97 Blazer with original low miles had engine stop both on and off the highway several times but it would start back up. In Jan while driving down the highway the service engine light came on and rpms went up. We pulled off and found the transmission was stuck in 3'rd gear. Also key would not release to remove. Errors came up P1860 P0785 and P740 that refer to transmission. The problem was not transmission but ignition switch contact block commonly called the ignition switch, it is the contact section and not the key or lock cylinder. This ignition switch had already been replaced once. GM has a service bulletin #17006264 on the ignition switch and this appears to be a big problem across many years and models but no recall was issued. An ignition switch problem can cause engine to die, lights to go out and other problems but the contact for the transmission power seems to be a common failure point. I replaced the ignition switch and everything worked fine for one month and then the problem recurred with errors P1860 P0758 P0753 P0740 and P0785. I tested the ignition switch power from red/white to white wire and got no power when switch was on so the new switch failed. I tested by temporary jumping a fused line to fuse 24 output and then transmission worked fine and the key released. I again replaced the ignition switch contact block under warranty and new switch worked fine except the errors came back on P0740, P0785 and P1860. Transmission worked ok though so I took the Blazer to a Chevy dealership to check it. They reset code errors, checked wiring, connections and switch. The technician said my work was correct and everything checks out fine and he was not sure why codes came back. Now ok. I examined the original switch and there was no problem with contacts or wires evident. This could be a switch design issue or there is another issue causing this.

- Richwood, OH, USA

The 1997 and 1998 Blazer has an inherent defect in the valve body in transmission. Code 1870 found after vehicle is warm the transmission slams into second gear causing the rear wheels to loose traction. I was told the transmission most likely needs a valve body. The Chevrolet dealer and a very reputable transmission repair shop advised that the 1997 and 1998 Blazer are notorious for this inherent defect, and they have replaced the defective valve body with a larger one which fixes the problem. The dealer advised that there hasn't been a recall probably because no one has complained about the problem.

- White Marsh, MD, USA

The consumer experienced multiple problems with the vehicle. The wiper motor failed and was recalled. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for repairs but they didn't have the parts available. The radio would go off and on, the overhead display and map lights would go off and on, the cd player no longer worked, the rear window latch failed, the mirrors would only move to the left and there was rust in the transmission.

- Yorba Linda, CA, USA

Transmission slips from 2-wheel drive into 4-wheel drive. Took to car dealer at 31K+ miles. Told dip stick rusted. Transmission slipped on 3 occasions previously from 2 wheel to 4 wheel drive at speeds between 45 -55 mph. At dealer now with just over 52K miles and told transmission will probably be replaced, estimated cost $1800. Believe this occurs more frequently than reported and unsuspecting owner are shelling out excessive money for faulty transmissions.

- Herndon, VA, USA