Chevrolet Avalanche problems
The Chevrolet Avalanche is a four-door, five- or six-passenger pickup truck that was manufactured by General Motors. The Avalanche was a hybrid between the Chevrolet Suburban SUV and the Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, sharing the chassis with the Suburban. Unlike a typical pickup truck where the bed is mounted separately from the cab on the frame, the bed of the Avalanche was integrated with the cab body. It also featured a "midgate" behind the second row of seats that could be folded down, with the seats, to create a longer bed area. The Avalanche was produced across two generations starting in 2001 and ending in 2013.
Breaking with a long-standing tradition, the Avalanche was not available as a GMC, but only as a Chevrolet. Instead, Cadillac would sell a re-badged Avalanche; however, the midgate design would be adapted for use on the GMC Envoy XUV and Hummer H2 SUT.
First generation (2001–2006)
The Avalanche was launched in September 2001 as a 2002 model on the GMT800 platform. First year Avalanches featured light gray plastic body cladding, intended to provide visual distinction from the Suburban/Yukon XL. The Avalanche also gave the public an advance look at the next generation of front fascia designs for the entire GM line. A full-length chrome strip splits each lamp assembly and the grille, with a gold Chevrolet "bow tie" in the center. The hood and fenders featured aggressive folds, in contrast to the softer designs seen on other models built on the GMT800 platform.
Avalanche was nominated for the North American SUV of the Year award and was Motor Trend magazine's Truck of the Year for 2002.
The Avalanche was originally marketed as being able to "change from an SUV to a super SUV." This was made possible by a plastic cover and an exclusive "midgate," called the Convert-a-Cab system by GM, which could open and close. The midgate was a divider behind the second row of seats that could be folded down, with the seats, to create a longer bed area, or folded up to make a larger cab area. A similar midgate was found on the Cadillac Escalade EXT (a rebadged Avalanche), Hummer H2 SUT, and GMC Envoy XUV.
The truck was offered as a half-ton 1500 series with a Vortec 5.3L V8 producing 285 hp (216 kW) or as a three-quarter-ton 2500 series with a Vortec 8.1L V8 with 340 hp (253 kW) and the 4L85-E four-speed transmission. The base layout is rear-wheel drive, but there is an available with selectable high/low four-wheel drive. Avalanche 2500 models from 2004–2006 were exclusively available with four-wheel drive.
For those who planned to go off-road in their Avalanche, a Z71 Off-Road package was available that added features such as off-road suspension, GM's AutoTrac full-time push-button four-wheel-drive system, all-terrain P265/70R17 white-lettered Goodyear tires, seventeen-inch alloy wheels, leather seating surfaces with waterproof accents, front dual power bucket seats, cloth door panel inserts, GM's OnStar telematics system, all-weather rubber floor mats, Chevrolet bowtie emblems embedded into the backrests of the seats (for 2002 models), dual-zone automatic climate controls with rear HVAC vents and remote controls, remote radio controls with headphone jacks for two pairs of headphones, a security system, gray-finished side running boards, power-adjustable, heated side-view mirrors, SRS side impact airbags. Aside from these details, a Z71 Off-Road decal on the rear side panels identified an Avalanche equipped with this package. Full leather seating surfaces were an available option, also removing the cloth door panel inserts, and also added heated front seats.
For those who preferred the styling of the Z71 Off-Road package but did not plan to take their Avalanche off-road, a Z66 Premium On-Road package was also available. The Z66 On-Road package featured all the equipment that the Z71 Off-Road package offered but replaced the off-road suspension with sport on-road suspension and did not offer four-wheel drive. Aside from these details, a Z66 On-Road sticker on the rear side panels identified an Avalanche equipped with this package. As with the Z71 Off-Road package, full leather seating surfaces without the cloth accents were an available option, also removing the cloth door panel inserts, and also added heated front seats.
To further distinguish it from its Silverado siblings, the Avalanche was practically fully equipped and only came with bodyside cladding. The Avalanche included features such as 16-inch alloy wheels and tires (chromed steel on the 2500 model), an AM/FM stereo with single-disc CD player and six speakers, cloth seating surfaces, front bench seat with power front driver's seat, power windows, power door locks, keyless entry, full instrumentation, dual front airbags, and air conditioning. Options included OnStar telematics system, cassette player, leather seating surfaces, front dual power bucket seats that could be heated, and side airbags for the front seats. A North Face Edition, in partnership with the North Face brand included limited exterior color options, a unique Ebony/Green leather interior, special exterior ornamentation and decals, white-faced gauges, OnStar telematics system, specially colored door panel inserts and speaker grilles, and more.
For 2003, the Avalanche was slightly changed. 2003 models featured a darker cladding, but GM's new president, Rick Wagoner, demanded the removal of this "unpopular" trim (as did certain elements of the public). From mid-year, Avalanche could be ordered without cladding. The uncladded model, known as "Without Body Hardware" (or its initialism "WBH," which is also an RPO code), and alternatively called "slicksides" by GM marketers, resembled the 2003–2005 Silverado 1500 in the front. A new interior—shared with the Tahoe and Suburban—added a new, larger steering wheel with subsequent audio, cruise, and speed controls; an optional six-speaker premium Bose sound system with external amplifier; a new gauge cluster with information center and memory for the front driver's seat, brake and accelerator pedals, and side-view mirror position (on some models); new radio head units, which included an AM/FM stereo with either a single-disc or six-disc CD/MP3 changer, Radio Data System, and optional XM Satellite Radio; standard OnStar telematics system with steering wheel controls; new warning chimes that played through the vehicle's audio system instead of through a separate speaker behind the dashboard; and newly available 17-inch alloy wheels and tires. Optional features included rear audio controls with headphone jacks and a rear DVD entertainment system by Panasonic with wireless headphones. The WBH option was only available in the 1500 series.
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Chevrolet Avalanche model years
Common Chevrolet Avalanche problems
Based on complaints from owners of Chevrolet Avalanche cars, several common problems have been reported. These issues span across different model years and generations of the Chevrolet Avalanche. Here is a detailed list of these common problems:
- Electrical Concerns: Electrical problems have been reported in the Avalanche, ranging from speedometer malfunctions to issues with daytime running lights. These electrical issues can affect the safety and functionality of the vehicle.
- Safety Concerns: Apart from mechanical and electrical issues, safety problems have also been highlighted in the Chevrolet Avalanche. Safety concerns include large blind spots due to the bulky design, airbag issues, and poor crash test ratings, especially in older models and the first generation of the Avalanche (2002-2006).
By addressing these common problems proactively and ensuring timely maintenance and repairs, Chevrolet Avalanche owners can mitigate potential issues and enjoy a more reliable and safe driving experience.
What's the worst year for the Chevy Avalanche?
The worst year for the Chevy Avalanche is 2005. This year dealt with both interior accessory troubles and transmission failure, which can be costly. The 2007 model comes close behind with extensive oil consumption problems and interior issues.
How long can a Chevy Avalanche last?
250,000 Miles
The Chevy Avalanche Could Last 250,000 Miles, Study Finds.
How reliable is the Avalanche?
The Chevrolet Avalanche Reliability Rating is 3.0 out of 5.0, which ranks it 8th out of 14 for fullsize SUVs. The average annual repair cost is $700 which means it has average ownership costs. The frequency of repairs is average, but when issues do arise, they are more likely to be severe than with other models.
Why did Chevy quit making the Avalanche?
Production of the Avalanche ended after the 2013 model year, after 2011 saw a sales decline of 2.6% to 20,088 units. Production of the Cadillac Escalade EXT also ended after the 2013 model year.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Chevrolet Avalanche years
We have researched Chevrolet problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Chevrolet Avalanche cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Chevrolet Avalanche model years:
- Chevrolet Avalanche 2002
- Chevrolet Avalanche 2007
- Chevrolet Avalanche 2003
- Chevrolet Avalanche 2004
- Chevrolet Avalanche 2008
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Chevrolet Avalanche model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Chevrolet Avalanche years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Chevrolet Avalanche car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Chevrolet Avalanche , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Electrical system problems
- Unknown or other problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Chevrolet Avalanche vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Avalanche model years
A total of 128 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Avalanche model years
There were a total of 29 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Avalanche model years
There were a total of 125 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Avalanche model years
There were a total of 4 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2950 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Chevrolet Avalanche . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Chevrolet Avalanche vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Chevrolet Avalanche 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2021-02-05
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-07
- VIN: 3GNEC12028G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 21V050000 (Air Bags); however, the part to do the recall repair was unavailable. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure. Parts distribution disconnect.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-08-03
- VIN: 3GNGC23G83G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brakes lines broke while in traffic at stop light. Manage to drive in low gear 1/2 block to repair shop. They replaced the lines
Chevrolet Avalanche 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-02
- Date Complaint: 2024-07-02
- VIN: 3GNEC12097G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: Code p2128 Code p2122 Have replaced TPS, THROTTLE BODY, ACCELERATOR PEDAL (×3) AND bypassed connectors WITH DIRECT WIRING from ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO ECM Continue to get codes with CHECK ENGINE LIGHT with DECREASED ENGINE POWER, CHECK STABILITRAK, and STABILITRAK DISABLED. HAVE TO CLEAR CODES WITH BLUEDRIVER MULTIPLE TIMES EVEN WHILE DRIVING SHORT DISTANCES AND SOMETIMES ON START UP.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-06-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3GNFK12327G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owned a 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche. The contact stated that while driving at approximately 60 MPH, he lost control of the vehicle after driving over a pothole and crashed into a telephone pole. The pole fell on the vehicle and the fire department had to remove the contact from the vehicle. The front passenger's side of the vehicle was damaged. The air bags in the vehicle failed to deploy during the impact. The contact sustained three fractured ribs and one lacerated lung which required medical attention via hospital. The vehicle was towed and deemed destroyed. A police report was filed. The contact mentioned that the vehicle was previously serviced for an unknown NHTSA Campaign Number for the Air Bags prior to the crash. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-05-04
- Date Complaint: 2024-05-05
- VIN: 3GNTKGE73CG
- Components: SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Rear control arms were rusted out and fell off the frame. Additionally with that happening the rear drive shaft was pulled out from transmission and could cause a vehicle to flip. Upon further investigation body frame was extremely rusted for a truck this age. 85450 mes on it.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2008
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-17
- VIN: 3GNFK12328G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle lost motive power and independently turned off. After restarting the vehicle, the check engine warning light remained illuminated. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 200,000.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2024-04-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-17
- VIN: 3GNEK12T04G
- Components: POWER TRAIN,AIR BAGS,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The brake pressure modulator valve leaks the transmission has problems and service airbags is on
Chevrolet Avalanche 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-04-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-04-13
- VIN: 3GNMCFE06DG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The dash has been slowly cracking the past couple of years. Which I’m concerned it will affect the air bag if ever in an accident and also dangerously sharp pieces of the dash could cause harm.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2024-02-27
- Date Complaint: 2024-02-28
- VIN: 3GNFK12307G
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: Was going down the road and there was a big load bang or pop that sounded like a bomb went and the seatbelts sucked us back and locked us in place and then the service airbag light came on the light stays on the seatbelts are locked up can remove and it was like the air bags says will no longer deploy/work and now can't use the seatbelts and the law says no seatbelt use we get a ticket so now can't drive truck unless I want a ticket. So what do I do now I am disabled and this my only vehicle that I need to get to the doctors with so how to get it fixed is the manufacturer responsibility. My email is [XXX] My phone number is [XXX] Would like someone to contact me ASAP PLEASE INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Chevrolet Avalanche 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-01-17
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z35G
- Components: WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Gear shift indicator does not always light. Has been an issue with other models but has never been recalled for this specific model. Don’t always know what gear you are in. Spare tire completely rusted out, unable to get down. Not sure if this is a recall issue but apparently common for this vehicle
Chevrolet Avalanche 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-11-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-09
- VIN: 3GNEK13T92G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Chevrolet Avalanche. The contact stated while attempting to stop the vehicle, the brake pedal was firm, and vehicle kept accelerating unintendedly. Several warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The contact was informed that the failure was due to a faulty ABS module. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and determined that the vehicle was not included in a recall because he was not located in a salt State. The failure mileage was unknown.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-08
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-08
- VIN: 3GNEC12J67G
- Components: AIR BAGS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: Dash is cracked in so many spots and missing peices to where it is unsafe. In an accident those loose and broken peices can hurt a passenger/driver. Can't even get the airbag recall taken care of because the dash is too damaged.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2007
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-02
- Date Complaint: 2023-11-06
- VIN: 3GNFK12327G
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche. The contact stated that while the vehicle was at the dealer for a service appointment, the contact was informed that the subframe was severely corroded. The contact was informed that the subframe and parts connected to the frame would also need to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 125,675.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-10-26
- Date Complaint: 2023-10-26
- VIN: 3GNMCEE09DG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: Instrument panel (dashboard) cracked at airbag. Upon deployment shrapnel from dash panel could enter passenger compartment causing injury.
Chevrolet Avalanche 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2023-05-15
- Date Complaint: 2023-08-05
- VIN: 3GNMCFE09DG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I am an owner of a 2013 Chevy Avalanche and must say that i enjoy driving this vehicle. The problem that i have is the vehicle has been going into Engine Power Reduced Mode. This mode makes the vehicle hard to accelerate to highway speeds. The vehicle will have a code of P2128 or P2138 which is an accelator pedel ciruit problem. I changed the acceleator pedal and did not solve the problem. I changed out the Throttle Body Sensor and still the problem remains. On the dashboard it will show Check Engine Light on, Service Stablinktrac light on, and Service Traction Control Light on. I have seen other vehicle owners experience the same problems with their vehicles and told that there was no recall and have to pay for the repairs out of pocket. These are very well made vehicles but when they going into Engine Power Reduced Mode, drive ability is diminished.
Latest 5 recalls Chevrolet Avalanche
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 45 recalls for different components of the Chevrolet Avalanche.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Chevrolet Avalanche 2010
- Report Received Date: 2021-02-05
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of AL, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, SC, TX, PR, AS, GU, the MP, and VI or "Zone A." Additionally GM is recalling certain 2011-2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, Yukon XL and 2011-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of AZ, AR, DE, DC, IL, IN, KS, KY, MD, MO, NE, NV, NJ, NM, NC, OH, OK, PA, TN, VA, and WV or "Zone B." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2010-2014 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL and 2010-2013 Cadillac Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, and GMC Sierra 1500 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of AK, CO, CT, ID, IA, ME, MA, MI, MN, MT, NH, NY, ND, OR, RI, SD, UT, VT, WA, WI, and WY or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 25, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed to 40 VIN owners on May 11, 2021. A second owner notification letter was mailed to all other owners on January 24, 2022. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328800.
- Model: Chevrolet Avalanche 2009
- Report Received Date: 2021-02-05
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2013 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2010 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500/3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500/3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C."
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 24, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed on May 11, 2021. Owners may contact Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328790.
- Model: Chevrolet Avalanche 2009
- Report Received Date: 2021-02-05
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2009 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Sierra 2500, Sierra 3500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, and Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, and Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alaska, Colorado, Connecticut, Idaho, Iowa, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, New Hampshire, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming or "Zone C." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 23, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 20, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328780.
- Model: Chevrolet Avalanche 2009
- Report Received Date: 2021-02-05
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL, and 2009-2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and Sierra 3500 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 22, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 1, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328760.
- Model: Chevrolet Avalanche 2010
- Report Received Date: 2021-02-05
- Manufacturer: General Motors, LLC
- Components: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:PASSENGER SIDE:INFLATOR MODULE
- Summary: General Motors, LLC (GM) is recalling certain 2007-2011 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL, and 2009-2011 Chevrolet Silverado 2500, Silverado 3500, GMC Sierra 2500 and Sierra 3500 vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, South Carolina, Texas, Puerto Rico, American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan), and the U.S. Virgin Islands or "Zone A." Additionally, GM is recalling certain 2007-2008 Cadillac Escalade, Escalade ESV, Escalade EXT, Chevrolet Avalanche, Silverado 1500, Suburban, Tahoe, GMC Sierra 1500, Yukon, Yukon XL vehicles originally sold, or ever registered, in the states of Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Missouri, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia or "Zone B." These vehicles are equipped with non-desiccated passenger frontal inflators containing phase-stabilized ammonium nitrate (PSAN) propellant. These inflators may explode due to propellant degradation occurring after long-term exposure to high absolute humidity, high temperatures, and high temperature cycling.
- Consequence: An inflator explosion may result in sharp metal fragments striking the driver or other occupants, resulting in serious injury or death.
- Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the front passenger air bag inflator with an alternate one, free of charge. Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk were mailed on February 22, 2021. Second notification letters will be mailed once the remedy is available. Owner notification letters were mailed on March 1, 2021. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020; Cadillac customer service at 1-800-458-8006; and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is N212328760.
Latest negative Chevrolet Avalanche car reviews
Latest positive Chevrolet Avalanche car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2011
I've been driving the Avalanche for about two weeks now and I'm really enjoying it! The ride is quiet and refined, which is a nice change from the pickup truck I had before. I was pleasantly surprised by the acceleration, and despite its size, I've had no trouble maneuvering it in tight spaces so far. I do think the backup camera is essential when reversing. The fuel economy is what I expected, but it's actually slightly better than my previous smaller vehicle. I attribute this to the 8/4 cyl highway cruise feature and the ability to run in 2WD except when on-demand 4WD is needed. Overall, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship! :-)
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Vehicle year: 2005
I had a 2000 Frontier Crew Cab and thought it was a good truck, but I recently upgraded to the Avalanche and it has exceeded all my expectations. We even took it on a long road trip to NYC and it was just as comfortable as my wife's Acura. I've used it for hauling loads and even loaded my touring motorcycle in the bed with ease. It has impressive towing capabilities and plenty of power when you need to pass. On top of that, I get an average of 20mpg on the highway and 16mpg in the city. The stereo is fantastic and the air conditioning works like a charm. If you're a do-it-yourselfer or a working man, the Avalanche is definitely the truck for you. I regret not upgrading sooner from my Frontier, but I'm glad I finally did!
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Vehicle year: 2006
This is without a doubt the nicest vehicle I've ever owned. I work at a Chevy dealership, so I see and drive lots of vehicles. With the exception of the new body style Avalanche, this is my favorite Chevy truck. The gas mileage is 15-17 mpg depending on how you drive it. It takes less than 2 minutes to convert it into truck mode. The re-sale value on these vehicles is great too. NADA loves em'. Ride quality is great. Good power. Better than an SUV with back seat room and its hidden under the plastic cover. It keeps my wife and baby's junk hidden all the time.
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Vehicle year: 2004
I love my truck! It's my favorite out of the 29 vehicles I've owned in my life. I bought it with about 115K miles on it, and this week it will turn over 140K. The truck rides like an SUV, and I've even hauled 1500 lbs of rocks and mulch with it. Take the back window out, open the sunroof and windows, and it's like driving around in an open air Jeep, but it's also incredibly useful. I take my family on vacation, pull trailers, and cruise the back roads. I think I'll keep this truck longer than any vehicle I've ever owned... Maybe even take it over 200K! I bought it with the expectation that I'll put a transmission in it before 180K, but we'll see.
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Vehicle year: 2005
Hi there! It's great to hear about your recent purchase. After considering both the Escalade and the Avalanche, you decided to go with the Avalanche on a Smart buy, which sounds like a smart decision! On your 1200 mile trip, you found the truck to be very comfortable and luxurious, with good power and fuel economy. It's impressive that you were able to fit six passengers and a dog in the truck with no problem! Thanks for sharing your experience with us.
Are you having problems with your Chevrolet Avalanche?
Boris Shanahan 2025-02-19
Vehicle year: 2012
The 5.3L engine has been a source of complaints since 2007, but unfortunately, GM has not taken any action to address the issue. Despite having only 62000 miles, I had to spend $1100 on engine repairs due to poor design. The engine developed a solid engine 'miss' only 20,000 miles after purchasing the truck used. The independent mechanic shop had to look up the cause/effect/recommended repair on their independent web reference. The valve cover(s) design fault was the cause of the problem, and GM had designed a replacement that supposedly fixed the issue. Additionally, a premature tune-up was required because the spark plugs had been completely gunked up with oil from the poor design. Unfortunately, the same problem has reappeared only 20,000 miles later. Another repair shop suggested the same remedy as before. It is worth noting that the shop owner loves this engine as it has earned him a lot of money. He personally owns a similar truck, but with the 6.0 L engine.
Mitchell Schuster 2025-02-07
Vehicle year: 2008
I purchased my 2008 Avalanche three years ago and have loved it ever since. However, I have recently experienced some issues with the truck, such as lifter problems, traction control, stabilitrack, engine misfires in cylinders, and excessive oil consumption. After conducting extensive research, I discovered that these issues are common problems with this particular motor. As a preferred customer who regularly maintains my vehicle, I believe that I should not have to spend thousands of dollars on engine problems for a $35,000 vehicle after only a year or two of owning it. I have replaced several parts in an attempt to fix the issues, but ultimately, it seems that I need a new motor. I hope that GM will address this issue with me, as I am considering switching to Ford. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Ralph Wintheiser 2025-01-19
Vehicle year: 2004
I have experienced several issues with my truck, including intermediate steering shaft problems, Idler arm replacements, water pump and blower modular replacements, and a burnt-out transmission. I am extremely disappointed with the lack of reliability and workmanship. Despite paying cash for a truck that was supposed to be loaded with features, I have encountered numerous problems. I strongly advise against purchasing this truck. It is worth noting that even after replacing the first truck due to uncorrectable steering problems, the second truck still had all of the aforementioned issues.
Silas Schaden 2025-01-12
Vehicle year: 2003
Although some vehicles may not experience the issues I have encountered, it is clear that a significant number of them are affected by similar problems, as indicated by the TSB quick look. My personal experience with the vehicle has been unsatisfactory, with issues such as knocking in the engine, oil consumption, irregular tire wear, flutter in the dashboard below the windshield, and grinding in the front end (drive train). The engine knock is particularly concerning, as it sounds like a diesel and I have been burning a quart of oil every 1000 miles since purchasing the vehicle. It is important for potential buyers to be aware of these issues and to proceed with caution.
Ryley Kessler 2024-11-17
Vehicle year: 2008
Hi there! Just wanted to let you know that the car has a leather tan interior and has an estimated mileage of 124,000. Let me know if you have any questions!