2021 Chevy Trail Boss Problems (27 Common Issue)

Regarding the trucks world, the 2021 Chevy Trail Boss has made a significant mark. However, like any vehicle, it still has its share of issues. Delving into the intricacies of the 2021 Chevy Trail Boss Problems, one can find a range of concerns reported by owners. This article aims to shed light on these problems, offering insights and potential solutions while ensuring the content remains engaging and relatable for both search engines and readers.

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27 Most Common 2021 Chevy Trail Boss Problems

1. 4WD Service Message Issues

A frequent issue that surfaces is the display of the service 4WD message. This often arises due to the 4WD transfer case encoder motor position sensor malfunctioning or the selector switch. To pinpoint the exact cause, one should refer to the fault code(s) in the transfer case control module.

• Affected Years: 19 distinct model years, ranging from 1999 to 2017.
• Reported Cases: 890
• Average Mileage: Approximately 1,649,977
• Diagnostic Cost: Typically between $88 and $111.

2. HVAC Temperature and Delivery Discrepancies

Another prevalent issue is the failure of one or more heater & AC (HVAC) air delivery and temperature mode door actuators. This can lead to inaccurate air delivery or temperature settings. The fault code(s) in the HVAC control module can be consulted for a precise diagnosis.

• Affected Years: 17 model years, notably from 1999 to 2016.
• Reported Cases: 461
• Average Mileage: Around 128,592
• AC Diagnostic Cost: Generally between $88 and $111.

3. Fuel Gauge Inconsistencies

Many have reported that the fuel level sensor must read the fuel level more. Replacing the sensor is recommended for a long-term solution, especially in vehicles with high mileage.

• Affected Years: 14 model years, starting from 1999 to 2013.
• Reported Cases: 394
• Average Mileage: Roughly 122,682
• Fuel Pump Replacement Cost: Usually between $1,325 and $1,596.

4. Instrument Panel Gauge Malfunctions

There have been instances where the speedometer or other instrument panel gauges behave erratically. To address this, the instrument cluster might need professional repair.

• Affected Years: 17 model years, from 1999 to 2016.
• Reported Cases: 307
• Average Mileage: About 107,744
• Diagnostic Cost: Typically between $88 and $111.

5. Steering Clunk Noise

A clunking noise from the upper intermediate steering shaft has been a cause for concern for some. It’s advisable to consult with a local GM dealer for the latest remedy.

• Affected Years: 17 model years spanning from 1999 to 2017.
• Reported Cases: 206
• Average Mileage: Approximately 88,799
• Diagnostic Cost: Generally between $88 and $111.

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6. Service Stability Message

The failure of the steering wheel position sensor can trigger the “service stability” message.

• Affected Years: 17 model years, notably from 2000 to 2017.
• Reported Cases: 188
• Average Mileage: Around 92,083
• Diagnostic Cost: Typically between $88 and $111.

7. CD Player Malfunctions

A recurring problem for many is the failure of the CD player due to an internal fault within the radio system. In most scenarios, the radio unit might need to be dispatched to a specialty repair shop for resolution.

• Affected Years: 17 model years, from 1999 to 2017.
• Reported Cases: 188
• Average Mileage: Approximately 115,762
• Diagnostic Cost: Generally between $88 and $111.

8. Daytime Running Light Issues

The daytime running lights have shown a tendency to burn out prematurely. While the light sockets might display signs of heat damage, they are usually still functional. For optimal longevity, it’s advised to use the recommended replacement bulb.

• Affected Years: 15 model years, notably from 1999 to 2014.
• Reported Cases: 125
• Average Mileage: Roughly 120,669
• Headlight Bulb Replacement Cost: Typically between $165 and $191.

9. Engine Stalling Due to Fuel Pump

A significant concern is the potential failure of the fuel pump, leading to the engine stalling or refusing to restart.

• Affected Years: 12 model years, spanning from 2000 to 2014.
• Reported Cases: 122
• Average Mileage: Around 214,153
• Fuel Pump Replacement Cost: Usually between $1,325 and $1,596.

10. Fragile Inside Door Handles

The inside door handles have been reported to be susceptible to breakage.

• Affected Years: 11 model years, from 1999 to 2013.
• Reported Cases: 110
• Average Mileage: Approximately 113,040

11. Dead Battery Due to ABS Pump

The anti-lock brake system (ABS) pump might continue running even after the ignition is turned off, leading to a drained battery. Replacing the ABS control module is the recommended solution.

• Affected Years: 7 model years, from 1999 to 2008.
• Reported Cases: 91
• Average Mileage: About 135,392
• ABS Control Module Replacement Cost: Generally between $562 and $843.

12. Check Engine Light and Fuel Injector Issues

Some users have experienced engine misfires due to one or more fuel injectors getting stuck in the closed position. This can also trigger the check engine light. Certain fuel additives have been identified as potential culprits.

• Affected Years: 8 model years, notably from 1999 to 2017.
• Reported Cases: 73
• Average Mileage: Roughly 64,458
• Fuel Injector Replacement Cost: Typically between $914 and $1,040.

13. Gas Cap-Related Check Engine Light

A loose or deteriorating gas cap can cause the check engine light to come on.

• Affected Years: 6 model years, from 2006 to 2011.
• Reported Cases: 68
• Average Mileage: Approximately 110,408
• Diagnostic Cost: Generally between $88 and $111.

14. Restricted Secondary Air Injection Check Valve

One or both secondary air injection check valves might become restricted, leading to poor airflow and the illumination of the Check Engine Light. It’s often advised to replace both valves for a comprehensive solution.

• Affected Years: 10 model years, from 1999 to 2008.
• Reported Cases: 58
• Average Mileage: Around 133,319
• Diagnostic Cost: Typically between $88 and $111.

15. Fuel Pump Failure Leading to Engine Issues

The fuel pump might fail, causing the engine to stall or not start. Regular fuel filter replacement every 30,000 miles can help alleviate this issue.

• Affected Years: 12 model years, from 1999 to 2014.
• Reported Cases: 50
• Average Mileage: Roughly 140,152
• Fuel Filter Replacement Cost: Generally between $206 and $266.
• Fuel Pump Replacement Cost: Usually between $1,325 and $1,596.

16. Throttle Sensor Issues

The throttle sensor in the 2021 Chevy Trail Boss is infamous for malfunctioning, leading to:

• Activation of the check engine light
• Display of a Reduced Power alert
• Emission of the OBD code P2135

This predicament often stems from the throttle sensor but can also be attributed to defective wiring or a poor connection.

Resolving the Issue

A thorough examination and potential replacement of the throttle sensor, wiring harness, and connector are essential. The primary culprit is usually a malfunctioning throttle sensor.

• Reports: 46 instances
• Affected Years: 2008 to 2013
• Average Distance Covered: 121,220 miles
• Throttle Sensor Replacement Cost: Ranges from $184 to $257

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17. Turn Signal Flasher Anomalies

After deactivating the turn signals, a clicking sound might emanate from the flasher. This is predominantly due to a defective turn signal switch that necessitates replacement.

• Reports: 42 instances
• Affected Years: 1999 to 2007
• Average Distance Covered: 174,801 miles
• Diagnostic Cost: Between $88 and $111

18. ABS Warning Triggered by Electrical Grounding

An inadequate electrical grounding beneath the battery tray might activate the ABS warning. Technicians suggest that this ground and the primary ABS ground on the frame rail should be cleaned and secured properly.

• Reports: 36 instances
• Affected Years: 1999 to 2010
• Average Distance Covered: 134,208 miles
• ABS System Check Cost: Ranges from $88 to $111

19. Engine Stalling Due to Throttle Body Contamination

A contaminated throttle body might result in the engine idling at lower than usual speeds, potentially leading to stalling. A comprehensive throttle body service is the recommended solution.

• Reports: 26 instances
• Affected Years: 2000 to 2007
• Average Distance Covered: 162,875 miles
• Diagnostic Cost: Ranges from $88 to $111

20. Check Engine Alert with P1870 Code

Vehicles with a 4-speed automatic transmission might experience a harsh shift between the first and second gears, accompanied by the Check Engine light displaying the P1870 code. This is often due to wear in the valve body. The issue typically manifests once the transmission reaches its normal operating temperature. A worn valve body will need replacement.

• Reports: 25 instances
• Affected Years: 1999, 2000, and 2008
• Average Distance Covered: 145,497 miles
• Engine Light Diagnosis Cost: Between $88 and $111

21. Fueling Difficulties and Check Engine Light

The 2004-2011 models have known EVAP system issues. The EVAP canister vent valve or its solenoid wiring might malfunction, leading to the Check Engine light’s activation with the P0446 code and challenges during refueling.

• Reports: 20 instances
• Affected Years: 2004 to 2011
• Average Distance Covered: 94,000 miles
• Engine Light Diagnosis Cost: Ranges from $88 to $111

22. Muffler Heat Shield Rattle

The muffler’s heat shield might become loose, causing a distinct rattling or popping sound. GM offers a kit to address this issue.

• Reports: 20 instances
• Affected Years: 1999 to 2007
• Average Distance Covered: 113,400 miles
• Diagnostic Cost: Between $88 and $111

23. Parking Brake Inefficiency

Vehicles with 4-wheel disk brakes might experience a parking brake that doesn’t hold as effectively as it should. This is often due to wear in the parking brake shoes inside the rear brake disks. Replacement and proper adjustment of the worn shoes are necessary.

• Reports: 19 instances
• Affected Years: 1999 to 2007
• Average Distance Covered: 143,028 miles
• Diagnostic Cost: Ranges from $88 to $111

24. Keyless Entry Malfunctions

The keyless entry system might cease to function. In most cases, the key fobs and the keyless entry receiver need replacement.

• Reports: 17 instances
• Affected Years: 1999, 2008 to 2010
• Average Distance Covered: 48,831 miles
• Diagnostic Cost: Between $88 and $111

25. Coolant or Engine Oil Leaks from the Intake Manifold Gasket

The intake manifold gasket might develop external leaks of coolant or engine oil. In some scenarios, internal coolant leaks might occur, leading to a mix of coolant and engine oil, which can damage the engine. The intake manifold gasket replacement is the solution.

• Reports: 15 instances
• Affected Years: 1999, 2000, 2003, 2004, and 2014
• Average Distance Covered: 141,600 miles
• Gasket Replacement Cost: Between $740 and $791

26. Distributor Faults Leading to Driveability Issues

The distributor might develop internal problems, causing the engine to run roughly or stall. The Check Engine light might or might not activate. Overhauling or replacing the distributor is the recommended solution.

• Reports: 13 instances
• Affected Years: 2004, 2007 to 2010
• Average Distance Covered: 62,352 miles
• Engine Light Diagnosis Cost: Between $88 and $111

27. Spark Plug Maintenance

For optimal performance, replacing the spark plugs every 100,000 miles is recommended. Alongside this, experts also advise changing the spark plug wires.

• Reports: 11 instances
• Affected Years: 1999 to 2006
• Average Distance Covered: 106,750 miles
• Spark Plug Replacement Cost: Between $261 and $316

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Final Thoughts on 2021 Chevy Trail Boss Problems

In summary, while the 2021 Chevy Trail Boss is a testament to Chevrolet’s commitment to quality and performance, potential buyers and current owners must know about the 2021 Chevy Trail Boss Problems. Being informed not only aids in making better purchasing decisions but also ensures that one can address issues promptly, ensuring the longevity and performance of the vehicle. Remember, knowledge is power, and the right information can make all the difference in your driving experience.