1996 Chevrolet Blazer LT 4.3L V6 from North America
Faults:
Nothing not routine wear. Most recently the idler pulley failed at 188,000 miles. ONe fuel pump at over 120,000 miles. Brakes have worn out (front) every 40,000 or so miles and rear were only replaced about 1,000 miles ago. The left side rear axle wore a groove into the area of the bearing and had to be replaced, but not until about 175,000.
Overall it has been a good car that gets regular use and maintenance in a Middle Atlantic Climate.
I use it to haul a boat and a utility trailer as well as other people's cars on a time or two.
The car has been used in 4WD in winter and to get out of soft soils. It has pulled trees around our property and generally been very good.
My intention is that it is likely to stay with us as my last utility vehicle.
My experience with GM is very different than some I read as I have had mostly GM cars in my 60+ years and bought a Cadillac CTS in 2003 to add to our fleet. I have never sold, traded or given away a GM car with less than 200,000 miles. several have gone over 300,000 before I retired them.
I do as much work on them as I can and oil and lube is about all they need. Occasionally a battery and brakes, but these ARE supposed to wear out.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 28th March, 2007
28th Oct 2006, 09:02
I agree. My previous vehicle was a 1996 Chevy Blazer LS, and it too was a money pit.
I owned the Blazer for about 6-7 months and put over 1500.00 dollars into it. I understand your pain.
The O2 sensors are a lot cheaper if you can fix them yourself.