2006 Chevy Trailblazer LT w/65k miles. What to fix?

[TechBoyJK]

Hi All,

My step-dad gave me his lightly driven 2006 Trailblazer. All around it's in great shape. 65k miles, leather, etc.

It's in need of some maintenance though, and I'm trying to budget and figure out what's worth fixing.

Here's some quick specs on the car (per the VIN lookup)

Engine & Powertrain
Type Straight 6 Cylinder Engine
Displacement L/CI 4.2/254
Horsepower 291.0 @ 6000
Fuel Economy 15.0 City / 21.0 Highway MPG
Fuel Capacity 22.0 gal
Net Torque 277.0 @ 4800

Tech Specs
Curb Weight - Front 2450 lbs 2450.0 min 2450.0 max
Curb Weight - Rear 2060 lbs 2060.0 min 2060.0 max
Suspension Type - Front Independent
Suspension Type - Rear Coil
Front Tire Size P255/50R20, P245/65R17
Rear Tire Size P255/50R20, P245/65R17
Brake ABS System 4-Wheel
Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness 12.0 x 1.14 in
Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness 12.8 x 0.78 in
Wheelbase 113.00 in 113.0 min 113.0 max
Ground Clearance, Front 7.80 in 7.8 min 7.8 max

1) I need new tires. Right now I have the stock wheels on. My uncle recently died, and he left me a 'like new' set of wheels/tires that were meant for his lifted S10. I don't have more details about them on hand, but I'll update once I do. Before he passed, he said he checked to see if they'd fit, and he said they would, except for that it might have to be lifted.

2) The suspension is bad. It has a super bouncy ride with a lot of sway in turns. Bad enough that my wife complains.

3) Have a bad wheel bearing in the front, passenger side wheel.

4) Brakes are getting close. Will likely need to be done within 6 months.

5) The fan doesn't blow on the hardest setting. It has a range. 0-5. 0-4 work, 5 does nothing (fan stops).

6) Check Engine light is one. These are the codes as I pulled them using an OBD-II bluetooth tool.

Current Fault
P0030 - Powertrain
HO2S Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 1)

Current Fault
P0135 - Powertrain
O2 Sensor Heater Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 1)

Pending Fault
P0304 - Powertrain
Cylinder 4 Misfire Detected



I'm at a crossroads on how to approach investing in this vehicle. I got it for free, it's in great shape (leather is still nice), I have nice stereo with a 100x4 Alpine amp and 4x6.5" Polk Coax Speakers, and even if I have to spend $2K to keep it running well, it's way better than I'd get for $2K buying a different car. Either way I'm going to want to deal with the fault codes, but the indecision lies in what to do with the suspension/tires.

Option 1 - Since I already have a new set of tires to use, and the suspension is bad, a wheel bearing is bad, and the brakes are due some TLC, I could just have it all done at once, but have it lifted 2-3" while they are at it to accommodate the bigger wheels/tires. Sure, I'll pay for for it being lifted, but I'll be saving $600-$1000 on tires. This is what I think it'd end up looking like.

Option 2 - Sell my uncle's wheels and tires. Buy basic all weather replacement tires. Buy the cheapest suspension I can. Have everything done at once (suspension, brakes, wheel bearing) but go the cheapest route possible. In the end, I don't see the cost being much different because I'll still ahve to buy tires, and I likely won't get near full value of the wheels/tires my uncle gave me. With option 1 at least I get a lifted 4x4, nicer suspension, and much better tires more suited for a 4x4.

That said.. thoughts on the options? And what about the fault codes?

 

[NutBucket]

Being that's an SUV with a full frame underneath the ride quality you describe is probably correct. It will ride more like a truck than a car. If the shocks need replacing you'll notice a more floaty ride; the car will undulate up and down more after hitting bumps, etc. It's not going to corner well because it's inherent to the design.

I would fix the electronics (sounds like it needs a new O2 sensor at least, the misfire might be related), get the suspension checked out by a reputable shop (it's probably fine) and get new tires in the OEM size. I wouldn't bother lifting it as it will not improve ride quality nor stability in turns. In fact, it will be worse in turns.

 

[JulesMaximus]

Keep in mind that larger tires/wheels will make it handle worse, braking distances will increase, fuel economy will decrease and it will be slower to accelerate. There really isn't any benefit in doing this at all unless you're doing off road stuff regularly and need the extra ground clearance.

 

[evident]

If you like the car and will keep it for more than 2 years i'd say fix it up the best you can.

 

[NutBucket]

Oh, and if you really want it to handle better you should lower it. But, I wouldn't bother. Just keep it stock.

 

[TechBoyJK]

Keep in mind that larger tires/wheels will make it handle worse, braking distances will increase, fuel economy will decrease and it will be slower to accelerate. There really isn't any benefit in doing this at all unless you're doing off road stuff regularly and need the extra ground clearance.

I would like to go camping and hiking more often, so having a capable 4x4 is nice to me. I don't expect it to have a great ride quality.

 

[TechBoyJK]

Being that's an SUV with a full frame underneath the ride quality you describe is probably correct. It will ride more like a truck than a car. If the shocks need replacing you'll notice a more floaty ride; the car will undulate up and down more after hitting bumps, etc. It's not going to corner well because it's inherent to the design.

I would fix the electronics (sounds like it needs a new O2 sensor at least, the misfire might be related), get the suspension checked out by a reputable shop (it's probably fine) and get new tires in the OEM size. I wouldn't bother lifting it as it will not improve ride quality nor stability in turns. In fact, it will be worse in turns.

The suspension is definitely bad. It's very floaty. Nothing like my dad or step-dad's trucks. My step-dad, whom I got the trailblazer from, even says the suspension is terrible now and mentioned I'd want to fix it sooner than later.

I definitely don't want it to handle like a sports car. But I would like to take advantage of it being a 4x4 so the idea of lifting it and giving it a better set of tires excites me because I want to do more camping and exploring.

 

[NutBucket]

I think you'll be impressed/surprised of how far you can go on the stock suspension/tire size.

IMHO replace the shocks (relatively cheap) and see how it goes. I think you'll be pleased with the results.

 

[TechBoyJK]

I think you'll be impressed/surprised of how far you can go on the stock suspension/tire size.

IMHO replace the shocks (relatively cheap) and see how it goes. I think you'll be pleased with the results.

I read on the trailvoy forum that I could just get slightly bigger tires and wheel spacers to widen the stance. It'd make it look a little more aggressive but wouldn't require a major suspension overhaul.

Here's what the VIN lookup lists as the tire sizes for the Trailblazer. I'm having trouble making sense of it.


Front Tire Size P255/50R20, P245/65R17
Rear Tire Size P255/50R20, P245/65R17

Why two different sizes for front and rear? What would be the best size for me to look at?

I got on ntb.com and told it the vehicle. It lists

• P235/75R16

• P245/65R17

 

[NutBucket]

The Trailblazer SS came with 20" wheels standard. Just look at what size tires you've currently got; more than likely they are 17".

You may be able to go to something like a 255/65 or maybe even a 255/70 on the stock wheels depending on their width (the wheels). The forum folks should be able to assist on that one.

 

[TechBoyJK]

Would these fit?

https://www.walmart.com/ip/General-Grabber-AT2-Light-Truck-and-SUV-Tire/14964148

 

[NutBucket]

As long as there aren't any clearance issues with the suspension and bodywork it should be fine.

 

[bruceb]

Based on what you posted, it sounds like both O2 sensors need replacement and you have a bad Spark Plug or Plug Wire on Cylinder #4 .. I would do all 6 of them. And since you need suspension work, do the brakes at same time (they will be easy to get to at that point) and also put the new tires on at same time. All that will save a ton in labor fees. You may also consider a cooling system flush and refill as well as oil change. Also for the Heater Fan issue, it is usually a bad blower motor resistor. Easy to change.

 

[TechBoyJK]

Based on what you posted, it sounds like both O2 sensors need replacement and you have a bad Spark Plug or Plug Wire on Cylinder #4 .. I would do all 6 of them. And since you need suspension work, do the brakes at same time (they will be easy to get to at that point) and also put the new tires on at same time. All that will save a ton in labor fees. You may also consider a cooling system flush and refill as well as oil change. Also for the Heater Fan issue, it is usually a bad blower motor resistor. Easy to change.

I was thinking about starting, this weekend, with changing all of the spark plugs and the distributor cap and plugs. This is something I could do myself, and I think that'd at least help rule some things out and help it run better.

 

[bruceb]

Change the O2 sensors as well. That should clear out the O2S Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 1) trouble code.
Should be the sensor before the catalytic converter. Link to the sensors at rockauto.com

http://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...l+l6,1432188,emission,oxygen+(o2)+sensor,5132

 

[TechBoyJK]

Change the O2 sensors as well. That should clear out the O2S Heater Control Circuit (Bank 1 Sensor 1) trouble code.
Should be the sensor before the catalytic converter. Link to the sensors at rockauto.com

http://www.rockauto.com/en/catalog/...l+l6,1432188,emission,oxygen+(o2)+sensor,5132

I've never changed an O2 sensor before. Is that easy to do? I was thinking it was beyond what I could get done easily on my own.

 

[NutBucket]

It's easy. Just buy the proper wrench and soak it with penetrating oil a few hours before.

 

[bruceb]

Just a large open end or box wrench depending on access. They make a special socket you can buy or rent which has a slot in the side for the wires (you can not use a normal socket as the wires would be in the way) When you put the new O2 sensor in, do not touch the tip. The threads should already be coated with Antiseize. Be sure the wire is routed so as not to touch any hot or moving parts. Many auto parts stores have them and they are not very costly. Heres one for about $10 .. rockauto.may also have it as should the store where you decide to get the O2 sensor. Tighten it snug but do not overdo it.

http://mobiledistributorsupply.com/...cket-1.html?gclid=CObTmpTWns8CFdMvgQod0K8CkA#

 

[Squisher]

I was thinking about starting, this weekend, with changing all of the spark plugs and the distributor cap and plugs. This is something I could do myself, and I think that'd at least help rule some things out and help it run better.

Plug wires can be as problematic as plugs these days. I'd do that too.

 

[herm0016]

1. plugs and wires
2. o2 sensor (s) if you are under there and have the tools out, may as well change both.
3 shocks /struts and the bad wheel bearing. check out the tie rods and ball joints while you are there.

these are pretty good trucks and the 6 is a great engine. My step mom put 250k on one, They did the rear diff once and some other bearings and such but that's about it.

 

[TechBoyJK]

1. plugs and wires
2. o2 sensor (s) if you are under there and have the tools out, may as well change both.
3 shocks /struts and the bad wheel bearing. check out the tie rods and ball joints while you are there.

these are pretty good trucks and the 6 is a great engine. My step mom put 250k on one, They did the rear diff once and some other bearings and such but that's about it.

I have plugs, plug wires, and the O2 sensor on order from Amazon. Don't think they'll get here by the weekend. But I'm going to start there.

Any other basic stuff I could do while I'm at it? Fuel Treatment? Transmission treatment? Going to 'attempt' to clean the throttle body while I'm changing the plugs and such. Apparently that's a good thing to do while you're at it.

 

[herm0016]

run a tank of shell premium through it. Most of the additives are a bunch of bs. be carefull cleaning the TB as you can mess up the mass airflow sensor.

 

[twinrider1]

Being that's an SUV with a full frame underneath the ride quality you describe is probably correct. It will ride more like a truck than a car.

Yep. What are you and your wife used to riding in now?

You already ordered it, but I'd still say research the forums for what brand of O2 sensors Trailblazers like. It's not uncommon for a vehicle to have a major preference.

I wouldn't jump in and do a bunch of different engine maintenance items all at once. I'm a big fan of one thing at a time, make sure it works, and then move on.

Tires and wheels? I'd stay stock unless you have a real passion for lifted trucks/off-roading. Looks cool when you see one go down the street but living with one is a different story. As mentioned, you're giving up ride, mileage, etc, for a cool look that you'll probably very rarely actually use.

 

[TechBoyJK]

Yep. What are you and your wife used to riding in now?

You already ordered it, but I'd still say research the forums for what brand of O2 sensors Trailblazers like. It's not uncommon for a vehicle to have a major preference.

I wouldn't jump in and do a bunch of different engine maintenance items all at once. I'm a big fan of one thing at a time, make sure it works, and then move on.

Tires and wheels? I'd stay stock unless you have a real passion for lifted trucks/off-roading. Looks cool when you see one go down the street but living with one is a different story. As mentioned, you're giving up ride, mileage, etc, for a cool look that you'll probably very rarely actually use.

On the trailvoy forum (Chevy Trailblazer and GMC Envoy), everyone recommends, especially in cases like an O2 Sensor, to get AC Delco. Bosche is regarded as a 'mistake'. I went with AC Delco parts.

 

[bruceb]

Can't go wrong with an AC Delco part as that was what was likely on it to begin with. But it may be a tad more expensive.