1996 Chevrolet Blazer LS ZR2 review from North America
"Poor parts, poor quality"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A lot of things have gone wrong, and often at almost the same time resulting in costly repair.
Water pump went out around 120,000.
Radiator busted around the same.
Intake manifold gasket too.
Seat hardware worn through the fabric, since 80k miles.
Side mirrors break off incredibly easy by themselves.
Interior rattles worse than any car I've heard.
Spare tire rack rattles a ridiculous amount.
A/C hasn't worked in years.
Alternator (not a big deal though)
General comments?
The car would be alright with better parts and quality, but wouldn't they all?
The Blazer needs an alignment, but to due so requires replacement of most front suspension components, costing over $1000.
The A/C doesn't work, and for repairs to make it work, yet another $1000, yes that one-thousand dollars.
The ZR2 package was new in 95-96, and lends the Blazer to good off-road performance, which I have put to the test and can give some praise.
Unfortunately, a decade later, the car is nearly undrivable due to interior/spare tire rattles, and the fear of another costly repair.
Recommended reviews
| If you want a city/off road 4X4 with luxury at a good price, this is it |
|
| Okay if you are married to a Chevy dealer |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Model year | 1996 |
| Year of manufacture | 1996 |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 4.3L V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 8 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 3 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 5 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 5 / 10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 95000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 130000 miles |
| Date of Entry | 26th September, 2006 |