Buick Rainier, Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy

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Comments

  • tlaurotlauro Member Posts: 504
    So based on the below am I to understand that two tone LTZ's have a factory type Wheel Well Flair? I looked at an LTZ tonight at a local dealer...green/gold, but didn't notice or study the difference with my solid black LTZ. Just curious.

    "Ah, but I digress....I studied a TB LTZ this weekend that was parked next my LT and found that the "two tone paint job" actually (partially) consists of a bolt on piece of plastic that attaches to the holes in the front wheel wells...thus a mechanical use for those unplugged holes found on the LS/LT TB and Envoys. "
  • billinphx1billinphx1 Member Posts: 6
    Debbie,

    I don't think your engine should be making the tapping noise that you described. I don't want to alarm you but please read message # 2682 posted by sgross2.

    I'll be taking my LTZ into the dealer after Thanksgiving for the recall and to get the front transfer case seal replaced as suggested by Tim. Replacing the seal seems to have fixed his squeal problem.

    Good luck with the tapping sound...

    Bill
  • hambone7hambone7 Member Posts: 130
    If you want to call add-on plastic cladding to the front fenders that extend out from the front fenders less than 1/8" inch then, yes, two tone LTZ's have "wheel well flares". I would assume that single tone LTZs do not have this plastic cladding. BTW, this cladding exists on the rear quarters and rear doors around the opening, but looks like it's glued on.

    Looking at your pictures, tlauro, I don't see these add-ons on your LTZ. I think they are very subtle add-ons and solve the problem of having to shoot a second color of paint on to the two tone LTZs...they paint the add-ons separately at the factory, then bolt them on to the TB after it has it's main color has been applied. It's a good idea...as long as the cladding doesn't hold water/salt behind it, in which case you have a recipe for oxidation.
  • allroyallroy Member Posts: 58
    I just bought my Envoy yesterday and the MSRP was ~$300 below what all he other MSRPs were with the 1SH package and running boards. After reading through your messages I see that GMC increased the cost for these packages in around September so my question is...my car has obviously been sitting on the lot for a little while...how do I know if it has had the recalls done?
  • fleetguyfleetguy Member Posts: 2
    I'd like to know if anyone knows how much of a difference in MPG there between the standard rear axle (I believe its 3:42) and the 4:10 that is part of the trailering package. Is it significant or negligible? I'd really like to get a trailering package for that "someday" I get a boat, but an wondering how much of a whack on fuel it will cost me.
    Thanks.
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    allroy,

    ...how do I know if it has had the recalls done?

    Ask your dealer who should be able to provide you with documentation.

    tidester
    Host
    SUVs
  • leech2leech2 Member Posts: 1
    I've had my Envoy since April and for the most part I've been very happy with it. I was initially impressed by all the features and being a previous happy GMC owner I decided to buy it.

    Until now... have about 7500 miles on this and I must say it's probably one of the the worst built vehicles I've ever owned. Aside from having most of the problems listed on this board, this truck rattles all over. Since about 5000 miles, I've had nothing but problems with various noises. Doors loose, trim coming off, seat out of alignment and the list goes on. It came to the point where I'm embarased to actually tell the service people about the problems.

    As much I like it, I really can't stand dealing with issues like this being that I spend 35K for a vehicle. I'm at the point where I think I will ditch this thing. Here I thought that GM did something right with these trucks and I decided to put my faith back into an American vehicle... boy was I wrong !
  • tlaurotlauro Member Posts: 504
    Man, I'm sorry to hear the issues have made you unhappy. I can understand though.

    It's obvious that there are lemons and vehicles produced that range in quality.

    Not sure where the breakdown is, but certainly QC at GM needs to get things worked out.

    Best wishes.

    tim
  • tpellowtpellow Member Posts: 21
    I finally got my TB LTZ this week (11/15). I haven't been this happy, excited and proud of a new vehicle since my '93 Mitsubishi Eclipse GSX. My LTZ is "exactly" what I wanted: Majestic Red Metallic w/ Lt Pewter 2-tone, DVD (kids love it, just like GM Warner Bros Venture commercial), heated seats, 6 Disc CD, Bose Upgrade and WOL tires. Everyone that has seen it has commented on the beauty of the LTZ. After over 8 months of research, test drives and waiting for the DVD and 2-tone options, I'm still amazed at this SUV. Compared to my '95 Blazer... oh wait, they don't compare.

    I would like to thank everyone who participates in this forum, it has helped answer any questions/concerns and I'm certain will be a significant resource as I enjoy relaying my experiences.

    Happy to be part of the TB family,

    Tim
  • tlaurotlauro Member Posts: 504
    Hey Tim, congrats on your new LTZ.
    Any pics of it?
    Anyone else have pics of theirs...that section of our board is bare.

    tim

    2002 Trailblazer LTZ
    1999 Grand Prix GTP 13.745@101.08mph
    2000 Alero "GT", 15.576@89mph
    http://www.timlauro.com
    image
  • tlaurotlauro Member Posts: 504
    hambone7...thanks! I went back and looked at the two-tone units and agree with your statement below. different way of adding the appearance package. not sure if I like the idea or not, but I'm sure it's more cost affective for GM in some way. also nice that the panels can be replaced if damaged.

    "I think they are very subtle add-ons and solve the problem of having to shoot a second color of paint on to the two tone LTZs...they paint the add-ons separately at the factory, then bolt them on to the TB after it has it's main color has been applied."
  • allroyallroy Member Posts: 58
    Ok, I pick up my Envoy today but going through your posts it seems like everyone is posting something negative about the car! It rattles and shakes...lots of noises..build quality is questionable...Does anyone have something positive to about the SUV? :P
  • hardhawkhardhawk Member Posts: 702
    We have had our Envoy for 4 months and 6000 miles. The only minor problem that has developed is the wandering mirror memory. The Envoy looks great, performs great, gets decent gas mileage, and we love it. We have indigo blue SLT 4WD with med pewter leather, 1SH (towing) package, sunroof & running boards. We could not be happier with this vehicle. Enjoy your new ride.
  • dan165dan165 Member Posts: 653
    Don't worry, most people are very happy with the truck. We have only had a sticky door issue. Otherwise our 02 Bravada has been rattle free and rock solid. Some people have a few issues which is what you see here.
  • c2h6oc2h6o Member Posts: 32
    allroy: I had my TB LTZ about 3 weeks now - 700ish miles and no problems. I don't even have the pedal vibration around 50-55mph that some people here have mentioned. I drive it 25 miles (mostly highway) each way to work which includes a section of some seriously bad, bumpy, beat-up road. No problems at all - the ride is great even over the bumps, the engine is quiet and performs wondefully with plenty of power to pass at highway speeds!

    From what I've gathered by reading most of the posts here, many of the complaints are either (a) isolated or (b) minor. There are a few serious complaints, such as any recall, but those are pretty much the norm for any car these days.

    I'd have no problem recommending one of the triplets to anyone, except for the fact that I don't want every car on the road to look like mine! So if anyone is considering a black/light pewter TB LTZ, get something else! =)

    -Jason
  • dankirkdankirk Member Posts: 19
    Every time I exit our new Trailblazer, I get shocked when I touch the door. The same thing happens to my wife. Is this because of the type of material used in the cloth seats? Is anyone else experiencing this?
  • boat10boat10 Member Posts: 59
    You got it right, I have the premium cloth interior and when I get out I too get a gentle shock. I believe it is the cooler weather and sliding across the seats: THE MAIN REASON I HAVE ALWAYS HAD LEATHER!!!! To late for that now, but I am still "IN LOVE"
  • macman246macman246 Member Posts: 118
    I've had my Envoy SLT 2WD for 3 months now, 2400 miles, and no problems yet. I'm averaging 16-17 mpg on mostly city driving (30 traffic lights in 20 miles) with the 4.10 axle. I'm very happy so far. I have the leather seats, and I get shocked too whenever I exit the vehicle. Must be the dry air here. And those of you with chronic back pain, the heated seats hit all the rights spots.
  • d2000one1d2000one1 Member Posts: 47
    I don't know if this has been posted, but here is another article


    http://www.nytimes.com/2001/11/18/automobiles/18AUTO.html?searchpv=past7days


    Enjoy!!

  • allroyallroy Member Posts: 58
    I am not sure this belongs in this thread but I wanted to get your opinion on this:

    I cleared a deal with a dealer on Sunday but they had to ship my vehicle from upstate....After I got home I called my salesman to ask about some fiscal questions that I was concerned about..he assured me he would call me back...well it is two days and he still has not returned my calls or messages...so I called up another salesman today to try and find out some answers...he said that my previous salesman was in and out of training but that he would help me out. I then get a call from the manager asking what I was doing talking to another salesman....I was amazed at his attitude..it seems once I put a deposit down...no more service....am I being unreasonable or is the dealer leaving something to be desired?(and can I do anything about it?)
  • flyersruleflyersrule Member Posts: 47
    You are not being unreasonable and your dealer IS leaving something to be desired.

    My dealer has been nothing but great. I have received about 6 or 7 letters from everybody at the dealership congratulating me and welcoming me to the "dealership family". My salesman has called me like 5 times making sure everything was good and I was happy. I have had no complaints about them. I do know that they are striving for a good evaluation from you on the customer evaluation form that you get from GM. They always work a plug for themselves into the phone calls. I have heard but not totally sure, that the dealerships get allocated the number of cars they can get based on their performance ratings of customers. So, they are always striving for good reviews, and this works out good for the customer IMHO!

    Mark
  • tlaurotlauro Member Posts: 504
    don't worry too much. message boards and what not are always going to be heavy with negatives and complaints. no one is bitching...it's just the nature of sharing problems and finding solutions really.

    most everyone I've seen is generally happy.

    tim
    there not problems, just opportunities
  • allroyallroy Member Posts: 58
    I finally got sick of everything and called the head Manager...well it seems they "forgot" to call ahead to make sure that the car I put $1000 down on was there and they have been "trying" to find me a replacement...hmmmm funny they never called me about it until I called...so needless to say I will have a much better bargining position when I go in tomorrow to make a deal with the manager...too bad I signed a deal for a car that isnt there...whats dealer cost on an Envoy? :P
  • hruntinghrunting Member Posts: 6
    doc35: Good to hear about the paint chipping. I'm glad to hear there's a good solution out there.

    On the rear of my TB LS, I notice there's a space between the sheet metal and the plastic taillight covering. From the lower part of the tailight to the upper part, the space gets larger, like it's not on as tightly as it should be. Does anyone else see this? This space is probably about 1/16" at the bottom and about 3/8-1/4" at the top.
  • ennismtennismt Member Posts: 1
    I would get my money back and not deal further with that dealer. However, if you do end up buying a vehicle from the dealer, one thing you will likely find is that dealer will alert you to the fact that you will be getting a questionaire from GM regarding your experience with the dealer. They will make a big push for you to give nothing but the highest rating on everything. It seems that GM is using the survey responses as part of the process of determining allocations. You will have the pleasure of telling the dealer that you are going to unload big time on the survey. If you do ditch the dealer, I would still let GM know of the experience you have had.

    As to the dealer cost of the Envoy, that is hard to know. Through Edmunds you can find the "invoice" price, but that is not the dealer cost. I am not sure of any site that can provide the dealer cost.

    Good luck. There are ways to prevent this problem in the future, but that doesn't help you now.
  • flyguy7flyguy7 Member Posts: 22
    Had the fluid changed and they said that the noise was gone. Well .5 of a mile down the road the noise was still there. They said that they will call GM to see what they have to do. So I probably won't hear until next week. The noise from the door was caused by a bad seal, they are ordering one. I am also getting the chipping on the license plate area, but it isn't chipping, it is rubbing. Will let you know. Had the recall trany reprogram. All I have noticed is that it shifts higher.
  • ivan105ivan105 Member Posts: 2
    hey everyone..i'm new to the post and find it very informative..i own a TB LT with the group 2 pkg (leather,running boards,etc,etc)the truck has about 4500 mi..so far not one noise or rattle and this is driving on new york city streets..i have been reading about some of the problems that other owners have been having and hopfully G.M. can fix the problems soon..for those wanting K@N products..i called K@N and was told the air intake kit will be on the market early in 2002...the air filter itself for the 4.2 vortec engine will be on the market in about a month and a half..part #E-1009..good luck...tlauro the truck looks great!..
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    Welcome to the boards, Ivan! Make yourself at home and please share your TB LT experiences with us!

    tidester
    Host
    SUVs
  • iansutherlandiansutherland Member Posts: 2
    The axle ratio options are 3:42, 3:73 and 4:10. The trailering package can be ordered with any of these axle ratios, depends on what you need to pull. The maximum trailering weights are published for each of the ratios on the Chevy web site. If you are planning on a boat you need to consider the weight of the loaded boat and trailer to determine which you need. I have the 3:73 to pull my 5000lb travel trailer. No problems pulling through the mountains. I get about 20-21 MPG (US)highway with this axle ratio without the trailer, which is what was estimated on the EPA sticker on the vehicle. Towing I drop to about 11-13 MPG.
    If you are pulling a boat of this weight or higher then I would be more concerned about the gas cost for the boat that the Truck. As the saying goes, if you are worried about the gas you might want to reconsider the boat.

    Each higher ratio number increases the engine RPM at cruising speed by about 200-300 RPM. A small gas increase between each but mileage is more likely affected by individual driving habits than by axle ratio.

    You asked:

    I'd like to know if anyone knows how much of a difference in MPG there between the standard rear axle (I believe its 3:42) and the 4:10 that is part of the trailering package. Is it significant or negligible? I'd really like to get a trailering package for that "someday" I get a boat, but an wondering how much of a whack on fuel it will cost me.
    Thanks.
  • hardhawkhardhawk Member Posts: 702
    I took a Harris Interactive Poll on line last night. It was about naming a new SUV. The description of the vehicle sounded just like the triplets. Then they showed 3 pics of the proposed vehicle. The SUV that was pictured was a Buick version of the new Bravada. The pics were copy protected but imagine a Bravada with a modified Rezendivous(sp)front end and different wheels. It looked a heck of a lot better than the Aztek inspired Rezendivous. Anyway, just was an interesting experience so I thought I would pass it on. I figured Cadillac would get the Bravada to compete with the new Explorer based Lincoln coming oout next year. The Buick version looked OK in my opinion. Good to see GM will keep the Bravada alive at another division.
  • anjin_navanjin_nav Member Posts: 18
    To ivan105 and allroy: From everything I've read, GM intends to build 300,000 of these vehicles a year. So far, there are only 2745 pasts on this board. Even if each one of these posts is a negative comment from a unique buyer, that equates to 0.9% problems out of the roughly 300,000 trucks this year, meaning you needn't consider yourself "lucky" to have experienced no problems with your truck!
    That is not to say that the triplets are perfect, nor that only 0.9% of owners experience problems (this board is a poor candidate for a good statistical sampling--difficult to determine sample, survey bias, etc.). However, like any product, you should research various sources. You will find that some prefer the triplets (Envoy is Motor Trend's 2002 SUV of the Year), and some don't (Consumer Reports rated the vehicle marginally). Even Edmunds has conflicting reviews.
    Bottom line: don't let this board decide for you; do the research, take a test drive, and decide for yourself.
    That's what I've done, and why I'll be trading in my old car for a 2003 Envoy XL as soon as it becomes available!
  • edl55347edl55347 Member Posts: 46
    I have notice the same space. When I asked about it, I was told it was for drainage. I disagree.

    I have noticed this on several vehicles on the lot that I looked at as well.

    Not sure if it should be that way. If anyone else has noticed and heard a good response, please advise.
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    I'm not surprised that they are keeping Bravada alive at another division. Killing Oldsmobile means GM needs to boost Buick's line up to keep sales. I like the Rendezvous a lot, but Buick needs a real luxury SUV to compete with other luxury brands. This is definitely the most cost effective way of doing it and Tiger Woods advertising should boost sales. He sure is selling a lot of Rendezvous SUVs, I see them everywhere these days.

    What were the names they were thinking of?
  • gmdronegmdrone Member Posts: 78
    There is a new LAV (Luxury Activity Vehicle) that is on the way from Cadillac, however it is not based on the triplets! It has it's own design, from the ground up. It will at this point be shared with a similar product from Saab. We are currently building the prototypes here, and they do look very sweet. I can't say much more than that without giving away the farm, but I am sure that the Caddy people will be leaking some pics real soon, so keep your eyes open. I am happy that the General is finally starting to build passionate vehicles, I just hope that you consumers out there will continue to buy them. It is very gratifying to me as a 20 year plus veteran of the business to see that there is enthusiasm and interest from the American people for a SUV that doesn't come from overseas, if you know what I mean! Thanks for restoring my faith in the American consumer, have a Happy Turkey Day!!!!

    Regards,
    Mark
  • bryancosbryancos Member Posts: 282
    Can someone provide the part number for the 4pc Ventshades for the Envoy?

    The local dealer wants to soak me for $80, and I'm pretty sure they can be had for less at gmpartsdirect.com. Please post here others and send email bryancos@yahoo.com w/ the info.

    Also has anyone seen the tail light covers for the TB/Envoy yet? Autoventshade has a part number listed for both solid and slotted covers, but nobody seems to carry them.
  • harrycohenharrycohen Member Posts: 3
    I posted something about this about 2 weeks ago on my LT. Dealer ordered a new tail light, but it turns out the entire talgate was manufactured wrong (bad welding or something) and they had to replace it. I'm suppose to pick it up today and hope the problem is fixed. I only noticed the problem on the passenger side. It appeared to me to be an issue with the quarterpanel as the tailgate wasn't lined up correctly.
  • dankirkdankirk Member Posts: 19
    The other day I had my first problem with our new Trailblazer. After filling up with gas, I started the motor. It ran fine, but none of the gauges moved and the odometer and the shift indicator did not light up. I turned the motor off and re-started several times with the same result. I pulled the gauges fuse in the fuse box that is located under the hood to check for a blown fuse, the fuse was fine. When I restarted after checking the fuse, all worked fine, and it has been fine ever since. Is this a fluke, or a common problem?
  • gmusic7gmusic7 Member Posts: 42
    CHEAP, CHEAP, CHEAP!!! I saw the Trailblazer, Envoy and Bravada at the auto show last night. I am impressed with the exteriors but disappointed with the interiors. They are roomier inside compared to the old Blazer, Jimmy, and Bravada. However, the interior materials used, especially the front dash, are cheap. Talk about cost-cutting, GM did it again!!! I would not spend near or around $30,000 for any of these 3 SUV's with the interior the way it is.
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    I think the interiors of all three are very well done, especially Envoy and Bravada. Every piece I've read in the press seems to agree so I'm not sure what your expectations of a truck are? Check out the Explorer if you want to see bad interior materials.
  • dankirkdankirk Member Posts: 19
    Has anyone redone the exhaust system on their Trailblazer/Envoy/Bravada? If so, what changes have you noticed? Better power, sound, looks? Is there a kit available, or does it need to be custom made?
  • allroyallroy Member Posts: 58
    Well guys and gals, the dealer was still lacking in service today (GMC will soon be receiving a letter) so I demanded my money back so now it is back to the drawing boards!
  • tlaurotlauro Member Posts: 504
    dankirk....please keep me posted via email on what you find out.

    I've tt. a local speed shop and am probably going to go with a customer system from downpipe on back with quiet flow mufflers.

    The only part I'm in debate about is what to do with the inline header as I've not yet found an aftermarket header.

    tim
    timlauro@timlauro.com
  • hardhawkhardhawk Member Posts: 702
    I cannot remember all the names. Some were Berkshire, LaJolla, Cascade, Shiloh, Arroyo,Rezendavous Sport, Rezendavous AT, and another Rezendavous something. Some pretty bizzare names if you ask me. Of those listed, I liked Cascade the best.
  • david010david010 Member Posts: 1
    Just wondering if anyone beside me has had the new six cylinder engine quit cold while cruising.
    It's happened twice. First time the ECM was reflashed, the second time some 5000 miles later, they changed the ECM completely and installed a new harness.
    dd
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    Cascade is good as is Berkshire. I still like Bravada better though, but I guess they have to kill that name. I would love to see the pictures.
  • chipperrrrrchipperrrrr Member Posts: 29
    Tlauro, Billinphx1,fletch45,sostrouble, I have read your messages relating to a squealing sound. The last two nights, I worked afternoon shift and finished work at 12am. The temperature had dropped here in WV to about 25-30degrees. After travelling home about 3 miles, I have to negotiate a sharp right hand turn. After negotiating the turn on the last two nights, my right front end squeals with a high pitched (wee-wee-wee) sound that seems to be in sequence with rpms at which I am moving. The sound is quite annoying. My TB has 4700 miles on it now and seems to be at the place in its life where you fine people noticed the problem. further, when I make a sharp right turn the sound goes away temporarily while I am in the turning radius, and reappears after the turn is complete. The sound seemingly has cropped up with the colder weather because I haven*t experienced it during the warmer hours of the afternoon. Does this seem to ring true with the experiences that you all are having. furthermore, is any one else out there experiencing the same problems. Are all triplet owners going to be squealing this winter when the temps drop? any opinions or similar experiences out there wound be greatly appreciated. I just traded in a mazda to get away from repair problems and annoyances. I hope this is not the prodrome of many annoyances to come.
  • dketchamdketcham Member Posts: 13
    Took my TB in to dealer along with a copy of message #2624 from Sostrouble identifying the rt front axle seal as being the culprit on the squeal. They replaced the seal, although my repair invoice shows a different part number than the one Sostrouble reported (P/N 12479055 versus Sostrouble's 12479012) along with performing the trans re programming recall. Haven't heard the squeal since, but I have only put on about 100 miles. The first time I took it in a few weeks ago, they thought the noise was probably due to wind passing over some part of the front. The next time, they lubed the rt frt axle seal. The noise went away for a few miles but came back. That's when I called them and told them I wanted the seal replaced. Thanks to all of you who keep reporting on all the issues you face with this car. We love ours compared to our '97 Blazer: more room, more power, more bells & whistles, and I have to say that the workmanship is excellent. Three other people I work with have bought new TB LT's since I got mine.
  • tas19tas19 Member Posts: 3
    Hi. This is my first time posting on this board. I bought a 2002 Trailblazer LT with cloth seats on Monday. I really like the truck. However, my back has begun to hurt from driving the vehicle. I have adjusted the lumbar support for my lower back, but am still experiencing pain in my upper back. In fact, I have begun putting a pillow in my back to avoid the pain. Has anyone else experienced back pain from the driver's seat on this vehicle? Also, is anyone aware of an aftermarket product that might add additional cushion to the seat back?
  • tidestertidester Member Posts: 10,059
    Welcome to the boards, tas! I am sure users with TB experience will be happy to share information.

    You might consider posting your aftermarket question over in the Aftermarket & Accessories section of Town Hall.

    tidester
    Host
    SUVs
  • jam1000jam1000 Member Posts: 182
    I haven't yet found a comfortable position for the driver's seat (have owned for 2 weeks). No back pain per se, just discomfort. I notice the problem more in the seat than in the seatback, and think it might relate to the existence and position of the side air bag.

    Re lumbar support, if you have power seat controls, you can move the lumbar support up, but I don't know if it will go high enough to address the problem you're having. Also, play around with the positioning of the seat, since the seat position affects the position of your back.

    Re aftermarket products, there's no recent topic in the aftermarket and accessories boards. I did an internet search for automobile seat cushions, and what came up were the $10-20 cushions that one commonly sees. I'm sure you could buy those or similar products at Trak Auto, NAPA, Pep Boys, etc. I have no idea if they work.

    I'd recommend mentioning the issue to your dealer and/or the Chevy owner assistance 800 number (which I plan to do as well if I can't find a comfortable position in the near future). Maybe some modification can be done to the seatback.
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