Before you buy
This 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer has 175 NHTSA complaints β top issue: Uncategorized Issues.
A model-year pattern isn't the car in front of you. Check this exact VIN for accidents, open recalls, odometer rollback, and salvage titles.
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2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Fuel Economy
β EPA Official DataEPA-rated fuel economy across 3 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer trim configurations. The median figure is shown; range reflects all available trims.
Source: EPA FuelEconomy.gov. Figures reflect EPA lab testing; real-world results vary by driving style, load, and conditions. 3 trims analysed.
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Safety Ratings
NHTSA 5-Star Program4 variants tested β showing 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV FWD Later ReleaseOfficial crash test results from the NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings program. Stars reflect government-conducted tests; higher is safer.
Overall
18.5% rollover risk
Frontal Crash
Side Crash
Rollover
18.5% probability
Source: NHTSA 5-Star Safety Ratings. Ratings are based on government crash tests and may not reflect all trim levels.
CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER 2021 has 175 NHTSA complaints and 4 recalls, with top issues in Uncategorized (47), Electrical (36), and Transmission/Drivetrain (35). Low confidence in data. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
- Make
- Chevrolet
- Model
- Trailblazer
- Model year
- 2021
- NHTSA owner complaints
- 175
- Crash-related complaints
- 7
- Safety recall campaigns
- 4
- Top reported component
- Uncategorized Issues
- Reliability signal
- Severe Issues
- EPA MPG combined
- 29
- EPA MPG city / highway
- 28 / 31
- Fuel type
- Regular Gasoline
- NHTSA overall safety rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA frontal crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA side crash rating
- 5/5 stars
- NHTSA rollover rating
- 4/5 stars
- Electronic stability control
- Standard
Common problems
Most common 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer problems
Top owner-reported complaint areas and where they often appear.
Uncategorized Issues
Electrical Faults
Transmission / Drivetrain
Complaint patterns center on Uncategorized Issues, Electrical Faults, Transmission / Drivetrain. Use these as a pre-purchase inspection guide, then verify recall and damage history on the specific VIN.
Buyer verdict
Should you buy a used 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer?
The 2021 Trailblazer has a high complaint volume for a single year, but low confidence means patterns are uncertain. Buyers should proceed with caution and prioritize a thorough inspection.
These complaint patterns suggest potential electrical and transmission issues that could affect reliability and safety. Pre-purchase inspection is critical.
May Suit
This year may suit budget-conscious buyers willing to accept higher risk and perform diligent pre-purchase checks.
May Want to Avoid
Buyers seeking maximum reliability and minimal service visits should consider other model years or vehicles.
Pre-purchase
What to check before buying a used 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Inspection Focus
- Check for any unresolved electrical system issues.
- Inspect transmission for slipping, hesitation, or leaks.
- Test brake system for unusual noises or reduced performance.
Before You Close the Deal
- Investigate Uncategorized Issues by requesting detailed service records.
- Verify all open recalls at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
- Request service records for electrical, transmission, and brake systems.
- Have a mechanic inspect the vehicle before purchase.
Check the exact car
Shortlist with model-year data. Decide with the exact VIN.
Before buying a used 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, theft checks, and open recalls for the exact vehicle.
AI verdict
What the complaint data suggests
Editorial interpretation of NHTSA public complaint data. Source: nhtsa.gov. Complaints are owner-submitted and do not confirm a defect. Methodology
Based on NHTSA complaint data, the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer shows 175 complaints and 4 recalls, with top issues in Uncategorized (47), Electrical (36), and Transmission/Drivetrain (35). Crash-related complaints total 7. Source: NHTSA owner complaints and recall records.
Year context: Only one model year (2021) is analyzed, so no year-over-year comparison is available.
Recall context: With 4 recalls, buyers must verify all recall repairs are completed before purchase.
- Uncategorized Issues account for 47 complaints, the highest count.
- Electrical Faults total 36 complaints, the second most reported component.
- Transmission/Drivetrain problems have 35 complaints, indicating a potential weak point.
- Uncategorized Issues (47 complaints) β vague but numerous.
- Electrical Faults (36 complaints) β could affect multiple systems.
- Transmission/Drivetrain (35 complaints) β may lead to costly repairs.
Full breakdown
All 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer complaints by category
Every owner-reported complaint category filed with NHTSA for the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. Use this as a pre-purchase inspection checklist.
| Component | Complaints | Crashes | Fires | Avg Mileage | Volume |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Uncategorized Issues | 47 | β | β | β | |
| Electrical Faults | 36 | 1 | 1 | β | |
| Transmission / Drivetrain | 35 | 1 | 1 | β | |
| Engine Problems | 34 | β | 1 | β | |
| Brake System | 31 | 4 | 1 | β | |
| Fuel/Propulsion System | 16 | β | β | β | |
| Forward Collision Avoidance: AEB | 10 | 4 | 1 | β | |
| Structural Problems | 8 | β | β | β | |
| Steering Defects | 6 | 1 | β | β | |
| Unintended Acceleration | 5 | 1 | β | β | |
| Visibility/Wiper | 4 | β | β | β | |
| Back Over Prevention | 3 | β | β | β | |
| Airbag Malfunctions | 3 | 1 | β | β | |
| Wheel Issues | 3 | β | β | β | |
| Hydraulic | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Lane Departure | 2 | 1 | β | β | |
| Tire Issues | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Equipment | 2 | β | β | β | |
| Insert | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Padding | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Suspension Failures | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Child Seat | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Tether | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Lower Anchor (On Car Seat Or Vehicle) | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Fuel System | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Gasoline | 1 | β | β | β | |
| Headlight/Taillight Failures | 1 | β | β | β |
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Complaint counts may exceed total complaints because one report can span multiple categories.
In their words
Real owner complaints
Read what owners actually reported to NHTSA for the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. Type a keyword (e.g. βtransmissionβ, βstallingβ, βbrakesβ) to filter.
Dealership Linwood inspected vehicle and certified power and ground module has internal fault-faulty front camera module.
While driving on Thursday, June 4, 2026, the vehicle experienced a sudden and complete failure of the electronic braking/power brake assist system. Simultaneously, multiple safety warnings illuminated on the dashboard display, including a persistent service wrench icon, a tractioβ¦
Amplifier lost connection, so speakers wonβt work, collision warning wonβt sound, and turn signal wonβt sound.
I needed to have my muffler welded in November to pass inspection. I was told I would likely need the entire thing replaced in a year. I now hear another exhaust leak, and Iβm preparing for a hefty car travel and have to deal with trying to get it fixed in 10 days time. This is rβ¦
Intermittently I will receive a dashboard message reading βshift to parkβ after I park the vehicle and do shift to park. This is a known issue with this vehicle across several years identified as βa known issue caused by a faulty switch in the shifter assembly failing to detect wβ¦
I am reporting a serious safety issue with my 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer related to transmission failure. The vehicle has approximately 83,000 miles. While driving, the vehicle experiences a sudden loss of power when attempting to accelerate. In some instances, the vehicle has stβ¦
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled. During the failure, several unknown warning lights illuminated, and the vehicle was jump-started. The Auto START/STOP function was disabled for the vehiβ¦
When I put my car in Park, my car fails to detect it is in Park, leading to a persistent error message that tells me βShift to Parkβ, inability to turn off the engine, and battery drain. Iβve had the car since Oct. 2020 and this car has been doing this since at least Oct. 2021.
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer RS (123,000) - Coolant control Valve failure Cooling issues after 20-25 mins of driving. No Check engine lights initially just temperature gauge climbing. After 3 day of trying to drive to and from work. "Engine reduced" and P3075 code. Had iβ¦
While driving down the interstate my 2021 Chevy Trailblazer suddenly flashed "Battery Saver Mode" on the dash and shut off completely. I was able to coast to the side of the road and call for help. This was a MAJOR safety issue as my 4 year old son was riding with me and we couldβ¦
While driving at highway speeds, my vehicle suddenly enters low power/limp mode, severely reducing acceleration and creating a dangerous situation in traffic. This occurred multiple times. The dealership diagnosed the issue as a faulty gas pedal (accelerator) sensor and stated thβ¦
When you put the vehicle in park, it does not register on the dash that the vehicle is in park so therefore you cannot turn the vehicle off. Iβve read this as well known in the 2021 trailblazers
Coolant control valve replacement after 5 years of purchasing the vehicle. Put at risk of over heating while driving, fan stays on after vehicle is turned off. Problem confirmed by 2 dealerships. Check engine light on for a long time, fan over working, staying on after the vehiclβ¦
VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO DEALERSHIP FEB 2026 FOR TURBO/WASTEGATE REPAIR (P0299). MARCH 22, 2026, VEHICLE STALLED AND SCREEN SAID TO SHIFT TO NEUTRAL AND PUSH TO START AGAIN. CAR WOULD CRANK BUT NOT START (SOUNDS LIKE THERE IS NO COMPRESSION). HAD VEHICHLE TOWED TWO MILES TO RESIDENβ¦
While driving on the highway, I heard a loud pop that made me flinch and swerve. After parking I noticed the glass in the sunroof had exploded upward like a volcano, leaving a large hole. Fortunately the shade was closed, or glass would have come into the car while I was drivinβ¦
When stopped at a red light & the light turns green & I accelerate, the vehicle does not move. It makes a loud noise and jumps. This happens way too many times. Thereβs also an issue with the brakes, when you press on them, you can hear something grinding, which should not be hapβ¦
My transmission is defective and past 60,000 miles but only a little. I had a diagnosis and it needs replacing like many of these trailblazers in the ongoing lawsuit. I cannot pay for it and it should not be broken!
The contact owns a 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. The contact stated that while driving approximately 70 MPH, the brakes became inoperative. The message "Brake Failure - Speed Reduced to 53 MPH β Service Required" was displayed on the instrument panel. The vehicle was taken to a deaβ¦
I was driving an hour away from home and suddenly my muffler and exhaust started draggingβ 49,000 miles, 5 years old AND just passed inspection A WEEK AGO. Luckily, it didnβt become completely unattached because that could have caused an accident as there were cars behind me. Comβ¦
Shift to park. Vehicle will not shut off. Also trying to start vehicle having to repeatedly push brakes down hard and push to start before finally starting. I bought this vehicle with 0 miles this has been an on going on and off problem since around 20000 miles have been put on.
Source: NHTSA Complaints Database. Real owner reports for the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer.
Safety recalls
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer recalls
4 campaignsNHTSA recall campaigns for the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. With 4 recalls, buyers must verify all recall repairs are completed before purchase. Recalls are free to fix at authorized dealers, but completion status must be verified on the exact VIN.
SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS
TIRES
SERVICE BRAKES
EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT:STAND
Research more
Keep researching before you buy
Compare brands and categories, then check the exact car's history by VIN.
Questions
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer buying FAQ
Buyer-focused answers based on real NHTSA complaint and recall data for this model year.
Is the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer reliable?βΎ
Severe Issues. NHTSA currently shows 175 owner complaints, 7 crash-related complaints, and 4 recall campaigns for this model year. The 2021 Trailblazer has a high complaint volume for a single year, but low confidence means patterns are uncertain. Buyers should proceed with caution and prioritize a thorough inspection. Treat this as a model-year signal, then verify the exact vehicle's condition and history before purchase.
What are the most common problems with the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer?βΎ
#1: Uncategorized Issues (47 complaints). #2: Electrical Faults (36 complaints). #3: Transmission / Drivetrain (35 complaints)
At what mileage do problems start on the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer?βΎ
Mileage data is not available or insufficient for this model year.
How safe is the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer?βΎ
Complaint data is not the same as crash-test scoring, but it does highlight possible risk patterns. For the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, NHTSA complaints include 7 crash-related reports and 3 fire reports out of 175 total complaints. 5 injury reports are also on file. For controlled crash-test ratings, check nhtsa.gov/ratings.
Does the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer have any recalls?βΎ
Yes. 4 NHTSA recall campaigns affect the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. A major recall area is SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS. With 4 recalls, buyers must verify all recall repairs are completed before purchase. Always verify open recalls by VIN because completion status varies by vehicle.
Should I buy a 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer?βΎ
The 2021 Trailblazer has a high complaint volume for a single year, but low confidence means patterns are uncertain. Buyers should proceed with caution and prioritize a thorough inspection. These complaint patterns suggest potential electrical and transmission issues that could affect reliability and safety. Pre-purchase inspection is critical. Pay extra attention to Uncategorized Issues during inspection. Before committing, run a VIN history report to verify accidents, title brands, odometer records, and recall completion for the exact car.
Source: NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) complaint and recall databases, aggregated by VinSpectorAI.
Wider context: See the full Chevrolet Trailblazer reliability report with year-by-year comparison.
Owner Reliability Rating
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Ratings are based on owner experience and are separate from NHTSA data shown above.
Before you buy
Check the exact vehicle history before you buy
Model-year complaints and recalls reveal patterns. A VIN report confirms whether the exact car has accident history, title brands, mileage issues, or open recalls.