Frequent Dealership Trips: Two Visits in Just Two Months

FYI: The Chevrolet Blazer EV offers a blend of modern features and EV innovations but has faced some early teething issues with its lithium-ion battery and interior quality.

A Bumpy Start with the Chevrolet Blazer EV

After experiencing the initial excitement of driving my new Chevrolet Blazer EV for about ten minutes, the blissful moment was interrupted by an unexpected rattle. Heading down Interstate 5, the headliner buzzed at every bump I hit. While I tried to focus on the advantages of driving a brand-new SUV instead of my older vehicles, issues started to pile up only eight days later.

Warning Lights and Diagnostic Alerts

On noticing a red warning light on the dashboard, I checked the MyChevrolet app. The alert read, “2 Vehicle Issues: Lithium-Ion Battery and 12V Battery require your attention.” This message flashed with less than 200 miles on the odometer. Although the in-app error disappeared after a day, the headliner rattle persisted, prompting me to schedule an appointment with the selling Chevrolet dealer.

Delayed Resolution

Initially, I had to delay my dealer visit due to a hectic schedule. During the August 7 appointment, the dealer disconnected the battery and checked the system codes. GM, notified of the issue, explained that the alert was a rare error related to a charge system diagnostic for 2024 EVs and would be fixed through an upcoming over-the-air update. They suggested shifting between park and drive to clear the alert temporarily.

While the advice worked intermittently, the persistent headliner rattle needed more attention. It turned out the noise originated from above the passenger-side rear window. The panoramic roof’s poor post-clean-up condition suggested a possible mishandling during delivery. After ordering a new part and a few more trips to the shop, the rattle seemed to disappear initially but returned intermittently afterwards.

GM’s Response and Warranty

According to a GM spokesperson, the rattle was not frequent and might have resulted from an assembly error. As emphasized by GM, their vehicles come with a robust new vehicle warranty, and they encourage customers to visit their dealers for any concerns.

Loving the Blazer EV Despite Early Hiccups

Despite these early issues, my overall experience with the Blazer EV remains positive. The in-car software, featuring integrated Spotify and Google Maps, surpasses most competitors. The vehicle’s spaciousness is another significant plus, accommodating my surfboard and bike effortlessly. Moreover, it has proven itself capable of transporting four people comfortably and handling lengthy trips without any significant problems.

Concerns with Charging Speed

One major drawback is the Blazer EV’s sluggish charging speed. Charging from 15% to 80% on a 350-kW charger takes 39 minutes, while a 150-kW charger takes around 50 minutes for the same range. This slow charging can be an issue for long trips, making it less convenient compared to other EVs on the market. However, I’ve been managing with Level 1 charging at home, which meets my daily driving needs.

Conclusion: A Promising Yet Imperfect Start

Ultimately, the Chevrolet Blazer EV, with its advanced features and comfort, has proven to be a valuable addition to my fleet. While initial quality issues are noteworthy, they haven’t overshadowed the overall performance and convenience of the vehicle. As these EVs continue to improve with future updates, there’s much to look forward to on the horizon.

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William Kouch, Editor of Automotive.fyi