2005 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 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche problems
The 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are the details of some of these issues:
- Fuel System: Some owners have reported issues with the fuel system, such as the inability to control or defaulting to defrost mode in the air conditioner heat ventilation and air conditioning system. This could lead to inconvenience and discomfort for the driver and passengers.
- Engine and Engine Cooling: There have been reports of engine and engine cooling issues, such as the service engine soon light being on and a misfire or engine noise. There are multiple possible causes for this issue, including faulty spark plugs or ignition coils.
- Electrical System: Some owners have reported electrical system issues, such as a transmission solenoid replacement due to a faulty solenoid. This could lead to transmission problems and decreased performance.
- Seats: There have been reports of seat position sensor circuit issues, which could cause the SIR MIL DTC B0084 and/or B0085 to appear. This could be caused by broken seat position sensor circuits under the driver or passenger front seats, which could occur due to repeated seat movement over time.
- Exhaust Vibration Resonance or Moan: Some owners have reported exhaust vibration resonance or moan, particularly in the 2004-2005 GMC Denali models. This could lead to discomfort and decreased driving enjoyment.
- Rear Axle Locking Differential Chatter Shudder Noise on Turns: There have been reports of chatter, shudder, and noise on turns in the rear axle locking differential. This could lead to decreased driving performance and increased wear on the differential.
These are some of the common problems reported by owners of the 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche. It is important for owners to stay up-to-date on recalls and service bulletins to ensure their vehicle is safe and performing optimally.
Are there any recalls on a 2005 Chevy Avalanche?
2005 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 Recalls
515020, 515021, 515025, 515053, 515054, 515059, AND 515060, SHIPPED BETWEEN JANUARY 23, 2006, AND DECEMBER 20, 2007, SOLD FOR LIGHT DUTY AND MEDIUM DUTY TRUCKS.
Is the 2005 Avalanche a good truck?
Great overall travel & hauling
Very comfortable and smooth ride even on long trips. Great for hauling items and having the cover over the bed is great also. We love it so much that when it is time to replace ours we will do so with another Avalanche!
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.
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 Chevrolet Avalanche a good vehicle?
For a monster truck, the Avalanche drives pretty well, with good steering and brake-pedal feel. Based on the same platform as the Chevy Silverado full-size pickup, this truck has GM's innovative Midgate feature, which allows pass-through capability between the cargo box and the cabin, vastly increasing versatility.
Is the 2005 Avalanche a good truck?
Great overall travel & hauling
Very comfortable and smooth ride even on long trips. Great for hauling items and having the cover over the bed is great also. We love it so much that when it is time to replace ours we will do so with another Avalanche!
How long do Chevy Avalanches last?
The Chevy Avalanche Could Last 250,000 Miles, Study Finds.
Why did Chevrolet stop making 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.
2005 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
- Power train problems
- Air bags problems
- Service brakes problems
- Steering problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche
The NHTSA has received 205 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche vehicles.
WHEELS,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-08-06
- VIN: 3gnek12z55g
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, the passenger’s side air bag warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and diagnosed that the passenger’s side air bag was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 16,900.
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-02-20
- VIN: 3GNEC12Z95G
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: SO THE HYDRABOOST IS FAILING AND MY TRUCK IS POURING AN INSANE AMOUNT OF POWER STEERING FLUID FROM HYDRABOOST SYSTEM. WHEN RESEARCHING THIS PROBLEM FOR MY YEAR MAKE AND MODEL THE HYDRABOOST RECALL POPS UP BUT WHEN CALLING CHEVROLET THEY WANT TO DO NOTHING. WHEN ITS APPARENT MY TRUCK IS AFFECTED BY TRASH PARTS. IT ONLY HAS 149000 MILES ON IT AND THE HYDRABOOST SYSTEM IS GONE. I'M TIRED OF ADDING 2 QUARTS OF POWER STEERING FLUID A WEEK, AND CANT EVEN DRIVE MY FAMILY AROUND BECAUSE I WAITING ON BRAKES TO SPORADICALLY FAIL DUE TO THE SYSTEM BEING COMPROMISED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-15
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z25G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR LOCATED IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER DOES NOT ILLUMINATE THEREFORE, I DON'T KNOW WHAT GEAR THE VEHICLE IS IN. IT SEEMS LIKE A SAFETY ISSUE TO ME. IT OCCURS WHEN I START THE VEHICLE, AM MOVING AND WHEN THE HEADLIGHTS ARE ON.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-08-22
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z55G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: FUEL PUMP FAILED
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-21
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z05G
- Components: SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2005 CHEVROLET AVALANCHE 1500. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, A SCREECHING NOISE EMERGED FROM THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND SHUT OFF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO WILSON COUNTY MOTORS CHEVROLET IN LEBANON, TENNESSEE (615-257-0578) WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FRONT DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL HUB FAILED AND NEEDED REPLACEMENT ALONG WITH THE ROTORS AND BRAKE PADS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 178,000.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,INTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-03-15
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z55G
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,INTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE SHIFT LEVER POSITION IS NOT ILLUMINATED. THERE IS ANOTHER RECALL FOR THIS SAME ISSUE BUT THE COMPANY WILL NOT DO ANYTHING. I TURN THE VEHICLE ON AND CANNOT TELL WHAT GEAR I EVEN AM IN,
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-02-01
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z65G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: METAL BRAKE LINE CORRODED THROUGH WHILE DRIVING CAUSING ALMOST TOTAL LOSS OF BRAKES.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-22
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z85G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE GEAR SHIFT INDICATOR DOES NOT LIGHT UP IN THE INSTRUMENT PANNEL. THEREFORE YOU DON'T KNOW VWHAT GEAR YOU ARE IN. I DO UNDERSTAND THERE WAS A RECALL NHTSA CAMPAIGN 05V055000 RECALL BAGAN ON 02/14/2005
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-01-06
- VIN: 3GNEC12Z55G
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AT 80K I PUT MY TRUCK IN REVERSE AND HEARD A CLUNK SOUND AND IMMEDIATELY IT WOULDN'T SHIFT GEARS ANYMORE. I WENT AND HAD THE TRANSMISSION REBUILT WHICH LASTED ROUGHLY 10K MORE. NOW, THE TRUCK WON'T SHIFT YET AGAIN AND THE FILTER WAS CHANGED AND THE REAR OUTPUT SEAL. CURRENTLY, WHEN I DRIVE SINCE ITS MY ONLY VEHICLE, ONE MINUTE IT WILL SHIFT FINE BUT AFTER I TURN THE ENGINE OFF AND ON AGAIN, IT WILL NOT SHIFT FROM FIRST AND THE AGAIN, CHECK ENGINE LIGHT IS ON!
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-12
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE FUELING THERE SEEMS TO BE A BACKLASH AIR BUBBLE THAT OCCURS AND IT TAKES APPROXIMATELY 10 MINUTES TO PUT $30 WORTH OF FUEL. WHILE PUMPING THE GAS NO MATTER HOW SLOW OR FAST AS THE SAFETY IS IN PLACE TO STOP THE FUEL FROM COMING OUT OF THE FUEL NECK WHERE IT MEETS THE FUEL GOING IN THIS IS NORMAL TO KICK OFF THE FUEL SO SPILLAGE DOES NOT BECOME A PROBLEM HOWEVER WHEN YOU STOP FUELING THERE IS A BURP BACK AS IN A AIR BUBBLE THAT SPLASHES OUTSIDE THE VEHICLE WHICH COULD POTENTIALLY SPLASH IN A FACE OR ON YOUR SKIN AND IT ALSO RUNS DOWN THE SIDE OF THE BODY OF THE VEHICLE AGAIN THAT IS WHEN FUELING HAS STOPPED IT BURPS THE FUEL OUT OF THE VEHICLE. OBVIOUSLY THE VEHICLE IS STATIONARY WHILE FUELING. THIS OCCURS NO MATTER WHAT GAS STATION IS USED OLD NEW IT DOESN'T MATTER.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-09-30
- VIN: 3GNGK22G95G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BRAKE FAILURE - LOSS OF PRESSURE/FLUID. BRAKE LINES FROM MASTER CYLINDER TO ABS DISTRIBUTION BLOCK CORRODED AND RUPTURED. LUCKILY, FAILURE OCCURRED JUST AFTER RETURNING HOME, MANEUVERING IN THE DRIVEWAY. I HAVE CONTACTED GM TO OPEN A CASE AND SEEK DIAGNOSIS/REPAIR. VEHICLE IS IN TN; NOT A HIGH SNOW/CORROSION AREA.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-08-12
- VIN: 3GNEC12Z45G
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DRIVING DOWN COUNTY RD STOPPED AT STOP SIGN. STARTED TO TAKE OFF IT STARTED SLIPPING THEN QUIT PULLING COMPLETLY.PUET IT IN ALL DRIVES 1,2,3, & D NOTHING HAPPENED CUT ENGINE OFF PUT IT IN DRIVE IT STARTED OUT LIKE NOTHING HAPPENED FOR SHORT DISTANCE THEN SAME THING AGAIN.
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-01
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z45G
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I WAS TOLD BY A GM DEALER HOW MY VEHICLE IS RUSTED EXCESSIVELY WITH THE UNDERCARRIAGE AND THE QUARTER SILLS THAT HAVE A RUST THROUGH HOLE ABOUT 3 INCHES. I'VE OPENED A CASE WITH GM AND THEY STATED ITS OUT OF WARRANTY. I DON'T KNOW HOW GM GETS AWAY WITH THIS REPAIR AND TOYOTA HAD TO BUYBACK VEHICLE OR DO FRAME REPLACEMENTS
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-02-14
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z05G
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THERE IS A FUEL SMELL THAT OCCURS WHEN VEHICLE IS RUNNING AND IMMEDIATELY WHEN IGNITION IS TURN TO ON POSITION ESPECIALLY ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE VEHICLE.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-22
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z45G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR DOES NOT ILLUMINATE. THE ODOMETER DOES NOT SHOW CURRENT SPEED ( MILES PER HOUR .) THE ABS SENSOR DOESN'T WORK.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-11-26
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z75G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE FAN MOTOR CONTROL RELAY AND CONNECTOR SHORT CIRCUITED AND BURNED UP. THE LOCATION OF THIS RELAY IS BEHIND AND SLIGHTLY BELOW THE GLOVE BOX. GENERAL MOTORS ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN SPECIAL COVERAGE ADJUSTMENT BULLETIN NO 11046 FOR THIS PROBLEM, HOWEVER IT WAS ONLY VALID IN CANADA, NOT THE UNITED STATES.
ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-12-17
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z55G
- Components: ELECTRONIC STABILITY CONTROL (ESC),SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING TO WORK 12/17/16, 5:40AM. I WAS TRAVELING TO WORK AND I LOST ALL PRESSURE IN MY PEDAL. WHICH LED ME TO NEARLY HIT A TELEPHONE POLE. THE MASTER CYLINDER AND A FLEX BRAKE LINE GOING FROM THE MASTER CYLINDER TO THE BRAKE BOOSTER(MODULE) WERE REPLACED. BUT THIS DID NOT FIX THE PROBLEM. I HAVE BENCH BLED THE MASTER CYLINDER, AND ALL BRAKE LINES AROUND THE TRUCK. I STILL HAVE NO BRAKES UNLESS YOU PUSH THEM TO THE FLOOR. I HAVE DONE SOME RESEARCH, AND FOUND WERE OTHER PEOPLE WITH THE SAME MODEL AND YEAR TRUCK HAVE HAD THE SAME PROBLEM. AFTER READING ALL THOSE BLOGS AND POST, I DISCOVERED THAT THE MODEL AND YEAR OF AVALANCHE THAT I HAVE WAS RECALLED FOR THE ABS SYSTEM FOR FAILURE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-02-13
- VIN: 3GNEC12Z05G
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,SEAT BELTS,ENGINE
- Summary: CLUSTER GAUGE IS NOT READ PROPERLY ALL READING ARE ALL OVER THE PLACE.
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-13
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z85G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: CATASTROPHIC BRAKE FAILURE BECAUSE OF FOUR CORRODED BRAKE LINES. ALL FOUR LINES CORRODED IN THE BRACKET HOLDING THE LINES TO THE DRIVER SIDE FRAME RAIL. I WAS DRIVING THE VEHICLE AND WHEN I ATTEMPTED TO APPLY THE BRAKES THERE WAS INITIAL RESISTANCE AND THEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT STRAIGHT TO THE FLOOR. I ATTEMPTED TO APPLY THE BRAKES AGAIN BUT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT STOP. I HAD TO APPLY THE PARKING BRAKE TO STOP.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-07
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z95G
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: THE FUEL LINES RUBBING TOGETHER CAUSING FUEL TO DUMP EVERY WHERE RIGHT NEXT TO THE CAT ON THE DRIVER SIDE OF THE TRUCK N THIS IS NOT A RECALL. THEN I SAY ITS ATTEPMED MURDER CHARGE AGAISNT CHEVY....
EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-11-16
- VIN: 3GNEC12Z95G
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER DOES NOT LIGHT UP. CANNOT TELL WHAT GEAR I AM SHIFTING IN AND OUT OF. THE DIC BUTTONS ON MY STEERING WHEEL DO NOT LIGHT UP, CANNOT TELL IF I HAVE A MALFUNCTION WHEN DRIVING DURING THE DARK. I DID CHECK FOR A RECALL ON THIS AND SAW THAT THERE WAS AN OLDER ONE ISSUED IN 2005 AND THAT IT CLOSED IN 2011. I WAS NOT AWARE OF ANY RECALLS BUT NONE THE LESS I FEEL THAT WITH BOTH COMPONENTS FAILING AND NOT WORKING PROPERLY CAN CAUSE A POTENTIAL PROBLEM WHEN IN OPERATION (DRIVING)
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-06-21
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z75G
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED UNDER HARD STOP (HIGHWAY, IN MOTION). INTERMEDIATE STEEL BRAKE LINE FAILED TO REAR BRAKES IN A MODE OF RUPTURE DUE TO CORROSION. ABS LIGHT HAD BEEN ON WITH SERVICE BRAKE MESSAGE AS WELL. ALL OTHER STEEL LINES WERE CORRODED AND CONTACTED GM. 2 OTHER SILVERADO LINE VEHICLES OWNED ALSO FAILED THIS YEAR DUE TO CORROSION. GM RESPONSE WAS THAT NO RECALL EXISTED. REPLACED ALL STEEL BRAKE LINES IN VEHICLE WITH STAINLESS AFTERMARKET LINES. AFTER MULTIPLE CONTACTS WITH GM CUSTOMER SERVICE, I WAS TOLD TO SAVE MY RECEIPTS FOR REPAIRS. THIS IS AN INCORRECT MATERIAL SPECIFICATION, LATENT DEFECT AND GM NEEDS TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE. 3 VEHICLES THAT I OWN WITH THE SAME REPAIR IN 8 MONTHS. INEXCUSABLE!
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-19
- VIN: 3GNEK12ZX5G
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: CYLINDER HEADS CRACKED DUE TO POOR CASTING (KNOWN ISSUE BY GM). THIS LED TO COOLANT IN THE ENGINE CAUSING DAMAGE TO LIFTERS. EXPECTED COST TO FIX IS APPROXIMATELY $1,500 IN PARTS UP TO $4,000 IN LABOR.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-07-20
- VIN: 3GNEK12Z25G
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG LIGHT IS ON AND IT SHOWS IN THE DISPLAY WHEN STARTED TO "SERVICE AIR BAG". NO PREVIOUS ACCIDENT OR ANY INDICATION AS TO THE CAUSE JUST WAS ON ONE DAY WHEN I STARTED IT.
2005 Chevrolet Avalanche recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 3 recalls for different components of the 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche.
- 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: POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:SHIFT PATTERN INDICATOR
- Summary: CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AN AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT." UNDER CERTAIN VEHICLE STARTING CONDITIONS, THE SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR LOCATED IN THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER MAY NOT ILLUMINATE. IF THE SHIFT LEVER POSITION INDICATOR DOES NOT ILLUMINATE, THE DRIVER MAY NOT KNOW WHICH GEAR THE VEHICLE IS IN.
- Consequence: THE VEHICLE MAY MOVE IN AN UNINTENDED DIRECTION RESULTING IN POSSIBLE INJURY TO OTHERS OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPROGRAM THE INSTRUMENT PANEL CLUSTER FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 14, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, AND GMC AT 1-866-996-9463.
- Manufacturer: GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: CERTAIN TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND VANS EQUIPPED WITH BOSCH HYDRO-BOOST BRAKE ASSEMBLIES, THE HYDRAULIC BRAKE BOOSTER PRESSURE ACCUMULATOR MAY CRACK AND SEPARATE FROM THE HYDRO-BOOST ASSEMBLY DURING NORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS.
- Consequence: IF A SEPARATION OCCURRED AND THE HOOD OF THE VEHICLE WERE OPEN, FRAGMENTS FROM THE ACCUMULATOR COULD CAUSE INJURY TO PEOPLE IN THE IMMEDIATE AREA. THE PRESENCE OF THIS CRACK OR FRACTURED SURFACE COULD ALLOW THE HYDRAULIC FLUID TO LEAK FROM THE ACCUMULATOR CIRCUIT OF THE BOOSTER ASSEMBLY. THE LOSS OF FLUID WOULD CAUSE INCREASED STEERING AND BRAKING EFFORT AND A CRASH MAY OCCUR WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL TEST THE HYDRO-BOOST ASSEMBLY FOR FUNCTIONAL OPERATION OF THE TWO-FUNCTION VALVE. IF THE HYDRO-BOOST ASSEMBLY FAILS THE TEST, DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE ASSEMBLY FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 23, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC TRUCKS AT 1-866-996-9463 AND HUMMER AT 1-800-732-5493.
Negative 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche car reviews
Positive 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche car reviews
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Your Avalanche sounds like a great vehicle! You mentioned that you bought it new and have had zero engine issues. It's impressive that you've been able to tow a heavy camper with it, even though it's not the best towing vehicle for something heavy. I also noticed that you run Amsoil and your engine still runs like new with 65k. It's great to hear that you've had minimal issues with your vehicle and that it's been able to handle your needs. Thank you for sharing your experience!
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I bought this truck for my wife, but I must admit, I wish I could drive it every day. My six-year-old loves the moonroof, my teenager loves the XM radio, and both of our dogs adore the removable rear glass window, which allows them to stick their heads out while riding in the bed. The only issue my wife has is with parking. In terms of problems, we had to replace the oxygen sensor at 2500 miles and one of the speed sensors malfunctioned at 5000 miles, causing the check ABS and traction control lights to come on.
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I love my Avalanche LT! It's my first truck and I don't know how I ever managed without it. The 07's have really hit the mark with the tailgate, rims, and upgraded interior. Chevy did a great job!
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I absolutely adore my truck! It's my go-to place to sleep when I'm in between jobs. I knew it was the only truck for me and waited patiently for 3 years to finally make it mine. Sure, there's a bit of a rattle in the engine compartment, but that doesn't change how much I love it. I've heard some people have traded theirs in or gotten rid of them because of the noise, but not me. I'm keeping my truck for life, even if I do end up getting a Chevy sports car in the future!
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Best riding vehicle I have owned and this is my first truck. I'm so glad I chose this one and I'm definitely considering buying another one in the future.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche problems:
2005 Chevrolet Avalanche 1500 Problems and Complaints - 22 Issues
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Are you having problems with your 2005 Chevrolet Avalanche?
Ben Gulgowski 2024-09-20
This truck is amazing! You get so much versatility with it. I bought the tent to go camping in and it works great. On long road trips with friends, the waterproof bed is more than enough to keep everyone's luggage dry, and there is plenty of room for all of our luggage. I can even load it up with a trailer of 3 ATV's and have six people ride comfortably, and still have room for 3 dogs in the back with 2 large coolers. The dogs absolutely love it! They ride great under the covers, sleeping most of the time, and you don't have to worry about them jumping out. We take the one closest to the back window off to give them plenty of air. There is plenty of leg room for everyone and cup holders. It's a fantastic overall buy!
Lester Macejkovic 2024-08-01
The truck has a neat design, but it is very large. Unfortunately, the performance is poor with sloppy brakes, steering, handling, and acceleration. Personally, I had to take mine back to the dealer six times within the first 9 months. As a result, I sold it and bought a different brand. Although it has a great concept, GM needs to do a lot of work on overall build quality, interior design quality, and performance (it needs a little sport).
Maurice Schiller 2024-05-17
I really enjoy driving this vehicle, but I'm only getting about 13-14 miles to the gallon. Another issue I've experienced is that it leaks water behind the rear driver side passenger seat every time it rains. This will be my third time taking it to the dealer. I'm considering getting a different truck.
Grant Feeney 2024-04-13
I strongly advise against purchasing an Avalanche. Despite its advertised features, my personal experience with this vehicle has been extremely negative. The front end produces a persistent rattle, and the ABS brake has already failed, requiring a costly $600 replacement part (not including labor). Additionally, the front shocks require replacement, and I have had to replace the O2 sensors and brake calipers, among other issues. All of this has occurred despite the vehicle having only 56,000 miles on it. In my opinion, the Avalanche is not worth the high price tag and is not a reliable investment.