2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer Ext
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Chevrolet › Trailblazer Ext › 2004
These records cover every 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer Ext. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
1 recall names the 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer Ext. Newest first.
On certain sport utility vehicles, vibration and heat may cause the tail lamp/stop lamp bulb to loosen in its socket. if this occurs, the bulb may flicker and eventually become inoperative.
Risk and remedy
Risk
An inoperative brake lamp will not convey the driver's intention of stopping to drivers in following vehicles, and an inoperative rear turn signal lamp will not convey the driver's intention to turn to drivers in following vehicles. both of these failures can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the tail lamp/stop lamp assemblies, and if necessary, replace them. the recall began on november 22, 2004. owners should contact chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438, oldsmobile at 1-800-630-6537, buick at 1-866-608-8080, or GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
Owner complaints
261 complaints6 involved a crash3 involved a fire13 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Air bags
"Takata recall" I was recently in a car accident that was listed in the police report as a head on collision and not one airbag deployed. The impact as I was told was hard enough that the airbags should have deployed.
- Fuel/propulsion system
Rusted fuel lines- garage checked strong fuel smell and discovered rusted fuel filler and lines
- Structure › Body
Part # 19120564 rubs on tailgate when opening . Does secure properly. Eventually, flew off while driving.
- Exterior lighting
When driving the headlights all of a sudden just shut off. It IS extremely scary at night. I found that I can however use the brights. They eventually come back on. This has been happening for years. I kept hoping for a recall and just found this site to report it. This has happen on city streets…
When driving the headlights all of a sudden just shut off. It IS extremely scary at night. I found that I can however use the brights. They eventually come back on. This has been happening for years. I kept hoping for a recall and just found this site to report it. This has happen on city streets and highways. It has happened when there are street lights and vehicle lights and when it IS pitch black. The 1ST time it happened, I was driving with my child in the vehicle on the freeway.
- Structure › Body
My family was driving home on the freeway when the complete third taillight cover blew off. It appears that the adhesive that attaches the rear spoiler to the glass of lift gate has loosened due to a manufacturer defect.
- Air bags · Electrical system
Instrumental panel/ gage cluster. All gages continue to fail spiking all over the place prior to failing. Air bag light continues to blink on then off randomly
- Unknown or other
Stalls - I have taken this trailblazer into the dealer for this stalling problem and I am told no problem found. vehicle stalls after coming to a stop or when moving slowly. this IS an intermittent.
- Engine
Cracked exhaust manifold
- Electrical system
Fuel gauge not working alone with all the other gauges and turning signal not working
- Engine
Vehicle's reduced engine power light comes on, and vehicle loses power in dangerous places. Lost of problems consist of several parts having to do with acceleration. This problem happened suddenly, andnis a danger to himan safety because of it happening several times including o n the highway.
- Power train
Automatic transmission slips when it tries to shift into 3RD or 4TH gear, I read that there was a report on this happening but there was not a recall as far as I know, I recently purchased this vehicle from the original owner who says they never received any paper work from gm about doing repairs. My question IS will gm repair this condition at no cost to me?
- Visibility/wiper
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet trailblazer ext. While driving in the rain, the moisture sensitive wiper system did not detect moisture. As a result, the wipers started to malfunction and operated uncontrollably. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was not notified. The vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 04v046000 (visibility/wpier). The failure mileage was 65,000.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet trailblazer ext. The contact stated that the entire instrument panel failed to operate. In addition, the speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge failed to function properly. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the instrument panel…
TL* the contact owns a 2004 chevrolet trailblazer ext. The contact stated that the entire instrument panel failed to operate. In addition, the speedometer, tachometer, and fuel gauge failed to function properly. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic who stated that the instrument panel cluster would need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 98,000. The vin was unavailable.
- Vehicle speed control
Speedodometer and rpm clusters malfunctions,why
- Fuel/propulsion system
The inlet check valve IS fractured and chevy will not do any repairs due to the mileage being over 150000
- Fuel/propulsion system
My fuel tank has a hole in it. I have filed a previous complaint with nhtsa and also with gm. An nhtsa worker helped me a lot and when I called gm and chevy back I was told several times someone would get back in touch with me. I have tried to get it fixed but no one IS able to help. I have tried…
My fuel tank has a hole in it. I have filed a previous complaint with nhtsa and also with gm. An nhtsa worker helped me a lot and when I called gm and chevy back I was told several times someone would get back in touch with me. I have tried to get it fixed but no one IS able to help. I have tried many places for used fuel tanks but everyone says that the envoys and trailblazers that they have all have the same exact issue. I cannot get any help from gm or chevy.
- Power train
The transmission cooling lines corroded and caused a transmission fluid leak. the engine rpms increased and the vehicle lost power while going down interstate 86. when the fluid leaked out of the transmission cooling lines, it sprayed all over the exhaust pipes, which caused a severe fire hazard. due to the loss of transmission fluid, it cased significant damage to the transmission internals. *tr
- Engine · Fuel system, gasoline
Starting about a few weeks ago my 2004 chevy trailblazer ext has reeked of unspent gasoline, and this smell consumes the entire interior and exterior of the vehicle. The vehicle also has small leak below reservoir which appears to be leaking unspent fuel. Chevy offered a "special coverage" to…
Starting about a few weeks ago my 2004 chevy trailblazer ext has reeked of unspent gasoline, and this smell consumes the entire interior and exterior of the vehicle. The vehicle also has small leak below reservoir which appears to be leaking unspent fuel. Chevy offered a "special coverage" to correct this issue (corrosion on top of fuel tank reservoir), however it only covers vehicles under 10 years of age and under 120K miles. My vehicle IS under that mileage, however this repair will not be covered due to age of vehicle (mine was assembled in march). This issue IS a major safety concern, as any small spark could cause this vehicle to ignite. I cannot continue to drive my vehicle, and feel this needs to be rectified before it causes catastrophic loss (either building or personal). *tr
- Air bags · Electrical system · Equipment adaptive/mobility
When had the crash which was very hard loud and scary the air bags didn't deploy nor did the air bags on the side of seat. The crash was very serious and the electrical system and powertrain to windows. *tr
- Electrical system
Speedometer dropped to zero. Stopped vehicle and restarted. Speedometer started but wouldn't go above 35 mph. I had a gps speedometer on my phone and it was registering 55-60 mph and the vehicle speedometer would display 25-30. After a cool night it might work correctly for 4 or 5 miles then it…
Speedometer dropped to zero. Stopped vehicle and restarted. Speedometer started but wouldn't go above 35 mph. I had a gps speedometer on my phone and it was registering 55-60 mph and the vehicle speedometer would display 25-30. After a cool night it might work correctly for 4 or 5 miles then it either drops to zero or falls to the 10-25mph range. Sometimes restarting the vehicle will get it to work again for a short time. When it IS failing the needle drops below the 0 mph towards the mileage. When it seems to be working somewhat it stops at 0 mph or just above it. This should really be a recall ! thank you *tr
- Power train · Service brakes
Driving home from work brakes started locking up drove home took apart front an rear brakes found front calipers locked up changed calipers an brake pads front an rear tried to bleed brakes had a spongy pedal filled master cylinder an noticed brake fluid leaking under master cylinder connector…
Driving home from work brakes started locking up drove home took apart front an rear brakes found front calipers locked up changed calipers an brake pads front an rear tried to bleed brakes had a spongy pedal filled master cylinder an noticed brake fluid leaking under master cylinder connector behind front driver side wheel no part to fix no listing . Cannot drive car. That's just one problem transmission lines rotted an changed 2 years ago . Power steering cooler rotted out lost all power steering fluid 1 month ago an put after market cooler in . Also air conditioner lines rotted out cannot hold R34 coolant anymore. *tr
- Structure › Body › Tailgate
The first time I was in a car wash and heard a loud banging noise. I looked back and could see the upper tailgate molding flopping in the wind of the car wash dryer being held on by only the brake wires. at that time it was replaced under warranty. 2ND replacement about 3 years later same thing.…
The first time I was in a car wash and heard a loud banging noise. I looked back and could see the upper tailgate molding flopping in the wind of the car wash dryer being held on by only the brake wires. at that time it was replaced under warranty. 2ND replacement about 3 years later same thing. now recently I noticed again that on the drivers side screw attachment on the molding has broken away again and it's my responsibility to shell out the $500+ to have it replaced again. I have been told by a gm dealer it IS probably caused by our wisconsin winters with accumulation of ice & snow build up getting under the molding and also winds used to drying vehicles in car washes. Cheap plastic for the mounting screw to go through to attach it to the vehicle. *tr
- Electrical system
The headlights intermittently will not work (lowbeam only). It happens at night many times and I will have to drive with the bright lights or fog lights. Sometimes the entire dash lighting will go out as well including the speedometer. It's almost as if the electrical portion of the ignition has failed. It has been happening intermittently for about a year. *tr
- Electrical system › Instrument cluster/panel
Instrument panel/ speedometer no longer works, first incident happened march of 2010. as of 12/2013 the voltage meter, rpm gauge, speedometer have completely stopped working. *tr
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting · Fuel system, gasoline
Lights started flashing, gas gauge went to empty, car died. Restarted drove 1/4 mile died. Stereo system completely failed (whole unit). Keeps popping circuits changed out still doing. Cannot shut off heat due to banging sound. Car speeds up and down on own. Cannot read gas gauge correctly, not sure how full tank IS. *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Loss of Headlights
The subject vehicles are model year (MY) 2002-2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2004-2007 Buick Rainier, 2003-2008 Isuzu Ascender, 2005-2009 Saab 9-7X, 2002-2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003-2006 Chevrolet SSR, 2005-2009 Buick Lacrosse, and 2006-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix. This scope includes the Trailblazer/Envoy…
The subject vehicles are model year (MY) 2002-2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2004-2007 Buick Rainier, 2003-2008 Isuzu Ascender, 2005-2009 Saab 9-7X, 2002-2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003-2006 Chevrolet SSR, 2005-2009 Buick Lacrosse, and 2006-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix. This scope includes the Trailblazer/Envoy variants: 2002-2006 Envoy XL/Trailblazer EXT and 2004-2005 Envoy XUV. The original scope of this investigation was expanded to include all vehicles equipped with the subject Headlight Driver Module (HDM). The focus of the investigation was to determine whether actions performed by General Motors adequately addressed any unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety in the subject vehicles concerning the headlights and the HDM that controls them.Under normal electrical load and environmental conditions, the HDM can overheat inside the Underhood Electrical Center (UEC). This can cause the module to fail and result in a simultaneous loss of both low beam headlights and both daytime running lights (DRLs), often with no warning or prior detectability to the driver. This failure can be intermittent or permanent. No other exterior lights are affected. High beams, turn signals, brake lights, and reverse lights are still operational.General Motors addressed this issue with 2 recalls (14V755 & 15V519) and a special coverage program (N172091910). In view of the recalls and special coverage program implemented by GM and the vehicle high beams continuing to operate, ODI has tentatively concluded that the actions taken by GM mitigate any unreasonable risk to safety posed by HDM failure in the subject vehicles.Accordingly, the investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by new circumstances.The ODI reports cited above are available for review online at NHTSA.gov under the identification numbers in the attached document.
- Fuel pump module leaks gasoline
During the course of this ea investigation, odi observed that the majority of the complaints (88%) and warranty claims (94%) were reported for vehicles that are registered for use in the salt belt region of the us.this area includes 20 states in the northeast, mid atlantic and the midwest regions and the district of…
During the course of this ea investigation, odi observed that the majority of the complaints (88%) and warranty claims (94%) were reported for vehicles that are registered for use in the salt belt region of the us.this area includes 20 states in the northeast, mid atlantic and the midwest regions and the district of columbia.consumers in the salt belt region reported to odi that they could smell fuel vapors in their vehicles while driving.upon further examination of their vehicles, they discovered that fuel vapors were coming out of the top of the fuel tank. This condition IS caused by corrosion of the return and sender lines of the fuel pump module.water and road salt collect on top of the fuel pump leading to small pinholes appearing on the fuel lines.fuel may leak and collect on top of the module and/or spill onto the ground.the data evaluated under this investigation reflect a relatively low frequency of occurrence that largely arises in salt belt states.gm has extended the warranty on the subject component to ten years or 120,000 miles.further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted at this time; accordingly, this investigation IS closed.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.for additional information select document search.
- Brake lamp failure
Gm states that some brake/tail lamp bulbs can prematurely become inoperative due to malfunctioning brake/tail lamp sockets.on march 2, 2004, gm initiated a 6-year/72,000 mile special policy for 989,487 subject vehicles to inspect and replace the rear brake/tail lamp bulb socket assemblies.on april 4, 2004, the office…
Gm states that some brake/tail lamp bulbs can prematurely become inoperative due to malfunctioning brake/tail lamp sockets.on march 2, 2004, gm initiated a 6-year/72,000 mile special policy for 989,487 subject vehicles to inspect and replace the rear brake/tail lamp bulb socket assemblies.on april 4, 2004, the office of defects investigation (odi) opened a preliminary evaluation (pe04-032) based on consumer complaints alleging brake lights not operating when the brake pedal IS depressed.on august 3, 2004 odi upgraded pe04-032 to an engineering analysis (ea04-021).by letter dated october 27, 2004 gm notified nhtsa that it will conduct a safety recall (nhtsa # 04v527) covering subject vehicles that were not already repaired under gm's special policy.my 2004 subject vehicles built after august 8, 2003 contain improved brake lamp assemblies and are not included in the recall.gm dealers will install the improved brake lamp assembly on subject vehicles built on august 8, 2003 and earlier.the action taken by gm IS sufficient to resolve the issues raised by this investigation.accordingly, this investigation IS closed.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 11007208This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about changing the tire and wheel size on vehicles. General Motors will only support a tire calibration for tires that have been sized, tested and designed for the vehicle in question and its applications. Technician should not use the information that is provided by the antilock braking system tire size selection.
- 11006621Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
- 11006421GM is receiving damaged (cracked or broken) transmission cores returned to the reman facilities. The damage is being caused either in the removal process by the technician, or inadequate packaging or shipping. This bulletin advises the dealers to be more careful not to damage the transmissions during removal and to package the core properly for return.
- 11004761This service bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 11004557This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 11002312This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
- 11000576This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 10252735This bulletin provides information for electrical ground repairs using new General Motors replacement fasteners with conductive finish.
- 10252163XM Audio Traffic And Travel Link Availability And Operation.
- 10251890This technical bulletin advises of a new fuel injection cleaner kit used for decarbonizing the intake valves to correct conditions of rough idle, Crank no start, extended crank or misfire, MIL with DTCs, and explains how Top Tier fuels should be used to reduce carbon build-up.
- 10251887This bulletin advises the technician of possible location of an internal coolant leak from a specific cylinder head and location.
- 10250775This service bulletin provides service information to technicians on guidelines to replace Oil Cooler, Oil Cooler Lines and Oil Tank if the engine was replaced where large amounts of debris has flowed throughout the oiling system.
- 10249590This bulletin provides information for use on a Product Assistance Claim (PAC), which is formerly known as a Product Allegation Resolution (PAR) claim.
- 10249579This PI bulletin advises the technician on the proper way to install the pistons in an engine.
- 10249011This informational bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Headlamp, Tail Lamp, License Lamp or Fog/Driving Lamp Damage.
- 10248792Special Coverage Adjustment ? Fuel Tank Inlet Check Valve Fracture
- 10248791Special Coverage Adjustment ? Fuel Tank Inlet Check Valve Fracture
- 10248790Special Coverage Adjustment Fuel Tank Inlet Check Valve Fracture
- 10248444Vehicle Recalls
- 10247681Information On Requests To Add OnStar Bluetooth Option.
- 10247552This service bulletin provides information on Concerns or Questions Regarding Installation of Dealer Installed Accessories.
- 10246952Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246951Programming And Activation Of Replacement OnStar Modules.
- 10246631Expanded Availability for Remanufacture and Return (R&R) Electronic Control Modules
- 10245951Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls And Turn By Turn Inoperative In The United States.
- 10245950Canadian Customers Unable To Place Calls In The United States
- 10245395This service bulletin provides a vibration analysis worksheet the technician can use in conjunction with the appropriate Vibration Analysis-Road testing procedure when diagnosing vibration concerns.
- 10244274This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10244214This informational bulletin provides information for the IPC odometer programming method quick reference guide.
- 10244201This service bulletin provides information for dealers on how to submit a product information report (PIR) (Canada Only).
- 10242843The service bulletin advises the tech of a normal transmission shift condition and the delay in throttle response when the throttle plate is opened rapidly and advises the customer that it is normal for the delay.
- 10242262This service bulletin provides graphics, information and guidelines for engine component wear to assist service personnel as a guideline to perform necessary engine repairs and prevent unnecessary engine replacement.
- 10235802This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10235799This service bulletin provides information about the Hunter wheel Road Force balancers that should be utilized for all repairs requiring balance and Road Force measurement.
- 10234141This diagnostic tip bulletin provides additional information on how to diagnose a possible valve, lifter or camshaft issue.
- 10234110This service bulletin provides service information on new torque specification and installation procedure for ACDelco Spin-On Oil Filters.
- 10232287This warranty administration bulletin provides information regarding the field action courtesy transportation policy.
- 10232136This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Exterior Lamp Condensation and Water Leaks and Replacement Guidelines.
- 10228906This Warranty Administration bulletin provides retail and wholesale service personnel with the policies/procedures and the warranty transaction submission procedures that support the Personal Property Damage process.
- 10228888This service bulletin provides diagnostic tips/steps on testing for possible EVAP leaks in the system to correct a customer concern of an MIL Illuminated with DTCs P0442 and/or P0455 Set.
Every Chevrolet Trailblazer Ext model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.