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Chevrolet Trailblazer Reliability Grade

DOverall

Poor reliability

EngineC
TransmissionD

Grade a specific Chevrolet Trailblazer

Reliability changes from year to year. Pick a model year to see its grade, then add mileage and price to get a deal score and estimated miles remaining.

The Chevrolet Trailblazer earns a D overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C for its engine and a D for its transmission. It ranks 9th of 10 subcompact SUVs we grade. The transmission (D) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 375 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2021-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.

Chevrolet Trailblazer reliability by year

Overall grade for each model year, from owner complaints filed with NHTSA. Tap a year to see its full grade.

2021D2022C2023C2024C+

Years to avoid: 2021 (transmission slipping / rough shifting)

Faded years are recent, so fewer complaints have come in. Their grades may change.

How long does the Chevrolet Trailblazer last?

160,000Estimated lifespan (miles)

A rough estimate for the model across all years, not measured for each model year.

Known Chevrolet Trailblazer problems

We track 2 known problem areas for the Chevrolet Trailblazer, including which model years they affect. They're in the full report, along with miles remaining and a deal score for the car you're looking at.

See Trailblazer problems

Chevrolet Trailblazer vs. other subcompact SUVs

ModelEngineTrans.Overall
Subaru Crosstrek A A- A
Buick Encore B+ A A
Honda HR-V B+ B B
Nissan Kicks B+ B B
Hyundai Kona C- B- B-
Kia Soul F B- C+
Toyota C-HR B+ F C+
Jeep Compass C+ C+ C+
Kia Seltos F C D
Chevrolet Trailblazer C D D

Most reliable subcompact SUVs →

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Chevrolet Trailblazer reliability FAQ

Is the Chevrolet Trailblazer reliable?

Poor reliability. The Chevrolet Trailblazer earns a D overall reliability grade from GradeMyCar, with a C for its engine and a D for its transmission. It ranks 9th of 10 subcompact SUVs we grade. The transmission (D) is the weaker of its two major components, so ask for transmission service records and pay close attention to shifting on a test drive. Grades are based on 375 owner complaints filed with NHTSA for the 2021-2023 model years, adjusted for how many were sold.

How many miles will a Chevrolet Trailblazer last?

We estimate a well-maintained Chevrolet Trailblazer lasts around 160,000 miles. That's a rough figure for the model across all years, not measured for each model year, so check the grade for the year you're looking at.

What are the best years for the Chevrolet Trailblazer?

No Chevrolet Trailblazer model year stands out as exceptionally reliable in NHTSA owner complaints. The best-graded years are 2021, 2022 and 2023.

What Chevrolet Trailblazer years should I avoid?

Based on NHTSA owner complaints, the Chevrolet Trailblazer years to be most careful with are 2021. The 2021 grades a D overall (engine C, transmission C-), and its top engine/transmission problem is transmission slipping / rough shifting.

Is the Chevrolet Trailblazer transmission reliable?

GradeMyCar grades the Chevrolet Trailblazer transmission a D (poor reliability). Reliability varies by model year, so grade the specific year you're looking at.

Is the Chevrolet Trailblazer engine reliable?

GradeMyCar grades the Chevrolet Trailblazer engine a C (below-average reliability).