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Buick Rainier, Chevy TrailBlazer, GMC Envoy

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Comments

  • allenrallenr Member Posts: 89
    Yea, it's a bummer, just took delivery of my new Bravada on Saturday. Been driving it alot in the last 5 days. A friend at work showed me the news report:( I called the dealer and they just gotten the notice minutes ago, around 10:00 am PST. I talked to the service manager, he wanted to send a flatbed out tow it. I didn't want to waste that much time or have the truck damaged by the tow truck operator. I drove it down myself, it was no big deal. There wasn't any thing different about the Bravada today than yesterday? I too feel it's better to get it fixed and over with, than trying to cover it up with some mail-in recall. Drove it down and dropped it off, got my loner and was on my way in 20 minutes.

    I know they tested these SUV's very hard, there is even a Score 500 desert racer version. If it was prone to cracking it would have showed up by now. It was probbley the parts suppler not making the part to spec. They might have change something to make the part more more brittle. I have driven GM SUV's for the last 17 years and drove a few very hard. Never had any suspension parts break!!

    Let's have a little perspective here, the new Ford Escape has 5 recalls already!!, one for leaking fuel. If you think I'm streching the truth check it out at:


    http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov


    Allen

  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    I don't think it will really affect sales in the long run. These trucks are great and the Escape sells in spite of 5 recalls. It's a bit of mark on the trucks reputation, but it's not unusual. Japanese/ European models are prone to this for new models also.
  • topgntopgn Member Posts: 132
    Guys save your hard earned $$$ and buy safe, reliable SUV's........Try the Sequoia, Highlander, 4Runner, or the Acura MDX...Do not buy vehicles that depreciate 50% in two years, have the worst offset crash results 1992 to 2001 GMC Envoy, Blazer, Bravada..

    FOr some of you GM lovers...."the recall is good"
    give me a break when will you learn GM is a second class manufacturer..IF want Quality buy..Toyota, Honda, BMW, and Mercedes..Some people NEVER learn...For all you GM lovers...I bet your ancestors thought the world was flat, and the Yogu would be the car of the future.!!
  • jmaterojmatero Member Posts: 253
    ... is that this is a really good vehicle from all accounts. As for the panels not meeting, that's typical GM... I have yet to see a GM vehicle with perfectly-matched panels. If you want to see one that's REALLY bad, check out the new olds Aurora. All 7 on the lot near me had trunk lids that were misaligned... REALLY misaligned.

    They'll fix this though, don't worry. Unfortunately, this happens whenever any ALL NEW vehicle is introduced. It does give the vehicle a black eye but at least they caught it before anyone got hurt. A bad control arm is dangerous.

    As for attacking GM, look... I'm not a GM fan but I really want these vehicles to succeed because they have promise and GM needs a sales success ASAP. I hope this is the last recall they get for a while. Also, it is true the 2001 versions are not the safest suvs out there... poor crash test performers... but the 2002 are ALL NEW from the GOUND UP and we'll have to wait for real test results before judging them. Just my 2cents.

    OH and for the person who cancelled his check... I'd report that dealer to the better business bureau NOW... that's one of the most unbelievable things I've ever heard of. I wouldn't trust them again... they apparently don't care about your safety... only the sale. Go to a different dealer!
  • joelisjoelis Member Posts: 315
    They try to be proactive and avoid the whole Ford/Firestone conspiracy situation, and still it looks bad on them because of people like TOPGN who just wait for stuff like this to rub back in people's faces whether its warranted or not.

    The ironic part of topgn's statement is that his beloved imports would do everything possible to hide these types of issues, and have a better chance of doing so, since sales numbers are so much lower than domestics.

    Toyota plays the Deceiving Game better than anyone. Just look at their BS numbers on Cargo volume of the Sequoia. They state 128 CI of total cargo space where Expedition (a bigger vehicle) only has 110 CI. HOW? Toyota neglects to state that you have to physically remove the 2nd row of seats (bolted down with 8 fixed bolts, which are not normally intended to be removed).

    I know what the response will be from these bleeding heart import lovers - "Imports don't have these issues". BS. As long as humans are involved in the build process, there will be errors for every manufacturer. Some are just more devious than others.
  • lyndellwlyndellw Member Posts: 31
    I read the directive from GM regarding the recall,It stated that customer would be provided with a comparable vehicle. Enterprize gave me a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Said if I didn't like it,and they get something I like better they would change it for me.
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    The guy is a GM basher. I have found him many places and that's all he does. Perhaps he is an ex-employee.

    joelis : Honda's minivan. have had numerous problems but of course Honda refuses to recall. There is a whole forum on the problems people are having. No car make is immune to this. Noticed BMW just issued a car recall yesterday.
  • jbossertjbossert Member Posts: 38
    My dealer just called me and said that GM just lifted the $30/day limit. He said to request something comparable (like a Jeep Grand Cherokee) and that it will be taken care of. He thought that the "breaking off point" was around $50/day.
  • greer4greer4 Member Posts: 1
    With the recent 2002 Bravada recall, is there a suggestion as to how long to wait for the current 2002 Bravadas to be fixed, and/or the newly assembled Bravadas to be manufactured in a safe configuration.

    Hard to trust GM to think of the public first, and the car dealership sales people may not show me the Recall Repair verification.

    New models always have some quirks to fix, but not on my time.
  • dwight53dwight53 Member Posts: 19
    Had an acura which needed tranny replaced in first 4000 miles and had NUMEROUS electrical problems. drove my Chevy Caprice for 180,000 miles, got 95,000 on the brakes, no prob whatsoever. Now hav '99 lexus ls400, it has electrical problems, and no character at all and uncomfortable seats. would like to get TB/ENV/BR, are they as good on the highway as the tahoe?? Would prefer tahoe to fight against 18 wheelers, but don't like massive size for the occaisional parking garage. How about the seats are they as comfortable as the Tahoe???
  • dwight53dwight53 Member Posts: 19
    Those of you who bot a 02 Bravada, what were the terms after the 0/0 period. How long of a term and what interest rate?
  • nargnarg Member Posts: 112
    The latest Car and Driver had a scathing note from the editor on GM quality. Interesting timing. I love GM design and engineering. If, they would just build them as good or better than their competition...
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    Read that. Not sure what that rant was all about. C&D editorials have commended GM on other occasions. Oh well, perhaps he had a bad day.
  • badgerpaulbadgerpaul Member Posts: 219
    It sure seems as if GM thought of the customer first in this case, by recalling the vehicles before any control arms failed on a customer vehicle.
  • b4zb4z Member Posts: 3,372
    Took a couple of friends over to the olds dealership to look at the 2002 Bravada that they got a few days ago. They didn't like the front end too much. Seemed to feel that it looked like a Tonka toy. They really like the interior, which i feel is the vehicles strong point.
    After looking at the bravada we went to look at the trailblazer. This was my first look. The exterior is probably better than the bravada.
    The quality of the interior materials and plastic is just AWFUL! It looks like the interior of a child's toy. The graining on the dashboard is got to be seen to be unappreciated. There were hard plastic edges on the door handles and console trim. $30,000 for this?
    I'll take the bravada any day, even though its resale will be poor.
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    I have a feeling Bravada re-sale will hold up pretty good. The truck is basically the same as it's Chevy/GMC twins. The same can not be said for Intrigue/ Aurora.

    As for the Chevy interior, of course it's not as nice. It's a Chevy! I personally like the Chevs exterior look better and the interior was fine with me. No worse than base Pathfinders or Explorers.
  • rjvicarsrjvicars Member Posts: 12
    I have owned a 2002 Envoy for just over one week when it was abruptly recalled and towed to the dealer. I have been given a very crummy saturn SL1 as a loaner (feels less safe than the Envoy). No comparison to the $38K vehicle GM just impounded from me. I have politely asked both the dealer and the district rep for my money back. The vehicle has less than 400 miles on it, has not been titled, and could be sold for new to someone else. GM's district rep was very rude and non-cooperative and made some comment about my stating that GM is lying? What, GM lie? Never. I am confident that GM will eventually fix the problem, I just do not plan to wait around as they redesign my front end for a vehicle that was most likely released before it was fully designed and qualified. I am also concerned about how they plan to road simulate a quarter of a million miles to qualify the fix in only a weeks time. Accelerated testing is based on many assumptions. I also have severe concerns about my local dealer "fixing" the vehicle correctly, whatever than will mean. I get the sick feeling it will be returned to me with more problems, now in the suspension (creaks, clunks, alignment and tire wear issues). I expressed my concerns about any fix to the District Rep who rudely stated GM will not put its customers in an unsafe condition. Funny, because for the last two weeks my family has been riding around in one of their unsafe vehicles...GM put us in it. GM has clearly forgotten how to treat their customers and proceeded to harass them. I bought the vehicle from Don Ayers GMC in Fort Wayne, IN. I am contacting the BBB and my attorney. This is my first American car in 15 years. It will also be my last simply because of the poor manner in which GM is treating me.
  • alanialani Member Posts: 39
    I plan to do a full post latter, I am short on time now.
    I, too, have a week's old Bravada 2002 with 170 miles on it.
    1- Both my dealer and GM called me 1st thing in the morning, they both did what it took to comfort me.
    2- I got a 2001 Jimmy replacement, GM said that I should get a "comparable" vehicle. (if you get something you don't like, then it is the dealer not GM)
    3- I was treated like a king at the dealer, the sales manager, the internet sales manager, the service manger, every one apologized to me, I told them it is not their fault, they said "it is your conviniance that we care about" and that is for just 400 above invoice!.
    4- My dealer refused vehemently to let me drive it to him, he insisted that it should be picked up.
    5- GM almost sent a tow truck to my work place, they thought the car was there.
    6- GM did what is right, I don't think they endangered me or my family, there is not a single fatality involved thank god, unlike FORD EXPLODER!
    7- What more do you want a car company to do, hide it and then end up with dead bodies scattered all over the place, that is the right way if you are going to compete with Japan Inc.
    8- I looked at the Acura and Maxima, did not like them, too small, not as powerful (giving the engine size and the gallon/mile ratio).
    9- Topgon, may be you are rich, I am not, also to pay 2000 + MSRP is a rip off in my book.
    10 - No, I do not own GM's stock, matter of fact, my previous car was 93 Blazer, I had hell with it, every thing that can go wrong did go wrong!
    11- Yes, this car will beat Maxima & Acura any time (when you take relative engine performance) and a good calculator!.
    12- No wind noise, no exterior noise, the hood fits perfectly (no 1/4 inch on one side and 1/2 inch on the other like some one claimed, go get a ruler!).

    For the fellow who asked about the 0/0 rate, it is 8.5 for 52 month starting this March (I go it 3/28), no pre payment penalty.

    (by the way, I took it up steep hills, very steep with 3 passengers, I did our weekly shopping for 4, this shopping is too heavy that my old car couldn't haul, I had no problems, the problem was found not on dealers lot like it was mentioned, but during a some sort of a simulation at GM, this is a safety precaution!)

    I LOVE IT AND I CANT' WAIT TILL I GET IT BACK.

    -Alan

    *that turned out to be a long post, oh well, you guys got me going!
  • rjvicarsrjvicars Member Posts: 12
    Alan,

    Has GM given you any indication of what the fix will be and when we will get our SUV's back? Do you know exactly what the problem is?

    Thanks!
  • rjvicarsrjvicars Member Posts: 12
    Alan,

    When has GM told you your car will be corrected?

    Rich
  • joef4570joef4570 Member Posts: 29
    I was hot on the Trailblazer ever since I saw the commercials during the Superbowl. Two weeks ago today, my local dealer called me at work to say they got three in. I test drove it that night (with the plastic wrap still around the steering wheel & seats) & boy what a let-down. It rocked side to side & just felt too high (I've been driving an S-10 Blazer for years). After the drive, the dealer told me he couldn't do anything better than MSRP because this was a hot new truck. That did it for me, I spent the next day playing three of the local Nissan dealers against each other (I live in NYC) & cut a sweet deal on a Pathfinder. I actually felt guilty about not buying American. Not any more....
  • bobcatbobbobcatbob Member Posts: 187
    I saw a Trailblazer on a dealer lot this afternoon and stopped by on my way to dinner...Not only did the salesperson offer to let me purchase the vehicle, they also were adamant about charging me a $1995 "Additional delaer markup."

    What was a $32K truck was now a $34K truck because of, as the salesperson wrote, "Its a new truck and you have these additional costs because of supply and demand."

    When I asked about not being able to drive it, he had the gall to say "Well, that's beside the point,it will be fixed in about a month or so. Driveable or not, it's still a hot truck."

    Is it me, or does this smell bad?
  • alanialani Member Posts: 39
    The service manager tolled me that he doesn't know any thing yet and hopefully by Mon he will get some info from GM, my understanding from him is that the problem is being "researched".

    bobcat bob: About MSRP and else, do not go to just any dealer, go through the web, dealer's "Internet Sales Managers" do not work on commission as I was told by my dealer, they do "volume", up to 300 cars/month.
    I got my dealer through autoweb.com - just go to any web based dealer, they are straight and know that you know the game!
    I think the car buying experience has a lot to do with how the dealer treats you, and as I mentioned few nights ago, I had the most pleasant and painless experience ever with them.

    -Alan
  • s852s852 Member Posts: 1,051
    The 2002 Trailblazers etc. are not that hot even before the recall. Supply is low because they are just recently released and production is not ramped up completely.
    Of course there is going to be a lot of curiousity traffic at the dealers to see the new models, but reviews were not that amazing.
    It was not like these new SUVs were stunning groundbreaking designs that were obvsiously superior to everything else on the market.
    There are enough competition from other manufacturers for buyers to balk at any markup above sticker.
    Why would someone pay $4000 over sticker for a Bravada when they can just buy a nicer SUV that has been discounted below MSRP instead for the same money or less?
  • greybarongreybaron Member Posts: 17
    I went to a GMC dealer to look at the Envoy and was not happy with the treatment I received. I asked to drive one and they hemmed and hawed and finally told me that they had been recalled for "something in the front" They said they had some parked out back, but would not let me look at them. I explained that I had driven a long way and would like to at least walk around one and see how big the cargo space was. They flat out turned me down. When I asked for a brochure they told me that they were instructed by GM to throw them out. Go Figure? The next thing I did was go to the Chevy dealer nearby and ask to see one. The first salesman I talked to said that they didn't have any in stock as they had not come in yet. (Like I just fell off a turnip truck) I wandered inside the showroom and was talking to another salesman about Corvettes and told him what the other salesman said. He said that they did in fact have two in the back and proceeded to show me the "cars next to the Trailblazers" if you know what I mean. They weren't supposed to let anyone near them, like they were going to explode or something. They are the perfect size for me so I guess I will wait and see what happens with the recall. I don't know why GM can't just tell you the truth and be upfront with these things, all they do is insult your intelligence.
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    I would make your dealer get you a comparable loaner. GM is probably giving your dealer allowance for a Jimmy and they are pocketing the difference. If the dealer won't do anything.. call GMC direct and complain. Simple as that.
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    For all those people encountering MSRP pricing or worse... shop around. Local dealer is offering to deal and many others are also. There also financing incentives on now.
  • alanialani Member Posts: 39
    I got another call today -Sat- from GM, it was a follow up call, they wanted to know if I was contacted by GM & the dealer (got total of 5 calls Fri, 3 from GM and 2 from dealer) and that the truck was taken and that I got a replacement truck!
    I asked when it will be fixed, I was told they don't know yet and that I will be contacted as soon as they have an answer, I was also told not to pay attentions to rumors about the expected length of time, their dealers don't even know.

    I don't know or care what most of you think, but this is a good customer service and I don't think GM is hiding any thing, why, they are in it for the money and they are doing the right thing if they want to change their image around.

    For those who are having hard time with dealers: CHANGE them, it is that simple! as you can tell from this post and my previous postings, I have a positive attitude and that is due to the pleasant experience I am having with my dealer, the dealer is every thing not the factory!.

    -Alan
  • erkkilaerkkila Member Posts: 22
    Here in the suburbs of Toronto you can already find quite a few 2002 Explorers running around the streets. Haven't seen a single Trailblazer,Envoy or Bravada on the road. When you go to any GM dealer, you will have no problem finding one of these SUV's. I guess people aren't stupid enough to get soaked by dealers with "hot new trucks" to sell that no doubt have multiple design and quality problems which is quite typical of GM.

    P.S. - saw a Chevy Barfmobile (OOPS, I mean Avalanche) at the end of February in an Oshawa parking lot. And I thought that the Pontiac Aztec was the ugliest thing on the road!!!!!
  • erkkilaerkkila Member Posts: 22
    Gee, Imagine that. New GM vehicles with serious defects? That's one down and probably only 3,564 more problems to go with these GM junkers. Want a good truck or SUV? Buy a Ford, Toyota or Nissan. From my own experience and that of friends, family and co-workers, you won't go wrong with these three. Dodge and Jeep trucks? Worst crap you can get, although I don't think GM is too far behind them. It'll be pretty funny watching The new Kia and Hyundai 4x4's on the road with big clouds of blue smoke chasing them down the street in a few years time. If you don't know what I am talking about just watch any Korean car more than four or five years old.
  • ducatist4ducatist4 Member Posts: 28
    I guess our experience has been still very good. We got our Pewter machine taken back yesterday, but replaced with a nice car thru national rental.

    Our dealer apologized repeatedly about our inconvinence. They showed us all of GM's communications to the dealer. They were super sorry.

    Pick a good dealer, try ours, Billiion Automotive in Sioux Falls South Dakota 605-334-2020. Ask for John Meldanado, and tell him Tasso referred you. We have had nothing but courteous, respectful treatment.

    Remember I bought this $35537 truck for $29047 when it was all done with dealing, being prepared and using every angle I could. Do your research.

    I couldn't find any American or Japanese or German similar sized SUV with all leather, heated seats, memory features, DIC, 270 HP, all wheel drive, homelink, air suspension anywhere near that price.( The Axiom sure is cool,like it)

    Finally, (sorry), I now I am not perfect in my job everyday, and it saddens me, but life can't always be perfect. Character and taking responsibity, and intergrity will bring me back to GM. (For the record, I own a Ford 64 1/2 mustang, 2 olds, Ducati's, Excelsior Henderson...so I am not "origin of manufacturing" handicapped.

    CAN NOT WHAT TO GET IT BACK
  • rjvicarsrjvicars Member Posts: 12
    Does anyone else feel like GM is keeping us in the dark with respect to the real problem, corrective action, and timeline for repair? Also, how many people are comfortable that the dealer can "rework" this vehicle as if it rolled of the factory? However, since the factory couldn't get it right, maybe the dealer can do a better job. Sad and scary. Does anyone fear suspensions related problems down the road due to this significant modification?

    Does anyone besides me want their money back? Do we have a simple recourse to get our money back for such new vehicles that have been impounded from us? How about extended warranties? I think GM owes us that at least (especially on the suspension components)and an extension of our first year free Onstar service (since vehicles are not being used and service is still active)? Also, as the vehicle sits, it is depreciating daily. Don't we get some consideration for the depreciation (which for a GM is relatively high) for the time we do not even get to use our impounded investments?

    I hate being kept in the dark.

    Any responses?
  • dindakdindak Member Posts: 6,632
    Wouldn't be too proud of those 2002 Ford Explorer's bud. Most of them have been sitting in a lot for 3-4 months because of all the defects that needed fixing. Take a look at Escape and it's five recalls. As for Nissan's, far from trouble free. Friend's bought a beautiful 2001 Pathfinder and it's been in the shop twice since it was picked up in December.

    And you probably haven't seen too many Trailblazers/ Envoys because they only came to Canadian dealers last week.

    Get your facts strait before you bash GM.
  • ducatist4ducatist4 Member Posts: 28
    I wonder if GM will offer us some kind of compensation for having our vehicles for a while??? I personally am not to concerned about the repair, they will figure it out. The lost income will force them to figure it out soon. It sounds as though it is only one side, and one lower control arm, so the opposite side seems to be okay. Unfortunately, they would not be identical pieces, but rather "stochiometric isomers". So I am not sure if it is a manufacturing or design flaw.

    Even the best layed projects, plans, and designs can be unworthy in real life. Take for example the industry I play a part in, drugs and medicine. Look at the years of research that go into a medicine: animals for years, a few people, more people, hundreds of people, than usually thousands of people are tested before public release. Now look at all the drug recalls, at least a dozen big important medications per year. Amazing, millions of dollars of research, and some of the smartest people in the world, with the most stringent government regulation over seeing them. The interesting thing is we often do not see the flaw or problem until the medicines have been on the market for numerous months.

    I am not trying to defend GM specifically, but all of us who are not perfect, but try to be honorable. I think it is great to see the counter point of almost everything.I agree it is to bad this problem wasn't figured out before market release.

    I still wonder, I bet they will offer some compensation, maybe small, but something like free maintainence contracts, another loyalty coupon, etc...
  • akajoeakajoe Member Posts: 69
    I think GM has to first try to identify the failure mode of the component, and identify the reason for this mode (design, component production, assembly of component to vehicle). If it is a design problem (likely not given the number of years this vehicle has been under development and simulations and prototype testing; besides, have you taken a look at the control arms - they are massive 1/4" steel formed as a top and bottom stamped plates welded together to create the arm) then they will need to identify the design fault and redesign the component. This could take some time because failure analysis has to occur, redesign, replacement component prototype fabrication, design validation, component production and production validation before they can deploy this replacement to the dealers.

    If it is a component production problem, they will need to identify where in the manufacturing process the failure is being introduced, where the variances are between production components and the design itself. Once this has been determined, they will need to correct the manufacturing process, validate the new production components made by this process before they can deploy these replacement parts to the dealers.

    If it is an assembly problem, they will need to identify statistically which batches of production vehicles are affected, and to come up with an inspection technique that will identify units outside of these batches that could exhibit the same failures - at the dealers. Any units identified would need to have a new production assembly put in place of the old one.

    In any of these scenarios, the time frame cannot be short because validation of any component or procedure takes time. On the other hand, because this component is critical, GM has no choice but to advise owners not to drive until such time. In the public relations environment and given how critical these SUV's are to GM's market share, GM knows they need to get it right. That means not to rush out a fix that doesn't work (like Isuzu did on their SUV's). This would give a false sense of security. At the same time, they need to get production rolling again and get people's cars back on the road (a very high penetration form of advertising). GM is between a rock and a hard place - they can't rush but they need to rush. How they succeed at this is a great test of their PR and engineering skill. If they come out of this still standing, then we may be witnessing the rebuilding of character in the company which should instill a great deal of confidence with the public.
  • guy21guy21 Member Posts: 129
    Well put. But time is the critical element. To be thurough the processes and procedures you outline need to be followed. However, time may dictate that the replacement part be the old one with a reinforecment welded on. In my state, the lemon law kicks in after 30 days out of service.
  • akajoeakajoe Member Posts: 69
    That is a viable solution - to take components in stock, retrofit them with reinforcement, and then install at the dealer. This would be the quickest because it would avoid redesign (if design problem), or retooling (if manufacturing problem). The reinforcement would still need to be validated to make sure it solves the problem before widespread deployment.

    The best GM can hope for is that it was a problem introduced during assembly with the rest of the vehicle (improper torque on hinge bolts, or some similar attachement error). They could statistically determine batch/operators/shifts during which this error occurred and to initiate a teardown/reassembly/replacement on those vehicles affected followed by an inspection of all others (since the statistical danger of occurance in the field on non-affected vehicles goes away).

    Then they could go on with the business of lighting up the factory and the marketing machine could go into full gear to spin control this thing. Cars would get back on the road and their most powerful form of advertsiing would be back.
  • darionlowdarionlow Member Posts: 13
    How did you get your 2002 Bravada for $29k? That's awesome! I'd love to get a deal like that. I'm in NorCal and there's always a really high demand for any new vehicle, making getting a good price pretty difficult. Did you use a website like autoweb or carpoint? Thanks!
  • trek1420btrek1420b Member Posts: 32
    I too feel like GM should give us an extended warranty but not just on the suspension parts for putting us through this mess. The longer this goes on the more they are going to have to do.

    When I called GM to complain about the Taurus I was given as a rental, I was told "we have been told to do whatever we have to to keep you happy." She will be calling the dealer Monday to get me a comparable vehicle. When I told her that the local car rental was already cleaned out of SUVs, she said they will have to pull something off their lot. She will call me back Monday morning.

    Also I heard that the problem is on both sides, not just the left as someone mentioned earlier.
  • alanialani Member Posts: 39
    According to NHTSA, 60,000 Toyota were involved in safety recalls last model year.
    Other Toyota SAFETY recalls:
    1999----96,000
    1998----636,000
    1997----928,000

    Year: 2000 Make: TOYOTA Model: CARRY Year of Recall: '01 Type of Report: Vehicle Potential Number of Units Affected: 53061
    Summary:
    Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles equipped with cruise control and V6 engines, and built at one of two lines at the Kentucky Plant. The accelerator cable housing could be deformed at the cruise control actuator-to-throttle body connection. The accelerator inner-cable could wear away and eventually break. This could allow the throttle to return to idle or remain in its most recent position regardless of accelerator pedal operation, increasing the risk of a crash.

    Year: 2000 Make: TOYOTA Model: ECHO Year of Recall: '00 Type of Report: Vehicle Potential Number of Units Affected: 4530
    Summary:
    Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles, registered in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Condensed moisture from the Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) port could seep toward the brake vacuum port inside the intake manifold and start to freeze. Vacuum assist to the brakes would be decreased and increased pedal pressure would be required, increasing the vehicle stopping distance.

    Year: 2000 Make: TOYOTA Model: SOLAR Year of Recall: '00 Type of Report: Vehicle Potential Number of Units Affected: 541
    Summary:
    Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles. Due to improper heat treatment, the rear axle may not have adequate strength in some areas. After extended use of the vehicle, the rear axle shafts could fail or break.

    Year: 2000 Make: TOYOTA Model: AVALONS Year of Recall: '00 Type of Report: Vehicle Potential Number of Units Affected: 541
    Summary:
    Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles. Due to improper heat treatment, the rear axle may not have adequate strength in some areas. After extended use of the vehicle, the rear axle shafts could fail or break.

    Year: 2000 Make: TOYOTA Model: CARRY Year of Recall: '00 Type of Report: Vehicle Potential Number of Units Affected: 541
    Summary:
    Vehicle Description: Passenger vehicles. Due to improper heat treatment, the rear axle may not have adequate strength in some areas. After extended use of the vehicle, the rear axle shafts could fail or break.

    No comment!

    -Alan
  • ralforalfo Member Posts: 36
    I feel the same as rjvicars. They basically yanked my new $35K truck from me and are keeping me in the dark and not giving me a time line. I also feel a little uncomfortable having the dealer make the repair. I'd rather be given a truck with the fix come off the assembly line fresh. I have this strange feeling that this may lead to other problems in the future.

    I've placed a call to GM regarding getting my money back and they are looking into it. If this drags too long and comes down to it, I will pursue this further. Here is a truck that I just spent $35k on and haven't even had two weeks. It's a sham because I really love this truck. I was originally going to get the Yukon, but wanted something a little smaller and the Envoy was perfect. If getting a full refund is not an option, I would consider a similar equipped Yukon for the same price I paid.

    If this is resolved quickly, I would like to be compensated by having the full warranty extended to 100,000 at no charge and to be reimbursed the loan and insurance payments that I still have to make for the truck that isn't in my garage!!!!
  • akajoeakajoe Member Posts: 69
    One of the news articles indicated that the OH plant was being idled to make components available for implementation of a recall. This has some implication that the components being used as of the time the plant was idled are OK (such that they could be used in correcting the defect), and suggests that over some period of time during the production of the first 30K units, defective components were introduced. If this is the case, GM may be just facing the task of identifying the defective units (inspecting all 30K vehicles), and replacing those with defects.

    This would be a much shorter (time) scenario than if there was a design defect, component manufacturing defect or assembly defect that would require a new redesigned component or process.
  • mmateyakmmateyak Member Posts: 15
    Well, basically, first let me say I am excited about the 2002 Trailblazer. I've been shopping around for an SUV for quite awhile now and I finally got to check out a Trailblazer (before the recall)...and when I sat in it...I just knew it was the one. This recall doesnt bother me a bit. Like many have already said, they happen...they happen to ALL car manufacturer's...whether some of you wish to accept that or not. I think it was a wise move on Chevrolet's part to recall early...show their concern, and to instruct dealers to do what they have to to make the customers happy with this inconvenience.

    As a matter of fact, this recall HELPS consumers IMHO. For all those dealers charging (or at least trying to) MSRP for a Trailblazer...those days are gone. We have an extra card to play to those sneaky DEALERS!!!!!!! ;) Of course, with the new design...and this being a first year model...problems are anticipated...but IMO the upside is great! The Trailblazer is what I've been looking for out of an SUV...and I was going to go with a Tahoe...but when I sat in that Trailblazer...I knew it was the one (and will save me a few grand on top of it all).

    So, anyway...to my Question...pretty simple...preference.

    I am interested in purchasing a Trailblazer LTZ (obviously when production starts again)...but do NOT want leather interior. Is there any way to manage all the LTZ options but get a custom cloth interior? I don't see the option anywhere...its either take the LTZ package as a whole (with leather) or regress to the LT and tack on as much as I can to create a makeshift LTZ...but I'll still lose out on the LTZ enhancements and perks.

    Any suggestions? Im kinda new to buying NEW cars...so Im not familiar with customizing them.

    Any help would be great! Thanks all! :)

    mmateyak
  • rjvicarsrjvicars Member Posts: 12
    has anyone heard from GM or their dealer regarding a REAL fix to these quarantined vehicles? Also, has anyone heard how long it will take to qualify the fix? Anyone know what GM's durability standards are (track miles, FEA results, etc.), especially for a safety related defect?
  • ducky87ducky87 Member Posts: 11
    I called CM today and got no straight answer when the repair will be made. They did tell me
    however that all vehicles would be repaired regardless of what an inspection of the part may show. They also said that there is no policy to buy the vehicle back from unsatisfied customers, no policy to extend or amend the warranty or on star agreement to make up for the weeks this is likely to take. They did tell me that CM would contact me by mail to notify me of the recall and the details related to it. It was one of the most fruitless phone conversations I have ever had, and has sent my already sour sense of GIs public relations to a new low. I suggest looking into your states lemon law and consider applying the statute if applicable (www.lemonlawamerica.com).
  • boat10boat10 Member Posts: 59
    Tenn1975,
    you must be shopping at BILL HEARD CHEVY in Nashville. I also had the same run in with a unscrouples salesman there. I turned around and walked out, boy did he get MAD!!!!!
    I'm also looking to purchase, I lean more toward the Envoy though, much cleaner lines (SLT) verses the (LTZ). But with the national recall, seems like it will be a few months before there are vehicles to purchase.
  • jbossertjbossert Member Posts: 38
    After being told that GM was only going to give $30 per day for a rental (which buys a Cavalier), I ranted and raved and got a 2001 Tahoe. I have to say that I am not impressed with the Tahoe and want my Trailblazer back!! I too think that GM is doing the right thing by fixing the problem ASAP.
  • ducatist4ducatist4 Member Posts: 28
    Jbossert,

    I am sorry to hear you had to rant and rave to get a better rental, that is not right. I have a fax from GM Service Operations that was sent to my dealer on April 6, at 3:34pm and he gave me the fax, and it says,

    "With regard to courtesy transportation, dealers are to provide the customer with a comparable GM vehicle that the customer is comfortable with until the campaign repair is made to their vehicle. General Motors recognizes that providing customers with a comparable vehicle, such as another SUV, may exceed the $30 per day Courtesy Transportation Guidelines. In the interest of customer satisfaction any reasonable additional cost will be covered"....GM SERVICE OPERATIONS

    That is GM policy, word for word, comma for comma. So the dealer must have been the problem. I agree with your assessment of the 2001 Tahoe versus these rigs.
  • mmateyakmmateyak Member Posts: 15
    Basically, I am losing out on a few things that I can get with the LTZ package that I apparently CANNOT get with the LT package and add-ons.


    I am configuring the Trailblazer at http://www.kbb.net/carsdirect.html.


    Apparently, for one...if I choose the LT...I cannot get 16" wheels. And if I choose the Preferred Equipment Group 1SE, I MUST have leather seating surfaces....since they are part of that Preferred Equipment Group.


    Basically I want EVERYTHING the LTZ has to offer, EXCEPT leather seats. What I was saying, your seat surface is based on your Preferred Equipment Group, it is not an independent selection.


    So my question is...is there ANY way to get a fully loaded LTZ with all the trimmings and just have custom CLOTH seats as opposed to the leather seating surface??? Honestly...if I must...I'd deal with the leather seats because I want all the other add-ons from the LTZ package.


    Fill me in please!!!!! :)


    mmateyak

  • b4zb4z Member Posts: 3,372
    Saw a pewtwer 2002 bravada parked in my dealer's back lot today. It had out of state tags, so the owner's must have been on vacation, and they brought to the closest dealership.

    Pewter is the color i want. The truck looks incredible in pewter.
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