2004 ChevyTrailblazer LS, 4.2L, V6, approx 157,000 miles.

Hello, of course, rust is definitely a characteristic of environment, regardless of make and model. It will definitely be something to be aware of and have inspected on a regular basis to prevent degradation of important frame and suspension components. Other Trailblazer owners may post, and I hope they do, regarding their specific experiences. But although any internal combustion engine with good care can last upwards of 200,000 miles, along with automatic transmissions -- depending on how those miles were driven of course, you definitely do start getting into the riskier areas of ownership when your mileage climbs towards those milestones. Interior trim plastics and coatings will most certainly deteriorate as you are seeing. I would suggest that no one at General Motors ever built a Trailblazer to last 15-20 years. Although GM makes money selling parts, they'd much rather sell you a new car. Ownership of a vehicle becomes an increasingly costly burden as it ages. Newer vehicles have new efficiencies and materials and improved fit and finish, not to mention safety enhancements. However, even a 2019 Chevrolet vehicle will have similar physical characteristics to what you are experiencing now with your 2004 Chevrolet -- when considering a similar environment of operation and use.

Considering the vehicles ‘age’ - it seems the condition of those items you have listed is simply normal wear and tear - which will apply to ANY vehicle regardless of make and model.