IllustrationHEADLIGHTS TURN OFF WHILE DRIVING. HAPPENS WITH REGULARITY. HEADLIGHT RELAY DEFECTIVE. NO REPLACEMENT PART AVAILABLE. GM DENIES THAT A RECALL EXISTS. *TR
2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer Ext
Owner reports · Recalls · Investigations
Limited comparison data
There is not enough comparable history to draw a useful model-year comparison.
About this comparison →How this year compares
Owner complaints by model year
Compare all Trailblazer Ext years →Counts vary with age, sales and reporting. They are not failure rates.
What owners reported most
All reported categories
Tap a category to read its complaints. One report may name several components.
When problems were reported
Mileage at the reported incident
80–25K
5225–50K
6150–75K
2475–100K
19100–150K
4150K+
168 reports with mileage · 21 unknown
NHTSA’s mileage field refers to the reported incident, not necessarily the filing date. This shows report counts, not the likelihood of a failure.
What to inspect
Issues worth paying extra attention to based on owner reports.
- Fuel System, Gasoline. Review the 102 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Electrical System. Review the 41 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
- Exterior Lighting. Review the 11 owner reports in this category and discuss these concerns during a pre-purchase inspection. Read reports →
NHTSA owner reports · September 18, 2026 snapshot.
2 crash reports2 fire reports1 injury reports
Exterior Lighting complaints
11 reportsTHE HEADLIGHTS ARE NOT WORKING PROPERLY. SOMETIMES THE HEADLIGHTS WORK BUT OTHER TIMES THEY TURN OFF. THE HIGH BEAMS AND MARKER LIGHTS ARE NOT AFFECTED. THIS ALSO APPLIES TO THE DAYTIME RUNNING LAMPS AND OCCURS IN MOTION OR AT A STOP.
MY LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT WHICH SHOWS IT'S A RELAY BAD ONLINE IT SHOWS THAT THERE WAS A RECALL BUT IN THE DATABASE IT DOESN'T SHOW UP FOR MY VEHICLE
AS IDENTIFIED IN RECALL # 14V755000, THE LOW BEAM HEADLAMPS WILL TURN OFF AT RANDOM TIMES. THIS HAVE HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES DURING DARKNESS HOURS AND IS INCREASING. IN ONE CASE, AN ACCIDENT WAS BARELY AVOIDED. I WAS RECENTLY (NOV. 13, 2015) TOLD BY THE GM DEALER - THE VEHICLE VIN # DOES NOT LIST THIS AS A RECALL ITEM. ???? LAS…
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AS IDENTIFIED IN RECALL # 14V755000, THE LOW BEAM HEADLAMPS WILL TURN OFF AT RANDOM TIMES. THIS HAVE HAPPENED SEVERAL TIMES DURING DARKNESS HOURS AND IS INCREASING. IN ONE CASE, AN ACCIDENT WAS BARELY AVOIDED. I WAS RECENTLY (NOV. 13, 2015) TOLD BY THE GM DEALER - THE VEHICLE VIN # DOES NOT LIST THIS AS A RECALL ITEM. ???? LAST OCCURENCE IS LISTED BELOW.
BOTH REAR BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED SIMULTANEOUSLY, EVEN AFTER FUSES WERE CHECKED BOTH UNDER THE HOOD AND BEHIND THE DRIVERS SIDE FUSE BOX (FUSE #12 & FUSE #34). THIS IS A ROAD HAZARD AND FAULTY WIRING SHOULD BE COVERED. FRONT LEFT HEADLIGHT WAS FOUND TO HAVE SWITCH WITH MELTED WIRING AS WELL, CHANGES BY MECHANIC AND I WAS INFORMED IT…
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BOTH REAR BRAKE LIGHTS FAILED SIMULTANEOUSLY, EVEN AFTER FUSES WERE CHECKED BOTH UNDER THE HOOD AND BEHIND THE DRIVERS SIDE FUSE BOX (FUSE #12 & FUSE #34). THIS IS A ROAD HAZARD AND FAULTY WIRING SHOULD BE COVERED. FRONT LEFT HEADLIGHT WAS FOUND TO HAVE SWITCH WITH MELTED WIRING AS WELL, CHANGES BY MECHANIC AND I WAS INFORMED IT COULD HAVE CAUSED A FIRE. THIS VEHICLE HAS 3 RECALLS THUS FAR THAT ARE EXTREMELY DANGEROUS IF SUCH FAULTS CAN CAUSE A FIRE WITHIN THE ELECTRICAL WIRINGS. I WOULD LIKE TO GET COMPENSATED FOR THE WORK DONE, THE BRAKE LIGHTS FAULTY WIRING SHOULD BE COVERED UNDER THE RECALL AS THE LOCAL CHEVY DEALER REFUSES TO FIX IT. *TR
THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS ON MY 2006 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER EXT CONTINUE TO GO OUT. THE PROBLEM STARTED ABOUT 3 YEARS AGO WHERE INITIALLY THE DRIVERS SIDE LOW BEAM LIGHT WOULD TURN ON AND OFF INTERMITTENTLY. THEN, THE PIG-TAIL WIRING TO THE BULB BURNED UP (LUCKILY NOT CAUSING A FIRE, WHICH MY MECHANIC SAID COULD HAVE HAPPENED). THE…
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THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS ON MY 2006 CHEVROLET TRAILBLAZER EXT CONTINUE TO GO OUT. THE PROBLEM STARTED ABOUT 3 YEARS AGO WHERE INITIALLY THE DRIVERS SIDE LOW BEAM LIGHT WOULD TURN ON AND OFF INTERMITTENTLY. THEN, THE PIG-TAIL WIRING TO THE BULB BURNED UP (LUCKILY NOT CAUSING A FIRE, WHICH MY MECHANIC SAID COULD HAVE HAPPENED). THE PIG-TAIL WAS REPLACED AND THE LIGHT WORKED, BUT ONLY FOR ABOUT 8-10 MONTHS, WHICH THE WIRING BURNED UP AGAIN. THE SAME MECHANIC REPLACED THE WIRING AGAIN, AND THIS TIME IT ONLY LASTED ABOUT 6-8 MONTHS, AND HE REPLACED IT YET AGAIN. THIS FINAL WIRING REPLACEMENT LASTED, BUT THE RELAY WENT UP. WE REPLACED THE RELAY SEVERAL MONTHS AGO, BUT NOW THE LIGHT IS STARTING TO WORK INTERMITTENTLY AGAIN, WORRYING ME THAT THE PIG-TAIL WILL BURN UP AGAIN AND POSSIBLY CATCH FIRE. THE FIRST TIME IT BURNED UP, I NOTICED SOME VERY NOXIOUS FUMES WHILE DRIVING WHICH NAUSEATED ME TERRIBLY. I UNDERSTAND OTHER TRAILBLAZERS HAVE THIS PROBLEM. I WOULD LOVE TO SEE A RECALL ON IT AS THERE IS A SIMILAR RECALL ON SOME OF THE TRAILBLAZERS FOR THE BRAKE LIGHTS. *TR
MY LIGHTS DIM AND FLICKER ALONG WITH THE DASH BOARD INSTRUMENTATION AND THE VOLT METER DIPS DOWN TO AROUND 12. THIS PROBLEM INITIALLY OCCURRED ABOUT A YEAR AGO. IT SEEMS TO HAVE SOME SORT OF SHORT. I CALLED MY LOCAL AUTO SHOP WHO SAID HE WOULD TAKE A LOOK BUT DOUBTED HE WOULD FIND THE PROBLEM SINCE HE COULDN'T WITH THE LAST ONE …
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MY LIGHTS DIM AND FLICKER ALONG WITH THE DASH BOARD INSTRUMENTATION AND THE VOLT METER DIPS DOWN TO AROUND 12. THIS PROBLEM INITIALLY OCCURRED ABOUT A YEAR AGO. IT SEEMS TO HAVE SOME SORT OF SHORT. I CALLED MY LOCAL AUTO SHOP WHO SAID HE WOULD TAKE A LOOK BUT DOUBTED HE WOULD FIND THE PROBLEM SINCE HE COULDN'T WITH THE LAST ONE HE LOOKED AT!! I REALLY ENJOY THIS VEHICLE AND I'M HOPING THAT SOMEONE STUMBLES ACROSS THE REAL ISSUE AND IS ABLE TO HELP ME TO FIX MY TRAILBLAZER. *TR
THE BEARINGS ON THE ALTERNATOR ARE WEARING AND NEED TO BE REPLACED, THE VEHICLE ONLY HAS 29,000 MILES AND ACCORDING TO MY MECHANIC THEY SHOULD NOT BE WORN THIS EARLY AND SHOULD BE REPLACED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE; THIS IS DEFINITELY A SAFETY ISSUE AND A FAULTY PART THAT I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY TO HAVE REPLACED. THE FUEL LEVEL IND…
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THE BEARINGS ON THE ALTERNATOR ARE WEARING AND NEED TO BE REPLACED, THE VEHICLE ONLY HAS 29,000 MILES AND ACCORDING TO MY MECHANIC THEY SHOULD NOT BE WORN THIS EARLY AND SHOULD BE REPLACED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE; THIS IS DEFINITELY A SAFETY ISSUE AND A FAULTY PART THAT I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY TO HAVE REPLACED. THE FUEL LEVEL INDICATOR HAS STOPPED WORKING OVER 2.5 YEARS AGO. I DID RECEIVE A LETTER SAYING THAT THE PART MAY WEAR OUT PREMATURELY AND THEY ARE WILLING TO PAY 50% OF THE REPLACEMENT BUT IF IT WEARS OUT PREMATURELY THEN THE PART IS FAULTY AND I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY TO REPLACE THE PART. THE BACKUP LIGHT PANEL IS BAD, I TRIED TO REPLACE THE BULB BUT THE PROBLEM LIES WITH THE PANEL, FAULTY PART AGAIN. *TR
MY FUEL GAUGE ON MY 2006 CHEVY TRAILBLAZER SLOWLY STOPPED TO WHERE IT IS NO LONGER WORKING AT ALL. ALSO, SUDDENLY TODAY, BOTH OF MY DIM (LOW BEAM) HEAD LIGHTS STOPPED WORKING AFTER HAVING THE BATTERY REPLACED. HAVE CHECKED FUSES AND THEY ARE OK. I HAVE SEEN MANY COMPLAINTS FOR BOTH OF THESE ISSUES. *TR
THE AIR CONDITIONING ON MY 2006 CHEVY TRAILBLAZER EXT STOPPED WORKING. THE PROBLEM WAS THE BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR MODULE AND RESISTOR MODULE CONNECTOR. THE PARTS HAD MELTED TOGETHER, CAUSING THE WIRES TO BECOME LOOSE AT THE CONNECTION. APPARENTLY THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH MY CHEVY MODEL. THERE ARE MANY ONLINE POSTINGS INDICA…
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THE AIR CONDITIONING ON MY 2006 CHEVY TRAILBLAZER EXT STOPPED WORKING. THE PROBLEM WAS THE BLOWER MOTOR RESISTOR MODULE AND RESISTOR MODULE CONNECTOR. THE PARTS HAD MELTED TOGETHER, CAUSING THE WIRES TO BECOME LOOSE AT THE CONNECTION. APPARENTLY THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH MY CHEVY MODEL. THERE ARE MANY ONLINE POSTINGS INDICATING THAT THE PROBLEM COULD CAUSE A FIRE. CHEVROLET COMPANY REFUSED TO EVEN LOOK AT MY VEHICLE UNTIL I PAID A $110.00 DIAGNOSTIC FEE. THE SERVICE TECHNICIAN IMMEDIATELY KNEW WHAT THE PROBLEM WAS AND EXPLAINED THAT IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM WITH MY MODEL AND THE TAHOE. THE GAS GAUGE ALSO STOPPED WORKING RECENTLY WHICH I WAS TOLD BY THE TECHNICIAN THAT IT TOO WAS A COMMON PROBLEM. THERE ARE NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ON THESE PARTS AS WELL AS THE BRAKE LIGHT CIRCUIT BOARDS, WHICH ALSO WENT OUT ON MY VEHICLE. THE TECHNICIAN ONCE AGAIN SAID THAT IT WAS A COMMON PROBLEM. THESE PARTS SEEM TO BE FAILING SHORTLY AFTER THE WARRANTY EXPIRES. THERE ARE MANY ISSUES WITH THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM IN THIS VEHICLE. THE PROBLEMS ARE HAZARDOUS SAFETY ISSUES AND ARE KNOWN TO THE CHEVROLET CORPORATION. I WAS ABLE TO FIND THE PARTS AT NEARLY 80% CHEAPER THAN WHAT THE DEALER WANTED TO CHARGE ME, NOT INCLUDING THE LABOR AND DIAGNOSTIC FEE. SAFETY RECALLS ON THESE PARTS SHOULD BE ISSUED. *TR
Official recalls
615V599000 · Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
Sep 24, 2015
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2006-2007 Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer and GMC Envoy vehicles, and 2006 GMC Envoy XL and Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT vehicles. Fluid may enter into the driver's door master power window switch module, causing corrosion that could result in a short in the circuit board, causing window switches to become inoperative. Previously, the affected vehicles may have had their master power window switch module treated with a protective coating, instead of having it replaced.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: The protective coating may not eliminate the risk that the circuit board could short and result in a fire, even while the vehicle is unattended.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will install a new driver's door switch module, free of charge. The recall began on November 2, 2015. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020, and GMC customer service at 1-800-462-8782. GM's number for this recall is 15700.
15V519000 · Exterior Lighting:headlights
Aug 14, 2015
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2007 Pontiac Grand Prix, 2006-2009 Buick LaCrosse, 2006-2007 Buick Rainier, Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT, GMC Envoy XL, 2006-2008 Isuzu Ascender, and Saab 9-7x vehicles. In the affected vehicles, the headlamp driver module (HDM) may overheat and fail, causing the headlamps and daytime running lights to not illuminate.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: Headlamps that do not illuminate reduce the driver's ability to see the roadway and reduce the vehicle's visibility to oncoming vehicles, both of which increase the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the HDM, free of charge. The recall began on May 17, 2016. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Pontiac customer service at 1-800-762-2737. GM's number for this recall is 14291.
14V404000 · Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
Jul 2, 2014
General Motors LLC (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x; 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT and GMC Envoy XL; and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier and Isuzu Ascender vehicles. Fluid may enter the driver's door master power window switch module, causing corrosion that could result in a short in the circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. The short may also cause overheating, which could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke, or a fire.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A short in the circuit board could lead to a fire, increasing the risk of personal injury. A fire could occur even while the vehicle is not in use. As a precaution, owners are advised to park outside until the remedy has been made.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the part number on the door module, and install a new door module if necessary, free of charge. Parts for the remedy are not currently available. An interim letter was mailed to owners in August 2014. A second owner letter will be mailed when parts are available. Owners may contact GM customer service at 1-800-521-7300 (Buick), 1-800-222-1020 (Chevrolet), 1-800-462-8782 (GMC), 1-800-955-9007 (SAAB), and 1-800-255-6727 (Isuzu). GM's number for this recall is 14309. NOTE: This recall provides a new remedy for all vehicles covered by recall 13V-248. Vehicles whose modules were modified but not replaced as part of the previous recall remedy must have their vehicles remedied again under this campaign.
13V248000 · Electrical System; Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
Jun 13, 2013
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x; 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT and GMC Envoy XL; and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier and Isuzu Ascender vehicles. Fluid may enter the driver's door module, causing corrosion that could result in a short in the circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. The short may also cause overheating, which could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke, or a fire.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A short in the circuit board could lead to a fire, increasing the risk of personal injury. A fire could occur even while the vehicle is not in use. As a precaution, owners are advised to park outside until the remedy has been made.
Remedy: Owners will be contacted and dealers will test the driver's door module. If the module is functioning properly, a protective coating will be applied. If the module is not functioning properly, it will be replaced. These repairs will be done free of charge. GM will notify Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC owners, Isuzu and Saab will contact their respective owners. The recall began on August 2, 2013. Buick owners may contact the owner center at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet owners at 1-866-694-6546, GMC owners at 1-866-996-9463, Isuzu owners at 1-800-255-6727, and Saab owners at 1-800-955-9007. GM's campaign number is 12180. This recall is an expansion of recall 12V-406.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x; 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT and GMC Envoy XL; and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier and Isuzu Ascender vehicles. Fluid may enter the driver's door module, causing corrosion that could result in a short in the circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. The short may also cause overheating, which could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke, or a fire.
Consequence: A short in the circuit board could lead to a fire, increasing the risk of personal injury. A fire could occur even while the vehicle is not in use. As a precaution, owners are advised to park outside until the remedy has been made.
Remedy: Owners will be contacted and dealers will test the driver's door module. If the module is functioning properly, a protective coating will be applied. If the module is not functioning properly, it will be replaced. These repairs will be done free of charge. GM will notify Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC owners, Isuzu and Saab will contact their respective owners. The recall began on August 2, 2013. Buick owners may contact the owner center at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet owners at 1-866-694-6546, GMC owners at 1-866-996-9463, Isuzu owners at 1-800-255-6727, and Saab owners at 1-800-955-9007. GM's campaign number is 12180. This recall is an expansion of recall 12V-406.
Electrical System
General Motors (GM) is recalling certain model year 2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x; 2006 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT and GMC Envoy XL; and 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier and Isuzu Ascender vehicles. Fluid may enter the driver's door module, causing corrosion that could result in a short in the circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. The short may also cause overheating, which could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke, or a fire.
Consequence: A short in the circuit board could lead to a fire, increasing the risk of personal injury. A fire could occur even while the vehicle is not in use. As a precaution, owners are advised to park outside until the remedy has been made.
Remedy: Owners will be contacted and dealers will test the driver's door module. If the module is functioning properly, a protective coating will be applied. If the module is not functioning properly, it will be replaced. These repairs will be done free of charge. GM will notify Buick, Chevrolet, and GMC owners, Isuzu and Saab will contact their respective owners. The recall began on August 2, 2013. Buick owners may contact the owner center at 1-800-521-7300, Chevrolet owners at 1-866-694-6546, GMC owners at 1-866-996-9463, Isuzu owners at 1-800-255-6727, and Saab owners at 1-800-955-9007. GM's campaign number is 12180. This recall is an expansion of recall 12V-406.
05V552000 · Equipment:other:labels
Dec 7, 2005
CERTAIN TRUCKS AND SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 110, "TIRE SELECTION AND RIMS." THESE VEHICLES WERE SHIPPED WITH TIRE AND LOADING INFORMATION LABELS LISTING AN INACCCURATE VEHICLE CAPACITY WEIGHT.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: A MISPRINTED LABEL COULD LEAD TO IMPROPER VEHICLE LOADING SPECIFICATIONS OR TIRE INFLATION WHICH COULD RESULT IN A TIRE FAILURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH CORRECTED LABELS AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS. AT THE CUSTOMER'S OPTION, A DEALER CAN INSTALL THE LABEL FOR THEM. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MARCH 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, HUMMER AT 1-800-732-5493, PONTIAC AT 1-800-620-7668, SATURN AT 1-800-972-8876, OR ISUZU AT 1-800-255-6727.
05V455000 · Steering:hydraulic Power Assist:hose, Piping, And Connections
Oct 5, 2005
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH A POWER STEERING HOSE THAT IS NOT TO SPECIFICATION. UNDER EXTREME STEERING MANEUVERS, SUCH AS TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL FULLY TO THE LEFT OR RIGHT WHILE BRAKING, THE HOSE MAY FRACTURE AND LEAK FLUID.
Consequence & remedy
Consequence: IF THIS WERE TO OCCUR, POWER STEERING ASSIST WOULD BE LOST AND INCREASED STEERING EFFORT WOULD BE REQUIRED. ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH HYDRO-BOOST POWER BRAKES, IT COULD ALSO RESULT IN LOSS OF POWER BRAKE ASSIST AND INCREASED BRAKING EFFORT WOULD BE REQUIRED. IF THE POWER STEERING FLUID SPRAY WERE TO SPRAY ONTO HOT ENGINE PARTS, AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE COULD OCCUR.
Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE POWER STEERING HOSE(S) FOR TWO SUSPECT DATE CODES AND REPLACE THEM IF REQUIRED. THE RECALL WILL BEGIN ON OCTOBER 14, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT CHEVROLET AT 1-800-630-2438, GMC AT 1-866-996-9463, BUICK AT 1-866-608-8080, CADILLAC AT 1-866-982-2339, ISUZU AT 1-800-255-6727, OR HUMMER AT 1-800-732-5493.
Model-level recall history does not show whether a particular VIN is affected or has received a repair. Check a VIN with NHTSA ↗
NHTSA investigations
4RQ17002 · Loss Of Headlights
Opened Apr 24, 2017 · Closed Mar 29, 2021
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Exterior Lighting:headlights
The subject vehicles are model year (MY) 2002-2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, 2004-2007 Buick Rainier, 2003-2008 Isuzu Ascender, 2005-2009 Saab 9-7X, 2002-2004 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003-2006 Chevrolet SSR, 2005-2009 Buick Lacrosse, and 2006-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix. This scope includes the Trailblazer/Envoy variants: 2002-2006 Envoy XL/Trailblazer EXT and 2004-2005 Envoy XUV. The original scope of this investigation was expanded to include all vehicles equipped with the subject Headlight Driver Module (HDM). The focus of the investigation was to determine whether actions performed by General Motors adequately addressed any unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety in the subject vehicles concerning the headlights and the HDM that controls them.Under normal electrical load and environmental conditions, the HDM can overheat inside the Underhood Electrical Center (UEC). This can cause the module to fail and result in a simultaneous loss of both low beam headlights and both daytime running lights (DRLs), often with no warning or prior detectability to the driver. This failure can be intermittent or permanent. No other exterior lights are affected. High beams, turn signals, brake lights, and reverse lights are still operational.General Motors addressed this issue with 2 recalls (14V755 & 15V519) and a special coverage program (N172091910). In view of the recalls and special coverage program implemented by GM and the vehicle high beams continuing to operate, ODI has tentatively concluded that the actions taken by GM mitigate any unreasonable risk to safety posed by HDM failure in the subject vehicles.Accordingly, the investigation is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist. The agency reserves the right to take additional action if warranted by new circumstances.The ODI reports cited above are available for review online at NHTSA.gov under the identification numbers in the attached document.
EA12004 · Driver's Master Power Window Switch
Opened Jun 11, 2012 · Closed Jun 21, 2013
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System; Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
On August 15, 2012 General Motors (GM) announced a regional recall action (12V-406) involving model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, Isuzu Ascender and MY2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the salt belt states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The recall remedy requires the inspection and repair or replacement of the master power window switch, which GM refers to as a driver door module (DDM). At the same time, GM implemented a special coverage program to replace failed DDMs for vehicles registered outside of these states. ODI was not satisfied with GM's exclusion of non-salt belt vehicles and continued its investigation. On June 13, 2013, GM submitted a related recall notification (13V-248) to reclassify the initial special coverage program into a safety recall for vehicles that were not previously repaired under special coverage.The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis EA12-004 on June 11, 2012 to further investigate allegations of DDM thermal incidents in model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. Thermal incidents involve cases where fire-related events such as smoke and melt are present. ODI has received 170 reports alleging a thermal event occurred. Complainants stated that the DDM melted and in some cases produced odor and/or smoke. Fourteen of these incidents led to a fire where visible flames were reported or the damage extended significantly beyond the DDM. In addition to the 170 reports listed above, ODI received 63 reports alleging the DDM acted erratically or became inoperative. In response to ODI's Information Request (IR), GM provided 619 unique consumer complaints that related to the alleged problem. Seventy-seven of those reports led to a fire with flame, and 4 reported injuries of smoke inhalation and/or slight burns from contact with hot switches. GM also submitted 20,400 warranty claims for replacement of the DDM, most of which involved inoperative switches. The problem condition is caused by fluids, such as rain water, entering the driver's door module and subsequently causing corrosion that could result in an electrical short in the printed circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. However, the electrical short may also cause overheating that could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke or in some cases fire with flame. The circuit board was redesigned and GM implemented the new design into vehicle production on May 14, 2007. All failures cited above occurred in vehicles produced before this build date (i.e., with the original design DDM). GM also reported that all MY 2006-2007 GMT360/370 platform vehicles and MY 2005 SAAB 9-7x vehicles utilized the same DDM and therefore ODI expanded the subject population to include these vehicles.This investigation is closed on the basis of GM's announcement of safety recalls 12V-406 and 13V-248. The ODI complaints cited above can be reviewed at: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID, see the attached list for ODI numbers.
Additional source detail variants (4)
Electrical System
On August 15, 2012 General Motors (GM) announced a regional recall action (12V-406) involving model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, Isuzu Ascender and MY2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the salt belt states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The recall remedy requires the inspection and repair or replacement of the master power window switch, which GM refers to as a driver door module (DDM). At the same time, GM implemented a special coverage program to replace failed DDMs for vehicles registered outside of these states. ODI was not satisfied with GM's exclusion of non-salt belt vehicles and continued its investigation. On June 13, 2013, GM submitted a related recall notification (13V-248) to reclassify the initial special coverage program into a safety recall for vehicles that were not previously repaired under special coverage.The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis EA12-004 on June 11, 2012 to further investigate allegations of DDM thermal incidents in model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. Thermal incidents involve cases where fire-related events such as smoke and melt are present. ODI has received 170 reports alleging a thermal event occurred. Complainants stated that the DDM melted and in some cases produced odor and/or smoke. Fourteen of these incidents led to a fire where visible flames were reported or the damage extended significantly beyond the DDM. In addition to the 170 reports listed above, ODI received 63 reports alleging the DDM acted erratically or became inoperative. In response to ODI's Information Request (IR), GM provided 619 unique consumer complaints that related to the alleged problem. Seventy-seven of those reports led to a fire with flame, and 4 reported injuries of smoke inhalation and/or slight burns from contact with hot switches. GM also submitted 20,400 warranty claims for replacement of the DDM, most of which involved inoperative switches. The problem condition is caused by fluids, such as rain water, entering the driver's door module and subsequently causing corrosion that could result in an electrical short in the printed circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. However, the electrical short may also cause overheating that could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke or in some cases fire with flame. The circuit board was redesigned and GM implemented the new design into vehicle production on May 14, 2007. All failures cited above occurred in vehicles produced before this build date (i.e., with the original design DDM). GM also reported that all MY 2006-2007 GMT360/370 platform vehicles and MY 2005 SAAB 9-7x vehicles utilized the same DDM and therefore ODI expanded the subject population to include these vehicles.This investigation is closed on the basis of GM's announcement of safety recalls 12V-406 and 13V-248. The ODI complaints cited above can be reviewed at: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID, see the attached list for ODI numbers.
Electrical System
On August 15, 2012 General Motors (GM) announced a regional recall action (12V-406) involving model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, Isuzu Ascender and MY2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the salt belt states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The recall remedy requires the inspection and repair or replacement of the master power window switch, which GM refers to as a driver door module (DDM). At the same time, GM implemented a special coverage program to replace failed DDMs for vehicles registered outside of these states. ODI was not satisfied with GM's exclusion of non-salt belt vehicles and continued its investigation. On June 13, 2013, GM submitted a related recall notification (13V-248) to reclassify the initial special coverage program into a safety recall for vehicles that were not previously repaired under special coverage.The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis EA12-004 on June 11, 2012 to further investigate allegations of DDM thermal incidents in model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. Thermal incidents involve cases where fire-related events such as smoke and melt are present. ODI has received 170 reports alleging a thermal event occurred. Complainants stated that the DDM melted and in some cases produced odor and/or smoke. Fourteen of these incidents led to a fire where visible flames were reported or the damage extended significantly beyond the DDM. In addition to the 170 reports listed above, ODI received 63 reports alleging the DDM acted erratically or became inoperative. In response to ODI's Information Request (IR), GM provided 619 unique consumer complaints that related to the alleged problem. Seventy-seven of those reports led to a fire with flame, and 4 reported injuries of smoke inhalation and/or slight burns from contact with hot switches. GM also submitted 20,400 warranty claims for replacement of the DDM, most of which involved inoperative switches. The problem condition is caused by fluids, such as rain water, entering the driver's door module and subsequently causing corrosion that could result in an electrical short in the printed circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. However, the electrical short may also cause overheating that could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke or in some cases fire with flame. The circuit board was redesigned and GM implemented the new design into vehicle production on May 14, 2007. All failures cited above occurred in vehicles produced before this build date (i.e., with the original design DDM). GM also reported that all MY 2006-2007 GMT360/370 platform vehicles and MY 2005 SAAB 9-7x vehicles utilized the same DDM and therefore ODI expanded the subject population to include these vehicles.This investigation is closed on the basis of GM's announcement of safety recalls 12V-406 and 13V-248. The ODI complaints cited above can be reviewed at: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID, see the attached list for ODI numbers.
Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
On August 15, 2012 General Motors (GM) announced a regional recall action (12V-406) involving model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, Isuzu Ascender and MY2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the salt belt states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The recall remedy requires the inspection and repair or replacement of the master power window switch, which GM refers to as a driver door module (DDM). At the same time, GM implemented a special coverage program to replace failed DDMs for vehicles registered outside of these states. ODI was not satisfied with GM's exclusion of non-salt belt vehicles and continued its investigation. On June 13, 2013, GM submitted a related recall notification (13V-248) to reclassify the initial special coverage program into a safety recall for vehicles that were not previously repaired under special coverage.The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis EA12-004 on June 11, 2012 to further investigate allegations of DDM thermal incidents in model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. Thermal incidents involve cases where fire-related events such as smoke and melt are present. ODI has received 170 reports alleging a thermal event occurred. Complainants stated that the DDM melted and in some cases produced odor and/or smoke. Fourteen of these incidents led to a fire where visible flames were reported or the damage extended significantly beyond the DDM. In addition to the 170 reports listed above, ODI received 63 reports alleging the DDM acted erratically or became inoperative. In response to ODI's Information Request (IR), GM provided 619 unique consumer complaints that related to the alleged problem. Seventy-seven of those reports led to a fire with flame, and 4 reported injuries of smoke inhalation and/or slight burns from contact with hot switches. GM also submitted 20,400 warranty claims for replacement of the DDM, most of which involved inoperative switches. The problem condition is caused by fluids, such as rain water, entering the driver's door module and subsequently causing corrosion that could result in an electrical short in the printed circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. However, the electrical short may also cause overheating that could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke or in some cases fire with flame. The circuit board was redesigned and GM implemented the new design into vehicle production on May 14, 2007. All failures cited above occurred in vehicles produced before this build date (i.e., with the original design DDM). GM also reported that all MY 2006-2007 GMT360/370 platform vehicles and MY 2005 SAAB 9-7x vehicles utilized the same DDM and therefore ODI expanded the subject population to include these vehicles.This investigation is closed on the basis of GM's announcement of safety recalls 12V-406 and 13V-248. The ODI complaints cited above can be reviewed at: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID, see the attached list for ODI numbers.
Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
On August 15, 2012 General Motors (GM) announced a regional recall action (12V-406) involving model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, Isuzu Ascender and MY2005-2007 SAAB 9-7x vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the salt belt states of Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The recall remedy requires the inspection and repair or replacement of the master power window switch, which GM refers to as a driver door module (DDM). At the same time, GM implemented a special coverage program to replace failed DDMs for vehicles registered outside of these states. ODI was not satisfied with GM's exclusion of non-salt belt vehicles and continued its investigation. On June 13, 2013, GM submitted a related recall notification (13V-248) to reclassify the initial special coverage program into a safety recall for vehicles that were not previously repaired under special coverage.The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened Engineering Analysis EA12-004 on June 11, 2012 to further investigate allegations of DDM thermal incidents in model year (MY) 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazer vehicles. Thermal incidents involve cases where fire-related events such as smoke and melt are present. ODI has received 170 reports alleging a thermal event occurred. Complainants stated that the DDM melted and in some cases produced odor and/or smoke. Fourteen of these incidents led to a fire where visible flames were reported or the damage extended significantly beyond the DDM. In addition to the 170 reports listed above, ODI received 63 reports alleging the DDM acted erratically or became inoperative. In response to ODI's Information Request (IR), GM provided 619 unique consumer complaints that related to the alleged problem. Seventy-seven of those reports led to a fire with flame, and 4 reported injuries of smoke inhalation and/or slight burns from contact with hot switches. GM also submitted 20,400 warranty claims for replacement of the DDM, most of which involved inoperative switches. The problem condition is caused by fluids, such as rain water, entering the driver's door module and subsequently causing corrosion that could result in an electrical short in the printed circuit board. A short may cause the power door lock and power window switches to function intermittently or become inoperative. However, the electrical short may also cause overheating that could melt components of the door module, producing odor, smoke or in some cases fire with flame. The circuit board was redesigned and GM implemented the new design into vehicle production on May 14, 2007. All failures cited above occurred in vehicles produced before this build date (i.e., with the original design DDM). GM also reported that all MY 2006-2007 GMT360/370 platform vehicles and MY 2005 SAAB 9-7x vehicles utilized the same DDM and therefore ODI expanded the subject population to include these vehicles.This investigation is closed on the basis of GM's announcement of safety recalls 12V-406 and 13V-248. The ODI complaints cited above can be reviewed at: http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID, see the attached list for ODI numbers.
PE12003 · Driver's Master Power Window Switch
Opened Feb 9, 2012 · Closed Jun 11, 2012
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Electrical System; Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation on February 9, 2012 in response to complaints alleging driver door module melting and/or burning in MY 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazers. In response to ODI's Information Request letter, General Motors presented 167 reports and 698 warranty claims that related to the alleged problem. ODI has received a total of 83 complaints, 66 alleging the door module had melted or burned, and the remaining 17 stating that the window switches acted erratically or were inoperative. Twenty-eight of the reports received have led to driver door fires, some of which allege the vehicle was keyed off and unattended. Based on the agency's current analysis, ODI has upgraded its investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA12-004) to determine whether the subject vehicles contain a defect that presents an unreasonable risk to safety.The vehicle models and production dates of affected vehicles will be evaluated, particularly other GMT360 vehicles. The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10247838, 10260600, 10274337, 10275626, 10284010, 10396958, 10406203, 10409023, 10414691, 10417938, 10423865, 10426281, 10434446, 10445657, 10447754, 10447757, 10447770, 10447788, 10447813, 10447831, 10447865, 10447880, 10447892, 10447938, 10447994, 10447996, 10447997, 10448028, 10448086, 10448138, 10448176, 10448201, 10448337, 10448455, 10448464, 10448478, 10448540, 10448900, 10448941, 10449150, 10449166, 10449169, 10449236, 10449722, 10450055, 10450202, 10450284, 10451584, 10451878, 10451918, 10452197, 10452301, 10452586, 10452743, 10452895, 10453161, 10453227, 10453261, 10453578, 10453746, 10453951, 10454196, 10454211, 10454539, 10454673, 10455122, 10455150, 10455279, 10455469, 10456285, 10456529, 10457116, 10457644, 10457811, 10458224, 10458485, 10458599, 10458743, 10458846, 10460062, 10460141, 10460732, 10460843
Additional source detail variants (2)
Electrical System
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation on February 9, 2012 in response to complaints alleging driver door module melting and/or burning in MY 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazers. In response to ODI's Information Request letter, General Motors presented 167 reports and 698 warranty claims that related to the alleged problem. ODI has received a total of 83 complaints, 66 alleging the door module had melted or burned, and the remaining 17 stating that the window switches acted erratically or were inoperative. Twenty-eight of the reports received have led to driver door fires, some of which allege the vehicle was keyed off and unattended. Based on the agency's current analysis, ODI has upgraded its investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA12-004) to determine whether the subject vehicles contain a defect that presents an unreasonable risk to safety.The vehicle models and production dates of affected vehicles will be evaluated, particularly other GMT360 vehicles. The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10247838, 10260600, 10274337, 10275626, 10284010, 10396958, 10406203, 10409023, 10414691, 10417938, 10423865, 10426281, 10434446, 10445657, 10447754, 10447757, 10447770, 10447788, 10447813, 10447831, 10447865, 10447880, 10447892, 10447938, 10447994, 10447996, 10447997, 10448028, 10448086, 10448138, 10448176, 10448201, 10448337, 10448455, 10448464, 10448478, 10448540, 10448900, 10448941, 10449150, 10449166, 10449169, 10449236, 10449722, 10450055, 10450202, 10450284, 10451584, 10451878, 10451918, 10452197, 10452301, 10452586, 10452743, 10452895, 10453161, 10453227, 10453261, 10453578, 10453746, 10453951, 10454196, 10454211, 10454539, 10454673, 10455122, 10455150, 10455279, 10455469, 10456285, 10456529, 10457116, 10457644, 10457811, 10458224, 10458485, 10458599, 10458743, 10458846, 10460062, 10460141, 10460732, 10460843
Visibility:power Window Devices And Controls
The Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) opened this investigation on February 9, 2012 in response to complaints alleging driver door module melting and/or burning in MY 2006-2007 Chevrolet Trailblazers. In response to ODI's Information Request letter, General Motors presented 167 reports and 698 warranty claims that related to the alleged problem. ODI has received a total of 83 complaints, 66 alleging the door module had melted or burned, and the remaining 17 stating that the window switches acted erratically or were inoperative. Twenty-eight of the reports received have led to driver door fires, some of which allege the vehicle was keyed off and unattended. Based on the agency's current analysis, ODI has upgraded its investigation to an Engineering Analysis (EA12-004) to determine whether the subject vehicles contain a defect that presents an unreasonable risk to safety.The vehicle models and production dates of affected vehicles will be evaluated, particularly other GMT360 vehicles. The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification (ODI) numbers: 10247838, 10260600, 10274337, 10275626, 10284010, 10396958, 10406203, 10409023, 10414691, 10417938, 10423865, 10426281, 10434446, 10445657, 10447754, 10447757, 10447770, 10447788, 10447813, 10447831, 10447865, 10447880, 10447892, 10447938, 10447994, 10447996, 10447997, 10448028, 10448086, 10448138, 10448176, 10448201, 10448337, 10448455, 10448464, 10448478, 10448540, 10448900, 10448941, 10449150, 10449166, 10449169, 10449236, 10449722, 10450055, 10450202, 10450284, 10451584, 10451878, 10451918, 10452197, 10452301, 10452586, 10452743, 10452895, 10453161, 10453227, 10453261, 10453578, 10453746, 10453951, 10454196, 10454211, 10454539, 10454673, 10455122, 10455150, 10455279, 10455469, 10456285, 10456529, 10457116, 10457644, 10457811, 10458224, 10458485, 10458599, 10458743, 10458846, 10460062, 10460141, 10460732, 10460843
DP10001 · Fuel Level Gauge System Failure
Opened Jan 7, 2010 · Closed May 23, 2011
Status: closed (inferred from source dates) · Fuel System, Other; Fuel System, Other:storage:fuel Gauge System
The Office of Defects Investigation has received 668 complaints alleging inaccurate fuel gauge reading while driving in model year 2005-07 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, and Saab 9-7x vehicles.Of the 668 complaints, 58 incidents were alleged to result in a vehicle stall.Of the 58 stalling incidents, 43 complaints reported stalling because the fuel level reading indicated more fuel availability than what is actually in the fuel tank. One complaint alleged a vehicle crash after the vehicle stalled while exiting the interstate, became disabled, and was struck from behind.Summarily, the complaints show an apparent increasing trend, with most complaints received within the past year.A Preliminary Evaluation has been opened to assess the scope, frequency and potential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect.
Additional source detail variants (2)
Fuel System, Other
The Office of Defects Investigation has received 668 complaints alleging inaccurate fuel gauge reading while driving in model year 2005-07 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, and Saab 9-7x vehicles.Of the 668 complaints, 58 incidents were alleged to result in a vehicle stall.Of the 58 stalling incidents, 43 complaints reported stalling because the fuel level reading indicated more fuel availability than what is actually in the fuel tank. One complaint alleged a vehicle crash after the vehicle stalled while exiting the interstate, became disabled, and was struck from behind.Summarily, the complaints show an apparent increasing trend, with most complaints received within the past year.A Preliminary Evaluation has been opened to assess the scope, frequency and potential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect.
Fuel System, Other:storage:fuel Gauge System
The Office of Defects Investigation has received 668 complaints alleging inaccurate fuel gauge reading while driving in model year 2005-07 Chevrolet Trailblazer, GMC Envoy, Buick Rainier, and Saab 9-7x vehicles.Of the 668 complaints, 58 incidents were alleged to result in a vehicle stall.Of the 58 stalling incidents, 43 complaints reported stalling because the fuel level reading indicated more fuel availability than what is actually in the fuel tank. One complaint alleged a vehicle crash after the vehicle stalled while exiting the interstate, became disabled, and was struck from behind.Summarily, the complaints show an apparent increasing trend, with most complaints received within the past year.A Preliminary Evaluation has been opened to assess the scope, frequency and potential safety consequences associated with the alleged defect.