1987 Chevrolet Blazer Reliability ReportCommon Problems, Repair Costs & Expert Verdict
Quick Facts · 1987 Chevrolet Blazer
- Has 3 NHTSA recalls on record — the most notable involves the exterior lighting.
- Outscores the 1989 Chevrolet Blazer by 17 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
- The system most likely to surface first: body & frame rust (major severity).
Should You Buy the 1987 Chevrolet Blazer?
The 1987 Chevrolet Blazer is a remarkably robust and straightforward full-size SUV that, despite its age, can be an incredibly dependable vehicle if properly maintained. Its simple, durable mechanicals and widespread parts availability make it an excellent choice for those seeking a classic capable of regular use, provided you address its common rust issues and expect routine age-related electrical quirks.
The 1987 Chevrolet Blazer is a fantastic vehicle with a ton of potential, but its age demands a careful approach. If you can find one with minimal rust and a strong service history, it's a solid investment that will provide years of enjoyment. However, don't underestimate the potential for extensive rust or the need…
Best Model Years
1987-1991 (for TBI system and 'square body' styling)
Years to Avoid
Earlier carbureted models (more finicky emissions), severely rusted examples.
Biggest Strengths
- Rugged body-on-frame construction
- Abundant and affordable parts availability
- Simple, easy-to-diagnose mechanical systems
Top Risk Areas
The systems that tend to fail first on the 1987 Chevrolet Blazer, with the typical mileage window when each becomes a concern. Detailed repair-cost ranges and exact what-to-check inspection notes are in the full report.
Corrosion is the Achilles' heel of these vehicles. Rocker panels, rear quarter panels, tailgate, floorboards, and even frame rails are highly susceptible, especially in areas exposed to road salt. This compromises structural integrity an…
The Throttle Body Injection (TBI) system itself is robust, but ancillary components like the fuel pump (in-tank), fuel pressure regulator, various sensors (TPS, MAP, O2), and vacuum lines can fail, leading to rough idle, stalling, poor p…
While generally durable, the 700R4 (later 4L60) is known for pump wear, valve body issues, and eventually planetary gear failure, particularly if fluid changes are neglected or the vehicle is used for heavy towing/off-roading. Harsh shif…
1987 Chevrolet Blazer Mileage Danger Zones
The mileage windows when the 1987 Chevrolet Blazer most commonly needs attention. Plan ahead, budget accordingly, and inspect before you cross each threshold.
Low Risk Zone
At this mileage, the Blazer would have been relatively new. Key concerns would be ensuring proper break-in and addressing any early factory defects or minor adjustments under warranty. Many issues at this stage would likely be minor.
Maintenance Zone
By 60k miles, original wear items begin to reach their service life. This is where diligent preventative maintenance becomes crucial to avoid cascading failures. Expect to refresh fluids and inspect critical components.
Elevated Risk Zone
This mileage signifies the start of potential major component wear. The original TH700R4 transmission may show signs of fatigue, and critical TBI system components might fail. Rust often becomes noticeable at this point.
High Risk Zone
Vehicles reaching this mileage are testaments to good maintenance, but also require ongoing attention. Major items like transmission rebuilds or engine gasket work become more probable. Extensive rust remediation is common.
1987 Chevrolet Blazer Ownership Cost Outlook
What it typically costs to keep the 1987 Chevrolet Blazer on the road. Full 5-year cost-of-ownership projection and major-failure-risk forecast are in the report.
Annual Maintenance
$400-600
Moderate Repairs
$500-1,500 occasionally
How Long Does the 1987 Chevrolet Blazer Last?
Focus less on the odometer reading and more on documented maintenance history and physical condition, especially rust levels. A higher mileage, well-maintained example is often better than a low-mileage, neglected one.
What 1987 Chevrolet Blazer Owners Actually Say
What Owners Love
- Timeless, classic square-body styling that turns heads
- Powerful and torque-rich V8 engine options
- Simple mechanicals make it easy for DIY repairs
- Exceptional off-road capability in 4x4 models
Common Frustrations
- Dreadful fuel economy (single-digit MPG in some conditions)
- Significant propensity for rust, especially in northern climates
- Vague, loose steering requires constant correction on the highway
- Dated interior lacks modern conveniences and ergonomics
Who Should Buy the 1987 Chevrolet Blazer?
Best For
- Classic truck enthusiasts looking for a project or daily driver
- Off-roaders seeking a durable and customizable platform
- DIY mechanics who appreciate simple, accessible repairs
Not Ideal For
- Those seeking modern comfort, amenities, or fuel efficiency
- Buyers unwilling or unable to perform regular maintenance/repairs
How the 1987 Chevrolet Blazer Compares to Rivals
The Blazer stands strong against its domestic rivals with robust mechanicals and exceptional parts availability. While not quite as bulletproof as an equivalent Land Cruiser, its ease of repair and lower cost of entry make it highly competitive.
More Reliable Than
- Dodge Ramcharger (typically poorer build quality, less robust transmissions)
- Jeep Grand Wagoneer (more complex electricals, often higher repair costs)
Comparable To
- Ford Bronco (similar ruggedness, rust issues, but often more expensive parts)
NHTSA Recalls
3 recalls on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
CERTAIN REPLACEMENT FUEL FILTERS, FRAM BRAND NAME P/N G3727, WITH DATE CODES X52911 THROUGH X60801 SEQUENTIALLY OR X600141 AND A MEXICO COUNTRY OR ORIGIN MARKING ON THE FUEL FILTER HOUSING MANUFACTURED FROM OCTOBER 18, 2005, THROUGH MARCH 21, 2006, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE AND ON CERTAIN SCHOOL BUSES. (TO SEE THE SCHOOL BUS ENGINE SIZES, CLICK ON "DOCUMENT SEARCH" AND THEN "BUS APPLICATIONS"). THE CONNECTOR ON THE FUEL FILTER WAS NOT MANUFACTURED TO HONEYWELL'S SPECIFICATION. AS A RESULT, THE O-RING MAY NOT SEAT CORRECTLY ON THE FUEL LINE.
What breaks on the 1987 Chevrolet Blazer?
Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.
OwnerKeep Passport · $499 · one-time
Just bought a 1987 Chevrolet Blazer? Keep it that way.
Snap a receipt — AI logs it. Build an OwnerScore. Sell with a buyer-ready Passport dossier.
Chevrolet Blazer by Year
Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Chevrolet Blazer. Click any year for its full report.
If You're Considering This, Also Look At
Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.
Relevant Products for Your 1987 Chevrolet Blazer
Parts and accessories matched to your 1987 Chevrolet Blazer
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Comparisons
Just bought a 1987 Chevrolet Blazer? Keep it that way.
OwnerKeep Passport turns your Chevrolet Blazer's care history into a luxury digital vault — AI-logged receipts, an OwnerScore that pays at resale, and a buyer-ready dossier in one tap.
- AI receipt OCR — snap and log
- Fuel & mileage tracker
- Tri-Score OwnerScore
- One-tap resale dossier PDF
Recommended Reading for the Chevrolet Blazer
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Years to Avoid (Worst to Best Ranked)
Avoid costly mistakes! Discover the worst Chevrolet Silverado 1500 model years to avoid and find the most reliable trucks, ranked worst to best.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Common Problems and Repair Costs
Understand common Chevrolet Silverado 1500 problems and average repair costs to confidently manage your truck's maintenance budget.
How Long Does a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Last? (Real Owner Data)
Uncover the real lifespan of a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 with exclusive insights derived directly from actual owner data and experiences.