Last updated: 2026-07-17

2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer
RELIABILITY SCORE: 76/100 (GOOD)

2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer Reliability Report

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer scores 76/100 ("Good"). With 0 recalls and 62 owner complaints, reliability is acceptable but not class-leading.

Recalls

0

Complaints

62

Complaint Rate

5.6per 10,000 sold

Est. Repair Cost

$784

Annual Fuel Cost

$2,000–$2,200

Detailed Score Breakdown

Complaint Severity71/100

Component-weighted complaints normalized by sales volume

Repair Costs60/100

Independent repair cost ratings

Recall Impact100/100

Recall count weighted by severity

Issue Diversity87/100

Breadth of reported problem categories

The Verdict

Consider

Acceptable reliability — worth considering with a pre-purchase inspection.

Top Issues to Watch

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (13)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (11)
  • ENGINE (10)

Generation & Refresh (US)

Post-Redesign (Year 3)

2023 is year 3 of the First generation (RE6).

  • Redesigned for the 2021 model year.
  • Well-established in its generation — most early issues should be resolved.
  • A refresh arrives in 2024.
  • 1st generation Trailblazer (US).

What this means for buyers

Well into the generation cycle — most design and manufacturing issues should be resolved by now.

2021: First generation (RE6) Launch

Generation start — new platform.

2023: This Model Year

2023 is year 3 of the First generation (RE6).

2024: Mid-Cycle Refresh

Updated features and styling tweaks.

Generation data is based on publicly available information and may not reflect all regional variations.

Should You Buy the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer?

At 76/100, the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer lands in "Good" territory — acceptable, but not class-leading. 2023 is year 3 of the First generation (RE6).

Owners log 62 complaints on this model year — enough to suggest attention is needed, but no single failure mode dominates yet.

Get a pre-purchase inspection on any used example, with extra attention to electrical system (13). An extended warranty is worth pricing out.

Compared to the 2024 Chevrolet Trailblazer, which scored 2 points higher. See also the 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer for an earlier comparison.

Pros

  • +Acceptable reliability score
  • +No recalls issued
  • +Below-average complaint rate for SUV

Cons

  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM issues reported (13 complaints)
  • SERVICE BRAKES: Noise as loud and persistent, particularly at lower speeds or during... (11 complaints)

Compare 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer With

Common Problem Categories

Other

HIGH RISK
  • ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (13)
  • SERVICE BRAKES (11)

See detailed breakdown by component ↓

Recall Overview

0

recalls on record

No recalls are on record for the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer — uncommon, and a strong signal of manufacturing quality.

NHTSA.gov →

Complaint Breakdown

5.6

per 10,000 sold

Segment avg: 12.1

LowAvgHigh
Low

Safety Incidents

4

Crashes

1

Fires

4

Injuries

0

Deaths

NHTSA 5/5 Stars

Data sourced from NHTSA complaint filings and manufacturer recall notices. Complaint narratives are owner-reported.

VIN History Report

Buying a used 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer? Check its history first

Every 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer has a different past. A VIN check reveals hidden accidents, title problems, odometer rollbacks, and open recalls that reliability scores can't show you.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you. No VIN? Just hit “Check VIN” to look one up.

  • Accidents
  • Open Recalls
  • Title History
  • Odometer Rollback

2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer NHTSA Safety Ratings

Overall Safety Rating

Overall safety rating: 5 out of 5
Crash Test Results by Configuration (expand)

Gas Powertrain

Driver: 5/5Passenger: 4/5

Rollover risk: 18.5%

Safety Technologies

Dynamic Head Restraints (Not Available)Head Restraint (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Advanced Belt Feature (Not Available)Seat Belt Pretensioners (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Load Limiters (Driver, Front Passenger)Adjustable Upper Belt Anchorage (Driver, Front Passenger)Seat Belt Reminder System (Driver, Front Passenger)Frontal Air Bag (Driver, Front Passenger)Head Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Torso and/or Pelvis Protection (Driver, Front Passenger, 2nd row)Knee (Driver, Front Passenger)Additional Air Bags (N/A)Meets Side Air Bag Out-of-Position Requirements (Yes)LATCH Locations (2nd row)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) (Standard/Optional)Safety Power Windows (Anti-Pinch) locations (Driver/Roof)
View full safety data on NHTSA.gov →

Chevrolet TrailblazerRepair Costs & Maintenance

Maintenance Rating

3Maintenance rating: 3 out of 5

Based on NHTSA complaint patterns, recall severity, and publicly available cost benchmarks.

Est. Annual Maintenance

$784

Repair Frequency

0.4

unscheduled repair visits per year

Category-level averages derived from publicly available industry reports (AAA, CarMD). Model-level estimates produced by Auto Reliability Index.

MPG & Annual Running Costs

Gas

28–31 MPG

Running cost: $2,800–$3,000/yr

Fuel + repair

26–29 city / 30–33 hwy MPG

Running cost includes EPA fuel-cost estimate and independent repair-cost data (repair cost estimated at model level). Excludes routine maintenance, depreciation, and insurance. Data as of 2023 EPA label cycle.

Gas trims
TrimDriveTrans.CityHwyCombFuel Cost
Trailblazer FWD 1.3L 3-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (variable gear ratios)293331$2,000
Trailblazer FWD 1.2L 3-cylFront-Wheel DriveAutomatic (variable gear ratios)293130$2,100
Trailblazer AWD 1.3L 3-cylAll-Wheel DriveAutomatic 9-spd263028$2,200

Used Buying Checklist

Key things to inspect or verify before purchasing a 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer.

  • Test brakes for squealing at low speeds

  • Check for 'Shift to Park' message when turning off the vehicle

  • Inspect turbocharger for signs of failure or reduced engine power

  • Verify infotainment screen and radio functionality

  • Ensure backup camera displays correctly in all gear positions

  • Check for water retention in door panels after rain or washing

  • Inspect exhaust system for rust or loose connections

2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer Common Problems by Component

62 owner complaints grouped by vehicle system.

13
11
10
9
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (13)SERVICE BRAKES (11)ENGINE (10)POWER TRAIN (9)UNKNOWN OR OTHER (6)AIR BAGS (4)ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3)STEERING (2)Other (4)

ELECTRICAL SYSTEM

13 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer frequently report issues with the vehicle's electrical system, particularly involving the radio and screen malfunctioning, with symptoms such as the screen going black, static sounds, and failure to connect to devices. Complaints often describe problems with the ignition switch not releasing the key and the push-start button failing to turn off the vehicle. Several owners note that the backup camera either remains on or is not calibrated correctly, leading to safety concerns, including one reported crash. These issues appear across a range of mileages, with some occurring as early as 3 months into ownership, and can affect the vehicle's functionality and safety, particularly in terms of unexpected stalling and loss of control.

13 complaints total1 crash

SERVICE BRAKES

11 complaints

Owners report that the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer frequently experiences issues with squealing brakes, often describing the noise as loud and persistent, particularly at lower speeds or during stop-and-go traffic. Many complaints indicate that the noise begins at relatively low mileage, sometimes as early as 2,000 miles, and persists despite dealership visits. Some owners have been informed by dealers that the noise is due to the material of the brake pads, with no current fix available. A few reports mention additional symptoms such as a "jerky" braking feel or grinding noises, though no incidents of crashes or loss of control are noted. Buyers should be aware of these recurring brake noise issues, as they appear to be a common concern among current owners.

11 complaints total

ENGINE

10 complaints

Owners report frequent issues with the turbocharger in the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, often leading to reduced engine power and triggering the "Engine Power Reduced" message. Complaints typically describe occurrences of limp mode, where the vehicle cannot accelerate beyond a certain speed, with some reports identifying the wastegate actuator as a related problem. The turbocharger issues are noted across a wide mileage range, from as low as 23,000 miles to over 60,000 miles. Additionally, there are reports of coolant control valve assembly failures and engine debris, with some owners experiencing engine replacement recommendations. Safety implications include potential loss of acceleration, which could pose a risk during highway driving.

10 complaints total
POWER TRAIN (9 complaints)

POWER TRAIN

9 complaints

Owners report several issues related to the power train of the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, with a recurring problem involving the vehicle not recognizing when it is shifted into park. This results in a "Shift to Park" message appearing, preventing the vehicle from being shut down or locked, and sometimes draining the battery. Complaints frequently mention transmission issues, including the vehicle failing to shift properly, stalling, or not engaging in reverse. These problems are often noted around 39,000 to 61,000 miles. Safety implications are highlighted by reports of the vehicle stalling at high speeds and unintended gear shifts, though no crashes or fires are specifically mentioned.

9 complaints total
UNKNOWN OR OTHER (6 complaints)

UNKNOWN OR OTHER

6 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer report several issues, with a recurring problem being water retention in the front doors, which drains only when the doors are opened, even days after exposure to rain or washing. Complaints frequently mention a persistent 'Shift to Park' warning that continues to blink after the vehicle is turned off, leading to battery drainage. Additionally, there are reports of the OnStar module ceasing to function, impacting emergency communication and other features. A significant safety concern arises from a reported incident of a vehicle catching fire under the hood while driving, with no prior alerts or service interventions, at an approximate mileage of 5,300. These issues, including exhaust system rust and sunroof track failures, are noted within the first year of ownership and highlight potential reliability concerns for prospective buyers.

6 complaints total1 fire
AIR BAGS (4 complaints)

AIR BAGS

4 complaintsSafety-related

Owners of the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer report issues with airbag deployment, with three out of four complaints involving crashes. A common pattern is airbags failing to deploy during collisions, as described in two cases where injuries occurred, and the airbags did not activate despite significant impacts. Another report details an unexpected deployment at highway speed without any collision, which created a safety hazard. The complaints involve vehicles in use during normal driving conditions, with no specific mileage or timeline consistently mentioned. These issues highlight potential safety risks, including injury from non-deployment and loss of control from unintended deployment.

4 complaints total3 crashes4 injuries
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING (3 complaints)

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING

3 complaints

Owners of the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer report several issues related to the engine and engine cooling systems. Complaints frequently mention the vehicle shutting down at complete stops with the auto start-stop feature activated, accompanied by dashboard and infotainment screen outages, and a shudder during restart. Additionally, some owners describe the vehicle unexpectedly entering engine power reduce mode while driving, requiring a restart to resume normal function. Diagnostic codes and failures such as a faulty coolant flow control valve and emissions control valve are reported, with some instances linked to high mileage, around 88,251 to 103,000 miles. While no crashes or fires are reported, these issues could impact driving confidence and reliability, particularly at higher mileages.

3 complaints total
STEERING (2 complaints)

STEERING

2 complaints

Owners report issues with the steering system of the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer, with symptoms including the steering wheel independently veering to the right during left turns and the steering locking up while driving. These problems are often accompanied by warning lights, such as the check engine and steering warning lights. Complaints frequently mention that these issues occur around 25,000 miles, and dealers diagnose problems with components like the brake master cylinder assembly and the steering unit, which may require replacement. The safety implications are significant, as owners describe loss of steering control that could lead to accidents. Buyers should be aware that parts availability may delay repairs, potentially impacting vehicle usability.

2 complaints total
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE (1 complaints)

FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE

1 complaint
2024-05-06

The contact owns a 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer. The contact stated that on several occasions, while the Forward Collision Avoidance: Adaptive Cruise Control was activated, and the brakes were inadvertently activated. The vehicle was taken to a dealer, and it was determined that three software updates needed to be completed. The vehicle was not yet repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, and a complaint was filed. The failure mileage was unknown.

Chest Clip (1 complaints)

Chest Clip

1 complaint
2025-04-04

[XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] [XXX] Date: 04/06/2025 To: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590 Subject: Urgent Safety Complaint Regarding Shyft DualRide with Carryall Storage Infant Car Seat and Stroller Combo (Sylva Pink) Dear NHTSA, I am writing to formally report a serious safety issue with one of your products: the Shyft DualRide with Carryall Storage Infant Car Seat and Stroller Combo (Sylva Pink), which I purchased on [XXX]. While using this product with my infant daughter, a dangerous malfunction occurred which resulted in a choking incident. The stroller/car seat combo posed a serious threat to her safety, and we are deeply shaken by what happened. Thankfully, we were able to intervene in time, but the potential for harm—or worse—was undeniable. We believe the design or construction of this unit may contain a defect that compromises child safety, and for that reason, we are reporting this incident not only to you, the manufacturer, but also to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for review and investigation. The product information is as follows:     •    Product: Shyft DualRide with Carryall Storage Infant Car Seat and Stroller Combo     •    Color: Sylva Pink     •    Date of Purchase: [XXX]     •    Retailer: Walmart     •    Serial/Model Number:[XXX] We request that this matter be addressed immediately. I am seeking a formal response, an investigation into the product line, and information on any existing recalls or known defects. I am also requesting a full refund or replacement, though no compensation can account for the distress and danger we experienced. Please contact me as soon as possible to confirm receipt of this complaint and to let me know the next steps. I am available by phone or email. Sincerely, [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

When Do 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer Problems Start?

Based on owner complaint patterns, here's when common issues tend to appear.

2,000–9,000 milesService brakes squealing
23,000–60,000 milesTurbocharger failure
39,000–61,000 milesShift to park message

Best & Worst Chevrolet Trailblazer Years

Comprehensive reliability analysis based on NHTSA data, owner complaints, and historical performance.

Best Chevrolet Trailblazer Years to Buy

The best Chevrolet Trailblazer year is 2024 with a reliability score of 78/100, rated good. Other strong picks include 2025 (77/100) and 2026 (76/100).

Chevrolet Trailblazer Years to Avoid

The worst Chevrolet Trailblazer year is 2021 with a score of 63/100, primarily due to unknown or other (36) issues.

Chevrolet Trailblazer Reliability Score Trend

Chevrolet Trailblazer reliability has improved in recent years, with newer models scoring an average of 77/100 compared to 69/100 for older years.

Scores 0–100. Higher is better. Current year highlighted.

Chevrolet Trailblazer reliability scores by year
YearScoreRating
202163/100Good
202268/100Good
202376/100Good
202478/100Good
202577/100Good
202676/100Good

Chevrolet Trailblazer Reliability Compared to Other Years

Reliability scores compared across model years
YearScorevs Prior YearRatingRecallsComplaints
202676/100-1Good03
202577/100-1Good019
202478/100+2Good032
2023(selected)76/100+8Good062
202268/100+5Good1102
202163/100Good4182

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer reliable?
The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer has a "Good" reliability rating with a score of 76/100. It is reasonably reliable with 0 recalls and 62 owner complaints, though some issues have been reported.
What are the most common problems with the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer?
The most commonly reported problems with the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer include: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM (13 complaints), SERVICE BRAKES (11 complaints), ENGINE (10 complaints), POWER TRAIN (9 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (6 complaints). These issues were identified from owner complaints analyzed by Auto Reliability Index.
How many recalls does the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer have?
The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer has no recalls on record, which is a positive indicator.
Is the 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer expensive to maintain?
The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer has estimated annual repair costs of $784/year. With a reliability score of 76/100, some repairs may be needed, but overall ownership costs are manageable.

Don’t buy a 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer without checking its VIN first — hidden accidents, title issues, and open recalls could cost you thousands.

Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

Look Up a VIN →

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

1

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

2

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

3

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

4

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

  • 80–100: Excellent— Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
  • 60–79: Good— Reliable with some minor concerns
  • 40–59: Mixed— Notable issues, research before buying
  • 0–39: Risky— Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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