The 2006 Trailblazer lasts up to 150,000 miles with many fuel system and engine problems. At $4,275 – $9,775, it’s expensive for an SUV that breaks down a lot.
Is the 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer a Good Used SUV?
- No, 2006 is a bad year. Owners dislike the rust, window motor problems, and frequent breakdowns.
- Reliability ratings are below average. There are some quality improvements from the 2005 model, but the Trailblazer is still worse than the competition.
- Performance is good from the V6, but both V8s are very quick.
- The Trailblazer is a reasonably safe SUV, getting 4 out of 5 stars in government crash tests.
- Fuel economy is bad, getting only up to 16 MPG combined.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Trailblazer?
- Consumer Reports finds the Trailblazer to be unsettled and clumsy to drive, with low owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds gives the Trailblazer a 4.1/5 liking the highway performance, but disliking the handling around corners.
- Kelley Blue Book users rate the Trailblazer 4.3/5 and enjoy the third row of seating, but say it’s expensive to own.
What Common Problems Does the 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer Have?
Problems with the 2006 Trailblazer include fuel sending unit issues, check engine lights, and worn-out air conditioning systems.
Fuel sending unit problems are very common at around 60,000 miles. The problems lead to the fuel gauge being inaccurate, and can cause the engine to stall. Replacing the sending unit is about $500.
Excessive check engine lights are another frequent problem happening in the first 80,000 miles. The source of the problem can vary from $30 for a new gas cap, to over $3,000 for metal shavings in the engine.
Air conditioning and heater system problems show up regularly at roughly 70,000 miles. The resistor for the system fails often, but fortunately is only about $200 to replace.
There are 8 fairly serious recalls including the power steering hose, which can cause a loss of power steering or fire if it leaks. Some of the other recalls include the headlamp assembly which burns out frequently.
How Long Will the 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer Last?
A properly maintained 2006 Trailblazer can last around 150,000 miles, which is half as long as other midsize SUVs like the Toyota 4Runner. Regular annual maintenance costs are higher than rivals, at about $450 per year, according to Repair Pal.
Most 2006 Trailblazers will have over 100,000 miles, so buyers should be prepared to replace the alternator costing $500, transmission shift cable for $225, and the tie rods which cost around $300.
For the most part yes. I have got mine used with around 150k miles on it and the only things I have changed are brakes, front wheel bearings, oil, and the water pump so far. It is currently at 218k miles. Not bad for it is age at all.
Yes, it is reliable, but it has low gas mileage. And has some issues with the brakes, and probably needs an oil change.
Every brand will have recurring problems in their cars. For instance, Chevy is known to have problems in the evap.
It get you where you need to go, after a while you might have to get new tires because the roads are so bad. Keep up with the oil changes & the motor will run very good.
Yes it is a reliable vehicle. There were some factory recalls on it. The problem I had was getting the Chevy dealer to call me back so I could get the recalls fixed on it.
It is reliable mine had some problems but I didn't buy it new. Otherwise it is done well for me. I would warn you about traction if you live in an area with a lot of snow. Without the 4 wheel drive on the traction is not very good very easy to hydroplane/drift.
There are some electrical issues that come with use and time but other than that the car runs great and is a reliable vehicle.
A lot of unnecessary problems.. Sensors failing.. Not a reliable vehicle at all... I love the Chevy brand but not this one.
How Much Is the 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer Worth?
Blue book values range from $4,275 – $9,775, making the Trailblazer around $1,500 cheaper than a Toyota Highlander or Honda Pilot. When new, the price range was $25,880 to $30,230. Depreciation is worse than rivals, losing about 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Trailblazer?
There are two models of the Trailblazer available. Technology is very outdated, and was not updated until the SUV was discontinued in 2009.
LS is the entry-level model and comes with:
- 16-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Cloth Seating
- Dual-Zone Climate Control
- Cruise Control
- OnStar Communications
- AM/FM/CD Stereo System
LT is the flagship model and adds features such as:
- 17-Inch Alloy Wheels
- Premium Cloth Seating
- Keyless Entry
The SS Package is an option on both vehicles and adds:
- The Powerful 6.0L V8 Engine
- 20-Inch Chrome Wheels
- Leather Seating
- Unique Exterior Trim
What Engines Come In the Trailblazer?
- The base engine is a reasonably powerful 4.2L V6 with 291 horsepower which gets up to 16 MPG combined.
- An available upgrade is the more powerful 5.3L V6 making 302 horsepower and getting up to 16 MPG combined.
- The SS package adds a very powerful 6.0L V8 which has 395 horsepower but only gets 14 MPG combined. Performance is great, taking only 5.6 seconds to reach 60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Trailblazer Come In?
How Big Is the Trailblazer?
The 2006 Trailblazer is an average sized SUV similar to the Nissan Pathfinder and Jeep Grand Cherokee. There’s plenty of room for passengers in the front two rows, but the third row is best suited to younger children.
Cargo space is great with 43.7 cubic feet of room behind the second row, and 80.1 with the seats folded flat.
How Does the Trailblazer Compare to the Competition?
The Toyota 4Runner is one of the highest rated competitors, but prices are nearly double. Reliability and off-road performance are better in the 4Runner, but the Trailblazer is faster. We recommend the 4Runner since it will last so much longer.
The GMC Envoy is another rival in the same price range. Interior materials are much better in the Envoy, but performance is stronger in the Trailblazer. We recommend neither SUV since they both have high ownership costs, and are share many parts.
Do Owners Recommend the Chevy Trailblazer?
Yes. It not only has lasted very well without much maintenance at all, it also do well in bad weather and the interior has lasted extremely well compared to other vehicles I have seen and/or used.
Yes, it is a good vehicle, but it has its issues with gas mileage. And it has some natural wear and tear.
Yes, but I have had to recently do a lot of work on it. I like it though. It is not too big and it is not too small.
Yes it drives very good & it's also good in the snow, good on gas bought it at a nice price. As long as you take care of it it'll take care of you.
Yes it a good vehicle. Not many are around though if you need a part. It holds its value. I have recently learned how to fix it and so far I have been able to fix it without too much hassle.
Yes I love it. Very reliable and a car that can take a beating. The steering is smooth the traction is not very great but that is because it rains all the time in Washington. Otherwise it is a great first car.
The 2006 Chevy trailblazer is a reliable vehicle with all the space and amenities you need. I would rate it as one of the best vehicles.
No.. Has many issues.. Nothing but problems since I bought it.. 4wd sticks.. Sensors failing.. Not the best vehicle.
