The Blazer nameplate has roots dating as far back as the late 1960’s.
For this article, we’ll be looking at the more recent generations, that have spanned from 1995-2005 and from 2019 to the present day.
If you want to find out more about the best and worst years for the Chevy Blazer, you’ve come to the right place.
Table of Contents
Here’s The Short Answer To What The Best And Worst Years For The Chevrolet Blazer Are:
The best Chevrolet Blazer model years are 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2020, 2005, and 2004. The worst model years of the Blazer are 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 and 2019. This is based on auto industry reviews, NHTSA statistics, reported problems, and consumer feedback.
What Are The Best Years For The Chevrolet Blazer?
2023 & 2024 Chevrolet Blazer
Following a styling refresh in 2023, the 2023 and 2024 Blazers are essentially the same with no major differences between them – neither can be classed as segment leaders however they are certainly the best Blazers to date.
They offer a refined ride quality, spaciousness, agile handling, and an intuitive touchscreen infotainment system.
There are 4 trim levels to choose from: 2LT, 3LT, RS, and Premier.
Pricing ranges from approximately $36,000 to $44,000.
Among these variants, the entry-level 2LT trim is the most popular, priced at $36,495 (brand new).
Updates for 2023 include revised exterior styling and new standard tech such as a 10-inch touchscreen display and wireless charging pad.
All variants come with front-wheel-drive although all-wheel-drive is available.
The 2LT, 3LT, and Premier trims are fitted with a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine (228 horsepower) while the RS trim comes with a larger 3.6-liter V6 engine (308 horsepower).
2023 Chevrolet Blazer:
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2023 Blazer, Edmunds review:
“Although this is a four cylinder, it has a lot of power and a great pick when passing other vehicles. The cabin is comfortable and have all the bells and whistles of the modern tech world. I enjoy driving it. Very good choice.”
2022 Chevrolet Blazer
The 2022 Blazer is agile, powerful, and boasts a Camaro-like design. According to owner feedback, its strongest attributes are: driving experience, ride quality, comfort, handling, steering, fuel economy, and spaciousness.
In terms of fuel efficiency, EPA estimates place figures at 25 MPG for combined driving, 22 MPG for city driving, and 29 MPG for highway driving.
Potential owners can pick from among the following trims: 2LT, 3LT, RS, and Premier.
The base 2LT trim’s standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, a 6-speaker audio system, and an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The 3LT trim adds leather upholstery, a power liftgate, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.
The RS, which comes with a powerful V6 engine as standard, has 20-inch wheels, a special black grille and black exterior trim, and a programmable power liftgate.
Finally, the high-end Premier trim returns to a 4-cylinder engine but has all the bells and whistles of the previously discussed RS trim.
- Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2022 Blazer, Edmunds review:
“Sporty looks and handling, comfy seats, lots of power with the V6, lack of head room? Give me a break, I’m 6ft tall and have never had so much head room! Plus tons of leg room front and rear. Great fuel economy if you drive like [non-permissible content removed] but not so great if you like to have fun. Overall I love it.”
2021 Chevrolet Blazer
The 2021 Blazer is bold on the outside, responsive on the road, and spacious in the back seat and cargo area.
New to this particular model year are additional standard driver safety assist features and minor revisions to feature availability for certain trims.
Unlike the newer models, the 2021 Blazer comes in 6 trims: L, 1LT, 2LT, 3LT, RS, and Premier.
All are fitted with a 9-speed automatic transmission.
On the engine front, there are 3 engines: a non-turbo 4-cylinder engine, a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, and a larger and more powerful V6 engine.
Fuel economy is commendable (for the 4-cylinder engine versions).
Expect around 23 MPG for combined driving, 21 MPG for city driving, and 27 MPG for highway driving.
It also received a perfect 5-star rating from NHTSA, which bases scoring on crash test performance.
- Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2021 Blazer, Edmunds review:
“Power is excellent with the 3.6 V6. The transmission shifts perfectly. I would like to have seen the console have a built in phone holder but it’s not a necessity. The interior is sporty and there is head room for taller guys. Just a solid car all the way around.”
2020 Chevrolet Blazer
The 2020 Blazer has refined ride quality, an optional powerful V6 engine, and an attractive infotainment system.
New to this particular model year is a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine option, the ability to disable the engine stop-start function, and trailer hitch guidance for those availing the optional tow package.
There are 4 trim levels to pick from: L, LT, RS, and Premier while the LT trim has 3 sub-trims: 1LT, 2LT, and 3LT.
Based on owners’ reviews, the following aspects are notable: appearance, driving experience, engine, handling, steering, fuel efficiency, and ride quality.
Auto critics, on the other hand, have praised the technology of this vehicle.
The touchscreen infotainment system has crisp graphics and comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality.
The L and 1LT trims are powered by a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine (193 horsepower) while the 2LT and 3LT trims come with a turbocharged 2-liter 4-cylinder engine (230 horsepower).
The high-end Premier and RS trims come with a larger 3.6-liter V6 engine (308 horsepower).
- Edmunds: 4.0 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.4 / 5.0
- JD Power: 85 / 100
2020 Blazer, Edmunds review:
“We took the time to investigate a number of vehicles in the midsize SUV category and bought a new Chevrolet Blazer. First is the fact that the doors are large enough to get in and out of with ease… We love the 3.6 L V-6 as it has loads of power for merging onto the freeway and passing. Of course you pay for all this power in lower MPG numbers, however, we are still managing to see 24.5 MPG overall. We don’t drive all that much and appreciate the power this engine provides. We got the 2LT model and my wife loves having the HOMELINK garage door opener feature along with all the other nice features in this trim level. The ride is very smooth over rough surfaces we have encountered. This vehicle came nicely equipped and we really are impressed with all the features this SUV has.”
2020 Blazer
2005 and 2004 Chevrolet Blazer
The 2005 and 2004 Blazer models are the final installments before production was halted temporarily. If you’re looking for the older style Blazer, then these two are significantly less problematic than all of their predecessors.
New to these model years is the introduction of a deluxe overhead console and the AutoTrac four-wheel-drive system as standalone options on any Blazer variant.
In other news, the Xtreme model received revised wheels.
The 2004 Blazer was sold in a 4-door configuration but in 2005, the manufacturer made the switch to a 2-door configuration.
Noteworthy aspects of these models include: appearance, interior, comfort, reliability, manufacturing quality, and off-road capability.
In comparison to their competitors, they also have good towing ability.
When properly equipped, certain variants can tow up to 5,700 pounds, which is more than enough to tow standard trailers and campers.
2005 Blazer:
- Edmunds: 4.2 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2004 Blazer:
- Edmunds: 4.4 / 5.0
- Kelley Blue Book: 4.0 / 5.0
- JD Power: NA
2005 Blazer, Edmunds review:
“I have a 2005 Blazer and I haven’t had any problems with it! It’s my first vehicle and I love it! Has plenty of power, reliability and there is no rust at all!! I have 160,000 thousand miles on it and it drives like it’s a brand new vehicle. I think the reviews are a little off because this vehicle has no problems at all! I recommend this vehicle to anyone!”
Consumer Scores For Best Chevrolet Blazer Years
| Model Year | Edmunds Consumer Rating | Kelley Blue Book Consumer Rating | JD Power Consumer Rating |
| 2023 Chevrolet Blazer | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2022 Chevrolet Blazer | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2021 Chevrolet Blazer | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Blazer | 4.0 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 85 / 100 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Blazer | 3.9 / 5.0 | 4.4 / 5.0 | 86 / 100 |
| 2005 Chevrolet Blazer | 4.2 / 5.0 | 4.0 / 5.0 | NA |
| 2004 Chevrolet Blazer | 4.4 / 5.0 | 4.0 / 5.0 | NA |
Related: 7 Most Common Chevrolet Blazer Problems (Explained)
What Are The Worst Years For The Chevrolet Blazer?
1996 and 1997 Chevrolet Blazer
The 1996 and 1997 Blazer, are the most problematic model years ever produced according to NHTSA data.
The most frequently reported issue is related to an extremely faulty and unreliable anti-lock brake system (ABS).
Defects in the ABS module have led to various symptoms, including loss of brake power, non-responsive braking, and brake pedal jamming.
Here is what owners had to say:
“When driving over bumps the anti lock brakes would lock up causing the vehicle to have extended stopping distance.”
“The vehicle is equipped with abs. On multiple occasions, when I attempted to stop the vehicle the wheels locked and the vehicle went into a skid. The skid (slid) is a safety issue since it causes a reduction in steering control which could result in an accident.”
Windshield wiper issues were widespread also with owners reporting that the wipers fail intermittently making driving in the rain extremely dangerous.
- The 1996 Blazer had a total of 1,156 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 25 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 1997 Blazer had a total of 775 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 49 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- ABS not working
- Windshield wiper failure
- Spun bearing caused engine failure
- Transmission failure
- Engine stalls intermittently
1998 Chevrolet Blazer
The 1998 Blazer is yet another problematic model year that should be avoided.
Owners have reported that the vehicle failed to recognize their keyfob, the front seat adjustment recliner handle broke off easily, and the windshield wipers would fail intermittently fail.
Here is what one owner had to say about faulty windshield wipers:
“The windshield wipers worked/failed intermittently. There was no discernible pattern, but it was a dangerous situation. My wife traveled 120 miles round trip to work and had to stop midway yesterday because of rain. The windshield wipers randomly decided not to work. A half-hour of waiting and they worked fine.”
The 1998 Blazer had a total of 727 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 56 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Loss of power
- Combination flasher clicking erratically
- Transmission slips
1999 and 2000 Chevrolet Blazer
The 1999 and 2000 Blazer model years had similar problems regarding the engine, brake system, suspension, and transmission.
Issues involved overheating, excessive oil consumption and/or leakage, anti-lock brake system (ABS) defects (similar to the ‘96 and ‘97 models), fragile suspension ball joints, and rough shifting.
The most common problems were transmission related, here is what one owner had to say:
“I bought this Blazer 5 months ago and it only has 77,000 miles on it. I took my in-laws to the airport, and the transmission went out, no reverse, only 1st and 2nd gear works. I am told by 3 different transmission shops that this is a common problem with this transmission.”
- The 1999 Blazer had a total of 441 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 58 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2000 Blazer had a total of 608 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 271 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Transmission failure
- Engine failure
- Fuel gauge goes haywire
- Electrical short in the fuel pump
2001 and 2002 Chevrolet Blazer
The 2001 and 2002 Blazers had widespread issues with the brake lights specifically that they would fail to illuminate.
This was caused by a faulty hazard flasher switch assembly which is in charge of turning on all 4 turn signal lights to signify a hazard or emergency situation.
Due to the safety implications of this issue, a widespread recall was issued.
Owners also filed reports due to unwanted activation of the ABS brakes and extended stopping distances during low-speed braking.
- The 2001 Blazer had a total of 334 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 43 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
- The 2002 Blazer had a total of 255 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 31 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- Faulty transmission
- No fuel entering the engine
- Coolant leak
- ABS brake issues
- Intake gasket failure
- Transmission failure
- Noise in front end
2019 Chevrolet Blazer
The 2019 Blazer isn’t a clunker by any stretch of the imagination however it was the first installment of the all-new model.
Typically, debut models should be avoided and whilst the Blazer didn’t get off to a terrible start, it has received far more complaints than its successors.
These are simply teething issues, many of which haven’t carried over to the following years.
The most common issue is that the vehicle does not recognize when it is in “Park” which means owners have been unable to shut off the vehicle.
Here’s what owners had to say:
“When I shift to Park it doesn’t recognize its in park along with extreme stutter of the transmission when accelerating – this could be dangerous as it could result in a accident.”
“I am experiencing the well know “shift to park” issue. When I move the shifter to the park position and turn off the vehicle, I receive a message stating “shift to park” and I’m unable to fully power the car off or lock the doors. This is only overcome by trying to wiggle the shifter. “
“Shift car to park keeps showing up even though I am in park.”
The 2019 Blazer had a total of 78 problems according to CarProblemZoo.com and 3 complaints at CarComplaints.com.
Common problems:
- “Shift to Park” issue
- Transmission stutters
Related: 11 Best & Worst Chevrolet Trailblazer Years (With Facts & Stats)
What Years Have The Most Complaints?
| Model Year | Complaints (CarComplaints.com) | Problems (CarProblemZoo.com) | Recalls (NHTSA.gov) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Chevrolet Blazer | – | – | – |
| 2023 Chevrolet Blazer | – | 7 | 2 |
| 2022 Chevrolet Blazer | – | 13 | 1 |
| 2021 Chevrolet Blazer | 1 | 27 | 1 |
| 2020 Chevrolet Blazer | 1 | 39 | 3 |
| 2019 Chevrolet Blazer | 3 | 78 | 2 |
| 2005 Chevrolet Blazer | 3 | 16 | 0 |
| 2004 Chevrolet Blazer | 19 | 54 | 1 |
| 2003 Chevrolet Blazer | 20 | 83 | 1 |
| 2002 Chevrolet Blazer | 31 | 255 | 1 |
| 2001 Chevrolet Blazer | 43 | 334 | 1 |
| 2000 Chevrolet Blazer | 271 | 608 | 2 |
| 1999 Chevrolet Blazer | 58 | 441 | 0 |
| 1998 Chevrolet Blazer | 56 | 727 | 0 |
| 1997 Chevrolet Blazer | 49 | 775 | 0 |
| 1996 Chevrolet Blazer | 25 | 1,156 | 0 |
What Problems Do Chevrolet Blazers Have?
- ABS engages at slow speeds on wet surfaces
- Fuel gauge is erratic
- Transmission failure
- Electrical short in the fuel pump
- Loss of power
- Combination flasher clicking erratically
- Transmission slips
- Spun bearing caused engine failure
- Engine stalls intermittently
- Faulty transmission
- No fuel to the engine
- Coolant leak
What Are The Best Alternatives To The Chevrolet Blazer?
| Make & Model | Score | MSRP | Fuel Economy (MPG) |
| Buick Enclave | 8.1 | $44,800 – $59,470 | City: 17 – 18 /Highway: 25 – 26 |
| Volkswagen Atlas | 8.0 | $34,460 – $52,340 | City: 18 – 21 /Highway: 23 – 25 |
| Ford Edge | 7.9 | $37,945 – $46,485 | City: 19 – 21 /Highway: 25 – 28 |
| Nissan Pathfinder | 7.9 | $35,000 – $49,870 | City: 20 – 21 /Highway: 23 – 27 |
| Subaru Ascent | 7.9 | $33,895 – $48,195 | City: 19 – 20 /Highway: 25 – 26 |
| Toyota Highlander | 7.9 | $36,420 – $51,225 | City: 21 – 22 /Highway: 28 – 29 |
| Dodge Durango | 7.7 | $38,495 – $91,185 | City: 13 – 19 /Highway: 19 – 26 |
| Ford Explorer | 7.7 | $36,760 – $56,075 | City: 16 – 27 /Highway: 22 – 28 |
| Chevrolet Blazer | 7.6 | $35,100 – $45,700 | City: 19 – 22 /Highway: 26 – 29 |
| GMC Acadia | 7.6 | $36,800 – $50,600 | City: 19 – 22 /Highway: 26 – 29 |
| Nissan Murano | 7.6 | $33,660 – $46,910 | City: 20 /Highway: 28 |
| Toyota 4Runner | 7.0 | $39,555 – $54,020 | City: 16 /Highway: 19 |
Source: cars.usnews.com, edmunds.com
Related: How Long Do Chevrolet Trailblazer Last? (Solved and Explained)
References
https://www.caranddriver.com/chevrolet/blazer-2023
https://cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/chevrolet/blazer
https://www.edmunds.com/chevrolet/blazer/
https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/blazer/
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2023/chevrolet/blazer
https://www.carcomplaints.com/Chevrolet/Blazer/
https://www.carproblemzoo.com/chevrolet/blazer/
https://www.cars.com/research/chevrolet-blazer/recalls/
