Buick Rainier, Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy

blrmkr

I discovered the My GMLink site today and have not seen it posted here before:

https://www.mygmlink.com/main/US/en/chevrolet/home

Unfortunately, I was unable to enter my VIN. I was told on the phone that this feature was being added and should be available by the end of June. Apparently, the dealers are going to download service records into the system so owners (and dealers) can track service history, recalls, recommended maintenance, etc.

tblazed

Just went in to My GMLink signed up and entered in all my info including the VIN. The VIN registration worked fine for me. It acknowledged what model vehicle I registered, no problem.

blrmkr

tblazed - Interesting that your VIN registration worked fine. Maybe since my TB is older the dealer has to enter it in the system for the first time since My GMLink is new. Have any xx/01 TB owners tried to enter your VIN with success? I will ask the dealer during the next oil change about my situation.

lurker01

I had my Envoy in last week for various TSB's as well as an oil change and tire rotation. I had them do the mirrors, the gasket, the air muffler, the reprogram and the roof rack. When I got it back, they had not put the cover back on the fuse box. I should have checked everything out, but I was in a hurry so I just drove home. Later, I discovered that the keyless entry did not work, the power seats were non-functional, the security light on the radio did not blink and when the key was removed, the radio shut off instead of waiting for the door to be opened.
So, it is back in the shop today. I hope they get it right. I was balely able to contain my anger when asking the service manager how they can fix the mirrors and not even test them with the remote to see if they worked. The most basic things were not even done to verify things were ok. Where to they get these service monkeys from anyhow??? Do they really pay so little that compentent people don't apply?

-John.

lurker01

Had the TSB for the excessive fan noise done. It did not fix the problem. The next morning the fan kicked in and ran for the first 1/2 mile. I think we are just going to have to live with this issue. It just might be a design flaw in the fan clutch.

cmack4

The synth will only leak if there are existing deteriation of seals! If anything, synth pro-longs traditional seals... Synth has less resistance than traditional dino, so a minimal gain in mpg will be detected. One thing that synth offers that dino will never be able to replicate is less friction during cold starts, when the majority of wear is caused. I'm not an advocate of the pro-longed drain interval, so I'm not going to make arguments along those terms.

For Transmission service, I plan on using the dealer, since they'll let me use my own fluid and they use the PF5 (BG products) flusher that gets about 85% of old ATF out of the system. They also drop the pan and change the filter every other change.

tblazed

Problem is most people remember the claims of "1 year or 25000 miles" etc. when synth's first came out and tend to leave dirty synth in longer than just changing normally. I have owned and know of multiple GM V6 and V8s that have gone well over 200,000 miles on regular ol' Valvoline or Pennzoil. At 2 to 3 times the cost a waste of money IMO, but if it feels good, do it! Gaskets and seals eventually deteriorate with age so the "easier flow" synth will indeed find those leaks quicker. Seems like the reverse would be true that the synth would drain down out of the engine easier overnight creating a "dryer" startup. But all that seems moot if the synth is a 5W or 10W-30 the cold and hot characteristics should be the same as a petroleum-based oil with the same specs. Now, there IS the "0W-30" Mobil 1 out there - THAT ought to really flow easily when cold!

Don't those trans flushers basically flush out the old trans oil with new oil? I have a friend that did that at a Pennzoil oil change facility. They had to add a tap on one of the trans cooler lines. Guess what? The add-on tap later failed and pressurized trans oil sprayed all over the engine and the bottom of the Cadillac this was done to. Oops.

c2h6o

Just got off the phone with the service department at my Chevy Dealer regarding the fuel filter recall on my TrailBlazer LTZ. I also asked about the wandering mirrors and the chipping paint around the license plate. Normally the service department is really good - and the post-work follow-up is very thorough. However, when I called today I was a bit disappointed.
I mentioned I had the letter about the fuel filter recall - no problems there, he said they could schedule me for this Saturday (could actually do it earlier, but, hey, I have a job!). So after that I asked if I could also have two other problems taken care of that I've complained about in the past.
I had the printouts for both the wandering mirrors and tailgate gasket handy. I said I have the memory mirrors that won't hold their position, but apparantly there's a fix for it now. Service rep came back and said they recently called Chevy and got the part number but when they tried to order it were told it was not available yet. Then he asked where I got my info - I said from the GM service web site. he told me not to trust that site. What? Not trust the GM service web site for service on my GM vehicle. Hell - makes sense to me!
After that exchange, I asked about the tailgate gasket, he pretty much ignored the question and just took my name for this Saturday's appointment. Should be fun when I show up Saturday morning and point to gaskets on TBs on the lot!

Speaking of pointing things out - in order to help my case, if anyone has had either (or both) the wandering mirrors or tailgate gasket fix on their TrailBlazer, please let me know (post here or e-mail me) so I can prove that the parts really go exist!

Thanks!

-Jason

dshepherd3

Dropping the pan actually drains about half the fluid, the convertor holds the rest and cannot be drained, when done in a trouble free fashion the flush is the most effective. You can also disconnect the cooler line at the rad. and pump 90% of the trans out this way, of course the engine must be running, but this can be a messy job, and of course on some vehicles the fitting on the rad. is difficult to access.

cmack4

I'll agree that frequent changes of dino or synthetic will both prolong your engine life! I had a Toyota landcruiser that went 250K (with no major rebuilds) easily on just dino, and was still running strong when I sold it! Is synth worth it... that's an individual call.

The flush system I referred to sucks most of the old atf out through the dipstick and then cycles detergents through the system and follows-up by flushing the system with new atf. It's supposed to be one of the best available, but it's pretty expensive. The dealer charges $119 a service, which includes DexronIII... They quoted me at $79 if I provide my own fluid.

bruser1

Cmack4 your right on target. I changed to Mobil 1 our first oil change and plan to change the tranny fluid this summer. BTW the Corvette ships with Mobil 1 in the engine. I was talking with a master mechanic in Houston, Scotty Kilmer, and he suggested the sooner the better on the tranny. He also suggested using Redline over the others. To each his own but for the return I don't really see how anyone could not benefit from this conversion. It is critical to FLUSH these systems when converting, otherwise your optimum performance will be compromised. These capacities will provide a fluid replacement guide for those wanting to make the conversion. Be advised however you will need a few extra quarts to compensate for lines and transfer equipment. I was told by one vendor that it would need a minimum of 13 to 14 quarts. I'm not satisfied with that assessment so I'm still researching.
Fluid Capacity (Approximate):
Dry:
7.9L (8.4 qt) (with 245 mm converter)
Pressure Taps Available:
Line pressure
Bruce

mtrammell

You may also be suprised to know that the rear differential ships with Mobil 1 synthetic gear lube.

bruser1

Cmack4 your right on target. I changed to Mobil 1 our first oil change and plan to change the tranny fluid this summer. BTW the Corvette ships with Mobil 1 in the engine. I was talking with a master mechanic in Houston, Scotty Kilmer, and he suggested the sooner the better on the tranny. He also suggested using Redline over the others. To each his own but for the return I don't really see how anyone could not benefit from this conversion. It is critical to FLUSH these systems when converting, otherwise your optimum performance will be compromised. These capacities will provide a fluid replacement guide for those wanting to make the conversion. Be advised however you will need a few extra quarts to compensate for lines and transfer equipment. I was told by one vendor that it would need a minimum of 13 to 14 quarts. I'm not satisfied with that assessment so I'm still researching.
Fluid Capacity (Approximate):
Dry:
7.9L (8.4 qt) (with 245 mm converter)
Pressure Taps Available:
Line pressure
Bruce

sean48

I just wanted to check-in to see if any has heard about upgrades or new options for the '03 Envoy? I really like the Envoy, but its lack of a DVD-navigation system is leading me to seriously consider alternatives like the restyled Toyota 4Runner and even the Lincoln Aviator. There must be some early info out there. Anybody willing to share? Thanks.

gam2

This is scary. Last Thursday I saw a Bravada driving with the rear sagging on the bump stops. Obviously, the rear airs springs failed. Today I was at the Olds dealer getting the fuel filter recall done (while I waited). I was out wandering on the lot and noticed 2 of their 3 Bravada's were on their bump stops at the rear. The air had leaked out. I mentioned it to a salesman and he said both vehicles were driven on Saturday! Yikes!
What is wrong with GM?! Imagine how many Envoys must have this problem. Incredible. Maybe I'll buy a set of springs now so I can replace the air bladders when they fail.

GAM2

lurker01

Got the Envoy back again. Turns out the electrical failures were due to a connector near the fuse box that some of the pins had pushed out of when the tech reconnected it. This is what caused the random failures of various electrical systems. Not sure if this will help anyone but figured I would pass it along anyways.

lurker01

What is the best hood bug/air deflector for the Envoy? I know there has been discussion in the past but I can't remember the brand everyone recommended.

thanks,

-John.

iexplore2000

Jason,

My servicing dealer in Bay City, Michigan didn't have any qualms what so ever with addressing all the TSB's that I presented. They ordered the replacement mirror actuators (per the TSB's part #'s to stop the wandering mirrors), installed my tailgate gasket correctly and ordered/installed my ECAS muffler without leaving a scratch on the car!

Actually I was very impressed as well with the servicing dealership. They are about 20 miles from my home, but unfortunately the GMC dealership that's less than one-mile from my house doesn't seem so eager to help. IF your servicing dealership has any questions about the part numbers, installation, etc. Be sure to tell them to contact Tony @ Labadie Oldsmobile, GMC in Bay City, MI. I am quite sure that he would be more than willing to share info with them. Or.. you could always do what I did and just drive over to another dealership for service.

Good Luck!

IExplore2000@aol.com

iexplore2000

I have the Bug Flector II from Auto Vent Shade. I think that it ran me $30 and functions nicely too!

You can buy/order them from their website or your local auto parts store. Their website is www.autoventshade.com.

IExplore2000@aol.com

lurker01

I tried to carry a canoe the other day and to my dismay, there was nothing on the front of my Envoy to tie the canoe to. I used to use the tow hooks on my Jimmy. Any ideas how to do this now? The front seems to be all flimsy plastic.

thanks,

-John.

stever

It's a common problem these days. I wound up putting a perlon loop inside the engine compartment and I pull it out when I want to tie off the front painters. Just tie the loop to something sturdy and keep it short so it won't interfere with anything.

Otherwise, you can crawl under and tie off to the frame, but there's probably not a lot of other options. I didn't want to think about trying to put an eyebolt through the plastic and foam of my bumper.

Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards

richardcoulson

To remove the dash panel:
1. remove each a-pillar covers, which is between the windshield and side window, by pulling straight out.
2. remove the front dash cover by lifting at one of the corner sides furthest away from the windshield and continue to lift working your way across the dash and then pull toward yourself to pull away from the front clips. Be careful of the wire running to the light sensor.

To remove the front door panels:
1. remove the window and door lock control panel by lifting up one end and then the other. it is held in place metal spring loaded clips.
2. remove the plastic ring around the door latch by locating the 4 small notches and light pressing in the notch using a small flat blade screw driver one at a time while pulling outward on the plastic ring.
3. remove the wire connectors from the windows and door lock switches.
4. there are two screws that hold the arm rest area to the door. one is located inside were you removed the windows and door lock switch panel. the other screw is located just behind the inside area of the door handle that you grab to close the door. The screw is hard to see since it sits at an angle and is deep inside a hole.
5. remove the door panel by pulling straight out on the bottom of the panel and working your way around the bottom and up each side. There are re-usable plastic clips all the way around that pop out as you pull.
6. install in the reverse order. make sure none of the plastic clips around the edge of the panel and move and still line up with the holes in the door. start from the top by aligning the door panel in the top channel and then press the panel firmly into place by working down the sides and across the bottom. you may have to pound a little with your had to make the plastic connectors completely seat. be sure to connect all the wires.

have fun.

richardcoulson

paulpro, can you look in your manual and let me know where the amplifiers are located in the bose 6 disk system? Do you see any indications of a crossover anywhere along the wires going up to the front speakers?
Thanks.

bubbles3

fyi, i don't know if anyone else out there has experienced this as of yet -- i have 26k miles so far. Anyways, i have had the same exact problems everyone is complaining about in regards to the clutch fan not shutting off, pinging when starting, and sluggishness. i have brought my tb in 4 times in the last 2 months, every time complaining about the above, with the sluggishness getting worse. Every time they told me they could not find anything... well finally my tb died on me this weekend, with service engine soon and low power lights both coming on. i could only get about 2000rpms, and had a rough time making it to the dealer.. they have spent a day trying to service it, replaced the computer and are still befuddled. if anyone has experienced this as well, please let me know... they have no clue when they will be able to return my car to me..

rj123456

Finally took the plunge and got the Envoy XL with the 1SK package. So far it's been great, but I thought I saw the wandering mirror problem but it only seems to appear with Driver #2. With a build date of 4/22/02, I thought this should have been fixed.

Just want to know if anyone has recommendations for a GMC service shop in or near San Jose CA.

rj123456

I tried that too and the VIN# doesn't go in. I only purchased the car 4 days ago, so does the dealer have to send in some information to GM?

Also, the Envoy XL doesn't show up on the list of supported models. GM seems to be confused whether the XL is a separate model or just a different trimline as in the case of the Trailblazer EXT.

paisan

Call up GM and ask where you would connect a Tow-truck to the front of it. They should be able to tell you where it should be connected and that should be a good start for your front hook for the canoe. Are you sure there isn't an insert that needs to be put in with a loop? A lot of new cars have a cap over the spot in the front where a tow-eye is inserted for such occassions. I'd think that an SUV would have a hook in the front!

-mike

iexplore2000

I cannot recall who posted something concerning their squeaky driver's seat, but I wanted to check to see if they were able to get that resolved?

Unfortunately I was instructed that the seat is supposed to squeak/creak when entering/exiting or driving the vehicle? I was hoping that the person who posted this issue were able to stumble upon a resolution? If so, please repost if possible.

Thanks!

IExplore2000@aol.com

baitisj

Concerning impedance:

I really wouldn't worry about the impedance problem. If you install a crossover capacitor, the only time your tweeters will draw significantly more current is when your music hits high notes. Even then, the amount of amplifier power needed to generate high frequencies is much less than that needed to generate lower freqencies; i.e. speakers are generally more efficient at producing HF.

Go for it. I'm going to, when I get around to it.

-JB

hambone7

I posted something about this several months ago. After the third try the dealer fixed the seat. The dealer was convinced it was something in the lumbar area so they stripped the cover and looked for the squeak and moved padding around...still squeaked. This last time the dealer replaced the seat reclining mechanism...problem solved. They had to take the seat out of the car to fix it which meant they had to take the rear seat out to get the front seat out the back door.

pinkston

I have 2002 Envoy purchased in December 2001. How can I determine the build date?

By the way, thanks to this great board, I am having the lift gate gasket and mirror fix applied this week. Dealer did not know what I was talking about until I showed him the TSB's from this board. I also received the recall notice about the fuel filter connector. Dealer has the parts and will apply that fix This week as well. Thanks to all who make this board so good.

gam2

If you have the recall, it should have been built between 9/01 and 11/01. Look at the sticker on the drivers door to tell the actual date.

GAM2

mlauricella

Just picked up my Black TB LTZ today. Ordered on 4/28, delivered to Joe Basil Chevrolet on 5/20.

This thing is awesome...and flawless...I mean, I went over this thing with a magnifying glass trying to find a blem in the paint, or a panel that didnt quite fit. Im happy to say, I couldnt find one.

What is everyones opinion on the " curbview mirrors "? This is going to take some getting used to. Also, is everyones rear tailgate kind of hard to lift up by the handle? I have to lift the actual door, or else the handle feels like it will rip off!!

The BOSE stereo is awesome.

To early to tell if I will be plagued by the wandering mirrors, or fan noise. 25 miles on it.

Im really happy with my decision.

jljackson1

Hi...been reading these posts for about 6 weeks now, but havent remembered seeing any muffler issues concerning ECAS muffler. Was there a TSB out about this, and what build dates does it affect? By the way, took the plunge about a month ago with an Envoy SLT, build date 4-02, and so far so good. Except now saying that on this board, I've probably jinxed myself....LOL. Thank all....really enjoy the different posts. Feel like a more informed consumer this time, than with all my other vehicles in the past. JJ

paulpro

Regarding Richards post on the Bose Amp.

I don't see a crossover, external of the amp. Schematic shows six speakers; dash & each door. The amp is located near the right rear door, behind the trim panels.

Looks like the connections go directly from the amp to each speaker.

Paul P

iexplore2000

jljackson1:

I am not 100% sure that everyone got this before the site was restricted, but tlauro may have this TSB listed on his website? IF not, I can scan a copy of the TSB and e-mail it over to you. Be sure to check out tlauro's website: www.timlauro.com

Good Luck!

IExplore2000@aol.com

cmack4

jjackson1, you should already have the "new" muffler installed. It came out in DEC '01, so it should be installed in a vehicle with a 04/02 build date. It's normal to hear a slight clicking noise when the compressor runs and a very faint hiss when it expells excess air. If it seems noisy though, definitely take it into the dealer. My dealer confirmed that they had a few bravadas as well with failing air compressors (low rider look), and stated that all occurred in vehicles where users had complained of excessive noise! They checked mine when I took it in for the new muffler, and said all was good. Since I've had my fixes implemented, I haven't had a single problem with my vehicle. Hopefully that trend continues I'm taking a road trip this weekend for Memorial day... we'll see how it goes!

debeirs

I brought my 02 Bravada into the Olds dealer today with 3,800 miles; the check engine soon light stayed on for the last three days. The resolution:

Cause: Code P1683 Stored Shorted
Solution: J6355 Reprogramed PCM w/update

bobbies

Well, just had the license plate housing seal replaced at a dealer. Problem solved, looks real good. Had to hassle the tech a little as he didn't think touching up the scratches was necessary....but that was not an option. A talk with the service mgr stopped that nonsence. Next stop wandering mirrors. Goin to have stone gard paint put on behind rear door body panel tomorrow. Again under warranty...but only temporarily. Working on GM for running boards. Great site....thanks folks.

dshepherd3

Any comments/recommendations on the effectiveness of the hood deflectors, any problems with the w/s wipers fluttering at high speeds or the hood like wise, do they keep the w/s clear? Thanks

iexplore2000

I have the Auto Vent Shade -- Bug Flector II and no problems to report. Had it installed since November and everthing is okay. Several others that I know have also installed the protector and absolutely love it. Definitely saves the paint!

IExplore2000@aol.com

2002slt

Since the discussions have pretty much ground to a halt, I have a stupid question. Do Trailblazer's have external radio antennas? I could swear I saw one today, but can't be sure. All Envoy's have diversity antennas in the rear side glass.

2002blazer

On my TB LTZ, the driver's seat reclining mechanism is not locking in to place. Moves forward and backward. Very annoying when you stop the back comes forward and then moves back as you take off. The dealership is saying this is "within normal movement" on the specifications of TB. I have never had a vehicle where the back part of the driver's seat moves. Is anyone having this problem?

iexplore2000

2002slt: The Envoy's do have the diversity antenna located on the rear quarter panel window on the passenger side. The TB has an external mount antenna mast located near the passenger-side front fender.

2002blazer: My seat is very solid, it does not move at all. To me, that poses a safety risk and just like a broken record, I would suggest that you find another servicing dealership. I swear that sometimes it seems as if that is the best thing to do at times.

Good Luck!

IExplore2000@aol.com

bradrx7

I've got about 3500 miles on my 2002 LTZ TB 2WD. My in-town mileage is about 10-10.5mpg and I have to drive like a sissy to get that. If I drive in the least aggressive, it plummets to 9.5mpg. Went to my stealer today, they checked the OMB2 for codes ... nada. What kind of mileage do you guys get? I get better mileage towing my race car (5000lbs. with trailer) than I do tip-toeing around the streets of Houston. If I had known this, I would've bought a V10 Excursion for a tow car. I have a friend who has one and gets 14mpg in the city. I'm pissed.

heftblazext

I just received my TB EXT last week. I tried 4high and at slow speeds you can't hardly turn the thing / 4 low was 10 times worse, the front wheels felt locked up, unless you drive in a strait line. What is going on with these suvs. I encourage people with 4 wheel drive TB's and Envoys to go try 4 Low & 4 High at Slow turning speeds Not GOOD.

dielectric7bb

if it's a part-time system, it shouldn't be engaged in 4 hi, nor low on dry pavement EVER. If it's an automatic system, then you are having problems. I'm guessing that you have a part-time system and it's working as it should.

scottc454

Binding - I encourage people to read the manual and NOT use 4Hi or 4Lo on dry pavement. GOOD.

When you turn the back wheels travel over a smaller radius arc then the front and need to go at a slower speed. In 4 Hi and 4 Lo the front and back sets of wheels are locked together and forced to go at the same speed. This is bad on dry pavement but not a problem on snow, gravel, mud, etc. Primitive, but it gets the job done.

As for gas mileage, I average 18mpg in mixed driving (17 in the winter). I get about 20-21mpg on the highway. I guess that's par for the course.

Some say that gas mileage improves after the engine gets broken in more, but mine was pretty much always the same.

10mpg - there's something wrong there. My '67 Chevelle can get that.

pepper50

Those of you who have had the gasket put on their license plate housing, was this done by the bodyshop guy or one of the regular service guys? My dealer wants a regular service guy to do (they don't have a bodyshop) and admitted they have never put one on. There are other dealers in the area that do have bodyshops. It seems to me that someone from the bodyshop would be more fastidious in removing the inside door trim and plastic and being careful not to scratch the paint, than just a regular service guy who might have just finished changing someone's oil. Thanks for any comments about which department installed yours.

johntr

I had my gasket installed last week. It looks great as my TB is black also. My service tech said at the time I was first talking to him about it that they were going to have the body shop repaint the tailgate & install it. I was impressed that he suggested it first rather than me insisting that it needed to be retouched. The body shop was able to feather the edges rather than repaint the entire gate - I'm satisfied!

I have a LT build date of 04/01. I have experienced some of the issues that everyone else has and my dealership has been very responsive in meeting my satisfaction. I feel very lucky in hearing some of the horrors of these other dealerships. BTW, my dealership is Bergey's Chev., Colmar, PA. They are not a small-twon dealership either, they have about 8 other dealerships (GMC, Buick, Olds, Ford, Chryslyer, ect)

John