CarComplaints.com Notes: The 2002-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer is known for many things, but perhaps it is most famous for its faulty fuel gauge.
This gauge flip-flops more than a politician during election season. Some report that the gauge says "empty" after a fill-up, while others report the gauge says "full" when they're running on fumes. Either way, there's one thing everyone seems to agree on: the darn thing is just wrong.
Following hundreds of complaints and a few accidents allegedly caused by the malfunction, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) opened an investigation into the issue in May 2011. Unfortunately for frustrated owners, no recall has been announced.
Drove off used car dealer lot in 2013 and fuel gauge failed, they fixed and lasted for 3 months. Failed again and had to have repaired or my vehicle would not pass smog.
This is the second time that the low fuel light comes on and the fuel reads empty. The first time was around 2010 and it happened again today 2/15/16. According to my mechanic, the entire fuel tank with the sensor had to be replaced the first time, so I am assuming it will be the same thing again.
Also, back in May 2010, 4 piston rods disintegrated due to the use of powder steel material. It cost me $3,028 to fix the rods and replace the short block.
About August 2011, my check engine light came and the engine started running really rough. Water filled the engine chamber between the valves covers due to faulty molding for the hood. Had to replace all the ignition coils and plugs. a heater hose was installed to deflect the water away from the engine. Cost was approximately $930.
In December 2012, the power seat motor burnt out and had to be replaced. That cost me $1,196.
I previously only bought GM products (74 Camaro, Buick Skylark and Regal , Oldsmobile 98, but after all the problems with the TB, I purchased a Mazda CX7 in 2011 for the wife. No problems so far.
it seems this is a problem for a lot of people with the trailblazer. Ive always tried to buy American in everything I get, but GM really does a great job of making me notice every Toyota dealership I pass. I love the ride that a Chevy provides but really cannot tolerate the poor reliability, when Toyota/Honda etc constantly dominate all GM vehicles in this regard. In summary, i will return to only buying American autos when GM decides to manufacture higher quality vehicles.
- Clinton D.,
Lexington, KY, US
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Drove off used car dealer lot in 2013 and fuel gauge failed, they fixed and lasted for 3 months. Failed again and had to have repaired or my vehicle would not pass smog.
- Susan T., Prather, CA, US