2000 Chevrolet Blazer
2000 Chevrolet Blazer
Overview
The 2000 Chevrolet Blazer, a popular compact SUV, offered a range of engine and transmission options catering to different needs. While generally considered a capable vehicle for its time, like many vehicles of this era, it has specific areas where owners have reported issues. This analysis focuses on common mechanical and electrical problems, excluding routine maintenance. Understanding these potential pitfalls can help current and prospective owners anticipate and address necessary repairs, ensuring the longevity and reliability of their Blazer.
Engine
4.3L V6 Vortec
Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks
- Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, rough idle, sweet smell from coolant.
- Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
- Cost: $400 - $700
Distributor Cap and Rotor Wear
- Symptoms: Misfires, rough idling, poor acceleration, check engine light.
- Solution: Replacement of the distributor cap and rotor.
- Cost: $150 - $300
2.2L 4-Cylinder
Head Gasket Failure
- Symptoms: Overheating, coolant loss, white smoke from exhaust, milky oil.
- Solution: Replacement of the head gasket.
- Cost: $800 - $1500
Transmission
4L60-E Automatic Transmission
Torque Converter Issues
- Symptoms: Slipping gears, shuddering, delayed engagement, fluid leaks.
- Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the torque converter and potentially the transmission.
- Cost: $1200 - $2500
Solenoid Failure
- Symptoms: Harsh shifting, failure to shift into certain gears, transmission warning light.
- Solution: Replacement of transmission solenoids.
- Cost: $300 - $600
NV1500 Manual Transmission
No widespread issues reported.
- Symptoms: N/A
- Solution: N/A
- Cost: Varies
Suspension
Standard Chassis
Ball Joint Wear
- Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, steering wander.
- Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Sway Bar Link Bushing Failure
- Symptoms: Rattling or clunking noises, especially when turning or going over uneven surfaces.
- Solution: Replacement of sway bar link bushings.
- Cost: $100 - $250
Electrical
Body Control Module (BCM)
BCM Malfunctions
- Symptoms: Intermittent power to various accessories (windows, locks, lights), dashboard warning lights, security system issues.
- Solution: Reprogramming or replacement of the BCM.
- Cost: $500 - $1000
Alternator
Alternator Failure
- Symptoms: Dimming headlights, battery warning light, electrical system failures, dead battery.
- Solution: Replacement of the alternator.
- Cost: $300 - $600
Exterior
Body Panels
Rust and Corrosion
- Symptoms: Visible rust on fenders, rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
- Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or replacement of affected panels.
- Cost: $200 - $1500+
Tailgate Latch
Sticking or Broken Latch
- Symptoms: Difficulty opening or closing the tailgate, tailgate not staying latched.
- Solution: Repair or replacement of the tailgate latch mechanism.
- Cost: $100 - $300
Interior
HVAC System
Blend Door Actuator Failure
- Symptoms: Inability to control temperature (stuck on hot or cold), air only coming from certain vents.
- Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
- Cost: $150 - $350
Power Window Motors
Window Motor Failure
- Symptoms: Power windows not operating, slow window operation.
- Solution: Replacement of the power window motor and regulator.
- Cost: $200 - $400
Summary Verdict
The 2000 Chevrolet Blazer, particularly models equipped with the 4.3L V6, can be a reliable vehicle if common issues like intake manifold gasket leaks and distributor wear are addressed. The 4L60-E transmission, while common, may require attention for torque converter or solenoid problems. Rust is a significant concern for exterior longevity, especially in certain climates. Electrical gremlins, often related to the BCM or alternator, are also reported. Interior components like HVAC blend doors and power window motors can fail. Overall, while not immune to problems, many issues are repairable, and proactive maintenance can mitigate some of these common failures.