2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer

Introduction

The 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer is a midsize SUV that was available with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 4.2L inline-six with 291 horsepower and 277 lb-ft of torque, while other options included a 5.3L V8 with 300 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options included a four-speed automatic, a five-speed automatic, and a six-speed manual.

The Trailblazer was known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, but it also had some reliability issues.

Engine

4.2L Inline-Six

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve cover gasket, causing a burning oil smell and reduced oil levels.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

5.3L V8

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak from the intake manifold gasket, causing overheating and reduced coolant levels.
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

Four-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Slippage
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping or shuddering during gear changes, causing delayed shifts or loss of power.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Five-Speed Automatic

• Transmission Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sudden loss of transmission power, causing the vehicle to become inoperable.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,500 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Six-Speed Manual

• No Issues Found

Suspension

• Front Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the front suspension, especially over bumps.
  • Solution: Replace the front strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting the vehicle, flickering lights, or battery warning light illuminated.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• No Issues Found

Interior

• Dash Panel Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dash panel, especially around the instrument cluster.
  • Solution: Replace the dash panel.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Navigation Screen Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Navigation screen becomes unresponsive or displays incorrect data.
  • Solution: Replace the navigation system module.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1,200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer had several reliability issues, particularly with its engine, transmission, and electrical systems. The severity of these issues can range from minor annoyances to major breakdowns that require costly repairs. While some owners have reported positive experiences with their Trailblazers, others have faced significant problems. The estimated cost of repairs for the issues listed above can add up quickly, making the Trailblazer a risky choice for budget-minded consumers.