2005 Trailblazer, finally found their 'Jeep', and it's a dammed shame that GM let it get away... : update 7/29/22 - Still going, inspite of lousy weather and increasing number of Shop's that simply will not use Customer Part's, when the Shop's keep crying they can't find the part. Still on General's 4x4 tire's and am getting close to 20 MPG, on lousy road's which is why I bought the TB in the 1st place. Only gripe's now are the venting system, which is putting out only heat, and on the pass. side, and not the driver's and some of the door lock's that are getting awkward to use since once opened they, at time's refuse to lock up when closed. Takes time to get the door closed, but now is the last door to be opened. Tune-up's are a major expense, but once done, are good for at least 75- 100,00- miles. Oil needs to go ALL SYNTHETIC 5W30, especially in the Northern States, due to the cold. YOU DO NOT WANT TO COLD START A 4.2 IN THE WINTER WITH STD OIL. IT WILL HURT THE ENGINE. Do so, and then get an oil change and don't be surprised to see metal particles, or even flake's, coming out so go Synthetic and save yourself a $ 4500.00 engine replacement, if you can even find a 4.2 now. Only chronic issue now is the 4x4 actuator. When it blinks constantly it's time to change it. The part on Rock.Auto or Cars.com is not bad. But the Shop's will tell you they have trouble getting it. Find a good local mechanic who knows what's going on and stay with them. Both Rock and Cars will have it to you in 3 days, at most. ; Now at 180,000 and the TB is doing fine, more so since I moved from Maine to Ohio and gained a lot friendlier weather. Had coilpack's changed and saw a immediate increase in mileage. Lost 1 a week later but the mechanic said it has known to happen on occasion. Have had to get the resonator and pipe replaced (lost the resonator) but the job wasn't that expensive ($500.--) PS lines next to go since the TB seems to drink PS Fluid. Also got 'moose light's' on the front bumper. If you live in a high deer or moose area GET THEM ! You and your insurance agent will come to appreciate them,
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Airbags dont deploy
Had an accident with a deer car went sideways into ditch head on into embankment at 50mph airbags didnt deploy. Suspension is horrible
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my lemon
Engine failure requiring complete replacement at 2500 miles no 4 - wheel drive first time in snow total days in shop since purchase for repairs 28
New LTZ owner
The ride and handling on slightly slick roads is excellent. The turning radius and overall drivability is excellent. Highway driving is car-like. Heating/cooling takes a while to get used to.
Trailblazer Review.
It's a fine piece to drive, however the overall finish of the exterior such as bumper and door alignment leaves much to be desired. Engineers should be forced to attend Japanese automotive schools.
You can't beat it!
When my lease was up on my sedan I test drove a Trailblazer and fell in love with it right away and the love affair hasn't ended. I've driven the Durango and the Jeep Cherokee and I feel the Trailblazer is a superior vehicle from handling to appearance. The Trailblazer is bold and new in it's body style. I have been nothing but satisfied with my purchase.
My review on the car I own
This car ,2002 Chevy trailblazer, is a great used suv. It has decent gas usage, it's relatable ,but don't get it stuck .
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my trailblazer
gm did it right the wife loves to drive it the ride is great compared to the 1998 model we had.my only complaint is the radio system it sucks.
kgbkahnk
Great styling. Fantastically smooth, powerful engine. Just cannot seem to get better than about 16 mpg, even in all-highway driving, and it could use better steering feel.
GREAT VEHICLE
Best vehicle Ive ever owned
Get ready for frustration
Bought an 02 trailblazer used from a friend at 50k miles. The vehicle had regular oil changes and transmission fluid changes as well as a few preventative measures here and there. Despite having the thing properly maintained and cared for it began to have a very serious knock and loss of power as well as difficulty shifting at only 133k miles. a remanufactured transmission cost me 1300 to put it in myself and still did not manage to solve the problem. I ended up scrapping the whole car after a month and a half of frustration and no explanation. in short this vehicle is the best 100k you'll have without spending the money for a high end car.
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