2021 Chevrolet Blazer

Routine

Owners filed 133 complaints about this vehicle with federal regulators, most often about the engine. It has been recalled 1 time.

When it fails
020k40k60k90k120k200k
36,000 milesMedian miles at failure

25 complaints record an odometer reading. Failures cluster around 010,000 miles.

What fails
ComponentReportsCrashesFiresInjuries
Engine26
000
Electrical System25
000
Service Brakes17
000
Fuel/Propulsion System14
100
Power Train13
000
Steering9
101
Unknown or Other7
000
Tires3
000
Tires › Tread/Belt2
000
Suspension2
204

1 safety recall

Part 573 reports
Seat Belts › Critical Fasteners20V811000
Filed Dec 23, 2020470 vehiclesGeneral Motors, Llc

Defect. General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV and 2021 GMC Canyon and Sierra 1500, 2500 and 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL, Cadillac Escalade and Escalade ESV and Chevrolet Blazer, Camaro, Colorado, Equinox, Silverado 1500, 2500 and 3500, Suburban and Tahoe vehicles. Incorrect bolts may have been used at one or more fastening locations to secure the seat belts to the vehicle. If an incorrect bolt was used, the seat belt may not be properly attached to the vehicle.

Risk. If a seat belt assembly is not properly attached to the vehicle, the seat belt may not properly restrain an occupant in the event of a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Remedy. GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the suspect bolts, free of charge. The recall began January 29, 2021. Owners may contact GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8785, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is N202322230.

What owners reported

Newest filings
Engine
Filed Sep 17, 2026WI

Vehicle Information: 2021 Chevrolet Blazer 2.5L engine, VIN [XXX]. Odometer 118000 miles.Description of Incident: While operating the vehicle, the mechanical brake vacuum pump experienced a catastrophic internal failure. The drive gear housing shattered violently without warning, shearing off the end of the connecting engine camshaft. Because this was an instantaneous mechanical failure, the vehicles computer did not trigger any dashboard warning lights, check engine lights, or safe mode protocols prior to the failure.Safety Hazards and Component Damage: First, the total destruction of the vacuum pump caused an immediate compromise to the brake booster vacuum lines, resulting in a sudden, dangerous loss of power braking assistance. Second, the sheared camshaft breached the engine valve cover or head, causing the engines pressurized oil system to instantly dump all engine oil externally onto the ground. Third, shrapnel or violent structural torque from the instant engine seizure punctured or severed the adjacent transmission cooler fluid lines and compromised brake fluid lines, causing total loss of transmission fluid and brake fluid simultaneously.Request for Action: This failure mirrors the exact mechanical defects documented in GM Technical Service Bulletin 21-NA-268 and previous GM vacuum pump recalls like NHTSA Recall 19V-645, which excluded the 2021 Blazer. I am filing this report because the lack of an electronic warning indicator before a catastrophic mechanical brake

Engine
Filed Sep 16, 2026MI

My 2021 Chevrolet Blazer has experienced repeated problems involving the cooling system and is now exhibiting recurring symptoms that concern me about the vehicle’s reliability and safety. In 2023, the vehicle required a radiator/cooling-system repair. In 2024, it again required radiator/cooling-system repair, which was performed under warranty. The vehicle is now experiencing an abnormal humming/clicking noise from under the hood. The problem initially occurred primarily after rain but has become increasingly frequent. When the noise occurs, the air-conditioning system stops cooling properly and blows warm air. The check-engine light has also illuminated intermittently. The exact component currently malfunctioning is unknown. The vehicle remains available for inspection. Because the symptoms involve the engine compartment and follow multiple previous cooling-system repairs, I am concerned about the possibility of overheating, loss of proper cooling-system operation, an unexpected breakdown while driving, or another mechanical failure that could place the occupants or other motorists at risk. Authorized Chevrolet dealerships previously inspected and repaired the vehicle’s cooling system in 2023 and again in 2024. Despite those repairs, significant symptoms have returned. The current problem has not yet been definitively diagnosed, so I cannot state that the present failure is the same component previously repaired. The warning symptoms include the abnormal under-hood humming/

Engine and Engine Cooling
Filed Sep 9, 202646,860 milesPA

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer. The contact stated that a technician identified a radiator leak during an emissions test after smelling an abnormal coolant odor. The technician confirmed that the coolant had leaked from the vehicle. Prior to the discovery by the technician, the contact’s husband observed white smoke coming from the engine. The fluid levels were checked and were normal at that time despite the smoke. Additionally, the contact stated that the message "Steering Assist Reduced" was displayed on the instrument panel prior to the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer provided an estimate for the repair with 15% goodwill assistance towards the cost. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 46,860.

Electrical System
Filed Sep 2, 202668,400 milesSC

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer. The contact stated that while driving 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled and was unable to be restarted. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The husband was a mechanic and discovered the 350-amp fuse failure. The fuse was replaced, and the vehicle was repaired. The dealer was not contacted. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure by phone. The failure mileage was approximately 68,400.

Engine
Filed Aug 24, 2026MI

My 2021 Chevrolet Blazer RS equipped with the 3.6L LGX V6 experienced catastrophic engine failure at approximately 90,200 miles. The vehicle had no prior warning. The dealer diagnosed the timing chain / lift/ cam damage. I am requesting investigation into whether this represents a safety or durability defect affecting other vehicles

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Aug 23, 2026TN

Car will not crank, stalled while cranked, throws code P023F

Engine
Filed Aug 21, 2026MI

While idling in my driveway, the engine started to shake and the check engine light came on. Got it diagnosed and was told by a private repair center that we had lost compression in cylinder 4 and that it was not worth the repair and we needed to replace the engine. Got it towed to the dealership, Bill Fox Chevrolet, for a 2nd opinion and they confirmed what the private shop had said. Because the vehicle was well maintained with regular preventative maintenance, it was deemed the failure was not the fault of the owner. GM extended a goodwill warranty to help cover the cost of the engine replacement (70% coverage. We were 1 month and 2,000 miles past our warranty). They never told us root cause, only that it would have cost more money to repair it than it would be to get a new engine. The Blazer had been running fine up to that point and was my wife's main mode of transportation. The Blazer only had 62,000 miles on it when the failure occured.

Tires
Filed Aug 20, 2026MI

All 4 tires exhibit signs of dry rot impacting the inner sidewalls of each tire. The outer layer is showing significant signs of sidewall separation. There is no sign of damage visible on the exterior side walls, if an inspection was not done on this date 08/20/26 the driver and others would have been at significant risk of injury or death due to catastrophic failure. The worst separation occurred in the front drive / steering tires. While lesser damage was visible on the rear tire the damage was also significant. The driver side rear showed the least damage with only a 2 inch separation. The other 3 tires showed 12 inches or greater separation. Images are available for review.

Air BagsCrash1 injured
Filed Jul 30, 202652,661 milesMD

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 50 MPH, the vehicle struck a deer, causing severe damage to the vehicle's front end. The contact stated that smoke was coming from the center of the steering wheel; however, the vehicle's air bags had not deployed. The contact was transported to the local hospital and treated for chest injuries. The vehicle was towed to a local collision center. No further information was available. A Police report was filed at the scene. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were not yet contacted. The failure mileage was 52,661.

Power Train
Filed Jul 21, 2026100,000 milesMA

The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed, and the transmission was slipping gears before the vehicle lost motive power. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to drive forward or move while in reverse. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact, who was an independent mechanic, diagnosed the failure as a clutch solenoid failure. The contact stated that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not associated with a recall related to the failure. The dealer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 9, 2026NY

XXX the car had gas, turned over, but would not start. I had it towed to a repair center who towed, did diagnostics and came up with the codes for a bad fuel pump control module. It was replaced and the car starts. There was no warning. Problem was confirmed by an independent service center. All documentation is available. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed Jul 9, 2026NY

Fuel pump control module failed at 26000. recall number N252516900. This is a recall that other 2021 blazers have ben part of. Over 300000 recalls so far. GM says my car isn't. Ridiculous. They dont want to acknowledge their fault. I need a formal statement that this module should be recalled for my car.

Power Train
Filed Jun 23, 2026MI

The thermostat malfunctioned causing an error message regarding “steering assist is reduced”. When I parked and turned off, the engine fan continued to run. When car was restarted, the temp gauge inside was stuck at C. Took to dealership and they assessed. They repaired the thermostat under power train warranty, however there was a crack in the radiator (top) resulting in the need for a new radiator. This vehicle had 35,000 miles on it. Upon research online, it seems there are MANY people who have had this same issue and worse. It appears cars produced during COVID era are most affected. Chevy refused to warranty the issue. The dealership offered a small cost reduction (due to our loyalty). The thermostat and the radiator issues seem to be well known by Chevy, they just refuse to accept responsibility. Now we are out thousands of dollars on a basically “new” vehicle.

Lane Departure › Assist
Filed Jun 22, 2026IN

The thermometer and thermometer sensor are glitching . The engine temp needle will not rise at all, the engine fan will run the whole time driving and then when it is turned off will run for 10 min . Right before this happens a notice shows the guided steering is being limited. I disconnected the battery and it reset , I drove and there were no issues , next time I started my car the engine temp needle stayed down and the van started again. This car has 36k miles on it. I just bought it 2 days before it started happening

Electrical System
Filed Jun 6, 2026WA

Lost coolant temp so replaced sensor with one from auto zone and worked for one then pegged to cold again fan runs 100% so went and bought another coolant temp sensor from Chevrolet installed that worked two pegged back to cold again fan 100% now going to pay $700.00 dollars to remove the two sensor wires for the harness all the two the Ecm heard with it being wrapped in the coil wires it gets electromagnetic static due to degradation of wires. Also Radiator started leaking after couple years but they want $3100.00 dollars for that.Was told extended warranty ran out three days before they discovered radiator leak.

Steering
Filed May 19, 2026OH

The vehicle showed an error on the dash which stated "Action Required Steering Assist is Reduced Drive with Care" I tool the vehicle to the dealer I purchased it from McClusky Chevy at Kings Auto Mall in Mason Ohio. They informed me that the error code is C0460:58 and GM has a service bulletin 20-NA-215 which advises to replace the Steering Gear due to internal component interference. No one explained to me that this could cause catastrophic failure and lead to a crash before I left the dealership. They could not replace it as they said they do not have the part and it is on national backorder. Additionally they told me the repair would cost me $3,400. The vehicle has 42k miles on it and this repair is not under warranty as the warranty that would have covered it expired in March of 2026. I have taken the vehicle to a different GM dealer - Tom Gill GMC in Fairfield Ohio - they are waiting on the part and I have a case opened with GM regarding the costs. You would think that if there is a risk of a catastrophic failure which could cause harm to my self or someone else - the dealer would have an obligation to tell me so before i drive off. If not legally, certainly morally.

SuspensionCrash3 injured
Filed May 12, 2026TX

Driving on straight road going speed limit. Heard a pop behind me like a tire pop. Car fish tailed uncontrollably and ended up crashing into a Ranch Fence on the right side of the road. 2 of my kids and myself had injuries. When we got off the vehicle witnesses and I saw A rear link broken which keeps the tires straight.

Fuel/Propulsion System
Filed May 1, 2026FL

I am reaching out regarding an ongoing issue with my 2021 Chevrolet Blazer. The vehicle is experiencing a noticeable stutter or hesitation when shifting between second and third gear. In addition, there are instances where the vehicle accelerates unexpectedly or more aggressively than intended. This behavior is particularly concerning, as it presents a potential safety issue during normal driving conditions. These concerns have become increasingly noticeable, and I am concerned they may indicate a transmission or related mechanical problem that requires prompt inspection and resolution. Please advise if there are any known service bulletins, recalls, or warranty coverage related to these issues. For reference, the vehicle has been properly maintained and this behavior is not consistent with normal operation. Given that this is now the third major issue I’ve experienced with this vehicle, I am hoping this matter can be addressed without additional out-of-pocket expense. After additional research, I have learned that other owners have experienced the same issue. Others have stated the following: 1. Hesitation, stuttering, or jerking between gears Owners of 2020–2021 Blazers report hesitation and jerking during acceleration, sometimes described as gears “shifting in and out rapidly.” Forum users mention sluggish shifting or slipping feelings, especially at certain speeds. Others report hard or delayed shifts at low speeds (like 15–25 mph). 2. Shuddering / vibration (often tied t

Engine
Filed Apr 29, 2026ID

Went to park car in a park to drop daughter off and it sputtered out and stalled out of nowhere with no warning. I had received a lamp warning very sporadically prior to this and on occasion that stated 'reduced steering assist drive with care' this resulted in heavy steering for that drive until car was shut off and then it would go away and be fine again, fixed the car through Knudtsen Chevy due to a recall about a month before on the issue with the engine being turned off and it thinking it was still hot and still running the fan (even though the car was not running). Knudtsen fixed that issue. Low battery voltage light did not come on however battery was older so had battery installed at park to ensure the issue was not due to the battery. The oil was fresh and showed no issues, changed 2 weeks before fresh oil no issues found during service. When tried to restart the car it would think it would try to start and then sputter out and not stay in idle. Les Schwab left and called a mobile mechanic to bring the computer. Computer was hooked up and it would try to start, however, it would not know it was already running and try to start again on it's own...the codes that came up were the PO101 code came up for Mass Air Flow issue...and then the codes would go in a wild sequence of fail.....mechanic checked for loose connections around air filter, took air filter out and it was clean no issues, checked pipe no visible issues. We walked away and walked around the park to give it

Engine
Filed Apr 28, 2026CA

Both camshaft carriers failed due to a manufacturing defect. According to NHTSA bulletins 21-NA-240 and PIP5755, the oil leak from the cam carrier is caused by improper sealant application during manufacturing. Although the dealer addressed the issue, it was clearly not a problem that arose from normal use. The leak had the potential to worsen and lead to a fire hazard. Chevy of Montebello confirmed the issue and repaired the vehicle for over $7,500. There were no warning signs, as the leak was difficult to detect on the driveway. The low-oil warning light came on the day before we took the vehicle to the dealer.

20 of 133 complaints, reproduced as filed.

Across model years

Worst on record: 1995
YearComplaintsRecallsFiresDeathsAssessment
20261000Routine
202531100Routine
202445100Routine
202342200Routine
202249110Routine
2021 — this page133110Routine
2020217300Above average
2019186200Routine
20085000Routine
20079000Routine
200619010Routine
200515020Routine
200450100Routine
200377100Routine
2002246260Above average
2001326352Fatalities reported
2000589472Fatalities reported
1999436090Above average
199871631513Fatalities reported
19977687284Fatalities reported
19961,15311322Fatalities reported
19951,22411260High concern
1994620776Fatalities reported
19935117121Fatalities reported
1992278691Fatalities reported
19912227150Above average
199032470Routine

Compare every Blazer year →

Reading this record

No unusual pattern of severe incidents in the complaint record.

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: Dec 23, 2020. Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation.