2003 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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Common 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche problems
The 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche has been associated with several common problems, primarily related to its structure, visibility, steering, parking brake, service brakes, fuel system, and electrical system.
- Structure and Members: The 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche has experienced issues with its structure and members, including the tailgate and its hinges and attachments. Complaints have been made about the tailgate not closing properly or latching securely, which can lead to safety concerns while driving.
- Visibility: Both exterior and interior rearview mirror devices have been problematic for the 2003 Avalanche. Drivers have reported difficulties with visibility, which can increase the risk of accidents.
- Steering: The hydraulic power assist system in the 2003 Avalanche has been the subject of investigations, indicating potential steering issues that could affect the vehicle's handling and safety.
- Parking Brake: The parking brake system in the 2003 Avalanche has also been investigated, suggesting possible concerns with the conventional mechanical parking brake.
- Service Brakes: The power assist system, hydraulic hoses, lines, and fittings have been investigated for the 2003 Avalanche, indicating potential problems with the service brakes that could impact the vehicle's stopping ability.
- Fuel System: The fuel tank assembly in the 2003 Avalanche has been associated with complaints and investigations, suggesting possible issues with the fuel system that could lead to safety concerns or reduced vehicle performance.
- Electrical System: Various electrical system components, such as the anti-lock brake system warning light and the OnStar system, have been reported as problematic in the 2003 Avalanche. These issues could affect the vehicle's overall functionality and safety.
In summary, the 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche has had several common problems, primarily related to its structure, visibility, steering, parking brake, service brakes, fuel system, and electrical system. These issues could potentially impact the vehicle's safety, performance, and overall functionality.
Is 2003 a good year for Chevy Avalanche?
Good truck
My Avalanche has been reliable, comfortable and capable. Fuel economy has been ok for what it is, but like any full size 4x4 truck, it's a bit thirsty. I've taken it off-roading a few times and it handles great. Seats 6 people comfortably with plenty of room for camping gear, ice chests and bbq grilles.
Do Chevy Avalanches have transmission problems?
Delayed, shuddering or is extremely harsh 1-2 shift
The symptoms of one of the more common Chevrolet Avalanche transmission problems are described above, and they can become very unpleasant. The problem has do with faulty 4L60E accumulators, which are designed to act like a sort of shock absorber between shifts.
How many miles can you get out of a 2003 Chevy Avalanche?
If You drive Your Avalanche on the road (little to no off-roading) and service it at regular intervals, it's very realistic that You'll get 150,000 or 175,000 miles out of it. If You take exceptionally good care of it and only use top-of-the-line fluids, You're likely looking at 200,000 to 250,000.
What are the flaws of the Chevy Avalanche?
The issues that arose with the Chevy Avalanche are items like interior accessory troubles, transmission failure, and excessive oil consumption, among other things. We'll talk more about these Chevy Avalanche years to avoid later so you can get a better idea of which model will work best for you.
Is 2003 a good year for Chevy Avalanche?
Good truck
My Avalanche has been reliable, comfortable and capable. Fuel economy has been ok for what it is, but like any full size 4x4 truck, it's a bit thirsty. I've taken it off-roading a few times and it handles great. Seats 6 people comfortably with plenty of room for camping gear, ice chests and bbq grilles.
Do Chevy Avalanches have transmission problems?
Delayed, shuddering or is extremely harsh 1-2 shift
The symptoms of one of the more common Chevrolet Avalanche transmission problems are described above, and they can become very unpleasant. The problem has do with faulty 4L60E accumulators, which are designed to act like a sort of shock absorber between shifts.
How many miles can you get out of a 2003 Chevy Avalanche?
If You drive Your Avalanche on the road (little to no off-roading) and service it at regular intervals, it's very realistic that You'll get 150,000 or 175,000 miles out of it. If You take exceptionally good care of it and only use top-of-the-line fluids, You're likely looking at 200,000 to 250,000.
What are the flaws of the Chevy Avalanche?
The issues that arose with the Chevy Avalanche are items like interior accessory troubles, transmission failure, and excessive oil consumption, among other things. We'll talk more about these Chevy Avalanche years to avoid later so you can get a better idea of which model will work best for you.
2003 Chevrolet Avalanche car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Chevrolet Avalanche problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Air bags problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche
The NHTSA has received 421 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-01
- 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
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-13
- VIN: 3GNEC13T43G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: SERVICE LIGHT DOSE NOT COME ON WHEN MY TRUCK WON'T NOT STARTED UP UNTIL I GOT IT TOWED
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-01-05
- VIN: 3GNEC13T33G
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE AND THE CLUSTER IS OUT I DO NOT KNOW WHAT MODEL THIS IS OTHER THAN A Z66 SO I CANNOT SEE ON HOW TO PROGRAM MY PHONE AT TO THE ONSTAR OR ANY OF THAT I DON'T KNOW IF I HAVE SATELLITE RADIO THERE IS NO AUXILIARY PLUG IN HEATED SEATS IT'S ONLY THE BACK OF THE SEAT THAT WORKS I'M NOT SURE IF THAT'S ALL THAT IS HEATED AND IT SAYS THAT IT'S SUPPOSED TO BE COME WITH A KEY FOB I DID NOT RECEIVE MY CAR COMPLETELY DIES I HAVE TO TURN IT COMPLETELY OFF TURN THE KEY AROUND AND STARTED AGAIN THE WHOLE STEERING COLUMN LOOKS LIKE IT HAS BEEN REPLACED I DID NOT RECEIVE THE KEY FOB I CANNOT LOCK THE DOORS BECAUSE THE KEYS DON'T WORK IN THE DOOR BUT THEY DO AN IGNITION SOMETIMES I HAVE TO TURN THE KEY AROUND SOMETIMES EVEN WHEN I'M IN THE MIDDLE OF DRIVING I HAVE TO CUT IT COMPLETELY OFF BECAUSE IT WILL STALL OUT TURN KEY AROUND AND IT START IT AGAIN. I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THE REAL MILAGE IS. JELP IM A SINGLE AND ONLY IN COME PARENT TO 3 BOUS AND THIS MOMMA NEEDS HELP PLEASE
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-12-12
- VIN: 3GNEK13T63G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER,VISIBILITY/WIPER
- Summary: I AM A NEW OWNER OF A 2003 AVALANCHE, I WAS SATISFIED WITH MY PURCHASE BUT MY SOONROOF FALLS UNDER THE APPROPRIATE SERIAL NUMBERS (6,000,000-6,300,000) RECALL STATES THAT IT MAY BE COVERED BY THE COMPANY WEBASTO HOLLANDIA. VEHICLE IS FINE TO DRIVE PLACES BUT SUNROOF MUST BE FIXED FOR COMING WINTER. IT WORRIES ME AS THERE'S A SLIGHT DANGER OF IT CAUSING A ROAD HAZARD IF IT WERE TO FALL OUT.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-06
- VIN: 3GNEK13T63G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BRAKES WENT OUT WITH NO WARNING, TWO DIFFERENT TIMES. ON A HIGHWAY STOPPING FOR A RED LIGHT.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-08
- VIN: 3GNEC13T03G
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I CAN HEAR A CLUNKING OR RATTLING NOISE IN MY STEERING WHEEL. I CAN ALSO FEEL IT IN THE STEERING WHEEL WHILE DRIVING.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-01
- VIN: 3GNEK13TX3G
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THIS IS THE SECOND TRANSMISSION, THE CLIP THAT HOLDS THE TRANSMISSION LINE TO THE RADIATOR BREAKS ALLOWING THE LINE TO COME OFF RESULTING IN ALL TRANSMISSION FLUID BEING LOST AND RESULTING IN DESTROYING TRANSMISSION
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-07
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3GNEC13T73G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY AIRBAGS DEPLOYED AS I SLID INTO A VEHICLE IN FRONT OF ME. I WAS IN NUMBER TO NUMBER TRAFFIC AND I TRIED CHANGING LANES. MY FRONT LEFT BUMPER TAPPED HIS REAR RIGHT BUMPER. THE OTHER VEHICLE WAS SCRATCHED.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-18
- VIN: 3GNEC13T23G
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE ENGINE LIGHT HAS COME ON FOR THE SECOND TIME SAYING THAT IS A VACUUM LEAK IN THE FUEL CAP I REPLACE THE CAP
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-21
- VIN: 3GNEC13T23G
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: CLADDING ON MY 2003 HAS TURNED GREY AND UGLY. THERE IS NOTHING USED THAT WILL RENEW IT BACK TO ORIGINAL LOOK. WHAT CAN YOU DO ABOUT THIS PROBLEM????
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-22
- VIN: 3GNEC13T83G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WAS DRIVING HOME AND BRAKES FAILED. MASSIVE HOLES IN THE LINES, PEDAL DOWN TO THE FLOOR NO BRAKE WARNING LIGHT UNTIL IT WAS TOO LATE. THANK GOD MY WIFE AND KIDS WERE NOT WITH ME THIS TIME. LUCKY I'M ALIVE. I WAS NOT ON A MAIN HIGHWAY. SO FAR THE COST IS UP TO $2000.00 TO REPLACE ALL THE LINES. ALSO NOW THE MASTER CYLINDER SEEMS TO BE FAULTY. ANOTHER $400.00. I HAVE READ WAY TOOO MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT GM BRAKE LINES RUSTING OUT WAY TOO SOON MANY WITH LOW MILEAGE. SOMETHING HAS TO BE DONE ABOUT THIS IN THE FORM OF COMPENSATION. LIVES COULD BE LOST AND SOME PROBABLY HAVE.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-20
- VIN: 3GNEK13T83G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I HAVE READ NHTSA # 05V37900 AND SEE THAT ADDRESSES THE BRAKE PROBLEMS WITH BRAKE LINE THAT I AM HAVING PROBLEMS WHERE THE BRAKE GOES TO THE FLOOR WITH NO WARNING THAT IS THE SAME AS THE 2002 THAT IS INCLUDED IN YOUR RECALL. IT APPEARS THAT THE SAME BRAKE LINES WERE USED ON THE 2003 MODEL. SO WHY WAS THE 2003 MODEL NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL AS LOSING THE BRAKES NOT A SAFETY HAZARD. I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD WHEN THE BRAKES WENT OUT AND WAS LUCKY THERE WAS NO OTHER TRAFFIC IN THE AREA.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-16
- VIN: 3GNEK13T13G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: INSTRUMENT PANEL HAS STOPPED WORKING. NONE OF THE GAUGES WORK. START VEHICLE NO GAUGES MOVE. DRIVE AND NO GAUGES MOVE, INCLUDING SPEEDOMETER
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-06-08
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: WHILE BRAKING FOR A RED STOP LIGHT THE TRUCK WAS STOPPING NORMALLY AND WAS ALMOST STOPPED WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT NEARLY TO THE FLOOR AND BRAKING ACTION WAS SEVERELY AFFECTED CAUSING A MUCH DELAYED COMPLETION TO THE STOP. WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL COLLAPSED A CHIME CAME ON AND A BRAKE FAILURE LIGHT APPEARED ON THE DASH PANEL. LUCKILY I WAS ABLE TO AVOID HITTING THE CAR IN FRONT OF ME. I WAS ABLE TO DRIVE THE CAR SLOWLY OUT OF TRAFFIC GOING VERY SLOW AND USING THE EMERGENCY BRAKE. UPON INITIAL INSPECTION, BRAKE FLUID WAS OBSERVED LEAKING FROM SOMEWHERE UNDER THE TRUCK. THE TRUCK WAS TOWED TO A SERVICE GARAGE WHERE THE INITIAL DIAGNOSIS WAS A RUSTED OUT BRAKE LINE.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-13
- VIN: 3GNEK13T23G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE 1500. WHILE DRIVING 25 MPH, THE CONTACT DEPRESSED THE BRAKE PEDAL AND NOTICED THAT THERE WAS NO BRAKE FUNCTIONALITY. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO COAST THE VEHICLE TO THE NEAREST FUEL STATION. THE BRAKE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED WHEN THE FAILURE OCCURRED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT BRAKE LINE FAILED DUE TO CORROSION AND THE REAR BRAKE LINE ALSO EXPERIENCED SEVERE CORROSION AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 105,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-15
- VIN: 3GNEK13T23G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE 1500. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE FAILED TO ACCELERATE. THE INSTRUMENT PANEL GAUGES FLUCTUATED INDEPENDENTLY AND SEVERAL WARNING INDICATORS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE ALSO STALLED. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED MULTIPLE TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE VEHICLE HAD ELECTRICAL ISSUES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 230,000.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-14
- VIN: 3GNEK13T33G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE HILL ON MY WAY HOME WITH MY THREE LILLTE KIDS IN THE TRUCK WHEN IT JUST SHUT OFF N WAS HARD TO STEER THE ABS LIGHT COME ON N THEN A LIGHT WITH A LOCK WITH A KEY THE TRUCK ACTED LIKE IT WANTED TO TURN OVER BUT DID N STILL TO THIS DAY IT WILL NO TURN OVER N START UP N STILL SHOWING THE LIL LOCK WITH A KEY.
STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-16
- VIN: 3GNMCFE06DG
- Components: STRUCTURE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASHBOARD IS CRACKED ABOVE THE SPEEDOMETER. I HAVE 56000 MILES ON THE VEHICLE. I OWNED A 2008 MODEL AND HAD SAME ISSUE. I THOUGHT THIS WAS ADDRESSED AND FIXED ON NEWER MODELS. I'M TOLD IT'LL COST ME $1500 TO FIX. IF THEY AREN'T GOING TO MAKE THIS GOOD I'M SWITCHING OVER TO TOYOTAS. THIS VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR DAYS WHEN I WENT TO USE IT NOTICED THE CRACK. VERY DISSAPPOINTED!
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-10-15
- VIN: 3GNMCGE03DG
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE DASHBOARD HAS DEVELOPED A CRACK IN THE PLASTIC ON THE PASSENGER SIDE RIGHT NEAR THE AIRBAG AREA.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-17
- VIN: 3GNEK13T63G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: LOST TOTAL BRAKING AT RED LIGHT AT BUSY INTERSECTION,45 MPH WITH THE GRACE OF GOD AVOIDED A BROADSIDE HIT, JUST MISSED A CHILD ON A BIKE, THIS WAS CAUSED BY A RUSTED BRAKE LINE. WHAT HAPPEN TO THE SAFETY BACK-UP IN THIS DESIGN ? THIS IS WRONG. IN SO MANY WAYS. IN THE USA WE NEED TO HOLD OUR SAFETY TO ITS HIGHEST. HOW MANY WILL DIE BEFORE THIS PROBLEM IS RESOLVED .
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-14
- VIN: 3GNEK13T03G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: WHEN YOU HIT A BUMP THE DOOR LOCKS UNLOCK AND LOCK ABS LIGHTS COME ON SAYS REDUCED POWER YOU MAYBE GOING 55 MPH THEN WHEN YOU HIT THE BUMP YOU LOOSE POWER MAYBE BE LUCKY TO GO 5 MPH VERY VERY DANGEROUS HAVE SPENT A LOT OF MONEY TRYING TO FIGURE OUT THE PROBLEM SHOULD BE A RECALL WITH ALL THE COMPLAINTS I HAVE SEEN ONLINE ABOUT THIS PROBLEM I CAN'T DRIVE MY TRUCK AFRAID I WILL GET KILLED
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-27
- VIN: 3GNEK13T73G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I LOST THE COMPLETE HYDRAULIC BRAKING SYSTEM DUE TO A LINE(S) BURST DUE TO RUST. THANKFULLY I WAS JUST COMING OUT OF A PARKING LOT SO I WAS NOT GOING FAST. MY FOOT IMMEDIATELY WENT TO THE FLOOR, THE WARNING SOUND AND INDICATOR CAME ON, BUT I HAD ABSOLUTELY NO BRAKES OTHER THAN THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, WHICH I USED TO PULL OVER. IT GOES TO THE SHOP ON TUESDAY SO I WILL KNOW THEN THE EXTENT OF THE DAMAGE. HAD I BEEN GOING 30 OR 40 AND COMING TO A CROWED INTERSECTION, SOMEONE SURELY WOULD HAVE BEEN HURT, THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN ABSOLUTELY NO WAY FOR ME TO STOP IN TIME. I HAD NO PRE-WARNING OF AN ISSUE, NO LOW FLUID INDICATIONS, NO BRAKE WARNING LIGHTS, JUST MY FOOT GOING TO THE FLOOR. PRETTY SCARY.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-01
- VIN: 3GNEC13T83G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: DASHBOARD ABOVE RADIO CRACKED REGARDLESS IF EXCELLENT CARE IF CAR AND SUN PROTECTION. UNDER MIRROR BACK TO AIR VENTS AND SPREADING ACROSS OTHER MID SECTION. OUT OF WARRANTY. OUT OF LUCK! NOT GOOD SINCE HAVE HAD MANY OTHER VEHICLES THAT DIDN'T CRACK UNDER SAME CONDITIONS.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-04-16
- VIN: 3GNGK23G73G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: SITTING AT A STOP LIGHT THE BRAKES FAILED. HOLDING THE BRAKE WHILE WAITING FOR THE LIGHT TO CHANGE, THE PEDAL ALL OF A SUDDEN WENT TO THE FLOOR. WHEN I BEGAN MOVING I HAD TO KEEP THE TRUCK BELOW 30 MPH TO ALLOW THE BRAKES TO WORK WITH INCREASED STOPPING DISTANCE FACTORED IN. AFTER ABOUT A 5 MILE DRIVE HOME, CHECKED THE BRAKES AND NOTICED A LEAK FROM RUSTED BRAKE LINES NEAR THE DRIVER'S DOOR. TRUCK CANNOT BE SAFELY DRIVEN UNTIL RUSTED LINES ARE REPLACED. NO ABILITY TO MAKE A REGULAR STOP MUCH LESS AN EMERGENCY STOP IN THE PRESENT CONDITION.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-26
- VIN: 3GNEK13TX3G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: MY 17 YEAR OLD SON WAS ON THE FREEWAY AND THE BRAKE PEDAL TRAVELLED ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR WHILE ATTEMPTING TO STOP. THE SERVICE BRAKE SYSTEM LIGHT CAME ON AT THE SAME TIME. STOPPING DISTANCE WAS INCREASED DRAMATICALLY, BY AT LEAST DOUBLE. IF THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN A CURVE OR CAR IN FRONT OF HIM THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN AN ACCIDENT. PARKED THE TRUCK UNTIL IT COULD BE INSPECTED AND FOUND A LEAK UNDER DRIVER SIDE FRONT DOOR. ALL OF THE MAIN BRAKE PIPES WERE RUSTED AND FRAGILE. TAKING TRUCK TO DEALERSHIP TO HAVE ALL BRAKE PIPES REPLACED WITH KIT MENTIONED IN (TSB) 13-05-22-001. I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED THAT GM IS FIGHTING A RECALL BY SIGHTING THE FACT THAT THERE ARE TWO DIFFERENT BRAKE SYSTEMS AND IT IS NOT A SAFETY ISSUE. WHAT IF THE RUSTED BRAKE LINES FOR BOTH SYSTEMS FAILED. AT THE VERY LEAST IT SEEMS THAT HAVING YOUR STOPPING DISTANCE INCREASE BY ALMOST DOUBLE WITH OUT WARNING IS A SAFETY ISSUE.
2003 Chevrolet Avalanche recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche.
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Manufacturer: HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL, INC.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION MAY CAUSE AN INADEQUATE SEAL AT THE CONNECTION, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO A FUEL LEAK. IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: HONEYWELL WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON OCTOBER 18, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FRAM CUSTOMER SERVICE AT 1-800-890-2075 (OPTION 1).
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Summary: ON CERTAIN CREW CAB PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE 2ND ROW CENTER OCCUPANT SEAT BELT ROUTING MAY MAKE IT DIFFICULT TO POSITION THE LAP PORTION OF THE SAFETY BELT LOW AROUND THE HIPS OF OCCUPANTS, ESPECIALLY SMALLER OCCUPANTS, SEATED IN THIS POSITION. APPROPRIATE USE OF A CHILD SEAT OR BOOSTER SEAT, AS RECOMMENDED FOR SMALL CHILDREN, DOES IMPROVE THE FIT CONDITION FOR THIS USER GROUP. IN ADDITION TO INSTRUCTIONS ON PROPER INFANT AND YOUNG CHILD RESTRAINT (WITH CHILD SEATS OR BOOSTERS), SPECIAL VERBIAGE FOR RESTRAINING OLDER CHILD IS INCLUDED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL. ALSO, THE SUGGESTED SEAT BELT FIT/ROUTING FOR ADULTS, IRRESPECTIVE OF SEATING POSITION, IS DESCRIBED IN THE OWNER'S MANUAL TEXT.
- Consequence: A LAP PORTION OF THE SEAT BELT ROUTING THAT IS NOT LOW AND SNUG ON THE HIPS CAN ALLOW THE LAP BELT TO RIDE UP ON AN OCCUPANT'S ABDOMEN INSTEAD OF FITTING LOW AROUND THEIR HIPBONES, AND THEREFORE, CAN EXPOSE THEM TO MORE RISK OF ABDOMINAL AND INTERNAL ORGAN INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL CUT OPEN THE GUIDE LOOP, REMOVE A PORTION OF THE LOOP, AND THEN THE REMAINING TWO SIDES SHOULD BE FOLDED OVER AND SECURED WITH A RETAINER FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 21, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, OR HUMMER AT 1-800-732-5493.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:TAILGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE GALVANIZED STEEL TAILGATE SUPPORT CABLES THAT RETAIN THE TAILGATE IN THE FULL OPEN (HORIZONTAL) POSITION MAY CORRODE, WEAKEN, AND EVENTUALLY FRACTURE. IF BOTH CABLES FRACTURED, THE TAILGATE WOULD SUDDENLY DROP AND STRIKE THE TOP SURFACE OF THE REAR BUMPER.
- Consequence: ANYONE SITTING OR STANDING ON THE HORIZONTAL SURFACE OF THE TAILGATE WHEN BOTH CABLES FRACTURED COULD BE INJURED BY FALLING FROM THE TAILGATE. ON VEHICLES THAT HAVE HAD THE BUMPER REMOVED, THE TAILGATE MAY DROP EVEN LOWER. ADDITIONALLY, IF THERE IS CARGO ON THE TAILGATE THE CARGO MAY FALL OFF IF THE SUPPORT CABLES FRACTURE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CABLES. INTERIM OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON APRIL 7, 20004. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 24, 2004, WHEN REPLACEMENT PARTS WERE AVAILABLE, AND WILL CONTINUE THROUGH OCTOBER 29, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438 OR GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, OR VISIT WWW.MYGMLINK.COM, AND ENTER YOUR VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, PICKUP TRUCKS, AND PASSENGER VANS FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 135, ?PASSENGER CAR BRAKE SYSTEMS.? SOME OF THESE VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH AN OUT-OF-SPECIFICATION BRAKE HYDRO-BOOST HOUSING RELIEF VALVE BORE.
- Consequence: CONSEQUENTLY, THE VALVE O-RING SEAL MAY FRACTURE. STEERING EFFORTS MAY BE SLIGHTLY INCREASED WHILE BRAKING OR PARKING. UNDER CERTAIN DRIVING CONDITIONS, A FRACTURED SEAL MAY REQUIRE A SLIGHT INCREASE IN THE APPLIED BRAKE PEDAL EFFORT TO ACHIEVE THE SAME VEHICLE DECELERATION RATE AS PRIOR TO THE SEAT FRACTURE.
- Remedy: DEALERS ARE TO REPLACE THE HYDRO-BOOST RELIEF VALVE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JUNE 18, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339; CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438; GMC AT 1-866-996-9463; OR HUMMER AT 1-866-486-6376.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, VEHICLES, DURING A 30 DEGREE LEFT ANGLE FRONTAL IMPACT OF SUFFICIENT SEVERITY, A TEAR COULD DEVELOP IN THE MID-FRAME CROSS MEMBER AT ITS ATTACHMENT TO THE LEFT FRAME RAIL. IF THE MID-FRAME CROSS MEMBER TEARS DURING FRONTAL IMPACT AND PRODUCES A SHARP EDGE, CONTACT OF THE SHARP EDGE WITH THE FUEL TANK COULD RESULT IN A PUNCTURE OF THE FUEL TANK AND POSSIBLE FUEL LEAKAGE.
- Consequence: FUEL LEAKAGE, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUEL TANK SHIELD. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 20, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-222-1020 OR GMC AT 1-800-462-8782.
Negative 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche car reviews
Positive 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche car reviews
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Let's begin with the impressive drivetrain - it's bulletproof! With 295 hp, it's rock solid and quick, and the transmission is great. The interior is comfortable and not too flashy, with seats that are a pleasure to sit in. The truck is highly practical, with a decently large bed and a cover that works as a tonneau. I've personally taken this truck on over 4500 mile road trips and it hasn't let me down. Even after passing 80,000 miles, I haven't experienced a single problem. In terms of gas mileage, it gets around 15.5 in town and over 19 on the highway. Overall, it's a fantastic truck that I highly recommend!
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The Avalanche is a highly useful and practical truck. The only downside is that it has limited front seat capacity, accommodating only 2 or 3 people depending on the seat option selected, if you utilize the fold-down mid-gate function. However, this minor inconvenience is outweighed by the fact that it is an awesome machine. It rides like a full-sized touring car and corners much better than any truck I have ever driven, especially with Z71. I highly recommend test driving one and experiencing it for yourself. Additionally, the bells and whistles that come standard are better than what you will find on Ford or Dodge.
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My wife gave me her Expedition and took my Avalanche away from me.
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I used to own an F150 before switching to the Avalanche. I must say, the Avalanche's ride and quietness are comparable to that of a high-quality sedan. The Bose stereo system is simply incredible. I absolutely adore the midgate and the versatility it provides. No other truck can match the capabilities of this one. I have used this feature several times and I am grateful to have had this vehicle. One minor drawback is that the front seats need to be moved forward to fold down the rear seat and fully lower the midgate. However, this issue could be easily resolved by adding removable rear seat headrests. I have driven this truck for 71000 miles and have only needed to perform routine oil changes. The original brakes are still in great condition. I still love this truck!
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I never thought I would fall in love with a truck! Whenever I drive my sister around in it, she never wants to get out of it! Most people don't believe it's mine, probably because I'm a female, but I love the feeling of being up high. It handles like a luxury car and I find it very reliable, so as a woman, I wouldn't hesitate to drive it anywhere. The only thing that bothers me is that all the doors have a bar to grab when someone gets in the car, except for the driver's side. I wonder why? Is it possible to install one now? Anyway, I'm sure I'll be enjoying my 2004 Avalanche for many years to come. Thank you, Snooki!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche problems:
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Other years of Chevrolet Avalanche
Are you having problems with your 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche?
Oren Simonis 2024-07-02
Positives: The truck is impressively quiet for its size, which you'll notice immediately whether driving on the highway or over rough terrain. It's also very comfortable, except for the front center with bench seats. On the downside, there is a known issue with water leaking into the cabin from the rear flatbed. Additionally, backing out can be a challenge due to the rear of the flatbed sticking up, which could potentially cause accidents. However, it's nice to have automatic door locks while driving and a door-ajar alert.