Buick Rainier, Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy

11516182021352

Comments

  • danportlanddanportland Member Posts: 3
    In Portland Oregon. Thanks for the response. Is there a certain manufacture date to watch for to make sure I don't get a 'modified' vehicle.
    Thanks again
  • flynjflynj Member Posts: 2
    The dealers know the VIN after which all bravadas, envoys, and trailblazers were built with the newer brackets. The last 5 digits should be above around 31275!

    Also, if your dealer showed you a removed bracket versus a newer one, the difference is noticable in the thickness of the metal around the bushings.....hard to see, but my guys showed me!
  • rpageaurpageau Member Posts: 94
    If you have even the remotest doubt about the safety of a "modified" vehicle, why would you even be thinking of buying the same brand? If you believe they would allow an unsafe "repaired" vehicle on the road, then why wouldn't they allow an unsafe "new" vehicle on the road?

    If you can't decide on a vehicle based solely on it's features, then you shouldn't be buying it, period.

    I know that sounds blunt, but if you have these doubts, why would you even be considering putting yourself or your family in the same type of vehicle whether it is modified or not?

    p.s. I'm not a GM basher. I'm confidently driving a "modified" Trailblazer (of course, not while I am writing this :>)).
  • mikeh14mikeh14 Member Posts: 4
    I purchased the Envoy yesterday and will take delivery Monday 5/7. My dealer (Crystal Lake Pontiac/GMC - Crystal Lake, IL) had to dealer-trade for my truck, since I wanted Indigo Blue and he didn't have one.

    He claimed to have more brackets than he needed, that all customers have already had their work done, all his inventory is fixed, and that he'll actually be the dealer fixing my truck upon receipt of the trade on Monday because wherever he's getting mine from (of course he won't tell me) is still waiting for their brackets.

    Agreed to about $300 over invoice and got what was reasonable for my trade. Showed me several finance/lease scenarios and encouraged me to shop him and allow him to match anyone who could beat the deal.

    Other than being confused as to why he would trade an Envoy that had already been repaired for one that still needed to be done, what am I missing here? This process was too simple and easy, and I can't sleep at night in anticipation of the truck.
  • allenrallenr Member Posts: 89
    I was aware that the DIC milage is accumulative. I have the habit of reseting the trip MPG at every gas full-up. I was on my second tank when I gave my milage, with a DIC reset after the full-up. The first tank was about 14.4 mpg if I remember right. Going to change the oil this weekend myself. Will let everyone know how easy or hard it was. The Bravada is running great, hard to keep from driving everywhere. Got to put some milage on my wife's car :)

    Allen
  • aleasealease Member Posts: 22
    I ordered an Envoy 4-25 from a dealer in Gloucester Va for 500 over invoice, they were unable to find one with a sunroof, does anyone out there know how long it will take to get it in? The dealer won't give me a straight answer.

    To Portland, I do feel alittle more comfortable getting one after the recall just because it won't be one that has been sitting around a lot somewhere waiting for parts. I have been reading these boards since day one and I do feel for all of you that had to wait for your vehicles. I wish you all good luck and I think (hope) these suv's will be well worth it.

    Another question, is the carpet color the same whether you get the med or dark pewter? I have a monte carlo w/dark graphite int. and the carpet is black, way too hard to keep clean.
  • fletch45fletch45 Member Posts: 72
    I ordered a Trailblazer April 7th. I have been in touch with GM several times in the last 3 weeks (they call me at a predetermined time so I get the same person) and they STILL won,t give me a build date. They say they have a date, but it MOST LIKELY will change, so they won't give it out. They have said that for the last 3 weeks! Lead time started out 6-8 weeks, but now (according to the link below), it may be 16-18! Better make sure you really want a sunroof.


     http://www.arifleet.com/production.html#gmtrucks


    If you call 800-222-6622 during the week and give them your 6 digit order # (your dealer has it if you don't), they can check on a build date for you.


    If you want to do a little net shopping for an Envoy (maybe you can find one for your dealer to trade for), go to http://www.gmbuypower.com/. Choose the model, then put in a false zip code (I use 40000). The next page will let you enter a city or dealer name. Try entering some cities around your area, and you just might find the exact Envoy you are looking for. If so, print the window sticker, take it to your dealer, and maybe he can trade for you. Good luck!

  • blefflerbleffler Member Posts: 22
    Interesting.....

    In Columbus, it seems we have the opposite problem. All the dealers stocked only vehicles with sunroofs.

    I was able to get $200 under invoice, by ordering a vehicle. The best I could get for off the lot was $500 over invoice.

    I was quoted 2-6 weeks on my order by the dealer. I'll be real upset if it tunrs out to be 16-18 weeks. Of course te bright side, by then, there should be some rebates going being offered.
  • califjohncalifjohn Member Posts: 101
    What sort of gas mileage are you owners experiencing after break in? I know the recall kept you from doing much driving but by now there must be some idea of what to expect. I am looking very seriously at trading my '98 Tahoe 4x4 for a Envoy 2WD (in 3 years I used 4x4 perhaps 3 times and didn't really need it then) this summer when plenty of trucks will be available. Gas in the San Francisco/San Jose areas is $2+ for Reg and looks to go higher. I would like to find a truck that gets about 20 mpg on the road (15-17 in town).
  • debbin67debbin67 Member Posts: 35
    Hello. Its seems like a while since I have posted on this board, so here is my input on the gas mileage of my Envoy, it stinks! I don't know how many miles per gallon, although I could figure it out. I believe that the tank hold 18 gallons; I can drive about 180-200 miles before I need a fill up. Seems kinda crappy to me. Now, I am not doing much highway driving, just local stuff. 200 miles is pushing it though, it is really closer to 180. With gas in Chicago at a whopping $2.20/gallon for premium, which is all I will use, it is kinda steep these days! Hope that helps!
  • califjohncalifjohn Member Posts: 101
    Thanks Deb for the quick reply. When you fill up the gas tank how many gallons does it usually take? Looking at your earlier posts it appears you just got your truck back and you probably haven't had much time to put very many miles on it. I would bet your mileage will improve as the miles rack up. Thanks again!
  • fletch45fletch45 Member Posts: 72
    Deb, there have been cases with electronic fuel injected engines where regular gas gives better mileage than premium. If the EFI is tuned for regular, it does not always work well with the slow-burn-rate of the premium. Just something you might want to try if your mileage doesn't improve soon.
    jim f
  • hambone7hambone7 Member Posts: 130
    I am interested in ordering a new TB. If I were to order today would I have to pay for the vehicle (or finance) today or when I pick it up when it gets to the dealership? Also, I have the GM credit card, do I apply the credits from it today or when the vehicle arrives? Anyone out there have experience with this?
  • fletch45fletch45 Member Posts: 72
    Your dealer will probably want some money down (a few hundred...like money in earnst). That's all until you get the vehicle. I don't have the credit card, but a friend of mine has used his. It was figured in at the time of payment (like an additional discount).
    You might not want to order one til you know how quick you can get it. There seems to be quite a delay (see my message #885).
    jim f
  • mikeh14mikeh14 Member Posts: 4
    You'll put a few hundred down now and finance/lease the rest upon delivery.

    Regarding the card, I've redeemed GM earnings 3 times and here is how it works:

    You'll sit with the dealer's finance guy and he'll call a number and give your GM card number. They will then tell him the amount of the rebate you've earned. Along with your other paperwork, you'll then be asked to sign a document which assigns your GM card earnings over to the dealer. GM then pays the dealer in cash later.

    HERE'S WHAT TO WATCH FOR.....The finance guy might claim that this rebate changes everything about the deal (i.e. price you negotiated, etc.), which is TOTAL B.S!!!!!!!!! To the dealer, this rebate is as good as cash. DON'T let them get away with this.

    Good luck !
  • mfullmermfullmer Member Posts: 773
    Fletch is right Deb. Most cars today are tuned to run OPTIMALLY on regular unleaded. Those that aren't are clearly labeled so. Since the vehicle is tuned to run on 87 octane, it WILL NOT run as well on any other octane. There is only a vague classifiable claim for using a higher octane and that is if you get "ping" with lower octanes (which only happens in older engines). Unfortunately so many people have given into the thought that "the more expensive the better". The fact is the opposite is true when you are talking about computerized engine management systems. I have, for arguments sake, tried several times using premium fuel only to find that [in whatever car] it LOWERS my gas mileage 2-4%. What they [promoters of such use] are doing is conning people into buying more expensive gasoline that they have to refuel more often. I'm sure the station owners have a camera and get a good laugh whenever anyone pulls in and pumps premium in non-high performance vehicle.

    I purchased my Bravada Friday (pick it up Monday) for $100.00 over invoice in Duluth (suburb of Atlanta), GA. They were the only ones who had an Indigo Blue/Pewter with a sunroof!
  • akajoeakajoe Member Posts: 69
    I have a Bravada, over 1K miles on it. Most of my driving is city type, stop/go at traffic lights and stop signs, residential between 25mph to 45mph. Whenever I turn on the average fuel economy display, it reads around 18+ mpg. This is including a lot of sitting at traffic lights which lowers the number reported (you can actually see the number drop while you are sitting at a traffic light with the average MPG display on).

    If I reset the average MPG display while on the freeway (with a lot of hilliness), I reads between up to 25mpg (averaging 64mph). This is pretty good considering that a 4.2L is a large 6 cylinder (just a tad smaller than the previous 4.3L V6 which was considered very large). In fact, many V8's are 4.3L (like the Mercedes, previously was 4.2L). With a displacement the size of many V8's, it certainly has the fuel economy of a 6 cylinder. Even Mitsubishi's V6 is smaller, and people say it's a gas guzzler.

    The Jeep Grand Cherokee that they rented me during the recall was a 4.0L inline 6 cylinder dinosaur, and it consumed more gas (I filled up more frequently, it has a larger fuel tank).

    In general, I'm pleased with the gas mileage. Compared to my old '88 S10 Blazer which had a 4.3L V6. It was lighter, and got better gas mileage because the emissions controls back then weren't as strict and it was rated at 27mpg on highway driving and 21 city (back then). Considering that my Bravada is heavier, can put out more power and torque, it seems to consume a comparable amount (slightly more) than my old Blazer.
  • set2set2 Member Posts: 2
    Purchased GMC Envoy 3/23
    Has anyone looked at the front of their truck and
    noticed that the wheels slant inward at the top
  • set2set2 Member Posts: 2
    Has anyone looked at the front of their truck and noticed that the wheels seem to slant a bit more inward at the top than they did before modification? (Excess Negative camber) Mine does
  • suv18suv18 Member Posts: 11
    I have read several reviews commenting that the air suspension (standard on the Bravado and optional on the Envoy) increases body roll significantly. These reviews all recommend the standard suspension for the Envoy. Any opinions from current Bravado or Envoy owners would be helpful. Thanks
  • richardc4richardc4 Member Posts: 33
    I must have been pretty lucky. I made the deal over the internet, went to the dealer, resolved everything then showed him my card with a bit over $2,000.00 in earnings. It was taken right off the top and I actually got my SUV for$2,000.00 under invoice. As I've said before, I'm sure they didn't take a loss. If for no other reason you just don't win when dealing with those people. We're amatures and they're professionals. Just the same, I felt pretty good.
  • b4zb4z Member Posts: 3,372
    Now that owner's are getting their vehicles back i am interested in a couple of things.

    Is there any road noise at speed or are they fairly quiet? Wind noise?

    Is low end acceleration good? How about passing power? Has anybody done any 0-6o times?

    Is the engine noisy at high rpms?

    Regarding some of the gas mileage questions, of which no one seems to have a definitive answer.
    it is amazing to me how many people rate gas mileage by how quickly their guage moves or by the computer in the car.

    Gas mileage is important to me irregardless of whether i can afford it or not. I would greatly appreciate it if someone on this board could check their gas mileage over the next week and report back. Thanks in advance.
  • glock40glock40 Member Posts: 8
    Hey if any one is interested in buying an envoy and lives around NJ (southern part) I would be willing to sell mine. I want out of the vehicle. This vehicle is not for me. It has 1350 miles on it and is an 4X4 SLE peweter color. E-mail me if interested. Flip1Rat2@aol.com I can save you some money from buying new from the dealer. Let me know
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    Wow selling after a few weeks... talk about taking a financial hit! Ack!!!
  • svesciosvescio Member Posts: 12
    2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer = 7.7* sec

    2002 Ford Explorer = 8.7* sec

    *June 2001 issue of Motor Trend.

    The Ford Explorer did not even pass Motor Trend's Off-Road Test it got stuck in the mud.

    The Chevy TrailBlazer had no problem. Like a Rock!
  • svesciosvescio Member Posts: 12
    Regular unleaded
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    The recall really soured you on this car, eh? Please check out Edmunds Used PowerShopper (we don't encourage soliciting on Town Hall). Thanks, and good luck.

    Steve
    Host
    Vans, SUVs and Aftermarket & Accessories Message Boards
  • richardc4richardc4 Member Posts: 33
    When I picked up my Envoy everything seemed to be OK. Of course when I drove home the old imagination kicked in and I heard all kinds of "STRANGE NOISES". Acceleration seems to be just fine but being a new engine I haven't tried to find what it really can do. From past experience I've found that checking the gas milage before everything gets loosened up a bit and is running free is really a waste of time.
  • baddestbob1baddestbob1 Member Posts: 96
    Local (KC) dealer ran ad for Envoy SLE 4x4 at $27845. I called and yes they had the car in Pewter, basic equipment. Add on was $49 doc fee plus some kind of goofy Kansas tire tax $2.00 each. Took a check and wife prepared to buy (way under invoice). Vehicle had 160 miles, hmm but appeared new amd nice. After driving was under impressed with interior, really seemed cheapo. Salesman indicated that maybe he could get another, different color at same deal. I have looked at and driven most every model in mid size and have decided best bang for the buck is a Trooper or Pathfinder. The GM models may be coming down in price if my experience is a clue.
  • b4zb4z Member Posts: 3,372
    Thanks for the replies.

    my experience with my 3.5L DOHC intrigue is that gas mileage has remained consistent since day 1.

    I record my mileage at every fill up.

    According to experts the newer GM engines have such loose tolerances that the cylinder walls still have the machining marks on them after 100,000 miles.

    My intrigue was using half a quart every 3000 miles when it was new. After it hit 20,000 miles it stopped using any oil at all!
  • rpageaurpageau Member Posts: 94
    You asked about:

    Road Noise? Almost non-existent.
    Wind Noise? A little more than I expected. I think some of it can be fixed.
    Acceleration? Outstanding.
    Passing Power? Outstanding
    0-60? See post #903.
    Engine Noisy? You must be kidding. Certainly a different sound than a V6 or V8, but nowhere near the noise at high RPMs.
    Gas Mileage? Haven't done an "official" check yet. Will do it with the next tank of gas.
  • rpageaurpageau Member Posts: 94
    Weighing in on the fuel grade debate. This is straight from Consuner Reports on most popular car myths. I know CR is the world's biggest SUV basher, but most people still trust their opinions on things like the myth below:

    Myth: If regular-grade fuel is good, premium must be better.

    Reality: Most vehicles are designed to run just fine on regular-grade (87 octane) fuel. A higher octane number doesn't mean that your vehicle will perform better. It simply means that it's more resistant to engine knocking or pinging. Use the octane grade that's recommended in your vehicle's owner's manual. Filling up with a higher grade is usually a waste of money.
  • fletch45fletch45 Member Posts: 72
    Maybe you already know this, but just in case... Move the front crossbar of the luggage rack toward the back until it is even with the back of the rear doors. This is supposed to reduce the wind noise. Hope this helps.
    jim f
  • md9360md9360 Member Posts: 4
    Read a review from Consumer Review magazine. It said that the milage they got from extended use of a trailblazer was 16.2 mpg. This was in 60% highway driving.
    As far as wind noise, I test drove an Envoy before the recall. The wind noise was not that bad, about average. The engine was quiet, a little short of silky smooth.
    Any other comments on this.
  • jbossertjbossert Member Posts: 38
    I have my TB back and I love it (again). The engine is very smooth and quiet. The suspension is very silky, however, it "dances" a little over stutter bumps. The new Bose system is outstanding. After 3 vehicles with a Bose system, I finally have one that sounds good. There are a few things that irk me. The sunvisor and floor mats are really lame. The roof liner sags a little. The muffler is WAY too visible. The front license plate holder doesn't have anywhere on it to attach plate holders. Other than these small things, it kicks butt.



    Road Noise? Nope.
    Wind Noise? Moderate.
    Passing Power? Excellent. It snaps you back.
    0-60? mid to upper 7's
    Engine Noisy? Nope. Sounds great.
    Gas Mileage? I have been getting between 16 and 19 on every tank of gas (mix of city and highway).
  • mfullmermfullmer Member Posts: 773
    Since I've seen many posts with the non-existent word "irregardless" in them. I must chime in. There is no such word. REGARDLESS means "without regard". Irregardless would mean "not without regard" and would have and does not have any use in the English language. Sorry, just had to vent my peeve with the misuse of the English language.
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    I noticed that also, but I wasn't going to say anything.

    ;-)
  • jeff237jeff237 Member Posts: 38
    Wow, a new car and English lessons!
  • jeff237jeff237 Member Posts: 38
    Finally received the call back from GM. Last we spoke, I felt the 123 was not acceptable. I requested a 2 year extension on my Envoy's warranty, and one car payment. This morning I got 123, first month payment and running boards. I feel this is fair. The person said the decision came from my area rep. Extension on the warranty is preferable. This needs to end. They satisfied me. Love the truck. I will post gas mileage soon.
  • aleasealease Member Posts: 22
    You posted a telephone number earlier (885) I have tried it and it isn't correct. Please repost the number, I have send gm a e-mail but haven't gotten a response yet. The dealership is not giving me any ideas on a delivery date. If it is indeed 16-18 weeks I'll have to settle for an Envoy w/o sunroof.
    Thanks
  • suv18suv18 Member Posts: 11
    I would like to know if anyone has any opinions on the optional rear air suspension on the Envoy (which is standard on the Bravada). Does it really increase body roll like the magazines say, or is it worth getting for a smoother ride?
  • sostroublesostrouble Member Posts: 65
    Not that I have used this word, but check the
    Webster's Dictionary, the work irregardless is listed. (Adj., adv. a substandard or humorous redundancy for REGARDLESS.)
  • rroman8420rroman8420 Member Posts: 23
    I own the 2002 Bravada and it has the air leveling standard. The ride on this SUV is very smooth, however I can't really judge it against the Envoy or Trailblazer. Compared to the 96 Blazer we had it is night and day. Everytime more than 1 person gets in the car, you can hear the air compressor kick in. It usually runs (worst case) about 10 seconds. Since our Bravada is used mostly for highway driving and around town, I can't comment on the body roll, but I can't notice much at all.

    Also, while we are at it... please note that "a lot" is two words and not one as in "ALOT". (LOL) At least most people are not complaining about their rides anymore. I'm still waiting for GM to return my last call 1.5 weeks ago. I called back twice.

    Ron
  • briandavisbriandavis Member Posts: 11
    I too thought it was a word, but I did not say anything.
  • b4zb4z Member Posts: 3,372
    Its been a while since i have peeved anyone with my substandard redundancies. It actually feels kind of good.
  • glock40glock40 Member Posts: 8
    1.Lets start with the recall. We all know how we feel about this topic and evry one is entitled to their opinion.

    2. My rear window leaked in a rain storm as I was driving down the road. The mechanics could not duplicate the problem. I have not driven in the rain since the recall was fixed.

    Post Recall Problems

    3. All the gauges (temp, fuel, oil pressure, etc.) pinned to the right while driving the vehicle and stayed that way. Had to stop and restart vehicle for sensors to work right again.

    4. My 4wd Hi lo 4AWD doesn't work at all.

    5. Rear passenger drivers door does not shut properly.

    6. Weatherstripping on rear doors not properly installed hanging out.

    7. Front end noise.

    There you have it ~ go GM!
  • celebrimborcelebrimbor Member Posts: 10
    I'm seriously thinking about buying an Envoy or Bravada, but have a concern about the design. Does anyone know how exactly they run the half-shaft (drive power to the front wheels for 4/AWD) through the oil pan? My concern is this could, over time, lead to oil leaks or other problems. Anyone familiar with this?
  • fletch45fletch45 Member Posts: 72
    Oops, my bad! Was reading the number off a paper that had more than one number on it.
    The correct # is 800-222-1020 (I promise!).
    Again...sorry, and good luck.
    jim f
  • rpageaurpageau Member Posts: 94
    Well, so much for anyone from this board Emailing you about buying that Envoy. You better put an ad in the AutoTrader or newspaper (probably should leave out the editorial comments).
  • rpageaurpageau Member Posts: 94
    How did you make out on your Envoy vs. Mountaineer long term test survey? Are you going to do it? If not, try doing the TB vs. Explorer. There will probably be wider ownership of those two models.
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