2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT

The 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT is a mid-size SUV known for its spacious third-row seating and truck-like capabilities. While the standard Trailblazer offered a shorter wheelbase, the EXT version provided added cargo and passenger space. The primary engine option was the 4.2L Vortec inline-6, producing around 270 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque. Some drivers appreciated the Trailblazer EXT for its comfortable ride and towing capacity, while others disliked its fuel economy and some reliability issues. The 4.2L engine was paired with the 4L60E 4-speed automatic transmission.

Engine

4.2L Vortec Inline-6

• Failed Ignition Coils
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, check engine light illumination. Often caused by age and heat.
  • Solution: Replacement of faulty ignition coil(s). It’s often recommended to replace all coils at once for preventative maintenance.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ per coil, depending on parts and labor.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Camshaft Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Ticking noise from the engine, rough idle, decreased performance, and a check engine light.
  • Solution: Replacement of the camshaft actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700+ depending on labor rates and parts quality.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Coolant Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of coolant, overheating, visible leaks around the engine. Common leak points include the water pump and radiator hoses.
  • Solution: Identify and repair the leak, replacing the water pump, hoses, or radiator as needed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+ depending on the source and extent of the leak.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Consumption
  • Description/Symptoms: The engine consumes an excessive amount of oil, requiring frequent top-ups. This can be caused by worn piston rings or valve seals.
  • Solution: Replacing the piston rings or valve seals may be necessary. In severe cases, engine replacement or rebuild may be required.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $4000+ depending on the repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4L60E 4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping or Erratic Shifting
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping during gear changes, delayed engagement, harsh or erratic shifting patterns.
  • Solution: Could be caused by low fluid, worn clutches, or a faulty valve body. A transmission flush and filter change may help in some cases, but often a rebuild or replacement is necessary.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 (flush and filter), $1500 - $3500+ (rebuild or replacement).
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering at certain speeds, especially under light acceleration.
  • Solution: Replacement of the torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1200+ depending on labor costs.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Hard Shifts
  • Description/Symptoms: The transmission harshly engages into gear.
  • Solution: Replacing the transmission fluid or a transmission flush could resolve the issue, if not then the transmission might have to be rebuilt or replaced.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $3500+ depending on the repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Failed Air Suspension Components (If Equipped)
  • Description/Symptoms: The rear of the vehicle sags, the compressor runs constantly, or the “Service Ride Control” light illuminates. This is more common in EXT models with the optional air suspension.
  • Solution: Replacing the air springs, compressor, or ride height sensors. Converting to a conventional coil spring suspension is also a popular option.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per air spring, $300 - $600+ for the compressor. Coil spring conversion kits can range from $500 - $1000+.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Worn Ball Joints and Control Arm Bushings
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps. Poor handling and uneven tire wear.
  • Solution: Replacement of the worn ball joints and/or control arm bushings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ per side, depending on the parts and labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Failed Wheel Bearings
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding or humming noise that increases with speed, play in the wheel when shaken.
  • Solution: Wheel bearing replacement
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per wheel, depending on parts and labor
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Instrument Cluster Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Gauges stop working or display incorrect readings. Often affects the speedometer, fuel gauge, and temperature gauge.
  • Solution: Instrument cluster repair or replacement. Some shops specialize in rebuilding these clusters.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the repair or replacement option.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Faulty Window Regulators
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows that are slow to move or fail to operate altogether.
  • Solution: Replacement of the window regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ per window.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies overnight or within a short period.
  • Solution: Identifying and repairing the source of the draw, which could be a faulty module, a relay stuck in the on position, or an aftermarket accessory that is not properly installed.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the source of the draw and the repair needed.
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on Rocker Panels and Quarter Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Visible rust forming on the lower body panels, especially in areas exposed to road salt.
  • Solution: Rust repair involves removing the rust, patching or replacing the affected metal, and repainting.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1000+ per panel, depending on the extent of the rust damage.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Liftgate Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Liftgate is difficult to open or close, or the latch mechanism fails.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the liftgate latch or struts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400+ depending on the issue.
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC Blend Door Actuator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Inability to control the temperature of the air coming from the vents, or clicking noises behind the dashboard.
  • Solution: Replacement of the blend door actuator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $400+ depending on the location of the actuator and the labor involved.
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat Motor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The power seats do not move in one or more directions.
  • Solution: Repair or replacement of the seat motor or switch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $500+ depending on the motor or switch that is bad.
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT, particularly with the 4.2L inline-6 engine and 4L60E transmission, is prone to several common issues. Engine problems like ignition coil failures and oil consumption can be relatively inexpensive to fix in some cases, while others can become costly if they are severe. Transmission issues can be moderate to extremely expensive. Suspension problems, especially with the optional air suspension, can also add to the cost of ownership. Electrical and interior issues, while less critical, can still be annoying and require attention. Rust is also a concern, especially in areas with harsh winters. Overall, prospective buyers should carefully inspect these vehicles and be prepared for potential repairs.