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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Trailblazer????? - 2003 Chevrolet Blazer
By kellimojo - July 11 - 2:00 amI have owned 2 of these Blazers. The first one was a 1999 and had to let go back with my ex husband because of a divorce. I now own a 2003. I love these vehichles. I cant believe Chevrolet wants me to pick, when it is time to trade, on a boxy, overpriced TrailBlazer or the inferior and ugly Tracker. I looked at the TrailBlazer and I could not believe the price tag on this thing. I usually trade every 2to4 years and am a die hard Chevy buyer. I have owned 5 S-10s. From what I have seen, the Jeep Liberty will be my next pick.
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It has been a good vehicle - 1995 Chevrolet Blazer
By mgates - July 9 - 2:00 amBought new,still like its looks not big,dark back windows,nice wheels. Excellent paint,red/tan leather,attractive.ERG valve problems twice.Freeze plug leaked coolant.Replaced the fuel pump.The brakes have fadded several times after alot of stopping with a full load of people.Bigger brakes are needed. The ride is much better than an Explorer or other SUVs available in 95. I like the tail gate. Good for sitting on to put on golf shoes,carrying long items. It has excellent capicity in the rear for tennis bags, golf bags, building materials, gardening materials. Since narrow 68", it fits in smaller garages and parking spaces.
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A great all around SUV - 1995 Chevrolet Blazer
By jaredmsd - July 9 - 2:00 amI love my Blazer, it has wonderful power and has more get-up-and-go than my new 4Runner that has 60 more hp. The interior fits perfectly and is comfortable. I also like the truck features like the 4-Lo and the rear hatch door that lays flat like a pick- up. The cargo space and floor length is still unbeatable in a midsize SUV (try finding a midsize SUV with a floor length greater than 6 ft.). Like others, Ive had problems with my fuel/exhaust system.. I have replaced the EGR valve and the fuel injector. I have 144,000 miles though and it is still running like a champ. Ive never been stranded on the side of the road, and Ive never been stuck in snow.
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Biggest mistake of my life - 2000 Chevrolet Blazer
By Blazer Hater - July 9 - 2:00 amThis 2000 Blazer has been nothing but a headache. I dont have a tow package and most miles are highway. I dont ride it hard or off road, HOWEVER, by 60000 miles the transmission blew, the hub assembly had to be replaced and every little thing inside has fallen apart or off (ie the seat adjuster). Its been nothing but a money pit. I cant get ANYBODY to buy it and the dealerships almost laugh when I drive in asking about a trade. Big time money sucker. Dont ever buy one or any other GM vehicle. Im going back to a Honda. Forget this domestic crap.
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...at least its a real pretty red... - 2000 Chevrolet Blazer
By Tahorican - July 6 - 2:00 amI bought my Blazer when my 91 Beretta died last March. Three weeks after I bought it driving on I-80 from Sacramento to Tahoe it starts smoking. We pull over, open the hood, & tranny fluid had leaked, overheated and ignited in the manifold. We have it fixed. Shouldve returned it (dumb!). Two weeks ago the tranny starts slipping, and the truck shakes when brakes are applied. Back in the shop. Tranny & brakes are done. It has 27k miles. Shouldve just fixed my Beretta & kept it, at least it was paid for. Gave me a lot let headaches in the 8 years I had it than this stupid thing. Or I shouldve bought a new 4 Runner.
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Long Live Blazer - 2003 Chevrolet Blazer
By BGNK - July 3 - 2:00 amI have a 1992 Chevy S-10 Blazer with a Tahoe package and I love it. This vehicle has 165000 miles on it and refuses to die. t burns very little oil at first start up after it has been sitting but other than that its fine.I have the high performance engine which has 200 horses and 260 torque and it pulls a 4100 pound boat at 70 with very little trouble.That is in overdrive.The only trouble I had with it was when I had to have the transfer case rebuilt, but it was worth it.It gets between 16 and 19 mpg in town and 17 to 24 on the highway depending on how you drive.
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driving the h*ll out of it - 2002 Chevrolet Blazer
By chevy lover - June 28 - 2:00 am31500 and counting. most miles on highway. havent had a single problem with the exception of one. change my own oil got a free change from dealer the first time. the mechanic must have been king kong. took it back and the dealer loosened the drain plug. no sqeaks, rattles,etc. same motor as was in my 90 s10. should be good for over 200k and i never changed the oil in it after 150k (dumb move). very good vehicle if you get it from the right plant and its not built on a monday or friday!
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Finally a fun Chevy - 2001 Chevrolet Blazer
By Hexxman - June 28 - 2:00 amWe have owned ours since they first launch and have had very little concerns. Fun to drive and still gets looks from those of all ages.
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First 3 years - 1997 Chevrolet Blazer
By mcgringo - June 25 - 2:00 amBought a new, fully equipped Blazer. First 3 years numerous mechanical, electrical failures: transmission, alternator, A/C, wiper motor, battery, drivers window. Abraham Motors, in Miami,part of Republic Industries,now owned by Maroone, would not honor warranty for transmission failure at 16000 miles. Last two years, it is running well. Probably my last Chevy.
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Very Reliable/Excellent Dependability - 1996 Chevrolet Blazer
By dennosar - June 16 - 2:00 amIt has overall been an extremely reliable vehicle. I live in Alaska and I travel often 150 miles one way at a stretch. The highway can be very lonely in the winter months (I carry a cell phone in case I need it, often times it is of no use to me do to the mountains blocking reception!) Four wheel drive is a must here! I use it all the time on slick roads and off road along beaches gathering clams or along the river here in extremely deep, soft, sand to fish. The only negative thing I have encountered with the vehicle was the oil cooler hoses were leaky and I had trouble getting one due to a nation wide backorder issue.
