The Chevrolet Trailblazer that can be seen in dealerships today is a front-wheel-drive compact crossover – essentially a pseudo-SUV. However, that wasn’t the case with the original Trailblazer. The Trailblazer moniker made its debut on what can be considered an old-school SUV.

Even though it was a mid-size SUV, it’s still significantly larger than the crossover on sale today. The first-generation Chevrolet Trailblazer also had a rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive layout and V8 engine options. The first-generation Trailblazer was on sale in North America from 2001 to 2008. While this buyer’s guide is based on the final model year – the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer, a majority of information in the guide applies to earlier model years as well.

Taking a Look At The 2008 Chevy Trailblazer

Since the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer was essentially built on a truck platform, it had many truck-like qualities. Every trim level of the SUV could be optioned with a four-wheel-drive setup and one could engage the system automatically or through high and low gear. The 2008 Chevy Trailblazer weighed between 5,900 and 6,800 lbs, depending on the engine option. 

That said, it wasn’t completely truck-like as the company made changes that helped lower the ground clearance and helped with its on-road dynamics. It was also quite well-equipped in terms of features and equipment.

Trim Levels and Features

The 2008 Chevy Trailblazer could be had in two main trim levels:

• LT
• SS

That being said, there were multiple versions of both trim levels. For starters, the entry-level 1LT package consisted of 17-inch wheels, dual-zone A/C, climate control, a CD player, and more. The slightly more expensive 2LT version added automatic climate control, A/C, and audio controls at the rear, heated mirrors, and leather seats. The most expensive LT trim level was the 3LT, and it got even more features. It got 18-inch wheels, heated and memory front seats, and a Bose sound system.

There were also more ways to individualize the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer. For example, one could option the SUV with a sunroof, power-adjustable pedals, a navigation system, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

Moving on to the SS trim level, if you know your Chevrolet, you already know that this was the performance-oriented package. 

The 1SS, for instance, was not that different from the 1LT in terms of features and equipment on the inside. What differentiated it was the 6.0-liter LS V8 engine lifted from the Corvette, stiffer suspension, bigger brakes, a limited-slip differential, and 20-inch wheels. Similarly, the 3SS had the features of the 3LT along with the performance parts mentioned above.

Engine Options

Powering the standard 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer was a 4.2-liter inline-six that made 285 hp and 276 lb-ft of torque. This was the least powerful engine option and the only one that didn’t use the V8 configuration. Speaking of V8s, LT trim levels of the 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer could be optioned with a 5.3-liter V8 that made 300 HP and 321 lb-ft of torque. Both these engine options used a four-speed automatic. However, one could choose between a rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive layout.

The SS, on the other hand, got a bigger 6.0-liter V8. This engine made 390 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. Like the LT variant, the SS could also be optioned as a 2WD or 4WD. It is said that the 4WD system in the SS didn’t just help it off-road, but also on the road. Thanks to the additional grip, it was capable of hitting 60 MPH in a little over 6 seconds. While the 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer also used a four-speed automatic, it was stronger to handle the additional torque.

2008 Chevy Trailblazer – What made it special

As we mentioned before, the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer is an old-school SUV. It’s large, heavy, and equipped with a massive engine. And while these are quite admirable qualities for some buyers, it’s not exactly what’s popular nowadays. With rising fuel costs, everyone wants an SUV that’s efficient, lightweight, and compact. Both types of SUVs have their pros and cons.

Where the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer comes out ahead is performance. The big powerful engine gives it more than enough power on- and off-road. As we mentioned earlier, the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer also has an impressive towing capacity. It also does all this while with an extensive list of creature comforts.

Are There Any Recalls on the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer?

The 2008 Chevy Trailblazer was listed in one recall, and it was to fix an electrical issue. Over 1.3 million units of vehicles from General Motors were affected. Dealers were instructed to fix the problem by permanently disabling and removing the heated washer fluid module. It was quite an important recall as the heated washer fluid module could ignite and cause a fire.

Do Trailblazers Have Transmission Problems?

Yes, the 4L60E transmission in the 2008 Chevy Transmission is known to have problems. This was the transmission found on the 4.2-liter inline-six and 5.3 liter V8. The more powerful 6.0 liter V8 came with a beefier 4L70E transmission that wasn’t as problematic. The 4L60E though can have several problems caused by either a blown fuse, damaged wiring, or more serious issues. One can notice symptoms like loss of reverse, gear slippage, clunking sounds, and more.

Are 2008 Chevy Trailblazers Reliable?

Although the 2008 Trailblazer has many common problems, it was the last model year of its generation. What that means is General Motors has fixed several issues that have been brought to their attention by customers since the first-generation first hit the streets in 2001. 

Buying the latter model year of most vehicles is a smart decision for this very reason. Overall though, there isn’t a problem that isn’t fixable on the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer. And as long as it’s well-maintained it’ll deliver a properly reliable experience.

What Other Problems Does the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer Have?

The 2008 Chevy Trailblazer has a few other problems, most of which are fairly easy to fix.

Bad Fuel Level Sensor 

One of the most common problems with the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer has to do with its fuel level sensor. This sensor is located inside the fuel tank and is known to fail quite easily. When it does, the gauge doesn’t function properly and gives out incorrect readings of the fuel level. Fixing this problem will require replacing the fuel pump module assembly in most cases. 

Sticky Actuators

With tech like DOHC and VVT, the 4.2-liter inline-six was certainly quite advanced for its time. However, the VVT actuators it uses are known to stick because of bad engine oil or a failing control solenoid. When this problem occurs, it will result in a rough idle and illuminated check engine light. Oftentimes, this problem can be fixed by flushing the engine oil but could also involve more work.

Blower Failure

There have been reports of the HVAC blower failure on the 2008 Chevy Trailblazer. The blower stops functioning at one or more speeds as a result of a failing resistor block. It can be tricky to fix if you’re not familiar with the ins and outs of automotive electronics. 

Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor

Another thing that often goes out on the 5.3 V8 is the coolant temperature sensor. This tiny little device is enough to cause all kinds of troubles with the engine. If you run into issues with it, make sure to use a quality replacement such as the Bosch 0280130014 or similar. That way you’ll pretty much eliminate all chances of dealing with the same issues in the future.

Loose Gas Cap

Many offerings from General Motors suffered from the loose gas cap problem during this period. A loose gas cap is a result of a worn gasket on the inside of the gas cap. This problem will illuminate the check engine light and can only be fixed by switching out the gas cap for a new one.

Bad Sound System

There have been reports from multiple 2008 Chevrolet Trailblazer owners regarding the failure of the CD player in the car. There aren’t many easy ways to solve the CD player issues aside from tearing the whole thing apart and rebuilding the broken components. Needless to say, for most people, that’s slightly above their skill level. Fortunately, there are plenty of Trailblazers in pull apart lots, so finding a solution isn’t that big of a deal. 

What to Look For When Shopping For One?

Aside from the aforementioned problems, it’s important to look out for common issues that would develop on a vehicle that’s nearly 15 years old. This includes interior wear, paint fade, and rust among other things. It’s also important to get a decent understanding of the Trailblazer market before making your purchase. 

Prices start at around $4,000 for high mileage base trim levels and cross $20,000 for low mileage SS models. If you are in the market for the latter, it’s highly recommended to get a mechanic to inspect the vehicle thoroughly before putting your money down.

Why Shop Elsewhere?

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