Buick Rainier, Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy

tlauro

Hey there! I'm back....was out of touch for a while and will be in and out, but I read my name around here


Yes, I do have generic mud flaps on my LTZ....wide ones that do a great job. really helps I think. especially at keeping the running boards and doors cleaner that without them. no chips anywhere.


have the step hitch installed and will post a real pic soon. looks and works great.


tim


http://www.timlauro.com

iexplore2000

Hmmm.. are you guys/gals 100% sure that the outside right mirror is supposed to dim? Mine never has? Only the rear-view and the left exterior mirror? Same with the past GM vehicles that I have owned? The only vehicle that I had in which both mirrors would dim was my 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited. Any ideas? Can anyone verify that both are supposed to dim?

Thanks!

IExplore2000@aol.com

denali856

FWIW, my '02 Denali also has left and center auto-dimming mirrors only, not the RS one.

tblazed

Have seen "200 Watts" spec'd elsewhere, which is in theory possible if you figure 14 volts and 4-Ohm loads times 4 channels. (Power=Volts squared / R) so 14 X 14 = 196 / 4 (Ohms) would equal 49 Watts per channel possible if everything was 100% efficient. Of course it it NOT 100% efficient so there are other factors they can add in to juggle the numbers. Example- with 70% efficiency you could get 34.3 Watts RMS, then multiply that times 1.414 to get "peak" power which comes out to 48.5 Watts. To get any more power out you have to have a DC-DC convertor power supply for the power amp to get the 13.8-14 vehicle voltage up higher on the final output devices. I know one thing- mine sure has a lot of punch for the stock CD-cassette radio! And it gets hot like heck too if you play it cranked up for an hour or two.

trentg1

The trim around the door windows on my 02 Envoy appear to be fading. They have the look of an old car that has been setting in the sun for 10 years. The luster can be brought out by applying an agent such as wheel wetting spray, but when I wash the vehicle the problem reappears. Anyone else having or noticing this problem and do you know the solution?

pauleul

I haven't checked mine yet but the GMC website says "mirrors" not mirror.

The brochure for Envyo says:
"Light-sensitive outside rearview mirors" (SLT)

The brochure for Trailblazer says:
"Mirrors: LH and RH black:"
"heated, dual electric remote adjustable, self-dimming, with memory and underside-mounted turn signals" (LTZ)

So it appears everything GM puts out indicates they are both supposed to be dimming.

iexplore2000

So does this mean that we can take our brochures in to the dealers and DEMAND that they install a dimming right-hand side mirror! Ha, ha..

"Well Mr/Mrs Service writer.. my book says it is supposed to have dimming mirrors & I want dimming mirrors!!"

Actually, we would probably lose because there is always the fine print in the back of the brochures that states that GM is able to revise the literature at any given time, in addition to not being obligated for complete accuracy at the time of priinting yes? DARN...

Just having a little fun..

IExplore2000@aol.com

PS: Could they possibly have meant that "light sensative mirrors" = reflectiing sunlight.. Ha, ha

pauleul

I'll see if I can't hack into the GM site again and get the TSB on repair of the RH mirror.

jepping

On my Envoy SLT only the driver side outside review mirror is light sensitive. However both sides are heated. I checked the owner’s manual last night and it clearly states than only driver side mirror is light sensitive.

mgrcm

Well I haven't been on the board to much lately but was wondering if anyone else's Envoy looked like mine this spring.The rear doors and lower panel that bulges out in front of the rear wheels especially the lower panel looked like it had been sand blasted.I have the factory mud flaps that say GMC on it.At present it's in the shop to have the lower rear panels under the rear door's repainted and that clear 3M plastic put on over it after.I couldn't get them to go up and repaint the rear doors that are all chipped up.But I guess I should consider myself lucky that GM is even doing that for me.I just thought I'd let you know that if you have this problem you should all put up a stink about it so maybe something more could get done about it.I've never owned a SUV or pickup that looked this bad in just 10,000 miles.Also I have the Indigo Blue which like Black shows everything.

mtrammell

Don't know for sure, but the wheels may be "forged" aluminum instead of "cast". My 2500HD has forged aluminum wheels and they torque at 140 Ft/Lbs. ????

scottc454

I have found that Armor-all type products wash off too easily and are useless for exterior pieces.

I haven't figured out a perfect solution yet,
but there is a product called Mother's Back to Black or something that works pretty well. It washed off to some extent but not totally.

The owner's manual calls for silicone grease. I might have to give that a try at some point.

paulpro

Paul,

Your note about the GM site. Drop me a note, I may be able to help

Paul P
proefrock@heartlandgroup.com

tpellow

With the weather finally warming up here in WI, I'm driving around with the windows down frequently and have the occassional oppurtunity to enjoy the acceleration of the TB LTZ. I've noticed under full throttle acceleration when shifting from 1st to 2nd at about 46/47mph (~6300 rpm), that I get a belt squeal noise. This is fairly consistent and happens both on cold as well as warmed up engines.

Anyone else noticed this??

Tim
'02 TB LTZ

pauleul

What page in your manual? I couldn't find anything in mine saying light sensitive LH only.

Don't get me wrong, I really don't care - was just trying to help out those who did. Actually, I think they are harder to see out of when they auto dim. Of course, now that I'm over 50, the eyes are becoming about as defective as GM products. ;>)

It is interesting that you can turn off the feature on your inside rearview mirror, but apparently (?) you can't on the outside mirror(s).

Unless turning off the inside also turns off the outside and the owners manual just doesn't state that fact.

Paupro, I was just having some fun and kidding, but I'll shoot you my email address if you have something to share.

jepping

pauleul: It’s on page 2-57. “If your vehicle has this feature, the driver’s outside mirror will adjust for the glare of the headlamps behind you”.

In fact, my Jeep Grand Cherokee and according to an earlier post ‘02 Denalis are also the same way. It might be a safety issue to have the auto dimmer on the passenger side given that “objects are closer than they appear”??

pauleul

Hey, this is getting more interesting. My page 2-57 doesn't say what yours does. Mine doesn't mention anything about "glare of the headlamps behind you". Mine starts out under the heading of "Electrochromic Rearview Outside Mirror with Curb View Assist (If Equipped)" as follows:

"If your vehicle has this feature, the driver's and/or passenger's outside mirror will adjust to a preset tilt position....."

Nothing about when, how or which mirror(s) adjust for glare.

What is the copyright date on your manual - mine is 2/25/2002. Could it be they have made a change?

Does your manual give a full explanation (4 parts) on how to activate your Curb View Assist?

Page 2-58 does say "See Electrochromic Day/Night Rearview Mirror with Compass and OnStar earlier in this section." No mention of the outside mirrors there. It does talk about glare and how to turn your inside mirror on and off on page 2-52 and again on 2-54.

quickdtoo

You go GM!

http://www.msnbc.com/news/759355.asp?pne=msn&cp1=1

jepping

Interesting, I guess GM revised the manual for some reason. The copyright on mine is 6/1/01. And yes, the manual explains how to activate the curb view assist under the same page. I wonder why the manual was revised. Also, turning off the feature on the inside mirror turns off the outside mirror as well. (In my case at least). Does anyone out there actually have the auto dimming passenger side mirror?

tlauro

I use a very thin and carefull application of Back to Black. Be carefull though as with any anything you may use...if it gets splashed or washed up onto the window and dragged down inside the door or the rubber lip on the door, it may cause streaks everytime you roll your window up and down.

I had a buddy who put Armor-all on there and the overspray got inside of the rubber lip and streaks his windows all the time. He still has to keep periodically clean them up from the inside.

johntr

I recently had my TB in for the license plate insert gasket installed. I also had the TSB on the roof rack performed (Front edge gap). However there is still a gap, up to 1/8" on cool mornings. When the daily sun hits it and I assume warms it up, it falls back in place. I opened the front cap to check & there is a washer installed per the TSB - however, it appears to be small, (imho).

Does anyone have any additional tips on how I can fix this myself? This is the only outstanding issue (all others resolved :-) ) that I have and I don't want to take it to the dealer again and lose my car for a day.

BTW, in response those past posts on Jiffy Lube: I stopped going to them in 1984 when I had a '84 Gran Prix in for it's second oil change. They told me the car was done & I pull out of the bay but my check oil light stayed on more than usual. I drove about 20 yards, turned the engine off, checked the oil & found it dry. That's how they promised the 20 min. oil change... don't put the oil back in!

gmdrone

Just looked at service site, could find nothing new on the bulletin side, same #01-06-04-052 referring to the OBD reprogram. I still wonder how many dealers are actually clearing codes when they reprogram the PROM. There are seven bulletins refering to the proper way to do this. I know that not all dealers read all of the bulletin, sort of like speed reading Moby Dick, you get the general story, and lose a lot of the details. I have called my director friend over at GMPT, and he promised me again that he would look into it... I WILL let you know when I hear something.
Regards,

Mark

envoyowner

Yes, my Envoy SLT (Black) has that problem and it looks terrible. No longer black but now spotty and black/brown. Yuck! Anything to do about this? Oddly I only noticed it on the driver's side.

envoyowner

A while back I saw this discussed - but didn't have the problem so didn't follow it too closely. I've noticed recently (car has 5000 miles) that when I make a turn, not necessarily sharp, I feel a binding, clunking in the rear wheel. Reminds me of an old Bronco we had that did that when in 4WD and the wheels were cut sharply. Any thoughts?
Thanks All!

funits

My Envoy (with Eaton G80 Locking Differential) chatters/slightly grinds in the rear wheels when making a left hand turn -- but not all the time!
Mentioned to service dept. during oil change -- couldn't reproduce. Next oil change I am going to reproduce for them if it takes all day!

Lately remote will not unlock vehicle during first button push, (sometimes) it takes 4-6 times before "button" will unlock car -- other times it works fine.

Also I have settings to unlock car when gear selector is placed in park . . . but lately doors unlock but not rear lift gate -- there again, happens inconsistently.

I wish the problems would happen consistently to make it easier to demonstrate to the service department.

And to think, I did not have any problems in the first 90 days and filled out my J.D. Powers survey according -- goes to show you can't trust surveys!

envoyowner

"My Envoy (with Eaton G80 Locking Differential) chatters/slightly grinds in the rear wheels when making a left hand turn -- but not all the time!"

Same thing exactly - intermittent and only on left turns. Also, my remote has been a little slow lately too. Some odd connection here!? :-)

previousamigo

My remote on my TB LS (6 months/6000 miles) is also working slowly. On an intermittent basis, sometimes I have to push it 4 or 5 times to get it to unlock and I am less than 20 feet away. I got the LS because I wanted the least amount of electric gadgets on it as possible. I couldn't pass up the great deal on it with the group 3 package. It seems it is always just a matter of time before an electric gadget goes bad on any vehicle. Give me windows and mirrors that you roll down and manually adjust anyday. Since this is my first vehicle with a remote, how long does the battery last in the remote?

cmack4

John, I took care of this issue myself before the TSB was out... Go to a hardware store or Home Depot and get a multi pack of the plastic/rubber washers for faucet applications. I had a pack laying around from when I fixed a leaking faucet. It works perfectly! Also, you'll need torx drivers to get the bolt out... otherwise, smooth sailing!

tblazed

This delay might be the lithium battery in the Remote going bad. Shouldn't be after 6 months but ??? I would check the battery anyway. Remotes will get "sluggish" when the battery is about to go dead.

BTW previousamigo that's exactly why I bought the LS with the 1SC package too- minimum electronic gadgets to go wrong, and why I wanted the manual air conditioner controls too. No problems here. Starting to get hot in Texas and the air conditioner is good and cold. Only thing that I missed was not being able to order the fog lights with the LS. I do not see the reason for the fog lights not being available as a seperate option. Marketing I suppose.

macman246

Check out this news story. At least it was a '94 Blazer.

http://www.abcnews.go.com/sections/GMA/GoodMorningAmerica/GMA020531Runaway_cars.html?partner=earthlink

previousamigo

tblazed, ditto on the fog lights. I have looked at KC and PIAA internet sites but nothing to specifically fit the TB LS. PIAA has 2 that they say will fit but they are not that funky sized rectangle on the TB. Plus they are both a driving/fog light. Ya think GMdrone knows who the supplier is that makes the fog lights for the TB or Chevy will ever offer fog lights as an add-on? I also heard that the whole front bumper is different on the LS vs. the LT and LTZ just for the fog light housing. I'm waithing for Tim to post pictures of the fog light housing on his LTZ web site when he swaps out bulbs.

I just went through a hard downpour at night last weekend on interstate for over an hour and sure missed the fog lights I had installed on my '92 Isuzu Amigo. Has anyone else out there been able to install fog lights on the LS?

dshepherd3

If you are careful you can install oval fogs in the factory openings by using a roto-zip tool, cut an opening out of the louvered insert in the bumper. The bracket can be bolted to the top of the cover with large washers and they just fit back into the openining. Try to make a cutout template so as no to cut away too much of the insert.

tblazed

I watched that on the news last night. I couldn't help but think "why not just turn the key OFF!" You would still have control of steering even though it might be a little stiff, and the parking brake (not called an "emergency" brake BTW) would still work. Beats the heck out of running into some immovable object at 85+ MPH. Makes you wonder...

mkaye

"Turn off the KEY" Exactly. Panic, Panic, Panic.

There was a story a few years ago in Reader's Digest, same situation but the vehicle went on for something like 150 miles. I would hope that I could retain enough mental function to remember to turn off the key. Sometimes the parking/hand/emergency brake is 'weak,' especially with a rear-disc vehicle and may not overcome the torque of the accelerator. I think she had the parking brake engaged and merely 'slowed' down. But come on, "Luke, Use the KEY!" (lame Star Wars reference). And to get on National Television to tell the story! What's up with that?

stever

Wonder why the dispatcher didn't mention the key trick?

Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards

dielectric7bb

why it didn't slow down to a stop in neutral???

mkaye

She said it was 'stuck' in gear. However, the cop, once she was stopped, came back to the tires spinning up some smoke, and cranked it into neutral or park and turned off the key.

Possibly it required some add'l effort from the engine torque or perhaps she didn't push the button or indent the column selector correctly.

Can't say, though, how one would react in the same situation. I was at a restaurant where some guy was choking and everyone started yelling "quick, dial 411!" instead of 911.

paulpro

Hey, web admin,

I'd like to see all the messages regarding wheel binding on the Triplets. Did a search on "binding", that brought up only a link to contracts. Did a search on "wheel binding" and it hit the Triplets board but the two messages displayed have absolutely nothing to do with binding, nor do the words appear in the header or body.

How does one go about searching a 5000+ message board. The search feature really is low quality. Any hope in getting it repaired. Without it, how do we use the board?

Paul P

dshepherd3

There are 2 possibilities here, first there is a reprogram bulletin for the transfer case relative this condition. Also the locking diff can cause a chattering sensation in the rear wheels after a long drive then making the first sharp turn, this is the clutches in the diff. grabbing, in most cases draining the fluid and cleaning the unit thoroughly, then new fluid and additive will correct this. There is a distinct difference in the symptoms, as the transfer case condition feels like you are in 4wd on dry pavement.

gam2

Remember, Bravada's have different transfer cases
than the others and a different solution.

I just read GM moved up to 3rd in the J.D. Powers
survey. Jeez, I can't believe that. My Bravada has had more problems than my previous 6 vehicles
combined! I think only a Yugo could be worse. Seriously, only Toyota and Honda are better? Wind
noise is terrible on mine and the drivers window won't go up all the way at speeds over 45 mph (really causing a howl). This is amid many other problems. I hope JD sends me a survey!

GAM2

stever

Stay tuned:

Letter from the Town Hall Manager

Steve
Host
SUVs, Vans and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards

adjguy

Delivered with NUMEROUS scratches, got a new paint job. Things were missing on delivery(cargo mat, air nozzles for compressor), took 1 month to get them after finally going in and demanding them. Which they took out of an Envoy on the lot.

Door seals keep falling off. Rear doors are hard to close. Must slam hard. Way to much wind noise from leaking door seals and god knows what else.

Drivers window would not go all the way back up at speeds over 65 mph. Finally after 4 months and several attempts they fixed it.

Took the kids to Disney and AC decided not to work on trip there. Was going to put in shop next day, but mysteriously started working again. We sweated our butts off in the Florida heat for the 5 hour drive.

Has needed 3 front end alignments within 10,000 miles. I am a good driver folks, no curb hopping for me.

Engine knock noticed day after delivery. Finally new engine was replaced at 12,000 miles, after 3 different dealers and literally begging the last dealer to help me out. They have had the same problem with other Envoys, and were happy to change the motor out because of the money they made from doing it?? I actually got charged $22.50 at one of the dealers for diagnosis of knocking, for which they gave me a TSB from GMC saying it is "NORMAL"?? I looked them right in the eyes and said they were complete idiots.

Rear end of vehicle squats after sitting for extended period. Has been in the shop 7 times, for about 7 weeks worth of shop time for load leveling suspension ALONE. Air compressor in back has been replaced 3 times, for a total of 4 new compressors. Vehicle sits slanted with at least a 3 inch difference at all times. Sometimes up to 5 inches. This is very noticeable when driving due to center of gravity being off, and VERY VERY dangerous when taking corners on the highway. GMAC wants to fix it again, YEH RIGHT!!

While on trip to San Antonio an engine coolant quick connector broke and spewed out antifreeze directly onto exhaust. Immediately had to pull over. 2 months later we still smell residual antifreeze burning off the exhaust. Or maybe it is still leaking??? They can’t fix that either. Now I get a recall about a quick connector that needs to be replaced on the Fuel Filter. GEEEEZ I feel really safe now!!! I hope I can get it back to the dealer before it blows up.

Bose Stereo did not work when I picked it up from the GMC shop while it was in for other repairs. Noticed right when I pulled out of dealer, swung it back into the shop. Took them 1.5-2 hrs hrs to find another NEW Envoy right off the lot, and switched it out. They cracked my center console while taking out the radio so I got a new console from the same Envoy pulled of the lot. I feel bad for the next guy.

Thanks to this and another forum, I was informed I needed to go check for the gasket near the license plate. @%^&**^&* Excuse my french, but this just doesn’t end. I had it in the shop 3 times because I kept hearing this popping noise in the back. So this time they look at me, and tell me I'm the idiot and am hearing things. Now it all comes together. Those agonizing "pops" that would dig into my soul a little more each time, were also digging into my paintjob. Hello primer!!! EEEEEEEKK!!!! I cannot believe this!! GMC, shame on you!!!

And thanks to this forum and another, I learned about the new mysterious JET ENGINE effect that GMC threw in for no extra charge to wake you up in the morning. My neighbors were looking at me funny as I was pulling away. I thought for sure that motor was going to let go. Then as quick as it came, it left. It has only happened 3 or 4 times. Way to go GMC, that has to be on the leading edge on innovation. What will they think of next?

About 3 weeks ago my NEWLY REPLACED super dooper Bose radio decides it wants to squeal at me when I hit the breaks. So loud I cant even make out the words when I am listening to my talk radio. Maybe they meant to tie that together with the JET ENGINE effect but couldnt get the mojo right. Keep trying GMC, LOSSERS NEVER WIN!!!

My wife and I worked hard and saved 3 yrs to buy our first new car. We thought we were getting professional grade like they claim on their ads. THEIR ADS ARE A TOTAL MISREPRESENTAION OF WHAT YOU GET!!! Shoulda listened to the wifey and got a BEAMER!!!!

And if GMC does not remedy my situation, there will be a FULL BLOWN WEBSITE devoted to all the mechanical failures and hardships the 2002 GMC Envoy and GMC has caused me and my family. We are website and graphic designers so things will be done right. And I guarantee I will place #2 in the search engines when you type in anything to do with GMC!!!

I also have the foremost attorney for Product Liability Litigation, simmering in the cage over in the corner. I would hate to have to let him out, because he gets this fierce look in his eyes every time I show him the repair orders of the Envoy. Might just get that Beamer then. ;o)

Most of this stuff was witnessed by the owner of the dealership, and the service manager. Supposedly they are going to go to bat for me when we meet with the GMC area rep. next Wednesday. I am seeking a full buy back. I just hope the Dealer is sincere. I would hate for this to go any further.

GMC, do the right thing......

ADJGUY

Ps. Can anyone recommend a 4wd SUV comparable to the Envoy that is RELIABLE?

tblazer503

I have a 2002 Trailblazer LS w/ a 3" MagnaFlow Exhaust, K&N air filter (modified w/ help of Tim Lauro site) Airaid TBS, 245/75/16 tires, has anyone raced their triplet? I would be interested in how mine compares to a stock one. Also, am I the only one getting 14MPG ave?

mgrcm

I know it's been posted a 100 times but does anyone have the part number and price for the factory running boards for the 02' Envoy.I'd like to order a set from gmpartsdirect.com.

Thanks Rick

medolark

12497886 is the part number for Envoy running boards.

I paid about 250 for the pair, but that was two or three months ago. May be higher now.

mjf51

I have a love- hate relationship with my trailblazer. As with many of you the style,engine,utility, and keep in the garage size makeup the love part. Three recalls, poor gas mileage, and now a popping noise from the drivers seat made up the hate.

My question is has anyone had seat cushion or seat frame problems with your trailblazer?

pepper50

medolark wrote:
12497886 is the part number for Envoy running boards. I paid about 250 for the pair, but that was two or three months ago. May be higher now.

They make up for the discount with a $50 S/H charge, but it still comes out cheaper than the dealer, and no sales tax depending on where you live.

Also be aware that there are two other styles of GM running boards already available for Bravada at least and soon for Envoy and TB, which are black or silver anodized aluminum. I'm not sure when they are going to be available though (the Envoy and TB pages just say "Coming Soon". Here's what they look like at the Bravada page: Bravada running boards

gam2

Here in Wisconsin, we have a lemon law, 30 days out of service in the first year qualifies. Check your states laws, because I'm sure you would qualify.

Others may disagree, but try a Toyota Highlander or Sequoia, or wait for the Honda Pilot. A Nissan Pathfinder should also be good. Good luck! BMW and Mercedes have had their share of problems, believe it or not.

GAM2

ficuss

There was once another car with advanced controls in the steering column. It also had never before used technology and was considered years ahead if its time. The car had a very distinctive grill and advanced lighting. It had rakish styling and was heavily advertised. There was no internet at the time but people soon found out that the car just wasn't as good as advertised, and so the Edsel was a one model wonder destined to become the euphamism for automotive failure. I hope the tripletts don't fall into the same hole.

Frank

ficuss

There was once another car with advanced controls in the steering wheel. It also had never before used technology and was considered years ahead if its time. The car had a very distinctive grill and advanced lighting. It had rakish styling and was heavily advertised. There was no internet at the time but people soon found out that the car just wasn't as good as advertised, and so the Edsel was a one model wonder destined to become the euphemism for automotive failure. I hope the triplets aren't falling into the same hole.

P.S. it sounds like adjguy bought an engineering prototype that was experimented on heavily at the proving grounds and then polished and sent to a dealer for sale as new. Just my opinion.

Frank