The first-generation Chevy Trailblazer (2002-2009) was discontinued due to weak sales. The compact SUV returned in 2021 with fresh new looks–and costing $14,000-$15,000 more. But the older models still hold up, with 2008 and 2009 boasting solid reliability scores, unlike the 2002-2005 models and their worrying number of recalls and complaints.
Key Points
- Considering reliability, cost, features, and more, the best years for the Chevy Trailblazer include 2006, 2008, and 2009.
- Be cautious of Trailblazers from 2002-2005, because they have a worrying number of recalls and registered complaints.
- For those needing a three-row SUV, 2006 stands as the last (and best) year for the extended-wheelbase EXT Trailblazer, offering seating for up to seven.
- If you loved the first-generation Trailblazer for its body-on-frame design, the new 2021 and 2022 models might seem a little small, cramped, and low to the ground.
- The first-generation Trailblazer was notorious for its lack of modern amenities, which went mostly untouched for seven years. However, the newer variant is well-equipped with progressive features.
Best Years for the Chevy Trailblazer Include 2008 and 2009 for Solid Reliability Scores and Low Price, and 2006 for its Family-friendly Third-row Seating
What started as a top-end trim for the 1999 Chevy Blazer, the Trailblazer, eventually debuted its own nameplate in mid-2001 for the 2002 model year. Sales for 2001 and 2002 totaled 364,671, but by 2005, momentum started slumping, up until the SUVs U.S. discontinuation in 2009.
To the delight of many, Chevy brought the Trailblazer back for 2021, sporting fresh new looks and all the latest amenities, tech, and powertrain options.
An important thing to note about the Trailblazer prior to its lengthy hiatus: the aesthetics, frame, base 4.2L V6 engine, and four-speed automatic transmission remain mostly the same from 2002 up until 2009. For this reason, by the time the later years had rolled around, most reported problems had already been resolved with an update or recall.
So, with 10 model years to choose from, which are the best and worst years for the Chevy Trailblazer?
2008 and 2009 Trailblazers are Harder to Find but Offer Optional 6.0L V8 and Body-on-frame Design that is Better for Off-roading and Towing
With just 83,707 Trailblazers being sold in 2008 and 2009 combined, you might have a hard time finding one in the used market. But these are the best years if you prefer the older body-on-frame design, which tends to be better for resisting torsion when off-roading and towing.
Looking at reports from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer has zero recalls against it, just a single closed investigation, and 191 registered complaints. The 2009 model also has zero recalls, carries the same investigation, and has only 27 complaints (keep in mind only around 8,000 units were sold that year). Regardless, for an SUV of this age, these are some solid reliability figures.
What’s more, a base 2008 Sport with 4WD has a January 2022 Kelley Blue Book (KBB) fair purchase price of just $5,600, making it a great option for a capable weekend warrior that can take a scratch or two without worry. For a youngster heading off to college, consider the $5,300 2WD model for a couple of extra miles per gallon and fewer mechanical parts to break.
Further showcasing the 2008 and 2009 years as some of the Trailblazer’s best, the availability of an optional 6.0L V8 engine in SS (Super Sport) trim, which wasn’t available before 2007. Finally, note that the 2009 Trailblazer is the only model pre-discontinuation that offers true Bluetooth connectivity. Prior, a pre-paid minutes plan was offered through Onstar.
2006 Chevy Trailblazer is Last Year of the Third-row EXT Model, a Decent and Mostly Reliable Family Hauler
Between 2002 and 2006, Chevrolet also produced an extended-wheelbase variant named the Trailblazer EXT. The EXT is not only 16-inches longer, allowing for an optional third-row seat, but it sits 2.6-inches higher as well. While you can find a clean 2WD, V6-equipped EXT listed for around $4,700, per KBB, consider spending $500 or so more for a unit with the 5.3L V8, which tends to hold up better at higher mileage.
The 2006 Trailblazer has eight recalls with the NHTSA, five investigations (all closed), and 1,334 registered complaints. Most of the recalls are mild, covering electrical hiccups like faulty window switches and headlamps, with the most widespread concerning a fractured power steering hose that may cause loss of power steering, increasing the odds of an accident.
Of the numerous complaints, 302 fall into the “Electrical System” category, and 546 into “Fuel System,” and many mention the same issues that are now resolved by recalls.
The 2006 EXT is one of the best years for the Chevy Trailblazer if you’re needing a third row of seats. Otherwise, consider Trailblazers from 2007, 2008, or 2009 for their better reliability.
Worst Years for the Chevy Trailblazer Include 2002-2005 for Poor Reliability Scores and Low Price Spread Over Newer, More Reliable Alternatives
While Trailblazers from 2002-2005 do have the most recalls and registered complaints, it’s important to note that these were also some of the most-sold years in the model’s existence, and they’ve had more time to accumulate. What’s more, many of the complaints (which are quite high for these years), stem from issues solved by recalls.
Looking at the NHTSA report for the 2002 Chevy Trailblazer you’ll find 14 recalls, 11 closed investigations, and 1,290 registered complaints. Models from 2003 have nine recalls, nine investigations, and 1,265 complaints.
In 2004 and 2005, the complaints reach as high as 1,721 in the 2005 Trailblazer and the number of recalls plummets to just two. Seeing this many complaints without corresponding recalls is a little concerning, and suggests these years simply weren’t included in recalls they likely could/should have been.
The most problematic areas concern the electrical system, with each of these years having pages and pages of documented issues with things like lights failing, airbags not deploying, seats not sensing occupants, and windows not rolling down.
A base 2002 Trailblazer, factored with roughly 160,000 miles on it, has a KBB fair purchase price of about $3,000, whereas a fully-loaded 2005 should cost closer to $4,200.
For an extra $1,000 to $1,500, Trailblazers from 2008 and 2009 provide much more value and have far fewer issues. Be extremely cautious when considering a model from 2002 to 2005, as they’re some of the worst years for the Chevy Trailblazer.
2021 and 2022 are Both the Best and Worst Years for the Chevy Trailblazer
Comparing the earlier Trailblazer years to the newer 2021 and 2022 models, there’s clearly no comparison in terms of pricing and overall offerings. But it doesn’t stop there, there’s also no comparison in the vehicle’s overall dimensions. The new design’s length is 18.3 inches shorter, its height is down by nine inches, and its width by 3.4 inches.
If you enjoyed the older Trailblazers for their roomy cargo space, ample ride height, and simple interior design, you’ll likely consider the newer variant as one of the worst years. If you wish the older model was more efficient, had more modern features, and offered a better ride quality, the latest 2021 and 2022 Trailblazers will surely seem the best.
Photos: Chevrolet