Buick Rainier, Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy

rob48

I am having trouble with the rear passenger door handles. When the envoy sits in direct sunlight the door handles will not work. I bought a used 2003 Envoy XL 2 months ago and it has been at the dealership twice for this problem. Has anyone else had this problem? How did you get it resolved.

01_hoe

I have read where others have experienced the problem on XL and EXTs. Don't know if the problem has been solved yet.

ylab

No tools, other than your bare hands required.....possibly the easiest bulb replacement there is with an Envoy. (The headlamp pulls out from the front).

Just had to replace one of my Silver-Stars Thursday night.....took all of 2-3 minutes, at night with a flash light in one hand.

dillondawg

UGLTRK: I am a little confused here on exactly what part you were replacing. Are you referring to the tie rod ends that attach to the steering knuckle as most aftermarket ones do come equipped with zerks or are you referring to some bushing or other part in the sway bar. So far I don't have any klunks so maybe I'm worrying about nothing but sounds like sooner or later I'll be dealing with it. Thanks. Dillondawg. :confuse:

dillondawg

A question on your Silver Stars? While they are great lights I've found that they burn out, at least on my 03 TB EXT, about once every 8 months. Dealer says that the wiring should be able to support them and has checked to verify no heat damage to wiring. Just curious if anyone out there that is using Silver Star headlights burns them out in 8-12 month period. Thanks. :confuse:

hardhawk

The Silverstars have a warning on the package that they can burn out faster than normal bulbs. It is a pretty common problem with that bulb.

tblazed

From the Sylvania web site , the 9005ST high beams are rated for 60 hours vs. 320 for the standard bulb; the 9006ST low beams are rated 150 hours vs. 1,000 hrs for the standard bulb. You can expect to replace the Silverstars much more often.

wrenchspin2

Yes, some others are having the same problem, myself included. I have not noticed any pattern as in hot (sunlight) or cold, it happens to me in all temps but is intermittent. All I have found is that grasping the handle closer to the rear of the vehicle and giving a sharp/quick pull up opens mine every time...but that technique is not easy for children to do!

wrenchspin2

I just had the passenger side low beam burn out two nights ago [the orig/ stock 9006 Sylvania bulb]. I read the Sylvania book hanging on the store rack and decided to try a pair of Silver Star's (the book chart also had shown that their life expectancy was less than their other bulbs (Standard, Xtra, Blue).
What a difference in lighting with these. What I was missing all this time! I know they burn out faster but it is worth it to be able to finally see well at night !
Gotta go back now to get the high beams, they got me hooked.

ylab

Well, my SilverStars were installed May or June of 2004 and I just replaced the passenger side last Thursday night. The wiring harness on my Envoy had no evidence of heat damage, melting nor dis-coloration. (The Silverstars still draw the same wattage and simply run at a brighter or hotter color of white.....same heat output as the standard bulbs).

I should point out that during that time I've driven maybe 10,000.....my daily commute is just over 2 miles each way, however much of the balance is evening driving in and out of a dark country roads so the headlamps are on full most of the time. (I also leave the DRLs on). All in all, a yearly replacement is acceptable to me....especially considering the alternative is possibly hitting a deer on those dark roads.

laurie22

Here's a good one!!!! :mad:
Service engine soon light came on intermittently, then stayed on & reduced engine power light would come on too when car first started in the morning. aAfter car was running a while I restart car & reduced engine power light turns off but Service engine soon light still on. Brought to chevy dealer who put it on the computer & the following codes came up:P0530, P1221, P1634, P1481, P1635. They say main harness is rubbed through & faulty throttle body & both need to be replaced. I take car to my mechanic who does not see any damage to main harness, so thinks it just might be throttle body & orders the part. In the meantime I'm driving my car again & if upon exiting my car I turn on securuty system, all sensors get cleared out & car is running fine. What's up with that? Body control module shouldn't affect fuel system sensors????? :confuse:

03tb

The warranty on my '03 TB EXT 5.3 will expire in Dec so I need to get it in to the dealer for any necessary repairs. Have had the ignition sw and brake light problems fixed and currently the only issue is have is a low frequency rumble that seems like is coming form the front end. No AC or Trans problems yet however have noticed on a couple of occasions that the ext temp reading was 90* upon first start after setting in the garage all night (should have been 70* max). Any thoughts as to the rumble issue? I'm sure the dealer will have bad ears and not be able to hear problem or say it is normal. What about the ext temp reading? Is this an indicator that the AC is about to go? Anything else I should be checking?
Thanks,

01_hoe

You should be checking on prices for an extended warranty. If you do a search Black seems to have the lowest prices.

dont437

My 2002 Trailblazer started doing the same thing...."tapping" noises upon startup about a few weeks ago. I took it to the dealer and was told that it was the mode door actuator....the cost to fix it would be $964 !!!!!!!!! I was told that the entire dash and all modules would have to come out to get to it.....the part costs only $44!! Since the AC is still blowing, I decided to bring it home and call the Customer Assistance Center at GM. My TB has 35,663 miles on it....just out of warranty! The gentleman who spoke with me said that they had not had any calls on this particular problem, but that if enough people would call in about that problem, they would probably do a recall! Seems to me there are plenty out there with Trailblazers and Envoys who are having this problem. Please call in to them. The number I called was: 800-222-1020.

dont437

My 2002 Trailblazer started doing the same thing a few weeks ago...."tapping" noises upon startup. I took it in and was told it was the mode door actuator and that the cost to fix it would be $964!!! The actual part costs $44 and the rest is labor because the entire dash and all modules have to come out!! I didn't get it fixed....I came home and called 800-222-1020 which is the Chevrolet Customer Assistance Center. The gentleman told me that they had not had calls regarding that problem and that if they had enough, they would probably do a recall. Reading all these complaints on here tells me that it's a widespread problem. If everyone would call, then maybe they will do a recall and fix it for us!!

tblazed

$964!!! You might want to try a different dealer service department that keeps up-to-date with bulletins!

Quote from the June 2005 issue of GM Techlink page 3 ....

This information applies to the 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy and the
Oldsmobile Bravada.

According to bulletin 05-01-38-001A (SI document 1645422), there’s a new procedure
for HVAC Mode Door Actuator replacement. Refer to the bulletin for details.
Using Puller GE-47676 permits removing the Mode Door Actuator from underneath
the IP carrier. It’s no longer necessary to remove the entire IP carrier for
access to the Mode Door Cam Assembly. A Mode Valve Actuator is now available
under p/n 89018539. For this new procedure, do not use Mode Valve Cam Assembly p/n 89018525. The service procedure in SI and the labor time have been changed to reflect use of the new tool.

dont437

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!!! I printed the info and plan to call GM back since the gentleman who spoke with me had never heard of any complaints on this!! I live in a small town with only two GM dealerships!! So, I will show this info to the one who quoted me the outrageous price and see what he thinks about it! I feel better about it already....thanks again!

envoyenvy2

When I took mine in for this problem, they knew exactly what it was just from my description. It had been doing it regularly, but of course when I scheduled to take it in, it stopped a couple of days before.

I'm pretty sure I waited for the repair at the dealer when I had mine fixed, so they must have had the puller Tblazed mentioned, as I would not have waited if they would have had to take everything out.

Mine was still under warranty, but $964 seems ridiculous.

macatowa

I have and 03 TB swb built 1/03 (73K) that has the loose passenger side wheel that is always loose and in need of adjusting when the door is closed, also I'm reading that the lower door bottom bulb weatherseal is what is causing the door to rust because they cant dry when it is wet. What is anyone hearing on these issues? I think the bulb type can just be pulled out and reinstalled later if I want.

ross1962

the gentleman who spoke with me had never heard of any complaints on this!
He must not work on a lot of Trailblazers then because it's VERY common. And no, they won't do a recall on a non-safety issue.

psobkiewicz

I have an 05 Envoy SLT 4x4 with the 3.42 gear ration. Towing capacity of 5100lbs. I recently purchased a new 21' boat and am concerned about being near the max tow capacity. The boat/motor weight 3300lbs and the trailer is about 1000lbs. So total dry weight is 4300lbs. With gear and gas it'll be about 5000lbs. Does anyone tow that much with the 3.42? Also, what's involved in swapping the 3.42 axle to a 3.72 or 4.10? Thanks!

burdawg

Well, it will tow that load, but more than likely will be a dog on upgrades unless you keep it in lower gears. I had a Suburban 5.7 with 3.42 gears and it was always working hard on upgrades unless run in second gear when towing even moderate loads.
To change the ratio the ring and pinion gears in the differential will need to be changed. One option is to install an underdrive on the trans tailshaft but I'm not aware of any on the market for the tripletts, and would probably cost more if it is available.
I would try it out first and see how it is. My TB with 3.73 axle tows my 21' ski boat pretty good. See if the it's acceptable for you with the 3.42 gears. Try to avoid towing the boat with the fuel tank or tanks full, that adds to the weight significantly.

gmfan

You should be fine. I have the same gear ratio on by 02 TB and have never had problems while pulling my boat. My boat and trailer weight is close to the same weight. The transmission is smooth and smart- it recognizes a load and adjusts accordingly to reduce downshifts. Now, when you have five people, loaded cargo area, trailer and boat- it is pushing it, but should be fine. I have been thinking of putting a tighter suspension on the rear. I wonder, if I change the rear suspension to a firmer ride, will I also need to change the front?

-gmfan

01_hoe

Since you have a 4X4, it is my understanding you will have to change both front and rear diffs to the same new ratio. Very expensive swap.

psobkiewicz

Thanks for your comments. Do you use a weight distribution hitch or regular receiver? Does the rear sag too much?

hardhawk

My '02 Envoy 4X4 SLT has the 4.10 axle and does great with my 22' Cobalt boat & trailer. I also have the ECAS in the rear and it keeps the tail end level under all conditions. I used the standard frame mounted hitch that came on the Envoy as well as the standard wiring harness. The Envoy's towing ability was one of its big selling points to me back in the summer of 2001 when I bought it new.

tblazed

I have been thinking of putting a tighter suspension on the rear. I wonder, if I change the rear suspension to a firmer ride, will I also need to change the front?

I did just that to mine and it helped get rid of most of the bounce in the rear. Installed the Heavy Duty Bilsteins. Seems more balanced front to back now even though I still have the stock front shocks.

elevatorguy

I just noticed the other day that the headliner on my 05 TB is coming down just to the rear of the sunroof. I can push it back up, and it will stay for about a minute, then it comes down again. It doesn't completely fall of course, it just sags about a half an inch or so. Will double sided tape work on this? I don't want to put anything in there that will "bleed" through. Anyone else have this problem?

Thanks,
Todd

macatowa

I've towed a 23.5' Cuddy Cabin that weighs 4,500 dry with no (75 fuel tank)with a steel trailer i'm sure it weighs 6,000 lbs. The 3.42 did fine, just be sure to tow in 3rd to keep the torque up and keep your tanny cool.

burdawg

Folks here have given you some good input, I really don't think you'll have any problem. A load distributing hitch isn't needed with your boat since it doesn't have a great amount of tongue weight. On my TB the rear doesn't sag, the rear springs are progressive.

psobkiewicz

Thanks again for all your advice. I feel more comfortable now.

imadad2

Don't even mess with it. There is a glue that works, but you are under warranty and if you do anything to it, they will not repair it if it gets worse. Most likely it will. Have the dealer fix it ASAP. That is what a warranty is for.

hardhawk

The problem is a velcro issue. This has been a problem since the '02 models with the sunroof came out. Mine has done it since it was new. Dealer has tried to fix with better velcro that holds the headliner to the roof, but it never lasts. I finally quit worrying about it since it was not a big issue. Good luck!

jamisons

Latest episode in my poor performance/crappy gas mileage saga:

Took my TB to another nearby mechanic who specializes in Porsche, BMW, Mercedes, etc. and asked him to check it out. His diagnosis? A ridiculously dirty air filter. I've allowed the guys at the Dealership to do the oil changes lately (since I've been going so often!) and they apparently haven't checked it. My fault for not keeping tabs myself but in the past, I've relied on the guys at the oil change joint to point out a dirty filter and I've made the decision from there. I think it's driving better now (more time will tell for sure) and I'll have to burn through a tank before the story is finished. Fingers crossed!

Moral of this story (I hope)? Keep your air filter clean!

Cheers!
Jamison

bobbies

Hello....the warranty on my '02 Bravada is about to expire. Does anyone have any suggestions on a reputable after market warranty company? Sure would appreciate it. Thankx.

stever

Check out the Extended Warranties discussion too.

Steve, Host

01_hoe

I would strongly suggest only a GM extended warranty. The aftermarket warranty companies look for any way possible to deny claims. Many on the forum have gotten good prices from http://www.gmoutlet.com/gmpp.htm

kernick

You do understand that warranty companies take in more than they pay out? So on average you lose money.

You should take the money you're going to spend on the warranty and invest it.

01_hoe

Ordinarily I would agree with investment vs warranty, but we are talking the GM 360 /370 here. Don't have and haven't needed for the 01 Tahoe, but when it comes time for the '05 Envoy, I'll give strong consideration to purchase of extended warranty.

gogogodzilla

I'm looking at possibly the Chevy Trailblazer right now, but am unsure about it's steering and handling.

I recently had the opportunity to drive a 2005 model for a weekend, but the overall impression was somewhat weak.

How do Trailblazer owners like the suspension, steering, and handling of your Trailblazer? In a panic situation, would you feel in control of your Trailblazer? For me, at least, that's a big stopping point for any auto purchase.

ccarbaugh

Last night while driving I noticed my headlights flickering. The voltage gauge seems correct running around 14-15 volts. It isn't on/off type just light flicker but noticeable. Anyone else have this type of issue and possible fix. I will be checking my terminals and any wiring connections for possible problems. thanks for any info.

gam2

The brakes on my 35K '03 Envoy were starting to pulsate so I pulled a wheel and had a look. I was surprised to see excessive rust build-up at the inner and outer diameters of the rotor. I was realy surprised because this build-up occured where the brake pads contacted the rotor. In fact, the pads had grooves there from the rust. All 4 rotors were this way both inside and out. I used an angle grinder and a wire wheel to remove the rust and the pulsation is gone. Probably should have turned the rotors and put in new pads, but this will do for now. I've never seen rust like this before, especially where the pads contact the rotor. You would think the pad would clean off the rust every time the brakes are applied. The truck doesn't sit idle for weeks either. Anyone else notice this?

Greg

burdawg

It could be the DRL sensor switching the headlamps from daytime mode (not full brightness) to nightime mode (full lowbeam bright). Does it happen when your sitting still? I suppose it's possible that driving slowly under some very bright lights could cause it to switch back and forth, but improbable since there's a latency built in to prevent it.
I have noticed the itensity go up while sitting under an overpass or going through a tunnel in the daytime. Pulling in the garage in the daytime always causes the lamps to increase to full brightness.
Not sure if this is your problem, just a thought.

morey000

There are a lot of wonderful aspects of the Trailblazer/Envoy. But its responsive handling isn't one of them. It has a comfortable and predictable steering and handling- but does fall a little short in this category- although not dangerously so. Consider the new Envoy's you can get with electronic stability control.

Have you considered a Porsche Cayenne? Fabulous handling- albeit at twice the price and half the fuel economy of the TB. And I can't say that I like the interior of it. Or, if you don't need the off road and hauling capability of the TB, the crossover vehicles all handle better. Ex: The Mits. Endeavor drives like a car. But- a different class of vehicle. Some like the heavy handling of the new Subaru Tribeca.

Oh- the new Grand Cherokee's drive pretty well for a SUV, and also offer off road capability, as does the Touareg. Although there are other issues with those vehicles.

mrboba

My 2005 TrailBlazer LS doesn't have remote door unlocking. However, the OnStar operator can remotely unlock the doors by radio..Is it possible to add remote unlocking without spending a fortune? The dealer wanted $500+ to set me up for remote unlocking.

My garage doors open by remote control and the electric opener sure didn't cost $500.
MrBobA

stever

Spy Shots: 2007 GMC Envoy (Inside Line)

Talk about it in the 2007 GMC Envoy, 2007 Chevy TrailBlazer discussion (it needs someone to start the juices flowing).

Steve, Host

dont437

TBLAZED, thank you so much for the info!! I took a copy of the link that you sent (GM Techlink) with the info regarding the mode door actuator to my Chevy dealership's service manager. He went to his computer, looked up the bulletin, printed out the directions, went to the parts manager, got the parts and came out and told me that I was correct with the information. He asked when I wanted to have it fixed and I asked him how much it would be. He told me that they would fix it for NOTHING!!!! So you really helped me out!! (I did have to pay for my windshield washer pump to be replaced...$129...if it's not one thing, it's another!) Thank you again!!!!!!!

wpkelleysr

I have an 02 TB 130K miles - and the headlamps have been flickering at night since new. Back in O2 when I was still under warranty, I asked the mechanics who all gave kinda cheezy responses - but didn't find anything wrong. I resigned myself to it being a feature of a car with about a hundred different transient demands for electricity going on at any given moment - and since it really hasn't been a harbinger of any real problems - I think I'm probably right.

- WPK

ross1962

There is an inexpensive aftermarket improvement available for these. You can get a Hotchkis anti sway bar kit. It comes with a stiffer rear anti sway bar and urethane bushings for the front and rear bars. It does help a lot. I think you're going to find that many of todays SUV's have "gone soft" to cater to the soccer mom market.
In my opinion, the biggest problem is the use of coil over shock suspension in the rear. This is done mainly to save weight and soften the ride, but has the undesireable effect of allowing the vehicle to move not only up and down as it would with leaf springs, but also diagonally. The Hotchkis kit helps to reduce this.

raleigh

In addition to the Hotchkis kit, I would also suggest including 4 Bilstein HD shocks (NOT the softer stock ones that come with the Envoy) and Eibach springs. They lower the vehicle about an inch and a half, and stiffen up the suspension to where this thing handles really well ... for a truck. The stock suspension is a real floater, and in my humble opinion, downright dangerous at higher speeds.