2002 Chevrolet Avalanche

Fatalities reported

Owners filed 444 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the brakes. It has been recalled 4 times.

Avoid One of the Chevrolet Avalanche years to avoid: 3.5× the complaints of a typical Avalanche year. Which Chevrolet Avalanche years to avoid →

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
51,000 milesMedian miles at failure

312 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 30,000–40,000 miles.

Most common 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche problems

159 of the 444 complaints (36%) are about the brakes.

ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Service Brakes · brakes52
400
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip · brakes41
701
Service Brakes, Hydraulic · brakes32
200
Structure › Body › Tailgate › Hinge and Attachments · body and frame31
007
Parking Brake20
000
Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Foundation Components › Disc › Rotor · brakes13
000
Engine and Engine Cooling · engine13
001
Tires › Tread/Belt11
001
Structure · body and frame11
000
Air Bags · airbags10
10012

2002 Chevrolet Avalanche brakes problems

36% of all complaints

159 of the 444 complaints are about the brakes. This is what owners describe:

  • loses its brakes or the pedal sinks23% · 37
  • leaks oil or fluid8% · 12
  • sets off warning lights on the dash6% · 10
  • vibrates or shakes3% · 5

Share of the 159 brakes complaints whose text describes each symptom. One complaint can describe several.

Typical mileage
79,000 mi
median of 136 reports
Peak year of filing
2005
37 brakes complaints that year
Crashes · fires · injuries
14 · 0 · 1
in these complaints
Recalls on the brakes
“Brake lines are made out of defective materials GM knows they have a problem the lines rust out prematurely . The first one blew out I was backing in a parking space pedal went to the floor. The second one blew at a traffic light pushed on the brake went thru the red light dodged traffic .the third on the interstate traffic was stopping suddenly pushed on the pedal another brake line broke went to the floor and I …”
Owner complaint, filed Dec 29, 2015 at 7,900 miles
“Brake pedal went to the floor upon braking. Had to downshift to low gear and apply what little brake I had left taking approximately 200 feet to stop. Luckily there was no vehicle in front of me or it would have been a rear end collision. Slowly returned home about a mile away and upon further inspection found the hard brake line right front passenger side had burst. No prior warning to loss of brakes. *tr”
Owner complaint, filed Nov 25, 2014 at 67,880 miles

Complaints and recalls over time

By year of filing
2001: 3 complaints, 0 about the brakes'012002: 38 complaints, 6 about the brakes2003: 65 complaints, 8 about the brakes'032004: 99 complaints, 9 about the brakes2005: 83 complaints, 37 about the brakes'052006: 35 complaints, 14 about the brakes2007: 11 complaints, 4 about the brakes'072008: 5 complaints, 2 about the brakes2009: 7 complaints, 4 about the brakes'092010: 10 complaints, 9 about the brakes2011: 12 complaints, 8 about the brakes'112012: 15 complaints, 14 about the brakes2013: 30 complaints, 23 about the brakes'132014: 25 complaints, 17 about the brakes2015: 4 complaints, 3 about the brakes'152016: 0 complaints, 0 about the brakes2017: 0 complaints, 0 about the brakes'172018: 0 complaints, 0 about the brakes2019: 0 complaints, 0 about the brakes'192020: 0 complaints, 0 about the brakes2021: 0 complaints, 0 about the brakes'212022: 1 complaints, 0 about the brakes2023: 1 complaints, 1 about the brakes'23Recall 04V129000 (body and frame)Recall 05V379000 (brakes)Recall 06E043000 (fuel system)Recall 09E012000 (headlights)NHTSA investigation PE10010NHTSA investigation PE06016NHTSA investigation DP05009NHTSA investigation EA04012NHTSA investigation EA02015
All complaintsAbout the brakesRecall (red: the brakes)NHTSA investigation opened

Complaints about the 2002 Avalanche peaked in 2004, with 99 filed that year. Owners had filed 38 complaints about the brakes before the first recall that covers it, 05V379000 in August 2005; 121 more have come in since. In 2023 owners filed 1 so far.

4 safety recalls

Part 573 reports
Exterior Lighting09E012000
Filed Apr 7, 200916,270 vehiclesSabersport

Defect. SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.

Risk. DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.

Remedy. SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.

Fuel System, Gasoline06E043000
Filed May 19, 200688,303 vehiclesHoneywell International, Inc.

Defect. CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.

Risk. THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.

Remedy. HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).

Service Brakes, Hydraulic › Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip05V379000
Filed Aug 29, 20051,353,718 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE UNWANTED ANTILOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) ACTIVATION. THIS CONDITION IS MORE LIKELY TO OCCUR IN ENVIRONMENTALLY CORROSIVE AREAS. THIS RECALL WILL BE LAUNCHED IN THE "SALT BELT" STATES OF CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MAINE, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANIA, RHODE ISLAND, VERMONT, WEST VIRGINIA, WISCONSIN AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA ONLY.

Risk. THIS CAN CAUSE INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCES DURING LOW-SPEED BRAKE APPLICATIONS, WHICH COULD RESULT IN A CRASH.

Remedy. DEALERS ARE TO REMOVE THE WHEEL SPEED SENSOR AND THOROUGHLY CLEAN THE WHEEL SPEED SENSOR MOUNTING SURFACE ON THE BEARING, APPLY RUST INHIBITOR TO THE CLEANED SURFACE, GREASE THE MOUNTING SURFACE, REINSTALL THE WHEEL SPEED SENSOR, AND CHECK THE PEAK-TO-PEAK OUTPUT VOLTAGE TO ENSURE THE WHEEL SPEED SIGNAL IS WITHIN SPECIFICATIONS. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 22, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.

Structure › Body › Tailgate › Hinge and Attachments04V129000
Filed Mar 17, 20043,662,211 vehiclesGeneral Motors Corp.

Defect. ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE GALVANIZED STEEL TAILGATE SUPPORT CABLES THAT RETAIN THE TAILGATE IN THE FULL OPEN (HORIZONTAL) POSITION MAY CORRODE, WEAKEN, AND EVENTUALLY FRACTURE. IF BOTH CABLES FRACTURED, THE TAILGATE WOULD SUDDENLY DROP AND STRIKE THE TOP SURFACE OF THE REAR BUMPER.

Risk. ANYONE SITTING OR STANDING ON THE HORIZONTAL SURFACE OF THE TAILGATE WHEN BOTH CABLES FRACTURED COULD BE INJURED BY FALLING FROM THE TAILGATE. ON VEHICLES THAT HAVE HAD THE BUMPER REMOVED, THE TAILGATE MAY DROP EVEN LOWER. ADDITIONALLY, IF THERE IS CARGO ON THE TAILGATE THE CARGO MAY FALL OFF IF THE SUPPORT CABLES FRACTURE.

Remedy. DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CABLES. INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON APRIL 7, 20004. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 24, 2004, WHEN REPLACEMENT PARTS WERE AVAILABLE, AND WILL CONTINUE THROUGH OCTOBER 29, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, OR VISIT WWW.MYGMLINK.COM, AND ENTER YOUR VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER.

All 4 campaigns on file, newest first.

NHTSA investigations

Office of Defects Investigation

Before a recall there is often an investigation: NHTSA opens one when complaints or manufacturer data point to a safety defect. 7 name the 2002 Avalanche.

Brake line corrosion failurePreliminary evaluation PE10010Closed
Opened Mar 30, 2010Closed Jan 5, 2011brakes

The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) received Defect Petition DP10-003 on March 2, 2010, requesting the investigation of model year (MY) 2003 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4WD pickup trucks for corrosion failures of the vehicle brake lines.DP10-003 was granted and on March 30, 2010, Preliminary Evaluation PE10-010 was opened on more than six million model year 1999 through 2003 light trucks and sport utility vehicles manufactured and sold by General Motors Corporation (GM).On July 2, 2010, ODI received GM's response to an information request, which included GM's assessment of the frequency …

CRANK POSITION SENSOR FAILURE - STALLPreliminary evaluation PE06016Closed
Opened May 4, 2006Closed Sep 14, 2006engine

The office of defects investigation (odi) opened a preliminary evaluation (pe06-016) on may 4, 2006 based on eleven vehicle owner questionnaires (voqs) and early warning (ewr) data alleging sudden engine shutdown while driving as a result of crank position sensor failures in my 2001-2002 general motors c/k platform vehicles equipped with 8.1l engines.in response to an information request letter sent by odi, general motors (GM) provided owner complaint information, field reports and warranty claim data based on a population of 108,338 vehicles. The data was categorized by engine stalls while …

PARKING BRAKE FAILUREDefect petition DP05009Closed
Opened Dec 20, 2005Closed May 31, 2006parking brake

Odi's review of complaint data received since the close of ea04-011 revealed no indication that the investigation should be re-opened.more details can be found in the federal register notice enclosed in the dp05-009 public file.odi reserves the right to reopen the investigation in the future should conditions warrant.

UNWANTED LOW-SPEED ABS ACTIVATIONPreliminary evaluation PE05020Closed
Opened Apr 28, 2005Closed Sep 13, 2005Led to recall 05V379000brakes

In a letter dated august 29, 2005, GM notified odi that it was recalling certain model year 1999 through 2002 c/k pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles to correct a problem with anti-lock brake system (ABS) wheel speed sensor corrosion that may result in unwanted ABS activation and extended stopping distances during low-speed braking (recall 05v-379).GM's recall covers approximately 804,000 vehicles currently registered in the following 14 salt-belt states:connecticut, illinois, indiana, massachusetts, maine, michigan, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, …

HYDRAULIC PUMP FAILRESEngineering analysis EA04012Closed
Opened Apr 30, 2004Closed Feb 28, 2005Led to recall 05V005000brakes

Gm is conducting a recall on all subject vehicles build between may 1999 and october 14, 1999.significant changes were incorporated into production in early october 1999, and vehicles built after that date have lower warranty failure rates.the complaint and warranty data appear to support the effectiveness of these changes. Gm made additional changes in november 1999, february 2000, may 2001, and february 2004.odi will continue to monitor this problem and will take further action, if warranted, in the future.for further technical details see the attached engineering analysis report.

TAILGATE CABLE BREAKAGEEngineering analysis EA04005Closed
Opened Feb 19, 2004Closed Sep 28, 2004door locks and latches

General motors filed a defect notice 04v-129 on march 17, 2004, which outlines a program to replace the tailgate cables installed in affected model year 2000-2004 vehicles.refer to odi's closing report for ea04-005 for additional information.odi is aware of reports of tailgate cable breakage occurring in model year 1999 and earlier vehicles.these vehicles were equipped with similar tailgate cables as addressed by 04v-129, but are not being addressed by campaign o4v-129.odi is initiating a separate investigation to address these vehicles.the complaint-injury-fatality statistics summarized …

THROTTLE STICKING CLOSEDEngineering analysis EA02015Closed
Opened Aug 1, 2002Closed Jan 12, 2004throttle and acceleration

This investigation involves the general motors corporation (GM)throttle body (tb) utilized in model year (my) 1999-2002 silverado, sierra, tahoe, suburban, avalanche and yukon (subject vehicle(s)) with 4.8l, 5.3l, and 6.0l engines. The tb valve may intermittently stick in a closed position.in such a situation, an operator may apply additional accelerator pedal force to increase engine speed.the application of additional accelerator pedal force, to open a stuck throttle valve, may open the throttle valve more than intended and, in turn, accelerate the engine and vehicle more than intended and …

Technical service bulletins

277 on file

Repair instructions the manufacturer sent its dealers for the 2002 Avalanche. Not recalls: the fix is usually free only while the car is under warranty.

body and frame 51engine 44equipment 37transmission 32visibility 16suspension 13steering 13brakes 12
SB-13-05-22-001Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsSep 1, 2014brakes

CHEVROLET/GMC/CADILLAC: ANYTIME HYDRAULIC BRAKE PIPES ASSEMBLY NEED REPLACING, PRE-FORMED AND PRE-FLARED BRAKE PIPES ARE AVAILABLE, EXCEPT REAR AXLE CROSSOVER PIPE. MODEL 1999-2007 SILVERADO, SIERRA, 2000-2006 ESCALADE MODELS, AVALANCHE, SUBURBAN, TAHOE, YUKON MODELS. *PE UPDATED 7/18/14. *PE UPDATED 12/9/14. *PE

PIT3665CService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 6, 2012brakes

This Preliminary Information communication advises the technician that the Hydro-Boost is not serviceable and will need to be replaced if the brake pedal moves or applies on its own at a full turn.

030525007Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsMay 1, 2009brakes

ANTILOCK BRAKE (ABS) ACTIVATION AT LOW SPEEDS (CLEAN WHEEL SPEED SENSOR MOUNTING SURFACE). *TT UPDATED 10/23/09. *PE

040525002Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsJun 1, 2007brakes

ABS LIGHT ON, DTC'S C0265, C0201, U1041 SET AND/OR LOSS OF COMMUNICATION WITH BRAKE MODULE. (REGROUND EBCM GROUND). *KB

040525002BService Bulletin/Repair InstructionsNov 1, 2005brakes

ANTI-LOCK BRAKE SYSTEM (ABS) LIGHT ON, DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) C0265, C0201, U1041 SET AND/OR LOSS OF COMMUNICATION WITH BRAKE MODULE. *TT UPDATE. *TT

3455Service Bulletin/Repair InstructionsOct 29, 2005brakes

SUPPLEMENT TO 04094 FRONT WHEEL SPEED SENSOR CORROSION. *TT

Showing the newest 6 of 12 bulletins about the brakes, and any warranty extensions or service campaigns.

Crash test ratings

NHTSA 5-star safety ratings
Version testedOverallFrontalSideRolloverRollover risk
2002 Chevrolet Avalanche 4-DR. w/SAB———★★★★★—

New Car Assessment Program results for this model year. Ratings compare cars of similar size and weight only.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Service Brakes
Filed Nov 9, 2023AR

The contact owns a 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche. The contact stated while attempting to stop the vehicle, the brake pedal was firm, and vehicle kept accelerating unintendedly. Several warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the failure was due to a faulty ABS module. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that the vehicle was not included in a recall because he was not located in a salt State. The failure mileage was unknown.

Power Train
Filed Feb 14, 2022142,000 milesPA

The contact owns a 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the ABS and oil warning lights illuminated. Additionally, the speedometer, the 4-wheel drive function, parking brake, and headlights failed to operate as needed. The instrument panel light failed to illuminate, the gear shifter did not display the selected gear, the sub-frame was corroded, and the wheel hub bearing assembly was fractured. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired by an independent mechanic or dealer. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 142,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 29, 20157,900 milesVA

BRAKE LINES ARE MADE OUT OF DEFECTIVE MATERIALS GM KNOWS THEY HAVE A PROBLEM THE LINES RUST OUT PREMATURELY . THE FIRST ONE BLEW OUT I WAS BACKING IN A PARKING SPACE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. THE SECOND ONE BLEW AT A TRAFFIC LIGHT PUSHED ON THE BRAKE WENT THRU THE RED LIGHT DODGED TRAFFIC .THE THIRD ON THE INTERSTATE TRAFFIC WAS STOPPING SUDDENLY PUSHED ON THE PEDAL ANOTHER BRAKE LINE BROKE WENT TO THE FLOOR AND I MANAGED TO HIT THE MEDIAN CROSS THE MIDDLE AND GET IT STOPPED BEFORE A HEAD ON COLLISION WITH THE TRAFFIC HEADING THE OTHER DIRECTION ON INTERSTATE 81 . THE REST OF THE UNDER SIDE IS RUST AND CORROSION FREE ONLY THE BRAKE LINES ARE RUSTED OUT ! .THAT BEING SAID GM HAS A REPAIR KIT WITH COATED LINES THEY ALWAYS HAVE IN STOCK BECAUSE THEY KNOW ITS A MAJOR PROBLEM !!! I GOT A REPAIR ESTIMATE FROM MY LOCAL DEALERSHIP $1580.00 I AM REPLACING ALL STEEL LINES . PLEASE MAKE THEM RECALL THIS IS GOING TO KILL SOMEONE

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 3, 201586,000 milesCT

WHEN TRAVELING AT LOW SPEEDS, >5MPH, THE ABS ACTIVATES AND VEHICLE CONTINUES ON TO THE POINT OF ENTERING TRAFFIC. THIS OCCURS FREQUENTLY AND WITHOUT WARNING, AT STOP SIGNS AND EVEN JUST PULLING OUT OF PRIVATE DRIVEWAY INTO TRAFFIC. MY LOCAL MECHANIC RAN A DIAGNOSTIC TEST AND INDICATED THAT A FRONT SPEED SENSOR WAS AT FAULT. AFTER INVESTIGATING NUMEROUS SITES, I FOUND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ISSUED FOR THE EXACT PROBLEM ON THE '02 AVALANCHE AS WELL AS OTHER SIMILAR CHASSIS TRUCKS FROM '99-'02. AND THESE WERE INCLUDED IN A RECALL OF OVER 1,353,700 TRUCKS UNDER THE NHTSA CAMPAIGN # 05V379000. THE REPORT STATED TO CONTACT GM AND REQUEST AUTHORIZATION FOR THE RECOMMENDED REPAIR. WHEN I DID THAT, THE REPRESENTATIVE STATED THAT THERE WERE NO OPEN RECALLS ACCORDING TO THE VIN. HOW DOES GM DETERMINE WHICH VIN IS AFFECTED? IS THE NHTSA MONITORING GM'S SELECTION PROCESS? I'VE OWN THE VEHICLE SINCE 6/05, AND THE ABOVE RECALL WAS INITIATED 9/05, BUT I'VE NEVER RECEIVED ANY TYPE OF NOTICE THAT MY VEHICLE MAY OR MAY NOT BE AFFECTED AND TO BRING IT TO A GM DEALER FOR INSPECTION. I'VE HAD ONE HUB ASSEMBLY REPLACED YEARS AGO AT MY OWN EXPENSE, (I WAS TOLD I HAD A BAD BEARING BUT THEY HAD THE REPLACEMENT PART ONLY CAME ASSEMBLED AS THE BEARING, HUB AND SENSOR). THE DESIGNER MUST ALSO HAVE BEEN THE SUPPLIER. IT'S GOOD THAT THERE IS THE NHTSA TO TRY AND KEEP THESE MANUFACTURERS ACCOUNTABLE FOR THE SAFETY OF THE CARS THEY PRODUCE, BUT WITH MORE AUTOMATION IN THE INDUSTRY TO CUT COSTS, YOU NOW HAVE

Engine
Filed Aug 4, 201590,000 milesVA

WHILE DRIVING AT 65 MPH THE ENGINE CUT OUT. COULD BE THE CRANKSHAFT POSITION SENSOR. THE TRUCK IS A 2500 WITH AN 8.1L ENGINE. SIMILAR ISSUES THAT THE 2001 WAS RECALLED FOR. SAME ENGINE AND CPS AS THE 2001 BUT NOT INCLUDED IN THE ORIGINAL RECALL. THIS HAS HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES AT VARIOUS SPEEDS.

Service Brakes
Filed Jan 7, 201593,000 milesIN

WHILE DRIVING MY TRUCK AND TOWING A TRAILER, I LOST ALMOST ALL MY BRAKING POWER. HAD TO DOWN SHIFT AND USE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP. FOUND THAT A BRAKE LINE FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE MODULE (WHICH IS MOUNTED UNDER THE DRIVERS SEAT, GREAT PLACE) HAD RUSTED THROUGH AND BLEW OUT. FOUND ALL THE BRAKE LINES ARE SEVERELY CORRODED IN THIS AREA AND NEED TO BE REPLACED. LOOKS LIKE GM USED INFERIOR METAL BRAKE LINES IN CONSTRUCTING THE VEHICLE AND LOCATED THE ANTI-LOCK BRAKE MODULE IN AN AREA THAT GETS SEVERE EXPOSURE TO THE ELEMENTS. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALLY RENDERED UNSAFE WITH THE RUPTURE OF ONE BRAKE LINE, WHICH INDICATES THE SYSTEM AS A WHOLE IS A FAULTY DESIGN. I WAS VERY LUCK TO HAVE BEEN ABLE TO STOP AND NOT HIT ANOTHER VEHICLE. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 25, 201467,880 milesNJ

BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR UPON BRAKING. HAD TO DOWNSHIFT TO LOW GEAR AND APPLY WHAT LITTLE BRAKE I HAD LEFT TAKING APPROXIMATELY 200 FEET TO STOP. LUCKILY THERE WAS NO VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME OR IT WOULD HAVE BEEN A REAR END COLLISION. SLOWLY RETURNED HOME ABOUT A MILE AWAY AND UPON FURTHER INSPECTION FOUND THE HARD BRAKE LINE RIGHT FRONT PASSENGER SIDE HAD BURST. NO PRIOR WARNING TO LOSS OF BRAKES. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 13, 201495,000 milesMA

APPLIED BRAKES TO STOP AND PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR. UPON INSPECTION FOUND BRAKE LINE RUPTURED DUE TO EXCESSIVE CORROSION. VEHICLE REQUIRED 100% REPLACEMENT OF ALL BRAKE LINES. *TR

Air BagsCrash
Filed Oct 28, 2014145,000 milesKY

CLEAR DRY DAY. ACCIDENT OCCURRED WHEN VEHICLE HIS A SIDE OF A BUILDING. AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY RESULTING IN INJURY. *TR

Service BrakesCrash
Filed Oct 25, 2014106,000 milesNJ

THE BRAKE LINE THAT GOES THE LENGTH OF THE TRUCK FROM THE FRONT TO THE REAR BRAKES CORRODED THROUGH AND RESULTED IN THE FAILURE OF THE BRAKES ON MY TRUCK. I HAD TO STEER OFF THE ROAD AND INTO SOME BRUSH AND A DRAINAGE DITCH TO STOP THE VEHICLE AND AVOID HITTING CARS IN FRONT OF ME. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 6, 2014140,300 milesMD

DRIVING IN SCHOOL PARKING LOT AT 10 MPH WHEN ALL OF A SUDDEN, WITHOUT ANY WARNING OR NOTIFICATION FROM DASH DISPLAY, HAD TO DEPRESS BRAKE PEDAL ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR FOR THE VEHICLE TO STOP. BRAKING DISTANCE INCREASED DRAMATICALLY. WENT TO THE DEALERSHIP AND THEY INFORMED ME THAT THE BRAKE LINE AD RUSTED, BRAKE FLUID STARTED TO LEAK AND ALL BRAKE LINES HAD TO BE REPLACED. ESTIMATED COST OF REPAIRS IS $1200.00 USD. ALL THE TIMES I TOOK TRUCK IN FOR SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE, NOT ONCE DID THEY RECOMMEND REPLACING BRAKE LINES. DID RESEARCH ONLINE AND MECHANICS AND OWNER'S OF SIMILAR VEHICLES SAID THAT THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW AND SHOULD BE SUBJECT TO RECALL. *TR

Air BagsCrash2 injured
Filed Sep 17, 2014CA

IN THIS COLLISION WHERE I WAS A PASSENGER WE FLIPPED OVER 2 AND SLID ON PASSENGER SIDE OF VEHICLE AND NO AIR BAGS DEPLOYED .UNCONSCIOUS DURING FIRST 2 SECONDS OF COLLISION AFTER I REGAINED CONSCIOUSNESS I FELT MY HEAD DRAGGING ON PAVEMENT AND GRABBED MY HEAD AND LIFTED IT UP FROM BEING DRAGGED AS TRUCK SLID AT THE END OF THE COLLISION. I WAS TAKEN TO NEARBY E.R. AND GOT STAPLES IN MY HEAD . AND NUMEROUS OTHER INJURIES ROAD RASH, CHEST PAINS, WHIP LASH, BACK PAINS EXCETRA . *TR

Engine
Filed Sep 16, 201445,000 milesIL

THE ENGINE WILL DIE AT ANY TIME WITH OUT WARNING. THIS HAPPENS FAIRLY OFTEN. SOMETIMES AFTER TRYING TO RESTART IT WILL RESTART WITH NO DELAY AND OTHER TIMES IT WILL TAKE A FEW MINUTES. THEN IT WILL RUN NORMALLY FOR NO SPECIFIC AMOUNT OF TIME. THEN IT WILL DIE AGAIN. INCIDENCES MAY OCCUR HUNDREDS OF MILES IN BETWEEN. THE DEALER SAYS THEY DON'T KNOW WHY IT WOULD DO THIS AND IT WOULD BE VERY DIFFICULT TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM BECAUSE IT HAPPENS SPONTANEOUSLY AND IT USUALLY RESTARTS QUICKLY. THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS AND TURNING THE VEHICLE TO GET OFF THE ROAD WHEN THE ENGINE DIES IS VERY HARD TO DO. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 27, 2014170,000 milesOH

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED BUT FAILED TO RESPOND. THE CONTACT HAD TO USE THE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT THE BRAKE LINE NEEDED TO BE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT FAILURE PERSISTED. THE MANUFACTURER HAD NOT BEEN NOTIFIED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 170,000.

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 20, 2014MI

GM HAD REPAIRED THE RUST BRAKE DEFECTS ON MY TYPE OF VEHICLE IN MANY SALT STATES THAT ENDURE COLD WEATHER. BUT BECAUSE THERE WAS NOT ENOUGH OUTRAGE THEY DID NOT REPAIR THIS SAME DEFECT IN MY STATE. THERE IS A PROBLEM WITH THE WHEEL BEARINGS WHERE RUST CAUSES THE ANTI LOCK BRAKING SYSTEM TO NEEDLESS ENGAGE WHEN IT SHOULD NOT DURING SLOW SPEEDS SOMETIMES MAKING BRAKING DANGEROUS IN SLOW TURNING AND PARKING SITUATIONS. I HAVE ALREADY SPENT THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS FIXING THESE DEFECTS ON MY OWN BUT BECAUSE OF A FAULTY DESIGN IN THE SYSTEM THIS PROBLEM HAS A TENDENCY TO RE OCCUR. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 26, 2014110,000 milesMD

DRIVING THE VEHICLE WHILE TOWING A HORSE TRAILER, WENT TO APPLY THE BRAKES AND DIDN'T HAVE ANY BRAKES THE BRAKE LINES BROKE. *TR

Fuel System, Gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, Lines/Piping, and Fittings
Filed Jul 25, 2014110,000 milesWI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE. THE CONTACT STATED THE BRAKE AND FUEL LINES WAS RUSTED AND LEAKING FLUID. IN ADDITION, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRAME WAS RUSTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 110,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,000. UPDATED 10/7/14*CN

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 24, 2014207,100 milesME

PULLING BOAT (22 FT ) FROM THE BOAT LAUNCH TO THE MAKE READY AREA. STEPPED ON BRAKES AND PEDDLE SUDDENLY AND WITHOUT WARNING WENT TO THE FLOOR ! UPON INSPECTION OF THE BRAKE LINES, THEY ARE RUSTED AND IN BAD SHAPE. THE BRAKE LINE THAT RUNS ON TOP OF THE FRAME RAIL ON THE DRIVERS SIDE AND GOES TO THE REAR WHEELS HAD BLOWN OUT !! *TR

Power Train
Filed Jul 22, 201472,394 milesCA

TRANSFER CASE FLUID LEAKING FROM A HOLE IN THE CASE CAUSED BY INTERNAL PUMP RUB. ALL THE TRANSFER CASE OIL EXPELLED ONTO THE HOT EXHAUST CAUSING SMOKE AND POSSIBLY A FIRE. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 6, 2014105,000 milesKY

WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKE TO SHIFT FROM PARK THE BRAKE PEDAL GOES TO THE FLOOR. THIS HAPPENED IN JULY AND NOVEMBER 2013, AND AGAIN ABOUT TWO WEEKS AGO. *JS

Electrical System
Filed Jun 18, 20141,000,000 milesFL

I'M HAVE BEEN EXPERIENCING SEVERAL TECHNICAL ISSUES WITH MY 2002 AVALANCHE THROUGH YEARS. I CAN REMOVED MY KEY WHEN MY IGNITION TURNED ON TO DRIVE. MY TRUCK ALSO REDUCES ENGINE SPEED WHEN DRIVING AT 45 MPG. IT RESULT FOR ME TO PULL OVER ON THE INTERSTATE TO RESET THE PCM TO DRIVE. THEN MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WILL APPEAR ON ALSO. THEN IT WILL CLEAR ITSELF SOMETIMES. SANDY SANSON A GM DEALERSHIP IN PENSACOLA FL WHERE I BOUGHT THE CAR IN 2006 HAS CHARGE ME UNNECESSARY FOR PARTS AND LABOR TO FIX THESE ISSUES. WHEN BRINGING THE PROBLEM TO THE ATTENTION OF AUTO REPAIR. A SALE REP SAID MY KEYCHAIN CAN WHERE MY IGNITION OUT. HE ALSO STATED THAT MY CAR NEEDED OTHER COMPONENT PARTS IN ORDER TO FIX THE PROBLEM. WHICH NEVER SOLVE THE MAIN ISSUE THAT I REQUESTED TO BE FIX. I ALSO TALK TO THE HEAD SUPERVISOR AND GOT POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE. FURTHERMORE, IT HAS NOT BEEN RESOLVE AT THIS MOMENT. I CONTINUE TO DRIVE BECAUSE MY TRUCK IS THE ONLY TRANSPORTATION I HAVE AT THE MOMENT. I'M GOING TO SPEAK TO THE DEALERSHIP AGAIN ABOUT THIS ISSUES, BUT PLEASE ASSIST ME BECAUSE I BEEN HAVING THE SAME PROBLEMS. THAT ARE IN THE HEADLINE AT THIS MOMENT. I WRITTEN ABOUT MY REDUCE ENGINE SPEED IN THE PAST. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Jun 13, 2014114,001 milesOH

WAS DRIVING AROUND THE BLOCK AS I HAD JUST JUMP STARTED THE DEAD BATTERY. AS I APPROACHED A STOP THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED AND THE TRUCK KEPT ROLLING AS THE BRAKES WERE SPONGY. AS I APPLIED MORE PRESSURE THE PEDAL HIT THE FLOOR. I NARROWLY MISSED HITTING A CAR COMING FROM THE SIDE STREET. I COASTED THE TRUCK HOME AND THERE WAS FLUID POURING FROM THE LINES JUST BEHIND THE ABS MODULE. ALL THE LINES ARE SEVERELY RUSTED. *JS

Service Brakes
Filed May 16, 2014125,000 milesMI

AS I WAS APPROACHING A STOP LIGHT AT APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND THE BRAKE PEDAL SUDDENLY WENT TO THE FLOOR AND I LOST THE BRAKES CAUSING ME TO ROLL THROUGH THE TRAFFIC LIGHT. FORTUNATELY NO ONE WAS COMING THROUGH FROM THE OTHER DIRECTION. IT WAS TAKEN TO MY MECHANIC WHERE HE DISCOVERED THAT THE REAR BRAKE LINES WERE SO CORRODED THAT THEY BURST WHEN THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED. ENTIRE REAR BRAKE LINE SYSTEM NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT MY EXPENSE. *TR

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed May 16, 2014126,000 milesMI

AS I WAS TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY AT 70MPH THE ENGINE SPUTTERED AND STOPPED RUNNING CAUSING ME TO LOSE ALL POWER ASSIST AND TO COAST TO THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO MY MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE FUEL LINE HAD RUSTED OUT AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AT MY EXPENSE. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 3, 2014187,500 milesIN

WHEN APPROACHING A STOP LIGHT CHANGING TO RED, BRAKES WERE APPLIED MODERATELY HARD AND THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR WITH SEVERELY REDUCED BRAKING RESULTING IN A STOPPING DISTANCE ABOUT 1 CAR LENGTH LONGER THAN NORMAL. NO BRAKE WARNING LIGHT DURING THIS INCIDENT. I CONTINUED ANOTHER MILE TO MY DESTINATION WITH REDUCED BRAKING. WHEN THE WARNING LIGHT APPEARED, THE LEAK IN A CORRODED LINE ON TOP OF THE FRAME ON THE LEFT SIDE OF THE ENGINE WAS APPARENT. I DROVE THE VEHICLE TO A CHEVROLET DEALER ABOUT 1 MORE MILE FOR REPAIRS. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Apr 1, 2014110,000 milesNV

ANTILOCK BRAKE LIGHTS CAME ON...THERE WAS A RECALL FOR "SALT" BELT STATES, HOWEVER, AREAS THAT GET SNOW AND ROADS ARE SALTED AS WELL SUCH AS RENO, NV, TRUCKEE, CA ETC AND OTHER STATES THAT HAVE SIMILAR CONDITIONS TO THOSE THAT WERE ALREADY INCLUDED IN THE PREVIOUS RECALL SHOULD HAVE BEEN INCLUDED AS WELL.... SAME PROBLEM, SIMILAR CONDITIONS. WHY WOULD MY AREA NOT BE INCLUDED AS WELL?? *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Mar 11, 2014180,000 milesKS

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH, THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED AND THE ABS ENGAGED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THERE WAS A RECALL RELATED TO THE FAILURE UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 05V379000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) AND THE CONTACT'S VIN WAS INCLUDED IN THE RECALL HOWEVER, THE CONTACT'S STATE WAS NOT MENTIONED AS ONE OF THE SALT BELT STATES THAT WERE ELIGIBLE FOR REPAIRS UNDER THE RECALL. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 180,000. *TR

Service Brakes, Hydraulic
Filed Mar 4, 201462,000 milesNY

I WAS DRIVING HOME AROUND 9:30 PM. AS I WAS GOING DOWN A HILL I STEPPED ON MY BRAKES AND THE PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR. NO BRAKES AT ALL, NO SAFTEY FEATURES KICKED IN, NO WARNING LIGHTS. JUST A CATASTROPHIC BRAKE FAILURE. LUCKILY FOR ME IT WAS A SMALL HILL AND I WAS ABLE TO STOP BY GOING INTO LOW GEAR AND USING THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. I TURNS OUT THAT THE BRAKELINES FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE ABS CONTROL BOX WERE ROTTED AND FINALLY GAVE OUT. THIS IS A 2002 TRUCK WITH 62,000 MILES ON IT. I KNOW FROM PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE WITH OLDER CARS THAT IF A BRAKE LINE FAILS, THERE IS A VALVE THAT IS SUPPOSED TO CUT OFF THE OPEN LINE SO THERE IS SOME BRAKES LEFT. I REPEAT, NO SAFTEY FEATURES WORKED, NO WARNING LIGHTS, NO VALVE KICKING IN,NOTHING. THIS IS A KNOWN ISSUE WITH GM. A QUICK SEARCH ON THE WEB BROUGHT UP THOUSANDS OF HITS ON THIS PROBLEM. JUST 20 MINUTES EARLIER I WAS ON THE NYS THRUWAY DOING 65 MPH. IF I LOST BRAKES AT THAT SPEED AND WITH THE OTHER TRAFFIC, THERE MOST CERTAINLY WOOD HAVE BEEN A CRASH AND POSSIBLE LOSS OF LIFE.

Power Train
Filed Mar 4, 201460,000 milesNY

I WAS DRIVING HOME AND ALL OF A SUDDEN IT FELT LIKE NO POWER WAS GETTING TO THE WHEELS. I STEPPED ON THE GAS, THE RPMS WENT UP, BUT THE TRUCK COULDNT GET PAST 30 MPH. MY MECHANIC SAID THAT THE TRANSMISSION BURNT OUT. I BABIED THIS TRUCK. THEIR IS NO REASON FOR A CHEVY TRUCK WITH 60000 MILES OF LIGHT ROAD USE SHOULD BLOW A TRANNY. A QUICK SEARCH ON THE WEB SHOWS THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH THIS TRUCK. 3200 DOLLARS TO FIX A PART THAT SHOULD HAVE AT LEAST LASTED 100000 MILES.

Service Brakes
Filed Feb 14, 2014189,567 milesMI

SLOWED RAPIDLY FOR A VEHICLE THAT PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF ME. BRAKES WORKED FINE UNTIL SPEED DROPPED TO 15 MPH. THEN BRAKE PEDDLE WENT TO THE FLOOR AND BRAKE LIGHT FLASHED AND WARNING CHIME SOUNDED. LIMPED VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP AT CLOSING TIME. AWAITING ESTIMATE AND CAUSE. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Jan 13, 2014100,000 milesNJ

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE 2500. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT LOW SPEEDS, THE ABS ENGAGED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE BUT DID NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE SINCE THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V379000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 100,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 150,000.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Dec 31, 2013157,000 milesMI

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A STRONG GASOLINE ODOR WAS INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC FOR INSPECTION, WHO STATED THAT THE FUEL LINES WERE CORRODED AND CAUSED FUEL TO LEAK. THE FUEL LINES WERE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 157,000. UPDATED 2/11/14*CN ALSO, THE BRAKE LINES WERE REPLACED AS WELL. UPDATED 02/18/14

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 30, 2013168,000 milesNJ

WAS DRIVING ON STREET FROM STORE TO HOME WHEN I NOTICED BRAKE LIGHT ON DASH CAME ON AND THEN PARKED IN DRIVEWAY. MY SON WENT TO USE THE TRUCK THE NEXT DAY AND WHEN HE PULLED OUT OF DRIVEWAY TO STREET, COULD BARELY STOP. SUBSEQUENTLY DISCOVERED BRAKE FLUID ON DRIVEWAY. CHECKED BRAKELINE AND IT WAS RUSTED COMPLETELY WITH A HOLE IN IT. CAR HAS BEEN LAID UP AND NOT DRIVE-ABLE. RUSTING THROUGH THE BRAKELINE SHOULD NOT HAPPEN. THIS SHOULD BE REPAIRED UNDER A RECALL. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Dec 28, 2013140,000 milesNJ

WAS DRIVING ON NY STATE THRUWAY WITH WIFE AND THREE SMALL CHILDREN. WOMEN CUT IN FRONT OF ME. I PUSHED ON BRAKES AND PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR. I SWERVED OUT OF THE WAY AND WENT OFF THE ROAD. LUCKILY IT HAPPENED NEAR A CLEARING OTHERWISE WE WOULD HAVE HIT SOMETHING AND BEEN SERIOUSLY HURT AND/OR KILLED. TURNS OUT ALL OF MY BRAKE LINE ARE RUSTED OUT AND NEED REPLACEMENT. TURNS OUT GM USED CHEAPER BRAKE LINES AND NOT STAINLESS STEEL ONES. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Nov 16, 201397,930 milesVA

1. FIRST INCIDENT: 10/14/12. CATASTROPHIC BRAKELINE RUPTURE DUE TO CORROSION NEAR REAR LEFT TIRE RESULTING IN COMPLETE LOSS OF BRAKES 2. SECOND INCIDENT: 10/19/13. CATASTROPHIC BRAKELINE RUPTURE DUE TO CORROSION ON SIDE OF FRAME NEAR DRIVER SIDE DOOR RESULTING IN COMPLETE LOSS OF BRAKES. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Oct 25, 201392,000 milesOH

WHEN LEAVING THE HIGHWAY I APPLIED THE BRAKES AND THEY IMMEDIATELY WENT TO THE FLOOR, ALMOST REAR ENDING THE TRUCK AHEAD OF ME. I WAS ABLE TO LIMP THE VEHICLE HOME USING LOW GEAR AND WHAT I FOUND OUT WERE THE REAR BRAKES. AFTER GETTING HOME I LOOKED UNDERNEATH THE FRONT END AND NOTICED BRAKE FLUID DRIPPING FROM THE FRONT OF THE TRUCK. THE BRAKE LINES WERE HORRIBLY RUSTED. I CAN'T BELIEVE IN TODAY'S AGE THAT STEEL LINES WOULD BE USED WHEN STAINLESS LINES ARE AVAILABLE. THE ENTIRE BRAKE LINE SYSTEM WILL NEED REPLACED. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 28, 201390,000 milesIL

COMING UP TO A TRAFFIC LIGHT AT 45MPH THE LIGHT TURNED RED ,I STEPPED ON THE BRAKE AND IT WENT TO THE FLOOR. I PUMPED THE BRAKE AND USED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE TO STOP THE TRUCK BUT NOT IT DID NOT STOP UNTIL I WAS THROUGH THE INTERSECTION . LUCKILY THERE WAS NO CRASH. THE BRAKE LINE TO THE REAR BRAKES WAS BLOWN DO TO CORROSION . AFTER INSPECTING ALL THE BRAKE LINES ALL WERE HEAVILY CORRODED . I REPLACED ALL THE BRAKE LINES WITH STAINLESS STEEL LINES. AFTER BEING UNDER THE TRUCK FOR A FEW DAYS I CAN SEE THE FUEL LINES WILL BE THE NEXT TO CHANGE PLUS THE FRAME AND DRIVE SHAFTS LOOK LIKE THEY CAME UP WITH THE TITANIC. I REALLY DON'T EXPECT ANYTHING TO COME OF THIS , AS THIS MY WAY OF TELLING GM HOW DISGUSTING I FIND THERE BUSINESS MODEL OF MAXIMUM PROFIT OVER SAFETY. FOR A FEW DOLLARS MORE FOR BETTER MATERIAL THIS COULD ALL HAVE BEEN AVOIDED . IF THIS WAS TOYOTA OR HONDA THE NEWS MEDIA WOULD BE ALL OVER IT BUT BECAUSE IT'S GM WE HERE CRICKETS. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 26, 201385,000 milesNY

WHILE BACKING UP TO CONNECT TO A TRAVEL TRAILER BRAKE PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR AND FLUID LEAK DEVELOPED FROM UNDERSIDE TRUCK. LIMPED TRUCK TO REPAIR STATION AND HAVE BEEN QUOTED A PRICE OF $1,300 TO REPLACE ALL BRAKE LINES. ACCORDING TO SHOP OWNER, ALL OF THE BRAKE LINES APPEARED TO BE COMPROMISED DUE TO PREMATURE RUST AND WERE UNSAFE. *LN UPDATED 1/15/2014 *JS

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 16, 201385,562 milesME

SITTING AT RED LIGHT ALL OF A SUDDEN BRAKES SEEMED TO LET GO CAR STARTED TO ROLL BACK A BIT HAD TO PUSH BRAKE PEDAL TO THE FLOOR. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Sep 3, 2013110,000 milesFL

10/2009: AS I WAS DRIVING AND APPROACHING A RED LIGHT MY BRAKES WENT TO THE FLOOR. ALMOST GOING THROUGH A BUSY INTERSECTION I WAS ABLE TO MANEUVER AROUND TRAFFIC UNTIL I CAME TO A STOP. 8/2013: AS I WAS APPROACHING A RED LIGHT MY BRAKES WENT TO THE FLOOR. MY BRAKE LINES ARE SO BADLY CORRODED AND RUSTED AS WELL AS MY FUEL LINE. TOTAL COST TO FIX EVERYTHING IS $1500, WHICH WITH THE VALUE OF THE TRUCK SEEMS ABSURD TO FIX, BUT WITH THE ECONOMY I CAN'T AFFORD TO TRADE IN AND HAVE CAR PAYMENTS. I FEEL THAT SOMETHING LIKE THIS SHOULDN'T BE HAPPENING MULTIPLE TIMES AS IT IS COSTLY AND DANGEROUS, I WAS FORTUNATE TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT BOTH TIMES. I FEEL THAT THESE LINES SHOULD HAVE MORE LIFE TO THEM AND SHOULDN'T BE SO CHEAP BUT YET SO EXPENSIVE TO FIX. SOMETHING NEEDS TO BE DONE WITH HOW "CHEAPLY" VEHICLES ARE BEING MADE AND ESPECIALLY SOMETHING LIKE THIS THAT CAN CAUSE A FATAL ACCIDENT. *JB

Engine
Filed Aug 26, 2013145,921 milesNY

EXHAUST LEAK IN THE ENGINE FOUND MANIFOLD BOLTS WERE BROKE. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 16, 2013195,000 milesOH

A GUY PULLED OUT IN FRONT OF ME AND I ALMOST T BONED HIM IF HE DIDN'T GET OUT OF THE WAY, SINCE I DIDN'T GET IT STOPPED FOR ANOTHER 40 YARDS PAST WERE THE ACCIDENT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED. AFTER FURTHER INSPECTION THE BRAKELINE EXPLODED CAUSING LOSS OF BRAKEPEDDLE PRESSURE. ALL OF THE BREAK LINES, ESPECIALLY IN THE BACK, ARE ROTTED AND SCALING, AND ROTOR SPLASH GUARDS HAVE ROTTED AWAY COMPLETELY. I'M SURE GM WILL POINT TO MILEAGE AS A EXCUSE, BUT THERE REALLY ISN'T ANY RUST ON OR UNDER THE EXCEPT ON THE BRAKELINES AND MY NONE EXISTENT SPLASH GUARDS. I DRIVE 600 HIGH WAY MILES A WEEK AND EXPECT NORMAL PAD/ROTOR/BEARING WEAR AND TEAR BUT THIS IS CLEARLY A FAULTY PART. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 15, 2013120,000 milesFL

DURING A RECENT BRAKE JOB DONE BY A DEALER, ON MY FRONT AXLE, A BRAKE LINE THAT RUNS FROM THE LEFT TO RIGHT WAS FOUND TO BE RUSTED OUT AND LEAKING. ON FURTHER INSPECTION, OTHER LINES WERE IDENTIFIED AS HAVING RUST ON THEM. THE TWO LINES COMING DIRECTLY FROM THE BRAKE CYLINDER ASSEMBLY SHOWED HEAVY RUSTING WHERE THEY BEND TO GO BACK UNDER THE CHASSIS. IF ONE OF THESE WOULD HAVE RUSTED THROUGH, HALF OF THE BRAKING SYSTEM WOULD BE INOPERABLE. WITH BOTH OF THESE LINES, BEING INSTALLED DURING MANUFACTURE AND BEING IN THE SAME ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS, THERE IS A POSSIBILITY OF BOTH FAILING AT THE SAME TIME OR SHORTLY AFTER THE OTHER ONE. IF THAT WOULD HAPPEN, THE DRIVER WOULD HAVE NO WAY TO BRAKE AND STOP THE VEHICLE. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 12, 2013204,000 milesPA

I WAS PARKING AND WHEN I STEPPED ONTO THE BRAKE PEDAL IT WENT THE WHOLEWAY TO FLOOR. LUCKILY THERE WAS A CURB IN FRONT OF ME OR I WOULDHAVE CRASHED INTO A STORED LOADED WITH PEOPLE. AFTER INVESTIGATION FOUND OUT BRAKE LINE RUSTED THROUGH. FOUND OUT YOU ARE INVESTIGATING. HOW MANY YEARS IS IT GONNA TAKE OR HOW MANY MUST DIE BEFORE YOU TAKE ACTION. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Aug 5, 2013129,000 milesNJ

DRIVING WITH MY CHILDREN ON THE HIGHWAY.. WENT TO APPLY THE BRAKE TO STOP.. PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR AND VEHICLE WON'T STOP... THEN WENT TO APPLY E-BRAKE AND THAT FAILED AS WELL... (I UP KEEP THE TRUCK VERY WELL SO THIS WAS NOT ISSUE)... I WAS LUCKY ENOUGH TO AVOID A SERIOUS WRECK... UPON INVESTIGATION I HAVE FOUND ALL OF THE BRAKE LINES RUSTED OUT.. I ALSO HAVE RESEARCHED THIS AS A MAJOR ISSUE... WITH THESE TRUCKS.... ARE WE REALLY GONNA WAIT TILL SOMEBODY IS KILLED? *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 17, 2013155,000 milesPA

BRAKE LINE BURST WHILE DRIVING AT 30MPH. HAD TWO BRAKE LINES REPLACED. THEN THREE WEEKS LATER ANOTHER BRAKE LINE POPPED. HAD TWO MORE BRAKE LINES REPLACED. TOTAL COST $900. *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 14, 201393,000 milesNJ

WIFE DRIVING HOME WHEN APPROACHING A STOP SIGN SHE APPLIED BRAKES. VEHICLE CONTINUED THROUGH STOP SIGN EXPOSING MY WIFE AND 14 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER TO POSSIBLE INJURY FROM CROSS TRAFFIC. WIFE HAD TO PULL VEHICLE ONTO GRASSY MEDIAN TO GET IT TO STOP COMPLETELY SINCE (BY HER ESTIMATE) BRAKES BARELY WORKED AT ALL (MAYBE 20%). THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT ONLY CAME ON AFTER I HAD THE VEHICLE ALMOST TO THE REPAIR FACILITY. THERE WAS NO OTHER WARNING OR INDICATION THAT ANYTHING WAS WRONG WITH THE BRAKES BEFORE THEY FAILED. I MANAGED TO GET THE TRUCK TO A REPAIR FACILITY AFTER NOTING SEVERE LEAKAGE FROM ONE OF THE REAR BRAKE LINES AND TOPPING OFF THE BRAKE FLUID RESERVOIR. WAITING ON CONFIRMATION FROM REPAIR SHOP BUT IT APPEARS THAT ALL THE BRAKE LINES ARE RUSTED TO A GREAT AND WILL NEED TO BE REPLACED TO ENSURE SAFETY OF VEHICLE OPERATORS. I AM SHOCKED AND DISMAYED THAT THE NHTSA HAS ALLOWED THIS ISSUE TO GO ON WITHOUT SOME TYPE OF NOTIFICATION FROM CHEVY OR THE NHTSA REGARDING THIS VERY SERIOUS SAFETY ISSUE. WHY WOULD CHEVROLET BUILD THIS TRUCK WITH A STAINLESS STEEL EXHAUST SYSTEM YET USE INFERIOR MEATL ON THE BRAKE LINES? *TR

Service Brakes
Filed Jul 9, 201393,000 milesOR

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 7 MPH AND APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE VEHICLE DID NOT SLOW DOWN. THE CONTACT STATED THE ABS WAS ACTIVE BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. THE CONTACT THEN PUMPED THE BRAKES TO STOP THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO A LOCAL MECHANIC AND THE MECHANIC DISCOVERED RUST AROUND THE ABS AND BRAKE DRUM. THE MECHANIC STATED THE ABS SENSORS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AND THE BRAKE DRUMS AND MOUNTS NEEDED TO BE CLEANED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN I.D. 05V379000 (SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC) AND CALLED THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT DUE TO THE STATE THE VEHICLE WAS REGISTERED IN, THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 93,000.

Fuel System, Gasoline
Filed Jul 2, 201398,000 milesIL

TWICE IN A ROW WHEN FILLING, GAS BACKED UP AND SPILLED. I ATTRIBUTED THIS TO A FAULTY PUMP. LATER THAT EVENING WHILE PARKED I DISCOVERED A FUEL LEAK. I TOOK IT TO A MECHANIC WHO DISCOVERED THE FUEL PUMP HAD RUSTED AND CORRODED AWAY. THE NEXT DAY I BEGAN MY DRIVE HOME FROM FLORIDA TO CHICAGO. I MADE IT ABOUT 200 MILES BEFORE WE CHANGED DRIVERS, AND DISCOVERED THE TRUCK HAD STARTED LEAKING FUEL AGAIN. THANKFULLY, WE MADE IT SAFELY TO A REPAIR SHOP (A NATIONAL COMPANY THIS TIME). THEY DIAGNOSED IT AS THE FUEL TANK, LOCATED A REPLACEMENT TANK, AND I WAS UNDER WAY. I DID MAKE IT HOME TO CHICAGO, SMELLING GAS THE WHOLEWAY, BUT NOT SEEING A SIGNIFICANT LEAK (PROBABLY DUE TO THE CONSTANT DRIVING, I DID KEEP CHECKING) UNTIL I WAS ALMOST HOME. I MADE IT HOME, AND TOOK THE CAR TO A LOCAL SHOP. THE DIAGNOSED IT AS FUEL LINES, WHICH HAD RUSTED AND CORRODED. I PICKED UP MY TRUCK LAST NIGHT, DROVE IT TO WORK TODAY, THEN DROVE IT RIGHT BACK TO THE MECHANIC, SINCE IT WAS LEAKING GAS AGAIN. I HAVE SPENT OVER $1500 SO FAR IN LABOR AND PARTS, LOST ALMOST A FULL TANK OF GAS WITH ALL THE TANK DROPS, AND STILL DO NOT HAVE MY TRUCK BACK. IM PRETTY SURE MY, MECHANIC IS READY TO GIVE UP. *TR

Equipment
Filed May 29, 2013NC

2002 CHEVY AVALANCHE BRAKE LINES RUSTED THROUGH. WE BOUGHT THE CAR TWO YEARS AGO IN PA. WITH THE CARFAX SHOWING IT HAS BEEN HOUSED ONLY IN NJ AND PA SINCE 2002. WE CURRENTLY LIVE IN NC MOVING HERE ONLY LAST OCTOBER. YESTERDAY WHILE DRIVING WITH MY FAMILY GOING 45 MILES PER HOUR, A CAR IN FRONT OF ME WAS MAKING A RIGHT HAND TURN AND AS PER PROPER PROCEDURE I ATTEMPTED TO SLOW DOWN. MY BRAKE PEDAL WENT COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR BOARD OF THE TRUCK WITH NO RESISTANCE, AND I WAS UNABLE TO STOP MYSELF. I ENDED UP IN THE DITCH TO AVOID AN ACCIDENT WITH THE VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME, AND HAVE CONTINUED TO HAVE ISSUES WITH NO RESISTANCE ON THE BRAKES. MY HUSBAND ORIGINAL THOUGHT THE ISSUE WAS THE CYLINDER. BUT AS HE WAS STARTING TO REPLACE THAT PART HE NOTICED A FLUID DRIPPING FROM THE TRUCK. AND UPON FURTHER INVESTIGATION DISCOVERED THAT IT WAS BRAKE FLUID. HE BOUGHT ALL NEW BRAKE LINES AND IS IN THE PROCESS OF THE LONG JOB OF REINSTALLING THEM. *TR

Complaints 1-50 of 444, newest first, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 2002
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
201382200Routine
201236300Routine
2011127300Routine
2010111400Routine
200976510Routine
2008258430Above average
2007377470Above average
200611100Routine
200571300Routine
2004165610Routine
2003204620Above average
2002 — this page444403Fatalities reported
20012000Routine
20002000Routine

Compare every Avalanche year →

2002 Chevrolet Avalanche: questions buyers ask

Is the 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche a good car?

Going by the federal record, it is one of the Avalanche years to avoid: owners filed 444 complaints, 3.5 times as many as a typical Avalanche year. The most common complaint is about the brakes (36%).

What is the most common problem with the 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche?

The brakes: 159 of the 444 complaints (36%) are about it. Owners most often say it loses its brakes or the pedal sinks (23%), leaks oil or fluid (8%) and sets off warning lights on the dash (6%). The typical report comes at 79,000 miles.

How many recalls does the 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche have?

4 safety recalls on file with NHTSA, the most recent filed Apr 7, 2009. The largest, 04V129000, covered 3,662,211 vehicles. Recall repairs are free at a dealer; whether a specific car still has one open depends on its VIN.

At what mileage do 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche problems start?

Half of the complaints that record an odometer reading came in before 51,000 miles. For the brakes the midpoint is 79,000 miles.

Has NHTSA investigated the 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche?

Yes, 7 times. The latest, PE10010 ("Brake line corrosion failure"), was opened Mar 30, 2010 and closed Jan 5, 2011.

Are there service bulletins for the 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche?

The manufacturer filed 277 technical service bulletins and other notices for it with NHTSA, most of them about the body and frame (51), the engine (44) and the transmission (32). A bulletin is a repair instruction to dealers, not a recall: the fix is usually free only under warranty.

Reading this record

3 deaths reported in complaints filed with NHTSA.

Complaint counts track how many cars were sold and how long they have been on the road as much as they track quality. A common model from 2013 has had a decade to accumulate reports; a rare one from last year has not. The signal worth weighing is in the severity columns, in whether the same component keeps appearing, and in whether the manufacturer eventually opened a recall for it.

Recall repairs are free for as long as the recall stands. Check whether a specific car still has open work at NHTSA's VIN lookup.

Most recent recall on file: Apr 7, 2009. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.