Segment:
Mid-size to full-size SUV, often competing with Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Toyota 4Runner.
Usp:
Offers robust truck-based platform with powerful engine options and towing capability, particularly in the earlier years. Later years adopted more car-like handling characteristics.
Platform Advantage:
Built on GM's robust GMT360 platform, shared with GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, Oldsmobile Bravada, Saab 9-7X, and Isuzu Ascender, ensuring commonality in many components and repair procedures.
Manual Value:
Empowers owners to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, saving significant costs associated with dealership or independent shop labor.
Engine Systems:
Engine mechanical, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, emissions control.
Transmission Drivetrain:
Automatic transmission (4L60-E, 4L70-E), transfer case (NVG 246, NVG 243), front and rear axle assemblies, drivelines, propeller shafts.
Chassis Suspension Steering:
Front suspension (independent torsion bar), rear suspension (multi-link solid axle), steering system (rack and pinion, power assist), wheels and tires, brakes (front discs, rear discs/drums, ABS).
Electrical Electronics:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting system, instrument cluster, body control module (BCM), comfort and convenience features, infotainment, diagnostics (OBD-II).
Body Exterior Interior:
Body structure, panels, doors, windows, glass, seats, interior trim, HVAC system, body hardware.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, spark plug replacement, belt replacement.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for all major vehicle systems, fault code interpretation, troubleshooting flowcharts.
Repair Overhaul:
Engine rebuild procedures, transmission overhaul, brake system repair, suspension component replacement, electrical component repair/replacement.
Installation Replacement:
Component replacement procedures for all major parts, including engine, transmission, axles, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical components.
Specifications Data:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, diagnostic parameters.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering basic to advanced repair and diagnostic procedures, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Engine Options:
4.2L Atlas LL8 I6, 5.3L Vortec LH6/LY5/LMG V8, 6.0L Vortec LQ4/LQ9 V8 (SS variant).
4.2L I6 Hp:
Approx. 291 hp @ 6000 rpm
4.2L I6 Torque:
Approx. 277 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm
5.3L V8 Hp:
Approx. 302 hp @ 5200 rpm
5.3L V8 Torque:
Approx. 330 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
6.0L V8 Hp:
Approx. 395 hp @ 6000 rpm (SS)
6.0L V8 Torque:
Approx. 415 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm (SS)
Fuel Delivery:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline (87 octane recommended for I6 and 5.3L V8, 91 octane recommended for 6.0L V8 SS)
Engine Identification:
Refer to VIN and engine block markings. Specific engine RPO codes (e.g., LL8, LH6, LY5, LQ4) are critical for correct parts.
Standard Transmission:
4-speed automatic (4L60-E, later 4L70-E for V8 models)
Optional Transmission:
N/A (4-speed automatic was standard across all configurations)
Drive Types:
Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) or On-Demand Four-Wheel Drive (4WD).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron VI (for 4L70-E) or Dexron III H (for 4L60-E). Always confirm with manual or dipstick marking.
Transfer Case Options:
New Process Gear (NP) 246 (automatic, 2WD/AutoTrac 4WD) and NP 243 (manual 4WD).
Wheelbase Short Wheelbase:
113 inches (2,870 mm)
Wheelbase Long Wheelbase:
129 inches (3,277 mm) (Trailblazer EXT)
Overall Length Short:
191.8 inches (4,872 mm)
Overall Length Long:
211.3 inches (5,367 mm) (Trailblazer EXT)
Cargo Volume Behind 1St Row Short:
Approx. 80.1 cu ft
Cargo Volume Behind 2Nd Row Short:
Approx. 44.1 cu ft
Curb Weight Approx:
4,500 - 5,200 lbs (2,041 - 2,359 kg) depending on configuration
Towing Capacity Max:
Up to 7,000 lbs (3,175 kg) with proper towing package and V8 engine.
NHTSA Front Impact Driver:
5 Stars (2006-2009 models)
NHTSA Front Impact Passenger:
5 Stars (2006-2009 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Front Passenger:
5 Stars (2006-2009 models)
NHTSA Side Impact Rear Passenger:
4 Stars (2006-2009 models)
IIHS Moderate Overlap Frontal:
Good (for models with side airbags and seatbelt pretensioners)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).
Traction Control:
Available StabiliTrak stability control and traction control.
Airbags:
Standard front airbags, optional side-impact airbags for front and third-row passengers.
Seatbelts:
Three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front seatbelt pretensioners.
Audio System:
Standard AM/FM stereo with CD player. Optional Bose premium audio system, satellite radio (XM).
Navigation:
Optional factory navigation system available on higher trim levels.
Parking Assist:
Optional rear parking assist sensors.
Rearview Camera:
Optional rearview camera integrated with infotainment screen (late models).
Onstar:
Available OnStar safety and communication system.
Bluetooth:
Optional Bluetooth hands-free connectivity on some models.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first, with synthetic blend oil. Use oil life monitoring system if equipped.
Engine Air Filter:
Inspect every 15,000 miles, replace as needed or approximately every 30,000 miles.
Spark Plugs I6:
Replace approximately every 100,000 miles (uses iridium-tipped plugs).
Spark Plugs V8:
Replace approximately every 100,000 miles (uses iridium-tipped plugs).
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend (API SN or newer).
Coolant Type:
GM/Delphi or equivalent Orange Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 (meeting GM specification).
Front Suspension Wear:
Premature wear of ball joints, control arm bushings, and tie rod ends, especially on earlier models or those used for towing/off-roading.
Wheel Bearing Failure:
Front wheel bearing assemblies can be prone to failure, often indicated by humming or grinding noises.
Exhaust Manifold Cracks:
The cast iron exhaust manifolds, particularly on the V8 engines, can develop cracks leading to exhaust leaks and ticking noises.
Ignition Coil Failure:
Individual ignition coils can fail, leading to misfires and rough running.
Heater Core Leaks:
Heater core can leak, often indicated by a sweet smell in the cabin or fogged windows.
Chevrolet SUV Legacy:
Chevrolet has a long history of producing trucks and SUVs, leveraging its experience with pickups to create capable off-road and towing-oriented vehicles.
Gmt360 Introduction:
The GMT360 platform was introduced in 2002, replacing the smaller S-10 Blazer and Jimmy. It was a significant step up in size and capability, offering V8 engine options.
Facelift Updates:
The Trailblazer received a refresh for the 2006 model year, which included updated styling, interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements (e.g., revised 4.2L I6, introduction of Active Fuel Management on 5.3L V8).
Production Years:
2002-2009 (North America)
Manufacturing Plants:
Moraine, Ohio; Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Linden, New Jersey.
Jdpower Initial Quality:
The Trailblazer has historically received mixed reviews in initial quality studies, often reflecting the complexity of its platform and features.
Consumer Reports:
Consumer Reports ratings varied by year and powertrain, with some praise for the V8 and capability, but often noted issues with reliability and fuel economy.
Fuel Economy Epa Est I6 Rwd:
Approx. 15 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
Fuel Economy Epa Est V8 Rwd:
Approx. 14 mpg city / 19 mpg highway
