2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT

Introduction:

The 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT was a mid-size SUV that offered a spacious interior, strong towing capacity, and available all-wheel drive. It came with several engine and transmission options, including:

• 4.2L Inline-6 (273 horsepower, 275 lb-ft torque) with 4-speed automatic transmission
• 5.3L V8 (290 horsepower, 325 lb-ft torque) with 4-speed automatic transmission
• 6.0L V8 (325 horsepower, 360 lb-ft torque) with 4-speed automatic transmission

Owners appreciated the Trailblazer EXT’s versatility, performance, and affordability. However, it also faced some reliability issues.

Engine

4.2L Inline-6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating, engine misfiring
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Fuel Pressure Regulator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine stalling, difficulty starting, poor fuel economy
  • Solution: Replace fuel pressure regulator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Valve Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine ticking, reduced power, misfires
  • Solution: Replace valve springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Oil Pressure Sensor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Low oil pressure warning light, engine damage
  • Solution: Replace oil pressure sensor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

6.0L V8

• Head Gasket Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Overheating, coolant leaks, engine failure
  • Solution: Replace head gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Manifold Catalytic Converter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, exhaust noise, emissions issues
  • Solution: Replace catalytic converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Transmission Slippage:
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, hesitation on acceleration
  • Solution: Replace or rebuild transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque Converter Shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration during acceleration
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noises, poor handling, premature tire wear
  • Solution: Replace strut mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Control Arm Bushing Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Squealing or creaking noises, vibration
  • Solution: Replace control arm bushings
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No charging, dim lights, battery light
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine not cranking, clicking noise
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Hood Latch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hood not opening or closing properly
  • Solution: Replace hood latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Tailgate Latch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Tailgate not staying closed
  • Solution: Replace tailgate latch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Windows not operating, clicking noises
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio Display Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No display or distorted display on radio
  • Solution: Replace radio display
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT is a reliable vehicle with a few potential issues. While some issues like intake manifold gasket failure and head gasket failure can be major and expensive, others like alternator failure and power window failure are more affordable to fix. Overall, the severity and cost of repairs for the Trailblazer EXT are comparable to other vehicles of its class. However, it is important to be aware of potential issues and factor them into the cost of ownership.