2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Introduction:
The 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer is a mid-size SUV available with three engine options: a 4.2L inline-6, a 5.3L V8, and a 6.0L V8. The 4.2L inline-6 produces 275 horsepower and 275 lb-ft of torque, while the 5.3L V8 produces 295 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque. The 6.0L V8 produces 345 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. All engine options are paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission.
The Trailblazer is known for its spacious interior, strong towing capacity, and off-road capability. However, it has also been criticized for its poor fuel economy and dated design.
Engine
4.2L Inline-6
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks, engine overheating, rough idle
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Knock Sensor Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Engine knocking, reduced power, illuminated check engine light
- Solution: Replace knock sensor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
5.3L V8
- Valve Cover Gasket Leak:
- Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from valve covers
- Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Bolt Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Exhaust leak, rattling noise
- Solution: Replace exhaust manifold bolts
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
- Recalls: None Found
6.0L V8
- Lifter Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Engine ticking noise, loss of power
- Solution: Replace lifters and camshaft
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
- 4-Speed Automatic Transmission:
- Torque Converter Lockup Issues:
- Description/Symptoms: Shuddering or slipping during gear changes
- Solution: Replace torque converter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Valve Body Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Rough shifting, delayed engagement
- Solution: Replace valve body or transmission
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,500
- Recalls: None Found
- Torque Converter Lockup Issues:
Suspension
- Struts and Shocks Worn Out:
- Description/Symptoms: Poor handling, reduced ride quality
- Solution: Replace struts and shocks
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
- Recalls: None Found
- Sway Bar Links Loose:
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from suspension, poor handling
- Solution: Tighten or replace sway bar links
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $250
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, battery drain, illuminated check engine light
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
- Starter Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Engine will not crank, clicking noise from starter
- Solution: Replace starter
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tailgate Handle Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Handle breaks or becomes loose
- Solution: Replace tailgate handle
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
- Clear Coat Peeling:
- Description/Symptoms: Clear coat layer on paint peels or bubbles
- Solution: Repaint or touch up affected areas
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Climate Control Display Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Display malfunctions or goes blank
- Solution: Replace climate control display
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
- Power Window Motor Failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Window will not operate or operates slowly
- Solution: Replace power window motor
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer has a number of potential issues, ranging from minor to severe. Some of the more common and costly problems include lifter failure in the 6.0L V8, torque converter issues in the transmission, and clear coat peeling on the exterior. However, the Trailblazer also has its strengths, such as its spacious interior and strong towing capacity. Overall, the severity and cost of potential issues should be considered when evaluating this vehicle.