2000 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2000 Chevrolet Blazer is a compact SUV known for its truck-like body-on-frame construction, making it relatively durable and capable off-road. It was available with two engine options: a 4.3L Vortec V6 producing 190 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, and a less common 2.2L Inline-4 producing 120 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque. The 4.3L was paired with either a 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission or a NV3500 5-speed manual transmission, while the 2.2L was only paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Owners often appreciate its relatively low price point, capable 4x4 system, and straightforward mechanical design that is easy to work on. Common complaints include poor fuel economy (especially with the V6), a somewhat cramped interior, and a tendency for rust in certain climates.

Engine

4.3L Vortec V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, rough idle, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust, coolant smell. Can lead to internal engine damage if not addressed.
  • Solution: Replacement of the intake manifold gaskets.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Injector Failure (Spider Injector Assembly)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rough running engine, misfires, poor fuel economy, check engine light. The spider injector assembly is a common point of failure due to its design and location.
  • Solution: Replace the spider injector assembly with an updated multi-port fuel injection (MPFI) system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine not starting, misfires, rough idle, stalling, check engine light. Hall effect sensor inside the distributor is prone to failure.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.2L Inline-4

No Issues Found

Transmission

4L60E (Automatic)

• Slipping/Harsh Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping between gears, harsh or delayed shifts, failure to shift, erratic shifting patterns. Often caused by worn clutch packs or valve body issues.
  • Solution: Transmission rebuild or replacement. Valve body replacement can sometimes resolve the issue if caught early.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500 for a valve body replacement; $1,500 - $3,500+ for a full rebuild or replacement.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at highway speeds, stalling, transmission overheating. Often accompanied by metallic debris in the transmission fluid.
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter and flush the transmission fluid.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

NV3500 (Manual)

No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Ball Joint Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises from the front suspension, wandering steering, uneven tire wear. Ball joints are a common wear item, especially if the vehicle is used off-road.
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ per side.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Idler Arm/Pitman Arm Wear
  • Description/Symptoms: Loose steering, wandering, difficulty keeping the vehicle straight. Common in 4x4 models.
  • Solution: Replace the idler arm and/or pitman arm.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Fuel Gauge Inaccuracy
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel gauge showing inaccurate readings or not working at all. Often caused by a faulty fuel level sending unit in the fuel tank.
  • Solution: Replace the fuel level sending unit.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic gauge readings, loss of illumination, complete failure of the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the instrument cluster.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight Switch Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working, flickering, or only working intermittently.
  • Solution: Replace the headlight switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust (Lower Body Panels/Frame)
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation on the rocker panels, lower door panels, wheel wells, and frame. Particularly prevalent in areas with road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $2000+ depending on severity.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Door Handle Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking, particularly the exterior door handles.
  • Solution: Replace the door handle assembly.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per door.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blower Motor Resistor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Blower motor only working on certain speeds or not working at all.
  • Solution: Replace the blower motor resistor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Regulator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, making grinding noises, or moving slowly.
  • Solution: Replace the power window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2000 Chevrolet Blazer, while generally reliable, has its share of common issues. The 4.3L V6 is prone to intake manifold gasket and fuel injector failures, potentially leading to engine problems. The 4L60E automatic transmission can experience slipping and shifting problems, often requiring a rebuild. Suspension components like ball joints and idler arms are also common wear items. Electrical issues such as fuel gauge inaccuracies and instrument cluster failures can also occur. Rust is a significant concern, especially in regions with road salt. Overall, while the Blazer can be a good value, potential buyers should be aware of these common problems and budget accordingly for potential repairs. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, but addressing them promptly can prevent further damage and ensure the vehicle’s longevity.