2021 Chevrolet Blazer Has A Check Engine Light

Troubleshooting the Check Engine Light in Your 2021 Chevrolet Blazer: Common Causes and Solutions

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Reviewed by
Bo Fader
Written by RepairPal Car Genius
Updated January 14, 2025
0%
40% chance it's the
Emissions System
0%
60% chance it's
Something else
The most common reasons a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer has a check engine light are an emissions system component, a sensor, or a catalytic converter.
  • Emissions System: A faulty emissions system component, such as an oxygen sensor or EGR valve, can lead to increased emissions and trigger the check engine light.
Proper diagnosis will determine the exact cause of your symptom, saving you money on unnecessary repairs. The diagnostic experts at RepairPal Certified shops have the right tools and experience to solve any symptom.

How much does it cost to fix a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer has a check engine light?

Common Repairs

The total repair cost will vary based on the condition of your vehicle and the number of repairs needed to fix your symptom. Proper diagnosis will save you money by finding the exact repairs needed to fix your car right the first time.

A faulty oxygen sensor is one of the most common causes of a check engine light. Symptoms may include a decrease in fuel mileage, hesitation or misfiring from the engine, rough idling or even stalling. A faulty sensor may cause the vehicle to fail an emissions test.

Any time there is an emissions fault the check engine light will be displayed. The purpose of the check engine light is to inform the driver that an emission related fault has been found, and that there are on-board diagnostic (OBD) trouble codes stored in the powertrain or engine control module. Additionally, since the emissions systems are so intertwined into engine control and transmission control systems, symptoms may include nearly any sort of drivability concerns. This may include harsh shifting, failure to shift, hesitation on acceleration, jerking, engine failure to start or run, loss of power, or any number of other drivability issues.

Due to the nature of electrical systems on modern vehicles, the range of problems these can cause are nearly limitless. However, there is a way to categorize them in two ways. Permanent and intermittent problems. Permanent problems appear and remain. This may be the vehicle will not start, the radio does not work, or the door chime will not turn off among many, many others. These problems are more straight-forward to diagnose since they present themselves at all time. This means there will always be a fault to find. Intermittent electrical problems, however, can be difficult or impossible to locate, since they appear then disappear without warning. The best case scenario for an intermittent issue is when replicating the problem is easily accomplished and understood. This allows a technician to make an issue semi-permanent, allowing them to find the fault. Other issues that come and go without warning and cannot be replicated on demand must occur when the technician is servicing the vehicle, otherwise there is no problem to correct. It is most important to understand that electrical system faults always require inspection, and can include the vehicle working in any manner, or not working at all.

Like we noted in the last section, general diagnosis symptoms are the most vague of the bunch. There are several diagnostic spectrums, electrical diagnosis, drivability diagnostics, engine diagnostics, transmission diagnostics, and the list could continue for about 5 or 10 more spectrums of diagnostics. The most important take-away here, is that general diagnostics are diagnostics that have no other spectrum in which they fit, or the problem is unknown. This means that any vehicle left outside of a repair facility with the keys and an authorization to perform diagnosis will be diagnosed under the general diagnosis spectrum.

When the Check Engine Light comes on, you may experience engine performance issues such as poor acceleration, rough idling, or an engine that won't start. In some cases, no abnormal symptoms will be experienced. Other systems like the transmission or ABS can cause the Check Engine Light to illuminate and lights for those systems can come on at the same time. Similar lights may say "Check Engine Soon", "Malfunction Indicator Light" or just "Check". In rare case the engine can overheat.

What are the initial steps to diagnose the check engine light on a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer?

To effectively diagnose the check engine light on your 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, start with a thorough visual inspection of the vehicle. Begin by checking the gas cap, as a loose or damaged cap is a common and easily fixable issue that can trigger the light. If the gas cap is secure, the next step is to utilize an OBD-II scanner, which you can connect to the vehicle's diagnostic port. This tool will provide you with specific error codes that indicate the underlying problem. Once you have the error code, research its meaning using the vehicle's manual or online resources to gain insight into the potential issue. Additionally, pay close attention to any changes in your vehicle's performance, such as unusual noises or difficulty in operation, as these symptoms can offer valuable clues for further diagnosis. By following this structured approach, you can efficiently identify and address the cause of the check engine light, empowering you to take control of your vehicle's maintenance.

What are the common problems that could cause the check engine light to illuminate in a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer?

When the check engine light comes on in your 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, it can be a source of concern, but understanding the common problems can empower you to take action. One frequent culprit is a loose gas cap, which is an easy fix that can often be resolved by simply tightening or replacing the cap. Another common issue is a faulty oxygen sensor, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency and increased emissions; if you suspect this, consider checking the sensor's functionality. Additionally, problems with the catalytic converter can trigger the light, indicating a need for inspection or replacement if it’s not functioning properly. Spark plug or ignition coil issues can also cause misfires, leading to the light illuminating, so checking these components is advisable. A malfunctioning mass airflow sensor can disrupt the air-fuel mixture, and if you notice performance issues, this may be worth investigating. Lastly, engine misfires, which can stem from various factors including fuel quality or spark plug condition, should be addressed promptly to avoid further complications. By being aware of these common problems, you can take the first steps toward diagnosing and potentially resolving the issue, ensuring your Blazer runs smoothly.

How urgent is it to address the check engine light in a 2021 Chevrolet Blazer?

When the check engine light illuminates in your 2021 Chevrolet Blazer, it is crucial to take immediate action rather than dismissing it as a minor inconvenience. This warning light is your vehicle's way of communicating that there may be underlying issues affecting its engine or emissions system, which can range from simple fixes to serious malfunctions. Ignoring this signal can lead to more significant problems, including costly repairs and decreased vehicle performance. For DIY enthusiasts, addressing the check engine light promptly not only helps in preventing further damage but also enhances fuel efficiency and ensures the safety of your vehicle. By diagnosing the issue early, you can potentially resolve minor problems before they escalate, making your DIY repair efforts more effective and economical. Therefore, if you see that check engine light, don’t wait—take the time to investigate and resolve the issue to maintain your Blazer's reliability and performance.

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2021 Chevrolet Blazer Check Engine Light Guide | RepairPal