Chevrolet Avalanche Problems & Solutions

quest4suv

I have a slight but very annoying rattle in the dash of my 03 WBH. It is located in the radio area and my dealer can not seem to locate or fix the problem. Should I keep sending it back? I am a little afraid that I will get more noise if the dash keeps getting opened up by the techs.

Also, actually how much water should I expect in the bed. Are the hard covers supposed to be 99% water proof like the dealer said they were.
I get the water running down the pass. side along the fold down wall. It does not leak in but runs out the grate located there. Maybe Chevy put it there for a reason. Just wondering on this one.

greg3815

hey ppl i had my loac chevy dealer look at my 02 avalanche an they seem to find nuthing an i even showed the abs light comes on an so dose the Emergency break light its gotn to the point im ready 2 lose my self an buy this very nice 04 marron z66 avalacnhe loaded to the max any help

dispencer1

I'm thinking of buying an '04 Avalanche from a neighbor (4750 miles on it -he is a used car dealer and bought it new to resell in a few months). It has the Z66 decal on the rear fender but the window sticker says that it has the trailering package but nothing about the Z66. It also has 16" tires (Z66's had 17"). Was this just a factory goof or what? My neighbor says he certainly didn't add the decal. Anyway -it is a question.

dispencer1

Turned out that the neighbor DID apply the decal. Anyway it looks nice. I prefer the 16" tires. They are cheaper to replace.

txyank1

Sounds like he was trying to "snooker" somebody. Just can't trust them sneaky car dealer types, even when they're a neighbor.

dispencer1

Quite true. He also put on a plastic wind deflector/bug shield on the front and plastic rain hoods over the windows - both GM accessories so they look good. I saw one of the cladless models at a local dealer. My cladless one with the wheel moldings and side moldings option looks a lot better. The other one looked pretty plain. I'm not concerned about the decal. It looks OK.

txyank1

I thought mine looked quite plain when I got it (LPM with no moldings) but I guess I got used to it. I also have the visors and I added a "Mountain SS" Decal from streamlinedesign.com. Black Mts. with red SS. Some day I'll put either Sierra Crew Cab moldings or Yukon moldings on it.

dispencer1

It looks as if your dealer could easily add the fender moldings and the center molding. I'd at least consider adding a center molding (these can easily be found at aftermarket trim places in a variety of types but I like the Chevy one which is wider than the others I've seen). It keeps you from getting hit by doors of other cars and would dress up your Avalanche. I think the chrome bumpers that come on the cladless model look a lot better than the black ones on the cladded version.

dispencer1

Another example of GM taking standard equipment away and putting it in option packages. The self-dimming interior mirror is gone as is the compass and outside temp. unless you get On Star. One benefit of the '05 is that you can order the 6 CD changer/Bose speaker radio without having to buy a package but I'm glad I bought an '04. The upholstery is different on the '05 but doesn't look any better than the '04 which is fine.

smudge3

New 04 WBH (2 mo old) has water entering truck bed around right side of tailgate (facing back of truck) in hard rains. Have done some weatherstripping there but no complete fix. Anyone there with similiar problem, or any suggestions. Thanks, smudge3

ygmn

The bed is not water proof...and per manual water will be on sides and edges....

If yours is leaking near tailgate I suggest adjusting latches so that it closes and compresses the rubber seals

blazergirl1

Actually the dealer should be fixing this as a warranty Item. Part of the selling feature is that the tonneau keeps water out.

Our Avalanche has been in the dealer approximatley 8times for this and the midgate leaking.

smudge3

I might not have the correct title, but a question regarding the hands free telephone service thru on-star. I received some info on prices, minutes (i.e. 100 minutes for 12 months for $39.95). My question is - does it work well; if you now have it would you order it again; any problems with it?? Spoke with an Avalanche owner today who said that she was not impressed with the service, but admitted that she had not had time to do the voice recognition. Would appreciate any feedback. My vehicle is a 2004 Avalanche. Thanks, Smudge3

txyank1

That's rare with the current models.

mitzij

My only experience with the phone system has been at the beginning of the year when we had the ONstar win-a-car promotion. (had 2 winners!) Every time I showed someone how to use it, it sounded like the radio talking to you. Great sound quality, better than a cell phone any day.
It's a little rich for my blood, but if you want it, knock yourself out.

smi727

I have had the same noise. It almost sounds like something is dripping.
I got no answer from the dealer. I have an oil change coiming up and I will ask.

Other than the noise I love my AV!!!!

dispencer1

If anybody is in Canada and can get me a 2004 Avalanche brochure, please let me know. I'll pay any postage or phone charges. I try and collect the Canadian sales brochures for the cars I own.

smudge3

I noticed that at the upper right and left side of the rear of the truck bed there was what appeared to be a small cup-type collection device, and each had a plastic flap attached. The flaps on my AV were outside the "cup" - I pushed them inside each cup and now no leaking. They are to divert any water down the side of the tailgate and outside the truck.

dispencer1

Can you be a little more specific as to exactly where these cup collection devices are? Thanks.

txyank1

Hmm, interesting. I haven't had any leaks, so have never looked over the whole drainage system very well.

smudge3

For best observation drop the tailgate and remove panel 3. You will be able to see at top right and top left of the rear of the truck bed the "cups" that I described. To me they look somewhat like a gutter. The flap in the middle of each cup will be obvious and will be outside the cup or inside the cup - I believe
inside is the correct placement. I also ran a strip of weatherstripping across the top of the inside of the tailgate so it seals against panel 3 tighter when closed. Remember, I am only assuming that these are water collection/diversion devices but, whatever works!

ncskibum

I just found your last comment. Were you having popping noises in the steering, especially when moving at low speeds? Sounds like a similar problem that the local dealer tried to fix. No more popping but it now sounds like I am rubbing the left front tire on right hand turns between 5 and 15 mph. If I go real slow, nothing. any ideas?

ncskibum

Took mine into the dealer this summer after a long trip through heavy rains. Got some of my stuff wet but nothing that a little sunshine wouldn't cure. The dealer replaced the stripping at the bottom of the window and the front cover. Now, through several huricanes and no water in bed.

txyank1

The popping (and creaking) while slowly turning I had were fixed with the crossmember adjustment.With the intermediate sterring shaft that was like the steering column had loose ball bearings rolling around inside it. Never anything that felt, or sounded like rubbing.

eztyme

Hi:

Did you find a brochure for the 2004 Avalanche.....perhaps I can help if you didn't.

dispencer1

Thanks very much. I emailed about 10 Chevy dealerships in Canada and only one ever responded -Westgate Chevrolet in Edmonton and the Sales Manager mailed me a brochure. Wish I could go up there and buy a car from him!!!

biggety

I have a 2002 Ava Z71. I was wondering, from anyone's past experiences, if you would recommend purchasing the extended warranty. Currently I haven't had any problems with my truck except the radio which was replaced while it was under warranty, which is about to expire. Would you fellow Avalanche owners recommend getting the extended warranty based on your past experiences?

greg3815

hey biggety the ext warrnty is well worth it becuas my 02 z66 had a problem with the brakes an it whoulda costed me atleast 2,500 when you had labor tax,part prices and the part costed $700 but my ext warrnty coverd it so all i had 2 pay was 100 bucks

biggety

hey thanks for responding greg3815. the extended warranty costs about $2500, but it will extend until dec 2010. i think that it's an ok deal, especially for the peace of mind. thanks for the input.

greg3815

hey yall gonna freak when i tell yall i just finshed my avalance motor rebuild i got it pushing 425 hp now

dutchie2004

Hi,

My 2002 Avalanche shudders when making a slow sharp turn in 4wd. In reverse it even feels like I have a flat and the car is fighting me.

It started doing this after 2 years, first I was told by my dealer this is normal, then they told me there was a know problem with the gears, too much space between gear plates...? They fixed it but now it happened again, this time it was the 4wd switch (service 4wd light came on). After replacing it the behavior is still there but I'm again told that 'this is normal in 4wd'.

Anybody out there with a similar problem and maybe a solution?

Thanks a lot!

Ronald.

bigblockvette

I had my 2002 into the dealer for a similar problem. When I turned corners, I would hear a load groan. It was also audible when I went around curves at around 50 mph. My ABS light was coming on roughly at the same time frame on the highway. It ended up being the RH Wheel Bearing Hub Assembly. It went bad around 30,000 miles. It was still under warranty.

 

It also could be your differential fluid needed with limited slip.

 

Good Luck,

Dwayne

dutchie2004

Thank you Dwayne.

I just heard from the dealer. GM tells them that all '02 Avalanches have my problem, binding in auto 4wd at slow speed when turning. The car actually locks up now in reverse when the wheel is turned all the way. GM says that it's supposed to do that, regardless of the fact that things were fine for 2 years. But they fixed it from '03 on! I guess I have a struggle ahead of me, the dealer doesn't even know at this point what it takes to fix it.

If anybody out there has the same problem I would appreciate to hear your experiences with it.

Thanks!

Ronald

don10

I had the first Avalanche (July 02 the 03 model) that came out . It had no problems and it now has 80000 miles on it (being driven by my grandson with 20in. wheels, it looks good) However, I bought a new 2004 in May 03 ,it had the chirping noise down under the daash. The dealer could not find it. However ,I crossed a river where the water came up to the door opening and it stopped. The dearler said it was probably a rubber body mount that got lubricated by the water. I also have the popping noise when I turn left or right at slow speed and the transmission shift knocks when shifting if you don't have your foot on the gas exactly right. The dealer can find nothing wrong so far? This reminds me of my first car but I knew it was about ready to blow up! I drive my Miata a lot anymore, that is except when crossing rivers.

greg3815

Hey I just reclenty notcied that at low speeds when turning the wheel either way lefth or right it hear loud poping sound an when i hit a bump in the road or anything to make the wheel shake i hear noise sounden like somethin was lose or broken in the steering cloum cuz i drove my friends ava an his was 02 more millage then mine an his dont even make the poping noise any help

lamjack

I have an '04 AV with some really troubling electrical issues. Horn doesn't work occasionally (finally dealer replaced steering wheel horn assembly); gas gauge acted up while on holidays (Canadian for "vacation") and driving through the mountains pulling our trailer. I didn't know if I had a leak or what. When dealer replaced it, they screwed up the tank hoses somehow and I leaked gas all over my garage. Back to the shop again. Finally fixed. The power seats pinned me to the dash a couple of times without me doing anything. The worst part is... I really like this truck. Great ride. Looks good , (Sunburst Orange II) Loaded with options (DVD, sunroof, WBC, 17" wheels and Sunburst Orange II color). I'm just worried about electrical problems after the warranty expires and I end up paying through the nose trying to find them. How has your truck been standing up? LJ

cccompson

My '02 Z-71 (built 3/02) has yet to go back to the dealer for anything (although I do have to take it in for a recall on the tailgate cables). It's the best new vehicle I've ever had (including a half dozen Hondas).

dispencer1

Our '04 Avalanche (Sport Red, WBH, Moldings, towing package, roof rack) has about 9k miles on it now without ever having to go back to the dealer for anything that needed to be fixed -a milestone for any car or truck I've ever had.

smudge3

Have 04 AV (with same options as post 408) which I purchased in Jun o4. Now have 8000 miles without any problems or without having to visit the dealer for problems. This, for me also, is certainly out of the norm for a new vehicle. I traded a 2000 Tahoe LT for this truck and the Tahoe was to the dealer multiple times for "this & that."

smudge3

Regarding my post #409, there is a problem that I am having with my 04 AV with power windows. I live in WV where it gets very cold. Problem I am having with the AV is the windows constantly freeze and will not come down. I am going to order a blow dryer, and thought about spraying some WD40 in the upper window seams. Have not had this much of a window problem with other vehicles. Anyone else experiencing this problem. Any suggestions??

cccompson

This happens in most of my cars (including my '02 Av) - I just chalk it up to the price we have to pay for better weather seals.

my name

hi

i have the same problem ,,, this clucking coming when the car still cold not warm ... and i am locking also for any one have solution ... thanks

chuck93

My 2003 Avalanche only has 16000 miles but recently needed all its brake rotors replaced because of rust. It was covered under warranty.Has anyone else had a similar problem?

jstout

I have the same problem. Does it sound like it's coming from around the exhaust shield or transmission case. I read a technical service bulletin that said the shield could rattle. Haven't had a chance to check it out yet. Did you get yours fixed?

jstout

I'm sure you've got it fixed by now, however, if you haven't. I've had the same problem twice. They had to replace my radio both times and that fixed it for about 20 thousand miles. Will see what this latest one does. I'm out of the warranty period now.

nuress

just purchased new 2500 avalanche that has a pre-ignition pinging sound at highway speeds. dealer says they have no settings to adjust to fix. tried higher octane gas but this did not help either. hoping to hear any suggestions.

exp626

Bought my '02 Avalanche about 6 months ago. Since then, I've put new tires on it and my wife hit someone who pulled out in front of her. Got the truck fixed by the dealer. Just came back from a short trip about 4 months after all this happened and noticed a shimmy (almost a shutter) around 70-80. Could the wheels be out of balance or is there something wrong with the truck I should worry about?

avidav

Chevrolet is replacing the Intermediate Shaft (steering component) on the Avalanche. Mine was just replaced and the steering is like new. I know 5 people with '02 and '03 AV's and everyone has had the same problem. Still Chevy is not recalling, but they are replacing for free if you are under warranty. If you're out of warranty, I would demand the fix for free - it is a design flaw with Chevrolet.

jsomers

Hi,
My 2004 Suburban 2500 has the same problem. The dealer claims this is normal. It is getting worse and now when i turn the key on i hear loud clunks and the truck moves slightly. It seems to be worse on left turns than right. I am going to keep bringing it back until they fix it or I get a 100,000 mile warranty. I already got one on my engine as it sounds like a diesel once it heats up and IM told this is normal. It seems a shame to pay over 50k for a truck and get told these annoying noises and performance issues are normal.

Thanks,

Jeff

jcolonna

I had the same problem with my 03 Avalanche recently with only 12700 miles and GM is trying to tell me it's due to the environment and therefore will not cover it under warranty. When I ask why the front rotors look like new they can not explain but have agreed to pay for one rotor. the still leaves me paying well over $500 for work that should be covered under warranty in my opinion. I am now working through the BBB Autoline and will see what happens there. Any advice on how you got GM to agree paying for your replacements?

Thanks
John