1999 Chevrolet Blazer LT from North America - Comments

Unfortunately, I must report that this little truck has just cost me a new transmission. Also, about two months ago, the steering column was opened up to replace the complete control module unit that includes the multi-function lever and emergency flasher button. Failure of this unit resulted in an intermittent, yet frequent ticking from the flasher module under the right side of the dashboard. Imagine the sound of the turn signal ticking away for sometimes an hour straight without the lever being clicked on.

I wish to impress upon owners of similar vehicles with the 4L60E automatic transmission that the problem originates in a faulty valve body causing hard shifting from first to second gear. The engine light comes on, and code P1870 will be rendered upon performing a diagnostic scan. At this point the friction material on the lock-up portion of the torque converter is mostly burnt away. Also, within the transmission body, the improperly hardened sun-shell gear teeth have begun to grind themselves smooth. This will now cost you a complete rebuild. Smile while GM and it's dealers denounce any knowledge of this common condition, as they suggest that the problem may lie within the driver and/or lack of maintenance. Otherwise, this is peppy luxury sport-utility that achieves acceptable fuel economy, gobbles the snow like candy, and starts in any weather thus far.

I have a 1999 Chevy Blazer LT with 56k miles on it. With the exception of the front wheel bearings, I haven't had anything done other than routine maintenance. I'm not sure what happened with the writer above. As far as handling, accelration, or ride, I have no complaints. The blazer has good pickup and handles better than the other SUVs that I test drove. The automatic 4 wheel drive option is worth having. It stays in 2wd until it detects slippage. When it detects slippage, the 4wd kicks in. This is great when driving in the rain and it doesn't kill your mileage. Gas mileage is average to slightly better for an SUV. I get 15-16 mpg city and 18-22 mpg on highway driving, long trips. If you drive with a heavy foot, you'll find yourself getting 12-14 mpg depending on how much you gun it. I'd definitely buy another one.

I have recently found the same two problems happen to my 99 2dr chevy tahoe sport, the A/T shifts hard between 1 and 3rd skipping 2nd all together and there is no reverse, I also have a problem I believe with the Steering Wheel Position Sensor since we popwer assist kicks in and gives when I stter to the right or left a little from top center. so I believe the correct course of action is to replace the sun shell gear/ trans overhaul, and replace the Position Sensor respectivel, I was wondering if the transmission problems were the same you had.

Thanks JD.

I would like to update my original review of June 11,2003 in response to those who submitted comments.

In July 2003, both front wheel bearings were replaced due to dry grinding sounds coming from up front, especially the left side. I asked for my old parts back and was amazed that these units are full hub assemblies with bearings and speed/traction sensors that are non-serviceable. I then understood my invoice.

August 2003 found the Blazer back for service in the form of a much needed tune-up. I would have attacked this myself except for the fact that the steering shaft must be removed or somehow dislocated enough to remove and install the left front two spark plugs. The other plugs and the wires are not so tricky, but should not be attempted without much time, skill, and patience. The cap/rotor assembly requires specialty tools.

December 2003, the fuel gauge is registering erratic levels from full to empty to one quarter, etc. all in the span of a single half-hour trip. Otherwise, the gauge will remain at full after filling, then not budge for three or four days until it spontaneously decides to register just above empty. The remedy the dealer suggested will likely involve dropping the fuel tank and replacing the sending unit. For now I simply fuel up twice a week.

January 2004 found me installing a fresh Delco battery on a Sunday afternoon with a serious wind chill factor. I do not believe the battery had frozen as it was not swollen, nor had the fluid within stiffened.

March 2004, the engine light came on and the transmission went into 'limp mode'. Upon scanning, hard codes P0740 and P0753 were rendered and the system cleared. These codes pertain to circuits controlling the torque converter clutch and shift pattern actuation. Under warranty of the new transmission, the internal solenoid relay bank was replaced.

This Blazer is the newest and most expensive vehicle we have ever purchased. Aside from the usual sound of a teapot whistling when the computer climate control is functioning, or the front left corner of the cab creaking like a loose body mount, this vehicle has also been one of the most challenging. I will not even mention trade-in value. Yikes!

Comment #1, my wife also loves the 'autotrac' system.

Comment #2, when your transmission is replaced, be sure to have a variable flow fluid cooler installed. This will not only rid unwanted excess heat, but will restrict flow into the cooler until operating temperature is reached.