NHTSA // CRASH-TESTED
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer Safety Ratings
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer scores 86 out of 100 on the NHTSA Safety Index (Strong), with a 5-star overall NHTSA crash rating, 4 recalls, and 177 owner complaints on file.
Updated Oct 1, 2026 from NHTSA data · Reviewed by Ivanna Verstliar
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer merits strong consideration for its safety profile, securing an overall five-star rating from NHTSA. All four recall campaigns initiated for this model year have documented remedies, addressing identified issues. This record, combined with a NHTSA Safety Index of 86 out of 100, positions the 2021 Trailblazer as a credible choice within its market segment.
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer received a five-star overall crash-test rating and a NHTSA Safety Index of 86 out of 100, based on NHTSA crash-test and recall data.
MotorCaliber Safety Desk // NHTSA data, verified Oct 1, 2026
Among the 118 SUVs from 2021 that NHTSA has crash-tested, the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer ranks 47 for overall NHTSA Safety Index.
- new and teen drivers who want standard crash-avoidance tech
- urban drivers exposed to side-impact risk
| NHTSA Safety Index | 86 / 100 (Strong) |
|---|---|
| Overall crash rating | 5 of 5 stars |
| Frontal / Side / Rollover | 5 / 5 / 4 stars |
| Rollover risk | 18.5% |
| Recalls on file | 4 |
| Owner complaints | 177 (unverified allegations) |
| Class rank | 47 of 118 SUVs tested for 2021 |
| Data verified | Oct 1, 2026 |
ANALYSISHow safe is the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer?
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer SUV FWD Later Release earns a strong 86 out of 100 Safety Index, driven by its exceptional crash protection. The vehicle achieved a five-star sweep across overall, frontal, and side impact categories, contributing 66 out of 70 to its sub-score for crash protection. Avoidance technology also reached its maximum of 10 out of 10, with forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control all standard. The defect record, however, presents a moderating factor, scoring 10 out of 20. This reflects four active recall campaigns concerning the emergency jack, service brakes, seat fasteners, and sport terrain tires. While no park-outside or do-not-drive directives were issued, the breadth of these recalls across distinct systems is notable. The 177 owner-reported complaints, including alleged crashes and injuries, underscore the importance of verifying recall completion for any individual vehicle.
NCAP // CRASH TESTHow did the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer perform in crash tests?
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer achieved NHTSA's highest overall safety rating, earning five out of five stars. This strong performance extends to both frontal and side impact protection, which also received five-star ratings. The rollover assessment, however, presents a notable exception. While scoring four out of five stars, its 19 percent rollover risk and "No Tip" dynamic test result indicate a performance that, while solid, does not match the perfection seen in other categories.
Source: NHTSA NCAP, VehicleId 15917
Index breakdown
NCAP // CRASH IMAGESCrash-test images
Crash-test images are US federal government works (NHTSA / NCAP), public domain.
NHTSA // RECALLSDoes the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer have any recalls?
Four recall campaigns cover this model year. The components involved are emergency jack equipment, service brakes, rear seat critical fasteners, and factory-installed 17-inch sport terrain tires. No park-outside or do-not-drive order appears in the data. Used shoppers should verify each campaign is resolved on their specific VIN before purchase.
EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:ACCESSORY SCISSOR/SCREW/BOTTLE JACK/LIFT:STAND21V440000
Risk: A fractured jack can cause the vehicle to collapse, increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the jack, free of charge. Interim owner notification letters informing owner of the safety risk are expected to be mailed July 26, 2021. A second notice will be mailed once remedy parts become available. Owners may contact Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300 or Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is A212335470.
Reported 2021-06-10
SERVICE BRAKES20V588000
Risk: If communication with the sensor is interrupted, the electronic brake boost assist could be lost. Extra pedal force will be required to slow and stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will replace the electronic brake boost module, free of charge. The recall began December 9, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438, Cadillac customer service at 1-800-333-4223, or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is A202307260.
Reported 2020-09-24
SEATS:CRITICAL FASTENERS20V537000
Risk: If an occupied front seat is missing the rear attachment bolts, it may move during a crash, increasing risk of injury to the occupant.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and dealers will inspect seat attachments for both front seats and install attachment bolts as needed, free of charge. The recall began October 1, 2020. Owners may contact Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-630-2438 or Buick customer service at 1-800-521-7300. GM's number for this recall is A202304380.
Reported 2020-09-03
TIRES20V295000
Risk: If drivers are uninformed and overinflate or underinflate their tires, this may increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy: GM will notify owners, and will mail corrected labels for customers to apply, free of charge. The recall began July 1, 2020. Owners may call Chevrolet customer service at 1-800-222-1020. GM's number for this recall is A202304070.
Reported 2020-05-21
NHTSA // COMPLAINTSWhat do owners report about the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer?
Owners have filed 177 unverified allegations with NHTSA, including reported crashes and reported injuries. The most frequently alleged problem areas are Unknown or Other issues, Electrical System, Power Train, Engine, Service Brakes, and Fuel and Propulsion System. These are consumer reports, not established defects.
177 owner complaints on file. These are unverified allegations reported to NHTSA.
USED BUYERWhat should used buyers know about the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer?
Four recall campaigns have been issued for the 2021 Trailblazer. These address the vehicle jack, brakes, seat fasteners, and tires. Any prospective owner should verify that all open recalls have been properly remedied by checking the specific vehicle's VIN through NHTSA's online lookup tool.
- This specific build, the FWD Later Release variant, earned five stars from NHTSA in both frontal and side crash protection, with rollover the only category below five stars at four stars and a 19 percent rollover risk.
- Four recall campaigns were issued for this model year alone, covering emergency jack hardware, service brakes, rear seat attachment fasteners, and factory sport terrain tires, a wider component spread than a single-system recall.
- The avoidance technology sub-score is a perfect 10 out of 10 because forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control are all standard on this year's configuration, not optional add-ons.
- The 177 unverified NHTSA complaints include alleged electrical system and powertrain issues as the second and third most reported categories, and the most recent report was filed in mid-2026, meaning this vehicle's complaint record is still actively accumulating.
RANKINGSWhere the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer places
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer qualifies for these MotorCaliber safety rankings:
FAQ2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer safety questions
Was the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer crash-tested by NHTSA?
Yes. NHTSA crash-tested the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer, and it earns a NHTSA Safety Index of 86 out of 100, placing it in the Strong band. The index combines federal crash-test stars, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the recall record.
What are the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer crash-test star ratings?
In NHTSA testing the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer earned 5 out of 5 stars for overall, 5 out of 5 stars for frontal, 5 out of 5 stars for side, and 4 out of 5 stars for rollover. Its measured rollover risk is 18.5%. Categories NHTSA did not test show as not rated.
How many recalls does the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer have?
According to NHTSA recall data, 4 vehicle recalls are on file for the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. Confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov to see which apply to your car.
How many complaints have owners filed about the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer?
According to NHTSA's complaint database, 177 owner complaints are on file for the 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer. These are unverified allegations submitted by owners, not confirmed defects, and include reports involving a crash or a fire.
Cross-check this record against independent expert reviews and the live NHTSA database before you buy.
Other Trailblazer years
Rivals in SUV (2021)
| Vehicle | NHTSA Safety Index | Overall stars | Recalls |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 Tesla Model X 5-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 6-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Tesla Model X 7-Seat | 98/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Nissan Murano | 96/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Audi Q5 Sportback | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 0 |
| 2021 Mazda CX-3 | 95/100 | 5 of 5 | 1 |
- DATA Pulled directly from NHTSA: New Car Assessment Program crash tests (VehicleId 15917), the recallsByVehicle and complaintsByVehicle records for the Chevrolet Trailblazer 2021.
- SCORE The NHTSA Safety Index (0-100) weights crash protection, standard crash-avoidance tech, and the defect record. Full formula on the methodology page. It ranks 47 of 118 in the SUV class for 2021.
- EDITED Written by the MotorCaliber Safety Desk and reviewed for accuracy and plain-language clarity by Ivanna Verstliar, Editor, against the source figures on this page.
- VERIFIED Data last synced Oct 1, 2026. Recalls change; confirm your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. See our corrections policy and disclosure.