Buick Rainier, Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy

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Comments

  • allenrallenr Member Posts: 89
    I got one at AutoZone, its alot slimmer that the stock mount. Not much to screw into in the front fascia. Off to the side, I don't think that would look very good?
    You could also get a trailer plate bracket, they generally mount only at the top of the plate, might make creative mounting more flexible.

    Allen
  • jerrywimerjerrywimer Member Posts: 588
    I got the aftermarket BugDeflector II which also makes the tinted window vents that stick on the outside of the window- as opposed to in the track. This was a simple install, using snap in bolt holders that match the Trailblazer underhood. I then disregarded the instructions to stick the little clear silicone bumpers to the hood of the vehicle and instead stuck them to the inside of the Bug Shield. They are still there after about 3500 miles and expect they'll stay. I went with the stick on window vents after hearing one user complain about the in-track vents causing window closing problems.

    Wow! I thought I'd somehow posted without realizing it when I was reading this. Other than the mileage you've got so far (I only have about 2800 right now on my TB), everything else is exactly the same as what I did, including why. (I was seriously considering the pop-in vents until reading the experiences here on Edmunds'). Bought both additions from my local Pep Boys, who seemed to have decent prices on them.
  • discofeverdiscofever Member Posts: 34
    Ou Envoy has the factory installed DVD player w/flip down screen (Real basic unit).

    I just added new video monitor headrests to my Envoy to avoid using the Flipdown screen (obstructs rearview). They are a factory replica of the orginals, plus now have the 3-position tilt forward that was lacking in the orginal headrests. In addition, added an FM Modulator (to facilitate listening thru factory stereo system, AC/DC Inverter w/audio video jacks(allows the hook-up of game cube or playstation, etc.) and new set of wireless headsets w/A/B switch.

    We went to Las Vegas over the weekend and for a while seemed like we didn't bring the kids with us. My son played with his game cube while my daugther watched a DVD.
  • mookie14mookie14 Member Posts: 252
    got a 03 tblazer ls with like 18000 miles on it i got mobil 1 syn in it. i was supposed to change my oil at 16000. i was out in fla im from oh now is it time to change it. i will always use mobil1. but as far as a chevy owner should i use the change the oil monitor im wondering since they built this truck i think it should something that can be used. so should i use it? also when your oil breaks down you use more gas is that true? lastly no doubt as far chevy owners go is it true synthetic is the way to go? for longer intervals gas, and horsees, horsepower that is. so is it true thanks.
  • allenrallenr Member Posts: 89
    Anyone had to use the extended warranty on your Bravada? Just checking if there was any hassle from the dealer after 36,000 miles?

    Thanks

    Allen
  • jerrywimerjerrywimer Member Posts: 588
    Where did you get the headrests at? I had the Carmax dealer I bought my 2003 TB from install a DVD system with the headrest monitors. However, my '03 also lacks the 3 position tilt feature with the headrests, and I definitely notice it a bit (the headrest seems to far back for my driving posture).
  • macman246macman246 Member Posts: 118
    My '02 Envoy was bought back by GM without a fight. It was at the dealer 6 times for a random stalling problem. I contacted a lemon law attorney who wrote one demand letter to GM. Within 6 weeks GM responded with an offer to settle, and the whole thing was resolved in 4 1/2 months. Very painless, no inspections, no court hearings, no money out of pocket. At least GM did the right thing.
  • discofeverdiscofever Member Posts: 34
    http://vizualogic.com/

    I called Vizualogic, and they gave me a list of the dealers in my area who install their products. Their products are only offered through dealers. I am very impressed with the quality of the headrest they manufacture. They used original OEM cloth and leather. Our Envoy has the dark pewter leather, it is now being offered.
  • mookie14mookie14 Member Posts: 252
    is everybody stuck up in the chevy post here i mean doggone heah lighten up yall we all got the same autos so be friendly really.
  • jac27jac27 Member Posts: 15
    "Anyone had to use the extended warranty on your Bravada? Just checking if there was any hassle from the dealer after 36,000 miles?"

    When I replaced the hub covers on the polished aluminum wheels at 43k, they balked at first, but agreed that it was under warranty. I just had over $900 work done on the front transfer case and a wheel bearing under warranty at 46k. No problem!
  • ross1962_99ross1962_99 Member Posts: 48
    Great story! Sounds like what we do with computers that keep coming back defective - hook them up to some voltage and fry the motherboard.
  • mdv8574966mdv8574966 Member Posts: 1
    have in shop 2nd time in month - they say nothing is wrong. it is stalling on cold starts (cold being 50 degrees) and sitting outside over nite. first start of morning when backing out of drive it stalls,. it is also hesitating when stopped at a traffic light. transmission is not shifting when going onto freeway . also problems with abs
    they are locking up for no reason. brake pedal becomes hard and you have no brakes. dealer says computer shows no problem. have had vechile for 9 months and problem just occurred in last month - car has 12,000 miles - any suggestions?????
  • discofeverdiscofever Member Posts: 34
    My $0.02, take it back one or two more times and hopefully they find the problem with the stalling. Document and retain all service copies related to this problem.

    If the dealer is still unable to fix the problem, refer to the Lemon Law pamphlet among your owners manual. Take GM to arbitration (I would recommend you hire an arbitration lawyer instead, more successfully that handling it on your own, unless you’re a lawyer). Much success…
  • cparise1cparise1 Member Posts: 109
    it broke my external antennae off. The parts guy said it will cost $50 to replace, which includes not only the antennae but the wiring that I don't need. Not sold separately. Cost not really an issue but it bugs me that the Envoy has something busted on it. Another chance to spend money at the dealer. BTW, I must have called on a bad day because the parts guy and the service guy all had an attitude. I've had a crappy week and I can't wait to go into the dealer and cause some crap on them. You bet I will. Okay, done venting, I need ed that.

    My advice is to stick with touch-less washes. I usually hand wash but was tired and I thought I'll just run it through the wash. In winter I probably use the car wash once a week but this time, whack!

    The dealer says the antennae should be unscrewed but I retrieved mine from the floor of the car wash and I'll be darned but I don't see any threads on it. There is a real screw with a phillips head on the external mount on the window. Anyone know if that's what the dealer is referring to?
    Happy Motoring:(
    Chris
  • nuyorkahnuyorkah Member Posts: 100
    "The dealer says the antennae should be unscrewed but I retrieved mine from the floor of the car wash and I'll be darned but I don't see any threads on it. There is a real screw with a phillips head on the external mount on the window. Anyone know if that's what the dealer is referring to?"

    Chris no tools required just twist the mast(female) counter clockwise to remove. There should be external threads on that piece with the phillips head its the antenna base(male), if not you must have lost it. You can install this antenna yourself its very easy.
    BTW there is no wiring you will just be getting the mast and the base.
  • cebtebcebteb Member Posts: 138
    I didn't think anybody even used automatic car washes anymore that weren't touch-less. Those contact-type washes will destroy your paint finish as well as knocking off mirrors, antennae, wipers, etc. If the scum is so bad that it requires mechanical removal, do it by hand.

    BTW, not clear from the post whether the antenna was for the On Star or the radio.
  • discofeverdiscofever Member Posts: 34
    The antenna mast can be removed by hand using a small adjustable wrench. You can save some bucks, by picking one up at a wrecking yard.
    It is the same as that of any late model Chevy truck, GMC Truck or Yukon SUV, etc. Please note that there is a small thin wire that runs along side of the antenna mast. This is the one you want to select.
  • cwhawkcwhawk Member Posts: 38
    See message # 12788.

    The TB spent three days at the dealer. They could not duplicate any problem in the 1-2 shifting and the latest PCM is loaded. The problem I have is that sometimes the 1-2 shift is more of a "flutter" rather than a smooth or sharp shift. It happens about once every 4-5 shifts from 1-2 only.

    The DIC (average mpg) problem is the computer figures gas mileage about 1.5 - 2 mpg too high. It used to be only about .5 mpg too high until new PCM codes were downloaded. The dealer talked to the Technical Advisor and was told that there had been no such problems reported.

    So I will try to duplicate the 1-2 shift problem to determine how and when it happens and take it back to the dealer. The avg. mpg problem; when I sell it I will just point out how great the gas mileage is.

    If anyone gets a fix for these two problems, please post. I am sure that my TB is not the only one.
  • cparise1cparise1 Member Posts: 109
    Thanks for the info everyone.

    Can't remember who asked whether it was the Onstar or Radio antennae. Answer is I don't know but they both still work fantastic. I can still listen to my favorite FM station from Chicago WXRT-Chicago's finest rock-almost all the way into Milwaukee where I work. I use OnStar for almost all my personal calling and it still works as normal too.

    BTW, the only non touch-less car washes I've gone to often have what looks like an endorsement from GM on them. I know its not optimal but hey I'm almost 50 and the days when I could wash and wax by hand are now taken up by work work work. Actually, I still find the time a couple of times a month to wash by hand.

    Chris
  • 2002slt2002slt Member Posts: 228
    Chris,
    If you have an '02 Envoy, the only visible antenna is for OnStar. It's mounted on the driver's side cargo window. I think that in '03 they started mounting the AM/FM antenna on the front passenger side quarter panel, like the TB. It used to be hidden in the rear glass.
    Mike
  • tblazedtblazed Member Posts: 945
    " The dealer says the antenna .... external mount on the window. Anyone know if that's what the dealer is referring to? " Sounds like you are describing the glass-mounted OnStar antenna. There's probably a piece of the threaded base broken off in the bottom end of the antenna element "stinger" part. Maybe get out cheaper if you go to a cellular install place and check out replacement parts for antennas. OnStar uses same 900 mHz band as Verizon so a replacement 900 mHz cell antenna should work fine.
  • twinrottstwinrotts Member Posts: 161
    Well my 02 TB EXT has crossed the 18K mark and I have been toying with changing the tranny fluid.
    For those of you that have done this, did anyone upgrade to a synthetic?
    I have been cruising the Amsoil site and they seem to imply that their products will offer improvements in longevity and performance.
    If I do replace with a Syn, I assume I need to assure it is a complete flush with a filter change???
  • quickdtooquickdtoo Member Posts: 266
    See message #12374. I used Amsoil's web site procedure for my own flush. Mine was a bit easier because I have an aftermarket aux cooler installed. tim
  • aciampiaciampi Member Posts: 66
    Just to clear up a little confusion here. A cloth car wash if run properly will not ruin the finish of your car, break mirrors, destroy antennea's or wipers. Granted these things sometimes do happen, they are very rare. The only antennea's I will agree with you on are the cellular or OnStar that look like cellular antennea's and they usally only break when they are sticking up rather than being folded down or unscrewed. Actually if you want to get down to it a touchless car wash needs to use very high pressure to get your car clean which means that by the time you get out of the tunnel you have very little to no wax left. Also heres a little test to use on yourself to find out how to get a cleaner car. Don't wash your hands for a week, then when you do just spray some soap on your hand and then use your faucet on its highest pressure and look at how clean your hands came out. Odds are they are still filthy.
  • ficussficuss Member Posts: 541
    I was the recipient of a rear end crash today and am happy to report that the TB body on frame chassis performed very well. The impact was strong enough to push my TB forward a bit even with the brakes on. Damage to the TB was limited to cosmetic bruising of the rear bumper cover. I think the trailer hitch receiver saved the day. The other car did nor fare so well, the front end was crushed and pushed in. No one was hurt. I will check the dollar damage to the bumper cover this week.

    Frank
  • tim_fxdwgtim_fxdwg Member Posts: 1
    On the dealer lot today I saw a 2004 Envoy Hwy 19 mpg right next to a 2003 Envoy Hwy 22mpg.
    Same 4.2l engine 2wd not 4wd and nobody at the dealership could explain the difference in mileage.
    Is GM just finally being honest this year?

    Thanks
    -Tim
  • tblazedtblazed Member Posts: 945
    You didn't happen to notice what rear gear ratio the one rated at 19 mpg was equipped with? That's about how much difference there is in real highway driving conditions 19-20 with the 4.10 gears, 22-23 or so with the 3.42 gears. I get a consistent 22-22.3 at best on the highway with my 3.42 gears figuring it manually, the old fashoned way (miles /gallons). I think they had the same EPA estimated MPG regardless of the rear gear ratio in '02 when I bought mine.

    Speaking of gas mileage claims I finally went to a Shell station and filled up today with their as-advertised, supposedly formulated for extra mileage, regular 87 gas. The advertising placard on the pump said it improves mpg by "reducing friction". Maybe adding a little Marvel Mystery Oil at the distribution depot before the gas goes out to the stations?

     Side note: Stupid gas pump nozzle at that Shell station didn't shut off like it's supposed to as I was standing there, first time that's happened while filling the TB, and spilled at least a pint of this stuff all down my left leg and shoe, and down the side of the TB! I will report this to the proper environmental folks tomorrow. Station operator said, "that's the first complaint" and went on about his business.
  • twinrottstwinrotts Member Posts: 161
    I want to buy the Splash Guards for my 02 TB EXT with factory RB's and can not find them anywhere.
    I searched the past posts and found ref to GM part 12498625 for the front molded units. Did a search on GMPARTSDIRECT with no luck. Did the same search using Goggle with the same result.
    Went to Auto Zone today and had them search. 0/3!
    I know some of you folks have been able to buy these. Am I searching the wrong number? Where are you finding them?
  • aldan93aldan93 Member Posts: 202
    I agree with Tblazed, gear ratio, was it extended version?

    Seems more often than not, TB's get into smash-ups, at least 4 from this board alone, none our fault? Might add that trailer hitch brake light, maybe not, I'll stick with my 2" stainless ball receiver, seems to deflect small imports!!!

    My last vehicle a dodge truck, always kept my receiver/ ball in, got bumped/ smacked into 2x's, no damage to me, but the other guys, yikes, a grand am had a pierced radiator!!!!

    Never could get that pin out when I traded it in thou! LOL
  • tommy42tommy42 Member Posts: 70
    Go to GM Part direct look under accessory.
  • m2icemanm2iceman Member Posts: 27
    I was in Buffalo two weeks ago for the Pats game when I was at a red light and saw a Blue Envoy. No big deal. When his light turned green, he gunned it and I heard a roar that turned my head. I noticed he had dual Vet flat exhausts connected. I was stunned and loved the sound. Has anyone else seen these?
    Im looking to add them to my 03 TB. I would like to chrome tip them, they looked and sounded awesome. Just FYI to add to the couple of exhausts I have seen for the TB and Envoy.
  • n7donn7don Member Posts: 188
    If the '02 & '03 TB are the same, www.gmbuypower.com (look in accesories for TB) shows p/n's for molded as: frt-12497608, rear-12497726.
    P/n's for the flat splash guards are also shown. All of the p/n's were available thru gmpartsdirect.
  • badgerpaulbadgerpaul Member Posts: 219
    Is about $400, painting etc. will add $300. Have them check behind the cover. On mine the part under the cover was damaged too, that added another $400. Glad the other guys insurance was paying for it.
  • allenrallenr Member Posts: 89
    You can get the part cheaper at gmpartsdirect.com. I have lost mine twice (don't ask) it's around $30.00. I don't have the part number in front on me, I will post it from home tonight. You can also send them a e-mail asking for the replacement part to get the number.

    Allen
  • rubicon1rubicon1 Member Posts: 6
    Overall I've been happy with my LTZ. I have had the numerous "little" annoyance problems with it like everyone else. Nothing major and it has never left me stranded. However I'm thinking about trading it in for a 2004 Carbon Envoy SLE. I've always liked the looks of the Envoys better and wished I had got one in the first place. It's been awhile since I've been in here, so my question is; has most of the "bugs" been worked out of the 2004's yet? I'm stepping down to a SLE and getting rid of most of the little gadgets to cuase problems or to fail later on.
  • iexplore2000iexplore2000 Member Posts: 237
    Actually, if I were you, I would not choose stepping down to a SLE model Envoy as a deterrent to the issues that plagued 2002 models.

    After once owning a problematic 2002 Envoy SLT, I must say that I have almost 10K on my 2003 Envoy SLT XL V-8 and it has really been a GEM to drive/own. GM has had over two solid years to work out the "bugs" that plagued the 2002 models and to say the least, I think that they did a fairly good job. My 2002 was nothing but trouble, but this one has been pretty flawless thus far (knock on wood).

    Additionally, wouldn't you miss a lot of the creature comfort features that you are so used to on your LTZ? I hate to say it, but I am guilty of loving gadgetry! I love any and all of the technological features on my Envoy.

    Believe me, I looked long and hard to find other SUV's that offered the same content that the triplets had in addition to not costing over $43,000. My months of searching led me right back into the seats of another 2003 Envoy. Although before leaving the dealer's lot, I thought that it might not be a bad idea to say a "prayer" over the vehicle and I guess the man upstairs must have heard me.. <SMILE>

    The 2004's are cool.. I looked over one while getting my oil change, but I would definitely take the 2003 features over the 2004 model anyday. For me, a 4-way adjustable lumbar gets more usage than power adjustable pedals. Also, I like my eye catching rear brake lamp that illuminates as one big piece from left to right. The 04's have a less attractive type of lighting system in place. It lights up in blocks and doesn't fully extend the length of the entire lighting unit. Also, I really wish that GM would have not placed the On-Star antenna and XM radio on top of the roof of the vehicle. It looks as if they have rabbit ears!

    Oh well.. just my two cents! If it were me, definitely find a 2003 model and take advantage of the rebates, incentives and usable equipment that will be decontented on the 2004 models..

    Thanks!

    IExplore2000
  • pete2002pete2002 Member Posts: 36
    I was wondering if anyone has experienced a rear end clunk when accelerating rapidly while coasting at low speeds, say 15 to 20 mph? This happens to me every once in while, especially during traffic. I will be coasting in first or second and then traffic picks up a bit and I accelerate and then hear a clunk in the rear end as if someone hit me from behind. I took it to the dealer and they told me it was normal slack in the drive train. Not sure if I can believe them, but that was not there before. I now have 21,300 miles on my 2002 TB 3.73 rear end. This clunk does not happen when going up hill or if I have a higher velocity. I suspect that while the drive train has some tension, everything is snug tight but if I coast slowly, there may be a little bit of play somewhere and this is what I may be hearing, but I am not sure if this is normal. Anyone notice the same in their triplets??
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    Everything you described seems consistent with "drive train slack." I'd be interested in others' comments.

    tidester, host
  • allenrallenr Member Posts: 89
    The part # is 12451015 it lists for $ 22.44 + S&H at gmpartsdirect.com.

    Allen
  • paulyjsobpaulyjsob Member Posts: 48
    I had a very problematic 02 Trailblazer LS and after 15K gave up and traded it in for a 03 Envoy SLE. So far I have 11K miles and not a single problem (knock on wood). Best move I ever made. I say go for it.
  • kpp14kpp14 Member Posts: 62
    My Envoy (2002 slt) will "clunk" at exactly 40 kph (24.8 mph). I can replicate it by coasting (minimal rpm) and then lightly tapping the pedal. And I have a new tranny! Also while in your driveway roll down...power down your windows and shift from reverse to forward several times. Do you here the same sound? What the !@#$ is that?
  • 41564156 Member Posts: 31
    Has to use the manual release located under the shift boot to get out of the park position this morning. Could it be a fuse out or something more serious like a malfunctioning solenoid or switch.
  • discofeverdiscofever Member Posts: 34
    this problem may be the "yokes" that connect the tranny to driveshaft and the driveshaft to the differential. Have the car lifted next time you go in for an oil change and see if it has play on any of the connections. May be caused by worn or lack of grease in the yokes. Late madel vehicles have sealed yokes, so may require replacement.
  • momstruck1momstruck1 Member Posts: 206
    I was watching the news on a NY station last night and believe I heard about a windshield wiper problem or something to that effect. I was wondering if anyone else had heard this . I just went to the NHTS site and it has not yet posted any new recalls . Thanks for any information . i believe I was watching CH 11 at 10.
  • ylabylab Member Posts: 46
    You mean the 'Bypass' that the dealer is going to DEACTIVATE the next time you're in for service! My buddy's original 2002 Envoy use to do that and he'd release the brake and re-apply while shaking the shifter and it would then come out of park. (Funny part is, it jumped out of Park one time and backed up along the curb while the driver's door was open! - Over $4,000 worth of damage between the bent back door & fender).

    For the record, that 2002 Envoy was bought back voluntarily by GM and he now has a 2003 XL which seems to have none of the issues his 2002 had.

    Ray
  • steverstever Guest Posts: 52,454
    Recalls come so frequently for all cars these days, or so it seems, it's hard to keep up with them.

    The NHTSA's most recent recall list has a recall for '02 Envoy/Trailblazer seat welds. Before anyone gets too alarmed, there were only 46 vehicles affected.

    Our Maintenance, Recalls and TSBs page doesn't show anything for the '03 Envoys related to the wipers, but it just may not have made it into our database either.

    Steve, Host
  • lurker01lurker01 Member Posts: 103
    I get this clunk all the time. Exactly the same conditions you describe. I plan to ask the dealer to look into it this week when I have it in for the *final* service. I'm at 35700 miles... Last shot at getting the mirror fixed too...
  • trailbluetrailblue Member Posts: 4
    2002 TB/LT says goodby. Alot of work went into this TB,brush guards,rear bumper guard,taillights guards, window vents, black magic lights, over $4200.00 invested not counting time. But the AC problems just kept on coming. Gm is buying back with all the toys. I'm moving into a 2003 Avalanche-north face. so goodby and goodluck to all.
  • ltz2003ltz2003 Member Posts: 24
    2003 LTZ At 5000 miles i had the same problem.I noticed it more going from D to R . Also does what yours does. The dealer told me the same thing. I also checked all the joints myself and found no problems.10000 miles on it and its no worse.Also i must say i love this vehicle its the best i had in a long time.
  • 41564156 Member Posts: 31
    Found the problem (see 12848). One of the wires (black) going into the male wiring connector at the solenoid had come loose. (2002 TB)

    These vehicles are going to be an electrical nightmare. Best to dump the 2002 models before warranty expires.
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