2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer Safety Report

The 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer presents a mixed safety picture. While it boasts excellent crash test performance, achieving a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, including 5 stars for frontal and side impacts and 4 stars for rollover, the vehicle has accumulated 55 complaints. These complaints include 4 crashes, 1 fire, and 4 injuries, which is concerning for a relatively new model year. A significant pattern of issues revolves around the engine and power train, with 9 complaints for ENGINE and 5 for POWER TRAIN, often related to turbo failures, reduced engine power, and coolant control valve problems. Several complaints also detail issues with the exhaust system, specifically bolts breaking and the exhaust falling off, which poses a direct safety risk. Beyond mechanical issues, there are notable electrical and infotainment system problems. Multiple reports describe the infotainment screen going black, loss of radio and backup camera functionality, and Apple CarPlay failures. OnStar module failures are also frequently mentioned, impacting emergency communication and other vehicle functions. Brake-related complaints, including squealing and perceived ABS issues, are also present, with 10 complaints under SERVICE BRAKES. The absence of any recalls for the 2023 model year, despite these recurring issues, suggests that some widespread problems may not yet have been addressed by the manufacturer. The Forward Collision Avoidance system has also been cited for inadvertent braking, and there are reports of the vehicle stalling or displaying 'Shift to Park' messages, sometimes preventing the key from being removed. These issues, while not leading to a recall, indicate potential software or component flaws that could compromise safety or reliability. The high number of complaints for a new vehicle, particularly those related to critical systems like the engine, brakes, and electrical components, warrants careful consideration despite the strong crash test ratings.

Our recommendation: Despite strong crash test ratings, potential buyers should be aware of the numerous early complaints regarding engine, electrical, and brake issues; consider an extended warranty and thorough pre-purchase inspection.