CarComplaints.com Notes: It didn't take long for the cladding to fade, discolor, and in some cases crack. Cladding is the protective plastic piece that runs along the outside of vehicles, and exposure to both heat and UV rays give the Avalanche's cladding a chalky, faded appearance.
Owners have said the problem is especially bad on the panels near the cargo bed. Eventually, GM agreed to a one-time treatment of ArmorDillo, a protective treatment similar to what you find in any auto shop. Unfortunately, that would only help for 6 months (on average).
Eventually, GM offered another coating solution for owners within the 3 year / 36,000 mile original warranty under TSB:04-08-111-001C.
I noticed a rusty spot on the rear quarter panel in 04/2010. I could not believe that this expensive vehicle was actually rusting out. It has since grown to be extensive on that rear panel and now it has invaded the driver's side as well as both rocker panels. It will require a ton of expensive body work to correct this pitiful situation. I had thought that GM would have recalled this vehicle for all the problems I have had with it but the wait is futile. No more GM for me!
A D V E R T I S E M E N T S
I noticed a rusty spot on the rear quarter panel in 04/2010. I could not believe that this expensive vehicle was actually rusting out. It has since grown to be extensive on that rear panel and now it has invaded the driver's side as well as both rocker panels. It will require a ton of expensive body work to correct this pitiful situation. I had thought that GM would have recalled this vehicle for all the problems I have had with it but the wait is futile. No more GM for me!
- Steve C., Belhaven, NC, US