Used 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer Consumer Reviews
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Bought it to Tow Travel Trailer
My Trailblazer LT has had no problems what so ever and I have 10,800 miles on it thus far. I chose this vehicle over the full sized rigs because of the I6 engine. This engine has a wide torque band and a 275 ft/lb of torque. I ordered mine with the 4.10 ratio rear axle to give me 6200 lbs. of towing capacity. The I6 engine is very smooth running and fun to drive.
Satisfied -- should have researched more
I bought this vehicle a month ago, upgrading from a 2002 Chevy Prism with only 33K. Main reason for purchase was 1)bored with Prism 2) sick of stepping up to get out of the car (I am 5'6 and always wear heels) 3) more substantial vehicle in size, weight, etc. 4) 4WD However, my car payment increased by $125 (my own fault, maybe I was a bit hasty) and gas mileage is very poor. Also something I tried to kid myself about, so for an SUV the gas issue is to be expected. If I was not in such a rush to buy a different vehicle, I would've gone with something like the Mazda3 Hatch or Subaru Forrester. It gives the hatch feature w/o the truck feel. I am enjoying the truck, but mostly cause I have to.
- LTZ 4dr SUVMSRP: $4,400207 mi away
- LTZ 4dr SUVMSRP: $3,800207 mi away
- LS 4dr SUVMSRP: $24,999210 mi away
What happened General?
In a little over 2 years, I have had all 4 window motors fail, the power driver's seat motor fail (glad I bought an extended warranty) and both tail light lenses replaced , which were on a recall. The ride is very comfortable, and the transmission is smooth. I would recommend the V-8. The inline 6 loses too much speed going uphill, as well as any incline. Overall, I have always owned General Motors products, but the experience I've had since owning this vehicle have made me realize why the American manufacturers continue to lose market share.
New 2002 TrailBlazer
Has a lot of power but lousy MPG. The sticker MPG rating is over-rated. Most consumers are getting around 13MPG in City driving with stop and go traffic. One thing I am very upset about is an annoying valve train tapping noise that appeared within the first 500 miles after it reaches operating temp. It sounds like a vehicle with high mileage. Dealer and GM do not want to attempt to correct until after 4-5K miles of break in.
2002 LTZ reliability unknown
There is very little storage space for the driver and front seat passanger. Electrical outlets conflict with the cupholder locations and the cupholders are very small. Front center console is mounted too far rearward and is not easily accessable to the driver.
Good idea-too many problems
I like the concept, design, styling, ride and performance. All of the reviews were very positive so I bought one. The front seats could use more support. Although the turning radius is tight the steering could be quicker. The first time I tried to use the 4wd the drive train computer fried. Next, the electric mirrors malfunctioned. I have to take it back a third time for that. Then the front wheel bearing seals began to squeal and had to be replaced.All this happened in the first 10k miles. If this keeps up I'm dumping it and Chevy.
Ok when not in shop
Overall I've had a pretty decent experience with my trailblazer other than when it has been in the shop to fix recall problems. Other than the recall things, I haven't had any trouble with it. It has a very nice and comfortable design for travel or family. It has a lot of room in it. I use it to pack up our group's sound equipment which there is a lot of and I can tote all of that in the back plus the 5 of us in the front comfortably.
Love it!
I have only had this vehicle a little over a month and am loving it. I traded in a 1997 S-10 Blazer that I had for over 6 years so this feels like a luxury car.
Great SUV
I bought this SUV (my first) to replace my family's 1991 GMC Safari GT minivan that was unfortunately totaled in an accident. I must say that I am pleased with the performance and room of the TrailBlazer. The ride is wonderful, at times it doesn't even feel like a truck. The look is very agressive (Envoy was too plain for me) and overall fit and finish is good so far. I've only had it for 2 months, but I'm very happy with my decision.
Luv'n the Trailblazer EXT LT 4WD
The vehicle handles very well, extremely quiet inside. Great comfortable smooth ride.
Great SUV
So far so good. Great performer, good looking style. Has performed everywhere as expected
Love it but needs Improvements
1. The starters in the new Vor-tec engines appear to be very fragile. Have replaced it three times in 3000 miles. 2. The AC relay switch is defective and appears to be going out in most 2003 Chevy models. They need to recall and fix this so the AC will consistently work. 3. Its fun to drive, looks good, and handles great. I am pleased with the product, but expect a truck starter to be heavy duty, not flimsy. 4. Chevy service has been outstanding. We may have had some problems but the service on the vehicle has been excellent. Just wish it had not needed it.
Great SUV
This is an awesome SUV. Very fun to drive and tons of power. The gas mileage is ok average of 15mpg. I had to have the vehickle serviced at 120 miles for the pass lock security system went out and I was unable to start the car. had that fixed and hasn't been a problem since.
Trailblazers rule!!
the trailblazer was the first suv we have ever purchased, we used to have a car then we moved to the country and we needed a 4x4 and the trailblazer is so reliable, it works great in the snow. the feul economy needs a little work but also we have to keep in mind that suvs do eat a lot of gas. overall i would reccomend this vehicle to anyone,trailblazers are very popular we have 6 in our neighborhood. trailblazers shouldn't get the bad review for the cheap inside look because its not a luxury vehicle its a down to earth vehice.
I love my trailblazer!
This is an SUV that I've wanted for a long time but I was too afraid to make the switch from sports car to SUV. I was sure I would flip it over in a week. Instead, i got a vehicle with cargo space, enough horsepower that i'm not missing out, and the comfort my sports car couldn't give me. I love it!
3 Years and Running Great
Over the past 3 years, very little complaints from me. Comfortable seating for all with lots of room. Not one single problem with the engine. It turns on a dime and the pick up it a bit sluggish but good enough. Not bad on gas getting 21mph on the highway and 16-18mph in town.
Trail Pull Up the Rear
The ride is smooth. However, I 've had many problems. The problems include: *skipping or hesitation upon acceleration *tail/brake lights unknowingly going out * A/C going out twice * A tick noise under the engine *The radio gets extremely hot, especially on long trips *Clicking on left turns, aloud thump during hard braking, and spilling from the gas tank after automatic shutoff.
Lots of miles in the first month
I just returned to Chicago from a road trip to Texas. I bought my Trailblazer a month ago and have almost 5000 miles on it. It has been a comfortable, fun and reliable ride. After test driving virtually every mid sized SUV available, I selected the Trailblazer. Its comfort (great drivers seat leg room) and interior layout and space sold me. I'm not disappointed. I'm also pleased with the engine's performance. The gas mileage matched the window sticker and it ran smmothly. Great car so far.
Fun to drive!!
We bought this Trailblazer to replace two vehicles, an exteded cab pickup & my wifes work car. We are very happy with the ride and performence of this trailblazer. Very quiet for a suv and the handling is also great! Very good dealer experience,probably the best we have ever had.
Like the Trailblazer
Used mostly for back and forth to work, highway driving. Handles and performs well.
Needs more gas!
I love the vehicle. It's comfortable, easy on the eyes, and goes when I need it to go. Mama loves driving it back and forth to work. My only complaint: needs a bigger gas tank, short legs, especially when towing.
not a problem
My 2003 Trailblazer has not had any problems whatsoever. We had a lot of snow in February and whenever I needed my four wheel drive it was quick to respond and made it through the deep snow without any problems.
Chevy all the way
This is my first suv, but I did test drive some of the others, but nothing came close to the Trailblazer. Have over 3.000 miles and have not had a single problem and average about 19 between city and hwy.
DMJ TRAILER BLAZER
DRIVE ABOUT 45 MILES A DAY ON THE HIGHWAY WITH NO PROBLEMS. TOOK IT IN TO THE CHEV DEALER FOR SERVICE ONLY THING WRONG 2 TAIL LIGHTS WERE OUT AN REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY.
A few flaws, but great overall
The Trailblazer has plenty of power on hand, a surprisingly small turning radius, and great gas mileage for a vehicle as heavy as this and with this much horsepower (average 16 city, 21 hwy). I've had two problems with it though: 1) the gauges have quit working twice (after the vehicle rests for about an hour, the gauges will begin to work again), 2) the air conditioning quit working once (again, after the vehicle rested for about an hour, the AC started to work again). Also, I've noticed some vibration-noises in the rear suspension. Besides those issues, I've thoroughly enjoyed this vehicle, especially on long road trips.
Better Look Closely
The ride is good, the 6-cyl has power and quickness, even in the mountains, and I have found it to handle well. There is only one usefull cup holder in the front. The cup holders in back are awkward, and cannot be used with a third person in the seat, or with any cargo. There is almost no storage behind the third seat. When the third seat is in the down position you do not have a nice smooth storage area as in the normal Blazer. Gas mileage is 14 and 19---at $ 1.75/ gal that is not good. In addition, I have been back for repairs 4 times in three months, all covered under warranty---but...
EXT Northface Edition V8 Loaded!
I purchased this vehicle with every option available. Very nice vehicle overall with alot of toys to keep everyone busy. Reasonable comfort & space. Good ride on the highway & decently quiet. V8 is smooth & actually not that bad on gas. Definately a nice step up for Chevy, though they are still needing BIG improvements in quality.
Don't buy if you need reliability
5000 miles, power steering pump failure, 9000 air conditioner failed, 13000 miles rear interior fans shorted out, 30000 started squealing but they don't know why.....35000 dumped!
The best mid size SUV
Bought a Suburban Z71 last year and needed a smaller SUV. Compared with Honda Pilot, but this LTZ was far better in performance, value, quality, reliability, and incentives.
My Trailblazer
A very easy SUV to drive. We travel from New Hampshire to Florida for the winters. And we feel very safe driving this SUV.
GREAT SUV
I DID NOT THINK I WOULD LIKE A SUV, I HAVE ALWAYS HAD A CAR. THIS DRIVES LIKE A CAR BUT I CAN SEE NOW ABOVE THE CARS. THE POWER IS GREAT AND THE SHORT TURNING IS BETTER THEN I WOULD HAVE EXPECTED. IT ACTURALLY TURNS BETTER THEN THE SMALL CAR I HAD. NO COMPLAINTS IN 12000 MILES. LOVE THIS THING!!
GIVE ME A BREAK!
ok im not a trail blazer owner but i am considering one. I've tested one and i belive it to be great. in response to the ignorant man or woman who wrote "AVOID THIS VEHICLE BY CHEVROLET!!' gas mileage is signifantly lower the faster you drive,rapid excelleration,driving against wind,driving like a moron,stop and go traffic,or say to buy a toyota(it hates that).After all the complaints about it i am seriously doubting buying it.yes there is 6and a half pages of complaints so i am thinking avalanche,only half a page f complaints on it.
2003 Trailbrazer
Love the exterior look of this vehicle, the interior is nice but could use some nicer touches. The ride is to die for, comforable, great travel vehicle, plenty of room for 4 or 5 people. The engine handles towing my boat without a problem and when you need to pass in a hurry the engine is right there for you. Haven't tried it in snow yet, but I'm looking forward to it. I would buy this vehicle again.
2003 Trailblazer LTZ
Comfortable vehicle to drive. After 28,000 miles, we have noticed a few squeaks and rattles inside. There has also been a noticable loss of power from the engine. The front end also feels loose especially on rough pavement. Cargo room is good. Mileage isn't too bad for the class of vehicle. 14mpg city, 20 - 22 highway.
Chevy rules
The trailblazer is a step up from the blazer, The only thing I needed to get use to is the size, parking wise it took me a little longer then usual to figure out how to pull into a left parking spot. <blonde> without being too close to the vehicle next to me. Other then that, Its a great suv and I get alot of compliments on its looks. Great vehicle for kids with the extention.
utility & fun to drive
We put our Trailblazer to work the day after purchase and have been delighted with it. Several trips to Canada & TN; very comfortable and great utility hauling college son to/from school.
Awesome!!
My first SUV....what can I say, I love it!!
bad to the bone
Held off for a long time on buying the "mainstream vehicle", but this one converted me. It really stands out from other styles of SUV's. It is black and has running boards, fog lights, a lot of standard features also. The BOSE speakers were worth the extra $. It handles great, has a solid feel and definitely don't miss the 4X4. Traction assist is more than I need. Love the 7 passenger seating. The extra length gives the vehicle a nice stance, especially with the 17" wheels and rugged but not ridiculous tires. Oh yeah, the power rear vents, the Homelink, and the recorder over the console are fun gadgets.
Better Than Expected
The Trailblazer gets ripped by the "experts" more than it should. I asked several people who own Trailblazers how it's gone for them and nobody had a bad thing to say about it. I bought a 2003 LS w/4wd and put about a 1,000 miles on it in a couple weeks. The ride is great, the engine is powerful, and even my wife who previously hated driving SUVs loves it. It handles well and early indications are positive.
We tried them all!
We drove almost every suv with a third row and this surpassed them all! Its the only one with enough room for adults in the third row that was not like driving a bus. It drives like a car, instead of a huge feeling bus! I love the ease of entry in to the third row, you can do it all one handed, which is important since I have 4 children!
nini's trailblazer
Excellent, reliable, sturdy rig with a smooth, almost luxury car feel.
Trailblazer
No extensions on sun visor nor adjustment to second row seats!! it stands straight up!!
OK With Me
Nice looking vehicle - the interior trim could/should be better. I enjoy the sound system and the kids enjoy the DVD system. I have two teenage sons - both over 6'2" - and the have planty of room in the back seat. As they say, the devil is in the details: electric mirrors malfunctioned - brake lights went out - and rear wiper has already been replaced. Still fighting relatively bad gas mileage. Have owned several different SUV's, vans, etc. (including Mercedes M class) and don't believe this vehicle provides quite the value a nearly $40,000 vehicle should.
Trailblazer
This is the best handling and riding SUV that I have owned or driven. This past May, my wife and I drove from Denver to Seattle, then down the west coast to Los Angeles and back to Denver. There was not a day that either of us were stiff or uncomfortable from the ride.
Great Vehicle
Use the suv every day, off road around rivers on weekends. The six has more than enough power. Runs well on long distance highway as well.
Unsatisfied Customer
The relationship with my 2003 Trailblazer is one of love/hate. Fun to drive, when it works. Lots of cargo space and roomy for 7 people. Driver's seat is like a cockpit with tons of buttons and controls. BUT... the engine and electronics has been unreliable. The 4x4 switch has failed 4 times in 15 months, requiring in- shop servicing for more than 15 days. While on vacation, the windshield wipers failed during a major rain storm (stuck in on position) and we had to pay for a rental car. Tail pipe is already rusting and we have a squeek (that can't be found) in the front end. Although I love to drive the car... it will have to go!
Good Buy
When I first thought of truck to buy this was my first choice. I still was careful and test drove all of the other SUV in the same class. The trailblazer was built better and looked better. A great buy for a mom with children. Don't forget to get the DVD and the third row seat. I will be going back this year to get a new trailblazer with all the extras. Thanks GM!
Blue Trailblazer
I have taken three trip with it this summer and can hardly wait for next summer so I can go again. Its absolutly the best on the Interstate a real joy to drive and ride in.
Great truck based SUV
This is a great all around SUV for those who need a heavy duty truck based SUV. The 4.2L engine tows heavy loads with ease. The ride is comfortable and the handling is better than a full size SUV such as a Tahoe. The mpg is only slightly better than a full size SUV. We average about 15mpg in mixed driving conditions. This is a very good vehicle with the 4WD if you live in an area that has a snowy winter. The build quality on GM products has been improving. Our Trailblazer has had a couple recalls and now it needs new brake rotors after only 11,000 miles, I hope this is not be a problem to get it repaired under warranty.
2003 Chevy Trailblazer
I like my Chevy Trailblazer for many different reasons, like everything is user friendly,within the drivers reach,you don't have to stretch to reach anything. There is a lot of leg room in the front and the back. The hatchback part,I think is great do to the fact the back window raises for access, or you can pull a handle and the whole door raises,which allows for many different uses. The only bad thing I can say about it is the engine compartment,for most average shade tree machanics like me you can pop the hood and see were everything is, not on this one,I still haven't found the spark plugs, everything else is easy to find.