2002 Chevrolet Blazer

2002 Chevrolet Blazer

Overview

The 2002 Chevrolet Blazer, a popular compact SUV, offered a range of engine and drivetrain configurations. While generally considered a capable vehicle for its time, certain model years and specific components have been noted for particular reliability concerns. This analysis focuses on common technical issues reported by owners and technicians, excluding routine maintenance. Understanding these potential problems can help owners anticipate and address them, ensuring the longevity and performance of their 2002 Blazer.

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Engine

4.3L V6 Vortec

Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks

• Symptoms: Coolant leaks, engine overheating, rough idle, sweet smell from engine bay.
• Solution: Replacement of intake manifold gaskets.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Distributor Cap and Rotor Wear

• Symptoms: Misfires, poor acceleration, check engine light, difficulty starting.
• Solution: Replacement of distributor cap and rotor.
• Cost: $150 - $300

2.8L Inline-4 (Less Common)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Transmission

4L60-E Automatic (4-Speed)

Torque Converter Clutch (TCC) Issues

• Symptoms: Slipping, shuddering, failure to engage or disengage, overheating.
• Solution: Rebuild or replacement of the torque converter and potentially transmission.
• Cost: $800 - $1500

Solenoid Failure

• Symptoms: Harsh shifting, delayed engagement, transmission slipping.
• Solution: Replacement of transmission solenoids.
• Cost: $300 - $600

NV3500 Manual (5-Speed)

No widespread issues reported.

• Symptoms: N/A
• Solution: N/A
• Cost: Varies

Suspension

Standard Suspension

Ball Joint Wear

• Symptoms: Clunking noises over bumps, uneven tire wear, steering wander.
• Solution: Replacement of worn ball joints.
• Cost: $300 - $500

Worn Shocks/Struts

• Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, nose-diving during braking.
• Solution: Replacement of shocks and/or struts.
• Cost: $400 - $700

Electrical

General Electrical System

Window Regulator Failure

• Symptoms: Power windows not working, slow operation, grinding noises.
• Solution: Replacement of window regulator assembly.
• Cost: $200 - $400

Instrument Cluster Malfunctions

• Symptoms: Gauges not working, flickering lights, dead cluster.
• Solution: Repair or replacement of the instrument cluster.
• Cost: $400 - $800

Exterior

Body and Trim

Rust on Body Panels

• Symptoms: Visible rust, bubbling paint, especially on wheel arches, rocker panels, and tailgate.
• Solution: Rust repair and repainting, or replacement of affected panels.
• Cost: $500 - $2000+

Interior

Interior Components

HVAC Blower Motor Failure

• Symptoms: No air coming from vents, or intermittent airflow, strange noises from dashboard.
• Solution: Replacement of the HVAC blower motor and resistor.
• Cost: $250 - $500

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Summary Verdict

The 2002 Chevrolet Blazer, particularly models equipped with the 4.3L V6 engine and 4L60-E automatic transmission, can be prone to specific issues like intake manifold leaks, distributor wear, and torque converter problems. Suspension components such as ball joints and shocks may require attention over time. Electrical gremlins, including window regulators and instrument clusters, are also noted. Rust can be a concern on older models. While not a universally problematic vehicle, potential buyers should be aware of these common repair areas and factor them into ownership costs.