The Chevrolet Blazer is a legendary vehicle with a lineage dating back to 1969. Known for its reliability and powerful performance, it has been a go-to choice for SUV enthusiasts across several generations.
An important aspect of this vehicle’s health and performance is its transmission fluid. The type and capacity of the transmission fluid varies across the different generations of the Blazer.
Before delving into the specifics for each generation, it’s important to understand what transmission fluid does. This crucial fluid lubricates the moving parts inside your transmission, reducing friction, preventing overheating, and ensuring smooth gear shifts.
Over time, transmission fluid degrades and must be replaced, which makes knowing your vehicle’s fluid capacity and the correct type of fluid critical.
Chevrolet Blazer Transmission Fluid Type and Capacity
The Blazer has undergone significant changes across its five generations, with each featuring different transmissions.
Chevy Blazer Second Generation (1995-2005) Transmission Fluid Capacity
In the second generation, Blazers continued to use 4L60E transmissions. Dexron III is still the preferred transmission fluid type, and the fluid capacities remain the same: about 11.2 quarts for a dry fill and 5 quarts for a drain and refill.
Chevy Blazer Third Generation (2019-2023) Transmission Fluid Capacity
The latest Blazers come with 9-speed automatic transmissions that require Dexron VI transmission fluid. The total fluid capacity is about 10.1 quarts (9.5 liters) for a dry fill and 5.3 quarts (4.9 liters) for a drain and refill.
Routine transmission fluid changes are crucial for your Blazer’s longevity and performance. This process removes degraded fluid and potential contaminants, protecting your vehicle’s transmission and ensuring smooth operation.
How Often To Change The Transmission Fluid In A Chevy Blazer?
The frequency of changing the transmission fluid in a Chevy Blazer (or any vehicle, for that matter) varies based on several factors including your driving habits, the vehicle’s age, and the conditions in which you usually drive.
However, a common rule of thumb for many vehicles, including the Chevy Blazer, is to change the transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. Some newer models with improved transmission systems may extend this interval up to 100,000 miles, but it’s generally safer to change it more frequently.
It’s also important to note that if your vehicle is often used in more severe service — such as frequent stop-and-go city driving, hauling heavy loads, or driving in very hot weather — you should consider changing the transmission fluid more frequently.
How Much Does It Cost To Change The Transmission Fluid In Chevy Blazer?
The cost to change the transmission fluid in a Chevy Blazer can vary depending on a few factors, such as:
- Your geographic location: Labor rates differ from city to city and country to country.
- The specific model and year of your Blazer: Different models might have different requirements, which can affect the cost.
- The type of transmission fluid used: Synthetic fluids tend to cost more than conventional ones.
- The auto service shop you choose: Dealerships tend to be more expensive than independent mechanics, but prices can vary greatly between individual shops.
As a ballpark estimate, a transmission fluid change for a Chevy Blazer typically ranges from $100 to $250, but prices can vary outside of this range. This includes the cost of the fluid itself (which can range from about $20 to $50) and labor (which might range from about $80 to $200).
Conclusion
Understanding your Chevrolet Blazer’s transmission fluid capacity and type is essential for its upkeep. Regular maintenance, especially timely transmission fluid changes, can greatly enhance the performance and lifespan of your Blazer.
