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2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer Ext

Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations

Limited comparison data

There is not enough comparable history to draw a useful model-year comparison.

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When problems were reported

Mileage at the reported incident

261 reports with mileage · 52 unknown

NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.

What to inspect

Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.

  • Fuel System, Gasoline. Review the 80 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Electrical System. Review the 77 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
  • Power Train. Review the 49 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →

NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.

7 crash reports6 fire reports9 injury reports

Structure complaints

20 reports
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40,000 miles · Apr 22, 2007
StructureInjury

ABOUT TWO YEARS AGO WHILE I WAS TRYING TO CLOSE THE GLASS REAR HATCH ON MY 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER IT EXPLODED IN MY FACE. I WAS CUT ON MY HANDS, FACE, AND GOT GLASS IN MY EYES. I WENT DIRECTLY TO THE DEALER (ARROW CHEVROLET, NOW CALLED SUNRISE CHEVROLET, IN MIDLOTHIAN IL.) THE SERVICE DEPT. LOOKED AT THE DAMAGE AND SAID T…

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ABOUT TWO YEARS AGO WHILE I WAS TRYING TO CLOSE THE GLASS REAR HATCH ON MY 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER IT EXPLODED IN MY FACE. I WAS CUT ON MY HANDS, FACE, AND GOT GLASS IN MY EYES. I WENT DIRECTLY TO THE DEALER (ARROW CHEVROLET, NOW CALLED SUNRISE CHEVROLET, IN MIDLOTHIAN IL.) THE SERVICE DEPT. LOOKED AT THE DAMAGE AND SAID THEY NEVER SAW ANYTHING LIKE THAT, (I FOUND OUT LATER THAT IT IS COMMON) THEY SENT THE VEHICLE OUT TO A "WINDOW REPAIR SHOP" TO HAVE THE GLASS REPLACED. WHEN I GOT THE CAR BACK, I NOTICED THAT THE WINDOW WAS NOT ALIGNED PROPERLY; THE SERVICE DEPT. LOOKED AT IT QUICKLY AND TOLD ME THAT IT WAS FINE. THREE WEEKS AGO WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE INTERSTATE AT 70 MPH A LOUD VIBRATION CAME FROM THE GLASS WINDOW HATCH, AS I SLOWED DOWN THE HIGH MOUNT REAR STOP TAIL LAMP ASSEMBLY, WHICH IS A LARGE FIBERGLASS BODY PIECE AS WIDE AS THE CAR AND 3 FEET ACROSS FLEW OFF MY CAR STRIKING A CAR IN BACK OF ME. I PULLED OVER AND SO DID THE OTHER DRIVER, THE OTHER DRIVER WAS VERY SHAKEN AS SO WAS I. SLIGHT DAMAGE TO THE HOOD AND THE BUMPER OF THE OTHER CAR AND HE SAID THAT IT WAS OK SINCE THE CAR WAS OLD. MY CAR NOW IS MISSING A LARGE PIECE OF THE BODY AND THE THIRD BRAKE LIGHT. IT WAS RUN OVER BY A TRUCK... THE WINDOW COMPANY THAT REPLACED THE REAR HATCH WINDOW DID NOT AFFIX THE PANEL PROPERLY TO THE WINDOW; I HAVE SEEN MAY COMPLAINTS ON OTHER WEB SITE THAT THE FACTORY INSTALL AND THE DOUBLE FACE TAPE THAT IS USED MALFUNCTIONS ALL THE TIME, PLEASE HELP ME, WE ARE DEALING WITH TWO ISSUES HERE, THE REAR WINDOW EXPLODING AND INJURING ME AND THE FAULTY DOUBLE FACED TAPE THAT IS USED TO SECURE OUTSIDE PARTS TO THE CAR. IN ADDITION, THE ILLINOIS STATE POLICE STOPPED AND TOLD ME THAT THEY COULD HAVE GIVEN ME A TICKET FOR DRIVING AN UNSAFE VEHICLE BUT THEY GAVE ME A PASS AND TOLD ME TO WRITE TO YOU AND SEND THEM A COPY OF MY LETTER. *TR

NHTSA ODI #10188529

42,229 miles · Mar 30, 2007
Fuel System, GasolineStructure

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER EXT. THE CONTACT OPENED THE REAR HATCH AND HEARD A CRACKING NOISE COMING FROM THE TOP. APPROXIMATELY THREE TO FOUR DAYS LATER THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE CENTER HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP BRACKET FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT TO THE DEALER SIMMONS-ROCKWELL CHEVROLET. THE DEALER…

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TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER EXT. THE CONTACT OPENED THE REAR HATCH AND HEARD A CRACKING NOISE COMING FROM THE TOP. APPROXIMATELY THREE TO FOUR DAYS LATER THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE CENTER HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP BRACKET FAILED. THE VEHICLE WAS BROUGHT TO THE DEALER SIMMONS-ROCKWELL CHEVROLET. THE DEALER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO ANOTHER MECHANIC, AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE FAILURE WAS TYPICAL FOR THAT TYPE OF VEHICLE AND WAS INDEED A SAFETY ISSUE. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE ENTIRE CENTER HIGH MOUNTED STOP LAMP COULD BECOME DETACHED WHILE DRIVING AND STRIKE ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE CONTACT FOUND ANOTHER COMPLAINT ONLINE WITH ODI # 10061979. THE CONTACT FILED A COMPLAINT WITH THE MANUFACTURER, AND WAS GIVEN CASE # 71-500170558. ALSO, THE CONTACT STATED THE FUEL SYSTEM FAILED. IN JANUARY OF 2007, THE CONTACT DETECTED AN AROMA OF GAS WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THE ODOR BECAME INCREASINGLY POTENT, AND THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER, WHO STATED THAT THE FUEL PUMP MODULE WAS CORRODED AND LEAKED. AND THE DEALER QUOTED A REPAIR PRICE OF $800. THE FUEL PUMP FILTER WAS REPAIRED, AND AFTER SERIOUS NEGOTIATIONS, THE CONTACT WAS ONLY REQUIRED TO PAY $196.00. THE CONTACT SEARCHED ONLINE ,AND FOUND AN OPEN INVESTIGATION , PE07013 FROM NHTSA DATED MARCH 12, 2007 FOR THE FUEL SYSTEM. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 42,229. *AK

NHTSA ODI #10186556

15,800 miles · Aug 23, 2006
Structure

THE ROOF RACK TO MY 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER BLEW OFF WHILE DRIVING HOME FROM THE SHORE ON THE ATLANTIC CITY EXPRESSWAY. THERE WAS NO PRIOR DAMAGE OR ACCIDENT TO THE VEHICLE TO CAUSE SUCH A PROBLEM. WE WERE INFORMED THAT OUR CAR WAS NOT THE FIRST CASE. THE DEALER DID FIX THE ROOF RACK BUT I'M CONCERNED THAT IT WILL HAPPEN…

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THE ROOF RACK TO MY 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER BLEW OFF WHILE DRIVING HOME FROM THE SHORE ON THE ATLANTIC CITY EXPRESSWAY. THERE WAS NO PRIOR DAMAGE OR ACCIDENT TO THE VEHICLE TO CAUSE SUCH A PROBLEM. WE WERE INFORMED THAT OUR CAR WAS NOT THE FIRST CASE. THE DEALER DID FIX THE ROOF RACK BUT I'M CONCERNED THAT IT WILL HAPPEN AGAIN IF NO ADJUSTMENTS ARE MADE TO THE DESIGN. THERE IS A GLUE STRIP THAT HOLDS THE BOTTOM PORTION IN PLACE. THIS IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. *JB

NHTSA ODI #10166376

76,000 miles · Jul 24, 2006
Structure

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED, WHILE DRIVING OR PARKED, THE VEHICLE LEAKS WATER FROM RAIN AND PUDDLES ON THE ROAD INTO THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE FIRST LEAK ENTERED THROUGH THE LEFT REAR DOOR. WHILE THE SECOND LEAK ENTERED FROM THE LEFT REAR WHEEL FENDER SHIELDING. THE WATER FROM THE LEAKS CAUSED MOLD IN THE CARPETING OF THE VE…

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DT*: THE CONTACT STATED, WHILE DRIVING OR PARKED, THE VEHICLE LEAKS WATER FROM RAIN AND PUDDLES ON THE ROAD INTO THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. THE FIRST LEAK ENTERED THROUGH THE LEFT REAR DOOR. WHILE THE SECOND LEAK ENTERED FROM THE LEFT REAR WHEEL FENDER SHIELDING. THE WATER FROM THE LEAKS CAUSED MOLD IN THE CARPETING OF THE VEHICLE. THE MANUFACTURER DETERMINED THE VEHICLE WAS BEYOND THE WARRANTY LIMITATIONS. THE DEALER OFFERED TO REPAIR AND REPLACE THE CARPETING AT THE OWNER'S EXPENSE.

NHTSA ODI #10163281

Mileage unknown · Mar 14, 2006
Structure

THE REAR TAIL GATE HAS SEPARATED FROM THE TOP THERE IS A HUGE GAP NOW BETWEEN THE ROOF AND THE UPPER PLASTIC PIECE - BIG ENOUGH THAT WHEN THE DOOR IS CLOSED I CAN FIT MY ENTIRE HAND BETWEEN WHAT IS SUPPOSED TO BE THE SEAL. I WAS LOOKING INTO IT AND FOUND OUT THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED TO A LOT OF TRAIL BLAZERS AND ENVOYS. I…

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THE REAR TAIL GATE HAS SEPARATED FROM THE TOP THERE IS A HUGE GAP NOW BETWEEN THE ROOF AND THE UPPER PLASTIC PIECE - BIG ENOUGH THAT WHEN THE DOOR IS CLOSED I CAN FIT MY ENTIRE HAND BETWEEN WHAT IS SUPPOSED TO BE THE SEAL. I WAS LOOKING INTO IT AND FOUND OUT THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED TO A LOT OF TRAIL BLAZERS AND ENVOYS. I HAVE NO IDEA OF HOW IT EVEN HAPPENED. WHEN I CONTACTED GM ABOUT THE PROBLEM THEY ADVISE THAT THE PROBLEM IS NOT COVERED. *NM

NHTSA ODI #10152698

44,306 miles · Mar 12, 2006
StructureInjury

AWFUL, AWFUL SAFETY HAZARD ON MY 2003 TRAILBLAZER!!!!!THE HATCH BACK/LIFT GATE WON'T OPEN - TAILGATE WINDOW EXPLODES IN THE MECHANICS FACE KNOCKING HIM TO THE GROUND. REPRESENTATIVES FROM GM AND FROM THE DEALERSHIP DENY THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED IN ANY OTHER 2003 TRAILBLAZERS. THAT IS A LIE!!!! SEE OTHER COMPLAINTS ON THIS VER…

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AWFUL, AWFUL SAFETY HAZARD ON MY 2003 TRAILBLAZER!!!!!THE HATCH BACK/LIFT GATE WON'T OPEN - TAILGATE WINDOW EXPLODES IN THE MECHANICS FACE KNOCKING HIM TO THE GROUND. REPRESENTATIVES FROM GM AND FROM THE DEALERSHIP DENY THAT THIS HAS HAPPENED IN ANY OTHER 2003 TRAILBLAZERS. THAT IS A LIE!!!! SEE OTHER COMPLAINTS ON THIS VERY WEBSITE. COMPLAINT #10121982, ALSO COMPLAINT #10150063, AND COMPLAINT #10075392. THEN CHECK OUT COMPLAINT #10038988, #10075392 AND #10061979 REGARDING THE HATCHBACK TAILGATE BREAKDOWNS. COMPLAINT #10121982 TELLS OF A CHILD THAT IS INJURED BY THE EXPLODING GLASS IN THE TAILGATE. REMEMBER THE DOUBLE SIDED TAPE THAT THE DEALERSHIP TELLS ME THAT GM USES TO HOLD ON THE HIGH MOUNT STOP LIGHT AND TRIM??? IN COMPLAINT #10038988 THE COMPLAINANT WAS ALSO TOLD ABOUT THE DOUBLE SIDED TAPE. ARE YOU INVESTIGATING THIS PROBLEM????? I AM DRIVING A VERY UNSAFE CAR AND I WILL FIGHT UNTIL I GET SOME ACTION. I HAVE BEEN WITHOUT A CAR NOW FOR 10 DAYS. THE DEALERSHIP INSISTED THAT WE TURN THIS CLAIM INTO MY INSURANCE. $2,650 CLAIM FOR WHAT THE DEALERSHIP SAID WOULD COST $25. THE DEALERS BODY SHOP ALSO EXPLAINED THAT THE HIGH MOUNT STOP LIGHT AND TRIM ARE ATTACHED WITH DOUBLE FACE TAPE AND IF THEY COME LOOSE THEY BIND INSIDE THE HATCHBACK. I DON'T FEEL IT IS MY INSURANCE COMPANY'S RESPONSIBILITY TO PAY FOR SOMETHING THE DEALER CAUSED. THIS IS A VERY DANGEROUS PROBLEM CREATED BY CHEVEROLET'S POOR DESIGN. WHY HAVEN'T THEY DONE A RECALL ON THIS. THERE ARE NUMEROUS OTHER COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME HATCHBACK FAILURE. THE GLASS COULD EXPLODE ON ME ON MY GRANDKIDS OR ANOTHER MECHANIC. I WILL BE NERVOUS EVERYTIME I OPEN THAT HATCHBACK AND I WILL NEVER, NEVER BUY A GENERAL MOTORS CAR AGAIN. THE DEALERSHIP TREATED MY HUSBAND AND I TERRIBLY. THEY KNEW THEY HAD THE UPPER HAND IN THE SITUATION AND THEY KNEW THERE WAS NOTHING WE COULD DO. *JB

NHTSA ODI #10152494

24,500 miles · May 24, 2005
StructureInjury

DT: THE OWNER WENT TO OPEN THE GLASS ON THE TAILGATE ,AND WHEN THE OWNER HAD HER HAND ON THE HANDLE TO LIFT THE GLASS IT EXPLODED FROM THE TAILGATE. THE WERE NO PRIOR PROBLEMS WITH THE TAILGATE. DEALER REPLACED THE GLASS WHICH WAS COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. THE OWNER'S CHILD SUSTAINED INJURIES IN THIS INCIDENT, SHE HAD A SMALL…

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DT: THE OWNER WENT TO OPEN THE GLASS ON THE TAILGATE ,AND WHEN THE OWNER HAD HER HAND ON THE HANDLE TO LIFT THE GLASS IT EXPLODED FROM THE TAILGATE. THE WERE NO PRIOR PROBLEMS WITH THE TAILGATE. DEALER REPLACED THE GLASS WHICH WAS COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. THE OWNER'S CHILD SUSTAINED INJURIES IN THIS INCIDENT, SHE HAD A SMALL CUT ON HER HAND, ON HER CHEEK, AND A LARGE CUT ON HER FACE ABOVE HER EYEBROW.*AK

NHTSA ODI #10121982

6,000 miles · Jun 14, 2004
Electrical SystemPower TrainSeat Belts

FRONT END LOOSE, BALL JOINTS NEEDED REPLACEMENT. DRIVER SIDE SEATBELT DEFECTIVE/TWISTED. ROTORS WARPED NEEDED REPALCEMENT. OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLE DOES NOT OPEN DOOR. DIRVER SIDE MIRROR MOVES AROUND (PROGRAMED) WITHOUT NOTICE. TRANSMISSION ENGAGES ROUGH, FEELS LIKE IT SLIPPING. TAILGATE OUT OF ALLIGNMENT, REAR SEATBELT DEFECTIVE …

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FRONT END LOOSE, BALL JOINTS NEEDED REPLACEMENT. DRIVER SIDE SEATBELT DEFECTIVE/TWISTED. ROTORS WARPED NEEDED REPALCEMENT. OUTSIDE DOOR HANDLE DOES NOT OPEN DOOR. DIRVER SIDE MIRROR MOVES AROUND (PROGRAMED) WITHOUT NOTICE. TRANSMISSION ENGAGES ROUGH, FEELS LIKE IT SLIPPING. TAILGATE OUT OF ALLIGNMENT, REAR SEATBELT DEFECTIVE NEEDED REPLACEMENT, 4WD LOCKED UP IN PARKING LOT, FRONT END HAS SCRAPING NOISES WHEN TURNING, HEATED SEATS NOT WORKING, IRRATIC, TAILGATE PANEL FALLS OFF, DRIVER SEAT FRAME BROKEN NEEDED REPLACEMENT,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IRRATIC. *AK

NHTSA ODI #10075392

17 miles · Apr 7, 2004
Structure

THE REAR BUMPER OF MY 2003 CHEVY TRAILBLAZER CRACKED DUING AN IMPACT OF LESS THAN 5MPH. GM TOLD ME THAT THIS ISN'T A PROBLEM, AND THIS MIGHT HAPPEN. I THOUGHT THEY NAMED THIS A BUMPER BECAUSE IT WAS THERE TO WITHSTAND SOME KIND OF IMPACT.*AK

NHTSA ODI #10065715

21,000 miles · Mar 12, 2004
Exterior LightingPower TrainService Brakes, Air

2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER - PURCHASED IN MAY OF 2003 OFF OF THE SALES FLOOR - AROUND 5 MILES ON IT - TRUCK BEGAN SQUEAKING - TOOK IT IN, THEY SAID BAD BREAK PADS, CHANGED THEM OUT AND GAVE IT BACK (2 DAYS WITHOUT TRUCK) - SQUEAKING STILL THERE - TOOK IT BACK IN - SERVICE TECH SAID THE FRONT SPINDLE WAS BENT - TOLD ME I COULDN'T…

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2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER - PURCHASED IN MAY OF 2003 OFF OF THE SALES FLOOR - AROUND 5 MILES ON IT - TRUCK BEGAN SQUEAKING - TOOK IT IN, THEY SAID BAD BREAK PADS, CHANGED THEM OUT AND GAVE IT BACK (2 DAYS WITHOUT TRUCK) - SQUEAKING STILL THERE - TOOK IT BACK IN - SERVICE TECH SAID THE FRONT SPINDLE WAS BENT - TOLD ME I COULDN'T DRIVE IT IT WAS UNSAFE (5 MORE DAYS WITHOUT TRUCK) - AT THE SAME TIME THEY TAKE TRUCK TO BODY SHOP BECAUSE REAR HATCH WON'T SHUT IT TOO IS BENT - SAME WITH THE HOOD (HMMMMMMMM!!!!) - REAR WIPER MOTOR THEN BUSTS (NOW I'M ERKED) - DRIVING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT 55 AND TRUCK SHUTS OFF - NO POWER STEERING ALMOST WRECK IT SEEMS THE GAS GAUGE IS NOT ACCURATE!!!!!!! - THEN BLOWER MOTOR WON'T SHUT OFF WITHOUT TAKING FUSE OUT ... NO HEAT IN REAR HEATERS, CLIMATE CONTROL DOESN'T WORK (YET A FEW MORE DAYS WITHOUT TRUCK)- THE LAST STRAW - MY 9 MONTH OLD TRUCK HAS A BROKEN TRANSFER CASE AND THE 4-WHEEL DRIVE WENT OUT - OF COURSE THE 4-WHEEL DRIVE WENT OUT ON A STEEP HILL IN THE MIDDLE OF WINTER - NOT ACCEPTABLE IN ALASKA NOT ACCEPTABLE IN A NEW TRUCK!!!!!! - HAD TO GET OUT OF A DEFECTIVE TRUCK SO NOW WE ARE STUCK WITH A BRAND NEW TAHOE THAT IS $10,000+ UPSIDE DOWN! YOU DECIDE WHO IS WRONG IN THIS CASE! *AK

NHTSA ODI #10061979

Official recalls

3

05V494000 · Latches/locks/linkages:doors:latch

Oct 27, 2005

CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES HAVE A REAR SIDE CLOSURE LATCH THAT MAY NOT LATCH OR UNLATCH DUE TO CORROSION CAUSED BY ROAD SPLASH, SUCH AS WATER AND ROAD SALT. THESE VEHICLES WERE ORIGINALLY SOLD IN OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN THE FOLLOWING STATES: CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN, AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: IF THE DOOR IS NOT LATCHED PROPERLY AND IT GOES UNNOTICED, IT MAY OPEN WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION. IF AN UNBELTED OCCUPANT FELL OUT OF THE VEHICLE, PERSONAL INJURIES COULD OCCUR.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A SEAL ALONG THE LOWER PART OF THE ROCKER PANEL TO PREVENT INTRUSION OF CORROSIVE MATERIAL, AND INSPECT THE REAR SIDE CLOSURE LATCHES. FUNCTIONAL LATCHES WILL BE CLEANED AND LUBRICATED. NON-FUNCTIONING LATCHES WILL BE REPLACED. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 24, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, OR ISUZU AT 1-800-255-6727.

04V527000 · Exterior Lighting:brake Lights

Nov 1, 2004

ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, VIBRATION AND HEAT MAY CAUSE THE TAIL LAMP/STOP LAMP BULB TO LOOSEN IN ITS SOCKET. IF THIS OCCURS, THE BULB MAY FLICKER AND EVENTUALLY BECOME INOPERATIVE.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: AN INOPERATIVE BRAKE LAMP WILL NOT CONVEY THE DRIVER'S INTENTION OF STOPPING TO DRIVERS IN FOLLOWING VEHICLES, AND AN INOPERATIVE REAR TURN SIGNAL LAMP WILL NOT CONVEY THE DRIVER'S INTENTION TO TURN TO DRIVERS IN FOLLOWING VEHICLES. BOTH OF THESE FAILURES CAN INCREASE THE RISK OF A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TAIL LAMP/STOP LAMP ASSEMBLIES, AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THEM. THE RECALL BEGAN ON NOVEMBER 22, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537, BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.

04V046000 · Visibility:windshield Wiper/washer

Feb 4, 2004

CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES HAVE WINDSHIELD WIPER SYSTEMS THAT WILL NOT TURN ON, CEASE OPERATION WHILE IN USE, FAIL TO TURN OFF/ON BY THEMSELVES (MOISTURE SENSITIVE WIPER SYSTEM), OR HAVE CONTINUOUS WINDSHIELD WASHER PUMP OPERATION BECAUSE THE PRESENCE OF WATER WITHIN THE WIPER MODULES CAN EITHER CAUSE A SHORT CIRCUIT OR CAN LEAD TO THE CORROSION OF COMPONENTS WITHIN THE MODULE.

Consequence & remedy

Consequence: DEPENDING ON THE OCCURRENCE AND WEATHER SITUATION, DRIVER VISIBILITY COULD BE REDUCED, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy: DEALERS WILL COVER THE WINDSHIELD WIPER MODULE VENT HOLE WITH A PATCH. ALSO, THE WIPER MOTOR, CIRCUIT BOARD, AND ELECTRICAL CONNECTOR WILL BE INSPECTED TO SIGNS OF WATER INTRUSION AND/OR CORROSION AND BE REPLACED AS REQUIRED. THE RECALL BEGAN JULY 6, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; OLDSMOBILE AT 1-800-630-6537; OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.

Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗

NHTSA investigations

6

RQ17002 · Loss Of Headlights

Opened Apr 24, 2017 · Closed Mar 29, 2021

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Exterior Lighting:headlights

The subject vehicles are model year (MY) 2002-2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2004-2007 Buick Rainier, 2003-2008 Isuzu Ascender, 2005-2009 Saab 9-7X, 2002-2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003-2006 Chevrolet SSR, 2005-2009 Buick Lacrosse, and 2006-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix. This scope includes the Trailblazer/Envoy variants: 2002-2006 Envoy XL/Trailblazer EXT and 2004-2005 Envoy XUV. The original scope of this investigation was expanded to include all vehicles equipped with the subject Headlight Driver Module (HDM). The focus of the investigation was to determine whether actions performed by General Motors adequately addressed any unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety in the subject vehicles concerning the headlights and the HDM that controls them.Under normal electrical load and environmental conditions, the HDM can overheat inside the Underhood Electrical Center (UEC). This can cause the module to fail and result in a simultaneous loss of both low beam headlights and both daytime running lights (DRLs), often with no warning or prior detectability to the driver. This failure can be intermittent or permanent. No other exterior lights are affected. High beams, turn signals, brake lights, and reverse lights are still operational.General Motors addressed this issue with 2 recalls (14V755 & 15V519) and a special coverage program (N172091910). In view of the recalls and special coverage program implemented by GM and the vehicle high beams continuing to operate, ODI has tentatively concluded that the actions taken by GM mitigate any unreasonable risk to safety posed by HDM failure in the subject vehicles.Accordingly, the investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by new circumstances.The ODI reports cited above are available for review online at NHTSA.gov under the identification numbers in the attached document.

EA07009 · Fuel Pump Module Leaks Gasoline

Opened Jul 10, 2007 · Closed Aug 28, 2008

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump

DURING THE COURSE OF THIS EA INVESTIGATION, ODI OBSERVED THAT THE MAJORITY OF THE COMPLAINTS (88%) AND WARRANTY CLAIMS (94%) WERE REPORTED FOR VEHICLES THAT ARE REGISTERED FOR USE IN THE SALT BELT REGION OF THE US.THIS AREA INCLUDES 20 STATES IN THE NORTHEAST, MID ATLANTIC AND THE MIDWEST REGIONS AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA.CONSUMERS IN THE SALT BELT REGION REPORTED TO ODI THAT THEY COULD SMELL FUEL VAPORS IN THEIR VEHICLES WHILE DRIVING.UPON FURTHER EXAMINATION OF THEIR VEHICLES, THEY DISCOVERED THAT FUEL VAPORS WERE COMING OUT OF THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK. THIS CONDITION IS CAUSED BY CORROSION OF THE RETURN AND SENDER LINES OF THE FUEL PUMP MODULE.WATER AND ROAD SALT COLLECT ON TOP OF THE FUEL PUMP LEADING TO SMALL PINHOLES APPEARING ON THE FUEL LINES.FUEL MAY LEAK AND COLLECT ON TOP OF THE MODULE AND/OR SPILL ONTO THE GROUND.THE DATA EVALUATED UNDER THIS INVESTIGATION REFLECT A RELATIVELY LOW FREQUENCY OF OCCURRENCE THAT LARGELY ARISES IN SALT BELT STATES.GM HAS EXTENDED THE WARRANTY ON THE SUBJECT COMPONENT TO TEN YEARS OR 120,000 MILES.FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED AT THIS TIME; ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SELECT DOCUMENT SEARCH.

PE07014 · Fuel Tank Leak

Opened Mar 13, 2007 · Closed Jun 12, 2007

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly; Fuel System, Other:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings

IN JUNE 2007, GM WILL EXPAND ITS SPECIAL POLICY TO ADDRESS FUEL TANK INLET CHECK VALVE (ICV) FRACTURES ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) TRAILBLAZER EXT AND GMC ENVOY XL VEHICLES.THE EXPANDED POLICY COVERS MY 2002-2004 TRAILBLAZER EXT, GMC ENVOY XL, AND GMC ENVOY XUV VEHICLES AND WILL EXTEND FOR A PERIOD OF 10 YEARS OR 150,000 MILES (WHICHEVER COMES FIRST).GM WILL PROVIDE FREE REPAIR OF THE FUEL TANK. IT IS SENDING LETTERS TO OWNERS BEGINNING IN JUNE OF 2007.THIS ACTION SUPERSEDES GM'S PREVIOUS 7 YEAR/70,000 MILE SPECIAL POLICY FOR MY 2002 TRAILBLAZER EXT AND ENVOY XL VEHICLES.THE CONDITION IS MOST OFTEN REPORTED AS ILLUMINATION OF THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON (SES) LIGHT.THE VEHICLE'S DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM DETECTS THE PRESENCE OF A FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE LEAK AND ILLUMINATES THE SES LIGHT.OTHER OWNERS REPORT SMELLING GASOLINE FUMES. THE ACTION TAKEN BY THE MANUFACTURER IS SUFFICIENT TO RESOLVE THE ISSUES RAISED BY THIS INVESTIGATION.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly

IN JUNE 2007, GM WILL EXPAND ITS SPECIAL POLICY TO ADDRESS FUEL TANK INLET CHECK VALVE (ICV) FRACTURES ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) TRAILBLAZER EXT AND GMC ENVOY XL VEHICLES.THE EXPANDED POLICY COVERS MY 2002-2004 TRAILBLAZER EXT, GMC ENVOY XL, AND GMC ENVOY XUV VEHICLES AND WILL EXTEND FOR A PERIOD OF 10 YEARS OR 150,000 MILES (WHICHEVER COMES FIRST).GM WILL PROVIDE FREE REPAIR OF THE FUEL TANK. IT IS SENDING LETTERS TO OWNERS BEGINNING IN JUNE OF 2007.THIS ACTION SUPERSEDES GM'S PREVIOUS 7 YEAR/70,000 MILE SPECIAL POLICY FOR MY 2002 TRAILBLAZER EXT AND ENVOY XL VEHICLES.THE CONDITION IS MOST OFTEN REPORTED AS ILLUMINATION OF THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON (SES) LIGHT.THE VEHICLE'S DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM DETECTS THE PRESENCE OF A FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE LEAK AND ILLUMINATES THE SES LIGHT.OTHER OWNERS REPORT SMELLING GASOLINE FUMES. THE ACTION TAKEN BY THE MANUFACTURER IS SUFFICIENT TO RESOLVE THE ISSUES RAISED BY THIS INVESTIGATION.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.

Fuel System, Other:delivery:hoses, Lines/piping, And Fittings

IN JUNE 2007, GM WILL EXPAND ITS SPECIAL POLICY TO ADDRESS FUEL TANK INLET CHECK VALVE (ICV) FRACTURES ON CERTAIN MODEL YEAR (MY) TRAILBLAZER EXT AND GMC ENVOY XL VEHICLES.THE EXPANDED POLICY COVERS MY 2002-2004 TRAILBLAZER EXT, GMC ENVOY XL, AND GMC ENVOY XUV VEHICLES AND WILL EXTEND FOR A PERIOD OF 10 YEARS OR 150,000 MILES (WHICHEVER COMES FIRST).GM WILL PROVIDE FREE REPAIR OF THE FUEL TANK. IT IS SENDING LETTERS TO OWNERS BEGINNING IN JUNE OF 2007.THIS ACTION SUPERSEDES GM'S PREVIOUS 7 YEAR/70,000 MILE SPECIAL POLICY FOR MY 2002 TRAILBLAZER EXT AND ENVOY XL VEHICLES.THE CONDITION IS MOST OFTEN REPORTED AS ILLUMINATION OF THE SERVICE ENGINE SOON (SES) LIGHT.THE VEHICLE'S DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM DETECTS THE PRESENCE OF A FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURE LEAK AND ILLUMINATES THE SES LIGHT.OTHER OWNERS REPORT SMELLING GASOLINE FUMES. THE ACTION TAKEN BY THE MANUFACTURER IS SUFFICIENT TO RESOLVE THE ISSUES RAISED BY THIS INVESTIGATION.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.

PE07013 · Fuel Pump Module Leaks Gasoline

Opened Mar 12, 2007 · Closed Jul 10, 2007

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline:delivery:fuel Pump

ODI HAS RECEIVED REPORTS THAT THE FUEL PUMP MODULE LEAKS FUEL AND OR VAPOR UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE.GM STATES, THE FAILURE MECHANISM IS CORROSION OF THE FUEL PUMP MODULE FLANGE WHICH MAY LEAD TO A FUEL LEAK.CORROSION OF THE FUEL PUMP MODULE FLANGE IS THE RESULT OF THE VEHICLE OPERATING IN A CORROSIVE ENVIRONMENT.ODI HAS UPGRADED THIS PE TO ENGINEERING ANALYSIS (EA07-009) TO FURTHER ASSESS THIS ISSUE.

EA04021 · Brake Lamp Failure

Opened Aug 3, 2004 · Closed Nov 4, 2004

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Exterior Lighting:brake Lights

GM STATES THAT SOME BRAKE/TAIL LAMP BULBS CAN PREMATURELY BECOME INOPERATIVE DUE TO MALFUNCTIONING BRAKE/TAIL LAMP SOCKETS.ON MARCH 2, 2004, GM INITIATED A 6-YEAR/72,000 MILE SPECIAL POLICY FOR 989,487 SUBJECT VEHICLES TO INSPECT AND REPLACE THE REAR BRAKE/TAIL LAMP BULB SOCKET ASSEMBLIES.ON APRIL 4, 2004, THE OFFICE OF DEFECTS INVESTIGATION (ODI) OPENED A PRELIMINARY EVALUATION (PE04-032) BASED ON CONSUMER COMPLAINTS ALLEGING BRAKE LIGHTS NOT OPERATING WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED.ON AUGUST 3, 2004 ODI UPGRADED PE04-032 TO AN ENGINEERING ANALYSIS (EA04-021).BY LETTER DATED OCTOBER 27, 2004 GM NOTIFIED NHTSA THAT IT WILL CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL (NHTSA # 04V527) COVERING SUBJECT VEHICLES THAT WERE NOT ALREADY REPAIRED UNDER GM'S SPECIAL POLICY.MY 2004 SUBJECT VEHICLES BUILT AFTER AUGUST 8, 2003 CONTAIN IMPROVED BRAKE LAMP ASSEMBLIES AND ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL.GM DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE IMPROVED BRAKE LAMP ASSEMBLY ON SUBJECT VEHICLES BUILT ON AUGUST 8, 2003 AND EARLIER.THE ACTION TAKEN BY GM IS SUFFICIENT TO RESOLVE THE ISSUES RAISED BY THIS INVESTIGATION.ACCORDINGLY, THIS INVESTIGATION IS CLOSED.

PE04001 · Fuel Spillage During Refueling

Opened Jan 5, 2004 · Closed May 7, 2004

Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Gasoline:storage; Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe And Cap

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON THE MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER.BASED ON GM'S INFORMATION REQUEST (IR) RESPONSE, ODI ADDED TO ITS ANALYSIS THE MY 2003 GMC ENVOY AND OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA VEHICLES.THESE VEHICLES SHARE THE SAME VEHICLE PLATFORM (GM 360/370) AND FUEL FILL COMPONENTS.INCIDENT SUMMARY NUMBERS REPORTED ABOVE INCLUDE THESE VEHICLES.EPA REGULATES THE FUEL DISPENSING RATES AT FILLING STATIONS AND GM STATES THAT THE REPORTS OF SPITBACK FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE PRINCIPALLY CAUSED BY FUEL DISPENSING PUMPS EXCEEDING THE RATE SPECIFIED BY EPA.ODI FINDS THAT THE RATE OF COMPLAINTS, FIELD REPORTS AND WARRANTY IS LOW COMPARED TO OTHER VEHICLES THAT HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR A SPITBACK ISSUE.A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME AND FURTHER USE OF THE AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.SEE ATTACHED REPORT FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

Additional source detail variants (2)

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON THE MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER.BASED ON GM'S INFORMATION REQUEST (IR) RESPONSE, ODI ADDED TO ITS ANALYSIS THE MY 2003 GMC ENVOY AND OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA VEHICLES.THESE VEHICLES SHARE THE SAME VEHICLE PLATFORM (GM 360/370) AND FUEL FILL COMPONENTS.INCIDENT SUMMARY NUMBERS REPORTED ABOVE INCLUDE THESE VEHICLES.EPA REGULATES THE FUEL DISPENSING RATES AT FILLING STATIONS AND GM STATES THAT THE REPORTS OF SPITBACK FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE PRINCIPALLY CAUSED BY FUEL DISPENSING PUMPS EXCEEDING THE RATE SPECIFIED BY EPA.ODI FINDS THAT THE RATE OF COMPLAINTS, FIELD REPORTS AND WARRANTY IS LOW COMPARED TO OTHER VEHICLES THAT HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR A SPITBACK ISSUE.A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME AND FURTHER USE OF THE AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.SEE ATTACHED REPORT FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.

Fuel System, Gasoline:storage:tank Assembly:filler Pipe And Cap

THIS INVESTIGATION WAS OPENED ON THE MODEL YEAR (MY) 2003 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER.BASED ON GM'S INFORMATION REQUEST (IR) RESPONSE, ODI ADDED TO ITS ANALYSIS THE MY 2003 GMC ENVOY AND OLDSMOBILE BRAVADA VEHICLES.THESE VEHICLES SHARE THE SAME VEHICLE PLATFORM (GM 360/370) AND FUEL FILL COMPONENTS.INCIDENT SUMMARY NUMBERS REPORTED ABOVE INCLUDE THESE VEHICLES.EPA REGULATES THE FUEL DISPENSING RATES AT FILLING STATIONS AND GM STATES THAT THE REPORTS OF SPITBACK FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE PRINCIPALLY CAUSED BY FUEL DISPENSING PUMPS EXCEEDING THE RATE SPECIFIED BY EPA.ODI FINDS THAT THE RATE OF COMPLAINTS, FIELD REPORTS AND WARRANTY IS LOW COMPARED TO OTHER VEHICLES THAT HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR A SPITBACK ISSUE.A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AT THIS TIME AND FURTHER USE OF THE AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.SEE ATTACHED REPORT FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.