Overview & Reviews

The Chevrolet Blazer was one of the most popular SUVs for five consecutive decades, though its name was shared by two completely unrelated model lines. Chevrolet first started affixing the "K5 Blazer" designation to two-door convertible SUV versions of its big trucks starting in 1969.

Today, most of the old-school K5 Blazers have long since rusted away or have otherwise been reclaimed by off-roading enthusiasts. Chevy continued to produce full-size, two-door Blazers through 1994, after which it rechristened these vehicles with the now-current Tahoe name.

In the early 1980s, however, Chevrolet started to call another one of its products the Blazer. And in actuality, the other Chevy Blazer -- the "S-10 Blazer" -- is the one consumers are most likely to come across in the used-car market due to its greater popularity and more recent place in history.

Born as a variant of Chevrolet's S-10 compact pickup in 1983, this S-10 Blazer was a pioneer of the modern small-SUV segment. Though initially limited in terms of body styles and often underpowered, it did eventually receive four doors and better engines. A redesigned second-generation model (without the S-10 moniker) arrived in 1995 with improvements in performance, styling and interior room.

As an inexpensive choice for a small or midsize SUV, a second-generation Chevy Blazer might be worth a look. However, compared to other vehicles of the time, this Blazer was let down by average driving dynamics, middling comfort and poor crash test scores.

Most Recent Chevrolet Blazer

The second-generation Chevrolet Blazer was produced from 1995 to 2005. In terms of size, it was bigger than its predecessor but smaller than competing midsize SUVs like the Ford Explorer and Jeep Grand Cherokee. The two-door version was sold throughout the model run, but the four-door was discontinued after 2004, with fleet sales continuing through '05. If you encounter an '05 four-door Blazer on the used market, chances are it used to be a rental car. (Consumers should note that four-door Blazers from this era are unrelated to the superseding TrailBlazer that arrived for '02.)

The second-gen Chevy Blazer's mechanicals were largely consistent throughout its lifetime. Under the hood was a 4.3-liter V6 producing 190 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. It was typically connected to a smooth-shifting four-speed automatic, though a five-speed manual transmission was available on two-door models. Rear-wheel drive (2WD) and four-wheel drive were offered.

The Blazer initially came in three trim lines: base, LS and LT. The base model started with little more than a radio, air-conditioning and antilock brakes, but the LS added the features most consumers expected: power windows and locks, a tilt steering wheel, a folding rear seat and cruise control. The luxurious four-door-only LT upgraded to leather upholstery, a power driver seat, a more deluxe stereo and an overhead console. A "TrailBlazer" trim line with two-tone leather and unique styling became the new range-topper in 1999. Chevrolet realigned the trim levels in 2000, dropping the base model and de-contenting the LT (leather seats became optional). In model year 2001 the Blazer Xtreme arrived. This 2WD, two-door model had a low-riding sport suspension, deep-dish wheels, a monochromatic exterior and tinted windows.

In our initial reviews of the Chevrolet Blazer, we found it quick (thanks to its robust V6), fun to drive around town, comfortable to ride in and decently capable off-road. However, as better competitors emerged, the Blazer's handling seemed sloppy and vague and its turning circle wide. We also found that rear-seat comfort was lacking due to a low bench and inadequate foot room. Other faults included spotty build quality and low-grade interior plastics.

Of the few changes to affect the Chevy Blazer during its long life, the most crucial came in 1998 when it gained revised inner and outer styling, four-wheel antilock disc brakes and a passenger-side front airbag. The addition of a second airbag is especially important in light of the Blazer's very poor NHTSA one-star frontal crash test score for the passenger in prior years. After the revision, the score jumped to four. Another major change came for the 1999 model year when Chevrolet introduced a new AutoTrac four-wheel-drive system that could automatically sense wheel slippage and send power to the axle with the most traction.

Past Chevrolet Blazer models

The original Chevrolet S-10 Blazer was produced from 1983 to 1994. Through much of the 1980s, it relied on a variety of four-cylinder and V6 engines, all with meager outputs. The S-10 Blazer's first big improvement came in 1988 when it gained an optional 4.3-liter V6 with 160 hp. That V6 finally became standard in 1990.

The Chevrolet S-10 Blazer's second major improvement came in 1991 when Chevy introduced a four-door version based on a slightly longer body. This certainly helped improve the vehicle's appeal, as did an optional "Enhanced" version of the V6 engine that brought horsepower to 200.

Though popular, the S-10 Blazer was increasingly outclassed as the 1990s came about. In particular, the Blazer's sloppy handling, harsh ride, cramped backseat and poorly designed controls made it look crude compared to newer designs like the the Ford Explorer, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Nissan Pathfinder of the time.

As for the full-size Chevrolet Blazer, the best models from the early '90s to look at would be those built from 1992 to 1994. These redesigned models were built using GM's then-new full-size truck platform. A 200-horsepower 5.7-liter V8 powered nearly all Blazers of this generation, though a 6.5-liter turbodiesel V8 with 180 hp and 360 lb-ft of torque was optional for '94. Four-wheel drive was standard across the board. In 1995, Chevy changed this model's name to Tahoe and introduced a four-door body, which in short time proved to be far more popular than the two-door.

User Reviews:

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  I got robbed - 2000 Chevrolet Blazer
  By Tom - March 8 - 1:02 pm

  I purchased my Blazer at about 40000 miles. And what a let down it has been since. Ive actually considered seeing if it was a lemon but by the other reviews on here Im guessing I should have done the research and expected it. Every thing everyone has mentioned having problems with I have do the same and some more. Im a college student and constantly breaking the bank on repairs for this. I will never buy a Chevy again. I have spent close to $5000 on repair in 3 years of having it. Gas gauge, ball joints, rotors, bearings, rear axle, pittman arm, seat handle, wiring, lights on the dash, heater core. The repairs take all the fun out of this automobile unless you have deep pockets.

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  Piece of Junk - 2000 Chevrolet Blazer
  By RP - March 5 - 9:38 pm

  This vehicle has been the worst, by far, of the eight cars Ive owned to date. 1st ball joint/hub kit at 43000 miles, the other at 63000, two sets of brakes, gas gauge breaks and needs to be replaced, driver seat tilt breaks off with normal use, cheap plastic emergency break handle breaks off stranding the vehicle in a snow storm as the breaks will not release, hood cable require replacing at 69000 at which time it was noted that the "engine oil cooler lines are leaking," and now as of 3/5/06 the Security light is on and the vehicle does not start on command with out a 10 minute wait due to electronic and fuel issues and the seats have terrible ergonomic design with zero lumbar support

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  Works for me - 1997 Chevrolet Blazer
  By TOMKAT - March 2 - 8:15 pm

  Bought the car because it was cheap and clean. It had 83000 mi on it when we got it, now has 118000. It has had a few problems but nothing I would not have expected from a car of that milage. Key switch replaced, air cond. compressor, rear wiper motor and upper/lower ball joints.

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  No problems - 2000 Chevrolet Blazer
  By nceguy - February 18 - 11:19 pm

  In 70k miles Ive made one $120 repair. And Ive driven repeatedly over several mountains over 11,000 feet elevation in New Mexico where the terrain is anything but friendly. What more could I ask for a vehicle that is as affordable as this one. Especially for someone who actually uses an SUV as an SUV and not just a gas hog.

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  Been good to me - 1999 Chevrolet Blazer
  By morey000 - February 13 - 1:37 am

  After 6 years and 60K miles it has been a terrific vehicle. Reliability has been near perfect. Mileage has been 18 city and 20 hwy- not bad. The creature comforts and interior features in my LT are terrific, and with an after market set of tires it takes me where I need to go off road. Its been cost effective, functional and comfortable. Im ready to buy a new SUV... as soon as I find one I like better.

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  Not Bad For an American - 2001 Chevrolet Blazer
  By supersteff - February 13 - 12:48 am

  Purchased this car used with about 172K, and the cars been a good experience after 206K. Great engine, provides lots of power, but could be better on acceleration(because of weight). Great on snow and ice, and very reliable for a north-american car. This cars never had any major problems, except the brakes and stereo. Exterior and Interior quality could be a bit better too. Interior plastic is flimsy and moves around very easily, while some of the trim on the exterior pulls off quite easily. All in all, not a bad truck for the every day driver who has to overcome some bad weather during the winter.

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  Reliable vehicle with few flaws - 1995 Chevrolet Blazer
  By Kurt Anderson - February 12 - 3:36 pm

  Ive owned my Blazer for 10 years now, original owner. The vehicle has proven to be very reliable, good off road, great towing, and nice on the highways. If I had to do it again, I would still buy this car. The car does have its design problems: (1) every 40k Ive had to pay $350 to get an emmissions valve replaced -- frustrating, (2) even though I have a heavy duty alternator package Ive had to replace the battery 3 times -- again frustrating.

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  Okay, but have had a few minor problems - 2002 Chevrolet Blazer
  By My Extreme - February 11 - 10:10 am

  Overall my extreme has been a decent purchase. Ive had problems with the right rear window leaking. After taking it in 4 to 5 times I think its finally fixed. By the way it wasnt a little leak either. The water stood in the right rear cargo area. Mechanically I have had no problems. Power sunroof has been sound and no leaks. As opposed to the other extreme review my tires lasted until about 45,000 miles. Gas mileage mainly running interstate/highway has been 17/18. Although the reported highway is around 20 or 22. Rear window molding deteriorating. Cant stand the look of it. I have found the seats to be very comfortable. I love the way my extreme handles.

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  Cursed - 1999 Chevrolet Blazer
  By StopDropRoll - January 27 - 4:06 pm

  I bought mine with 30,000 miles. Initially, it performed well. At 56,000 miles altinator, starter replaced, heater quit. Heater, despite repeated repair remains unreliable. Many problems detected related to the coolant GM used. Most of the interior plastic moldings have worked themselves loose. Both front doors sagged and had to have pins replaced. Car jack rattles in storage. Brake rotors warped, were difficult and expensive to replace. Substantial play has developed in the steering. The engine is strong, but not efficent. Averages 16 mpg. Mass flow sensor replaced at 90,000 miles. Catalytic converter replaced at 96,000 miles. Lifters had to be replaced at 112,000 miles.

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  so-so - 1999 Chevrolet Blazer
  By db - January 27 - 12:06 pm

  Have owned my 2wd Blazer almost 5yrs. Will probably not own another. Love the performance and comfort. Gas mileage has slipped (22 17mpg). Had to have oil lines fixed, lost handle to pass.seat first wk I owned it. Hate the placement of the roof pillers. Drivers door hinge always loose. I take immaculate care of this car. Always drove GM cars. Will not buy this one again. GM can do better.