This Preliminary Information communicates to the dealer the process for downloading or updating operating software for the Tire Pressure Monitor, Active Fuel Injector tester, multi media tester, PICO Scope, GR8 starting/charging tester and Vehicle Data Recorder tools, giving website address and step by step instructions to complete the update.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer electrical problems
severe 8 complaints filed with NHTSA · avg repair $850 · see electrical across all vehicles →
When does it fail?
Of the 8 electrical complaints filed for the 2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer, here's the actual mileage breakdown — failures cluster heaviest at 25,000-50,000 mi.
Each bar shows the share of total complaints filed at that mileage range. Peak failure window highlighted. Some owners report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 miles symptom-free. Maintenance habits and driving conditions shift the curve as much as mileage alone.
Of the 10 model years of Chevrolet Trailblazer we track for electrical problems, this one has the fewest owner complaints on file (8).
Electrical accounts for 30% of all owner complaints filed against this vehicle, across 3 categories tracked.
Is there a fix? Manufacturer service bulletins
The manufacturer has issued service bulletins covering electrical on this vehicle — documented repair instructions, service campaigns, or warranty extensions sent to dealers. A TSB isn't a recall (it's not a free safety remedy), but it's the manufacturer acknowledging the issue and how to fix it.
This Preliminary Information communication provides information to the technician about vehicles that have an intermittent no crank, no start, or start stall concern with the security light coming on. Technician may find Diagnostic Trouble Codes B3055, B3060, and/or B3935. Technician should not replace any parts for this concern. If unable to duplicate the concern ask if the customer uses any Radio Frequency Identification Devices when the concern is present. Dealer should also direct their customers to the appropriate section in the Owner manuals that references that the device complies.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Vehicle Wide Programming (VWP) is a new process to update software on GM Vehicles. It provides the ability via a single selection within Techline Connect to first identify which modules need updating and then proceed to updating affected modules (with some exceptions). The updating of modules is completed in parallel instead of the technician needing to update one module at a time. This allows a more streamlined approach for dealers and customers.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This bulletin provides information on identifying Non-GM Engine Calibrations for Gasoline Engines using the Tech 2 or GDS 2.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗This service bulletin provides information for dealers/technicians on Service Programming System (SPS) Error Codes E4398, E4399, E4401, E4403, M4404, M4413, M6954, M6955, E4414, E4423, E4491, E4492, or E6961 and resolution information.
full bulletin at NHTSA ↗Source: NHTSA manufacturer communications. Bring the bulletin number to your dealer or shop.
What owners are reporting 5 most recent
Tl* the contact owns a 2009 Chevrolet trailblazer. While driving approximately 15 MPH, the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the ignition switch needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 104,000. Mailed out 01/13/15*lj
The first incident happened as I was in line behind a car at a stop sign, the vehicle just cut off and smoke started coming from the steering wheel. I tried to start it up again but it wouldn't start and was stuck in drive. It was towed and identified as the ignition switch burned. This was back in 2011. Since then, I have had the same problem and replaced the ignition switch four times. The…
My blower in my 2005 Chevy trailblazer stopped working. The wires melted together on the resister, melting the entire plug. I have seen where this is a common problem Chevy and gmcs have. This is a needed function and if there is a common problem, why aren't these companies doing something to remedy this???!! In one week I found 5 people who have had the same problem with chevys... And I love…
Was on expressway traveling about 65mph. Vehicle started to shut off while driving, felt as if it was out of gas, but tank was over 3/4 full. Managed to get to shoulder of road, sat there a minute or so vehicle recranked. I drove home. Took vehicle to mechanic that evening, he tested it the next day and said ignition switch was defective. He replaced switch, vehicle seems fine. *tr
The headlights have failed. All the lights blink while you ride along. The two back doors will not lock or unlock and the front doors are starting to not lock or unlock properly. The items that let you know when a tire is low in air are failing. The last one costing over $100 to fix. I am getting very upset with the electric parts in this trailblazer. This has been going on since purchase. As a…
Common questions
How serious is the electrical problem on the 2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer?
It's a meaningful issue. 8 complaints have been filed and the failure mode causes operational problems for owners. Repairs average $850.
At what mileage does the electrical typically fail?
Based on the 8 complaints filed, electrical issues most often appear around 70,989 miles. Some report problems earlier; some make it well past 150,000 with no symptoms. Maintenance habits matter — vehicles that received timely fluid services and were not regularly overworked tend to last longer.
What does it cost to fix?
Independent shops typically charge around $850 for electrical repairs on this vehicle. Dealer pricing tends to run 20-40% higher. The exact figure depends on the specific failure mode, parts availability, and your local labor rates. If you're outside factory warranty, an extended service contract often covers this category.
Are there any recalls related to electrical?
No active recalls currently cover electrical issues on this vehicle. The complaints filed represent owner-reported failures that haven't risen to the level of a manufacturer-issued recall — but they're still worth knowing about before you buy or budget for repairs.