2020 Chevrolet Blazer Safety Report

2020 Chevrolet Blazer: Excellent Crash Ratings, but Persistent Powertrain and Electrical System Complaints

182Complaints
3Recalls
★★★★★Safety Rating
65/100Reliability Score
5Crash Reports
7Injuries
Most reported components: Power Train (28)Unknown Or Other (27)Engine (24)Electrical System (15)Power Train,Electrical System (10)Power Train,Electrical System,Engine (4)Steering,Electrical System (4)Steering,Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (4)Steering,Engine (4)Power Train,Electrical System,Unknown Or Other (4)

AI Safety Analysis for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2020 Chevrolet Blazer presents a mixed safety profile. While it boasts excellent crash test performance with 5-star overall, frontal, and side ratings from NHTSA, and a 4-star rollover rating, its complaint data reveals several concerning patterns. With 182 total complaints, including 5 crashes and 7 injuries, there are notable issues beyond crashworthiness. The most frequent complaints revolve around the POWER TRAIN (28 complaints), UNKNOWN OR OTHER (27 complaints), and ENGINE (24 complaints). Specific recurring problems include 'shift to park' issues, thermostat failures leading to 'steering assist reduced' messages and engine fan problems, and reports of transmission slipping or failure. The vehicle has also been subject to three recalls, addressing critical safety concerns such as over-cured tires that could lead to sudden air loss, missing transmission bolts that could cause a loss of propulsion, and potentially degraded rear side airbag performance, all of which could increase the risk of injury in a crash.

Reliability Score

The 2020 Chevrolet Blazer receives a reliability score of 65 out of 100 based on analysis of NHTSA complaint data, recall history, crash reports, and safety ratings. This indicates average reliability — some notable concerns exist that prospective buyers should be aware of.

Known Issues for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer

The following issues have been identified from NHTSA complaint data and owner reports for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer:

IssueSeverityFrequencyTypical Mileage
Thermostat/Coolant System Failure
Frequent reports of P0128 code, engine fan constantly running, temperature gauge stuck at 'C', and 'steering assist reduced' messages, often requiring thermostat and sensor replacement.
High Common 50000-70000 miles
Shift To Park Sensor Malfunction
Vehicle fails to register being in park, preventing the engine from turning off or allowing the driver to exit, a known issue with GM vehicles.
Medium Common all miles
Transmission Slipping/Failure
Reports of transmission slipping, grinding, jerking, or complete failure, leading to loss of motive power.
High Occasional 50000-60000 miles
Steering Assist Reduced Message
Dashboard warning indicating reduced power steering, making the vehicle difficult to handle, often linked to thermostat issues.
High Common all miles
Engine Stalling/Shutting Off While Driving
Vehicle unexpectedly shuts off or stalls at speed, leading to loss of acceleration and increased crash risk.
High Occasional all miles

Common Problems Reported by Owners

Based on NHTSA complaint data, the following components account for the majority of reported issues with the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer:

Power Train 15% of complaints

Includes issues like transmission slipping, 'shift to park' sensor malfunctions, and general power train failures.

Engine 13% of complaints

Commonly related to thermostat failures, check engine lights (P0128, P01F0), VVT sensor issues, and engine stalling.

Electrical System 8% of complaints

Manifests as 'steering assist reduced' warnings, fan constantly running, A/C issues, and backup camera malfunctions.

Steering 7% of complaints

Primarily involves the 'steering assist reduced' warning, making the steering stiff and difficult.

Tires 0% of complaints

Subject to a recall for over-cured tires that could lead to sudden air loss.

Air Bags 0% of complaints

Subject to a recall for potential degraded rear side airbag performance; also one complaint of non-deployment in a crash.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer

Is the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer safe?

Based on NHTSA data, the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer received excellent 5-star crash safety ratings. However, it has 182 complaints, including 5 crashes and 7 injuries, with recurring issues related to the powertrain, engine (thermostat), and electrical system that could impact drivability and safety.

What are common problems with the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer?

The most reported issues for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer include 'shift to park' malfunctions, thermostat failures leading to 'steering assist reduced' messages and engine fan problems, transmission slipping or failure, and engine stalling while driving. These issues are reflected in the top complaint categories: POWER TRAIN (28 complaints) and ENGINE (24 complaints).

Has the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer had any recalls?

Yes, the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer has had 3 recalls. These include recalls for over-cured tires, missing bolts on the start-stop accumulator endcap that could lead to a loss of propulsion, and potential degradation of rear side airbag performance.

Are there issues with the steering system?

Yes, there are multiple complaints regarding the steering system, specifically the 'steering assist reduced' message. This often occurs in conjunction with thermostat issues and can make the vehicle difficult to steer, especially at high speeds.

What should I look out for when buying a used 2020 Chevrolet Blazer?

When considering a used 2020 Chevrolet Blazer, pay close attention to the powertrain and engine. Check for any 'check engine' lights, ensure the temperature gauge operates normally, listen for transmission anomalies (slipping, grinding), and verify that the 'shift to park' mechanism functions correctly. Inquire about recall completion and any past repairs related to the thermostat or transmission.

Buyer Advice

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer's documented issues with its powertrain, engine (thermostat), and electrical system, and ensure all recalls have been addressed.

NHTSA Data Summary for 2020 Chevrolet Blazer

This safety report is based on a comprehensive analysis of data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer. The data includes 182 consumer complaints filed by vehicle owners, 3 manufacturer-initiated safety recalls, 5 reported crashes, 7 reported injuries, and safety rating assessments associated with this vehicle.

The NHTSA has assigned the 2020 Chevrolet Blazer an overall safety rating of 5 out of 5 stars, with a frontal crash rating of 5 stars, a side crash rating of 5 stars, and a rollover rating of 4 stars. These ratings are determined through controlled crash testing conducted by the NHTSA.

All data presented in this report is sourced from public NHTSA databases. Our AI analysis identifies patterns across complaint narratives, correlates them with recall history, and produces the safety assessment above. This analysis is updated as new complaints and recalls are filed with the NHTSA.

Consumers are encouraged to report vehicle safety problems to the NHTSA at nhtsa.gov. If your vehicle is subject to a recall, contact your dealer to schedule the free repair.