The problem
Certain sport utility vehicles have windshield wiper systems that will not turn on, cease operation while in use, fail to turn off/on by themselves (moisture sensitive wiper system), or have continuous windshield washer pump operation because the presence of water within the wiper modules can either cause a short circuit or can lead to the corrosion of components within the module.
The risk
Depending on the occurrence and weather situation, driver visibility could be reduced, which could result in a crash.
The fix
Dealers will cover the windshield wiper module vent hole with a patch. Also, the wiper motor, circuit board, and electrical connector will be inspected to signs of water intrusion and/or corrosion and be replaced as required. The recall began July 6, 2004. Owners should contact Chevrolet at 1-800-630-2438; Oldsmobile at 1-800-630-6537; or GMC at 1-866-996-9463.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 04V-046 (04V046000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 04005 |
| Manufacturer | General Motors, LLC |
| Component | Visibility › Windshield wiper/washer |
| Report date | February 4, 2004 |
| Owners notified | July 6, 2004 |
| Vehicles affected | 581,394 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the windows, wipers & sunroof
- 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer window & wiper problems 104
- 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer window & wiper problems 67
- 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT window & wiper problems 10
- 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer EXT window & wiper problems 25
- 2002 GMC Envoy window & wiper problems 51
- 2003 GMC Envoy window & wiper problems 40
- 2002 GMC Envoy XL window & wiper problems 6
- 2003 GMC Envoy XL window & wiper problems 27
- 2002 Oldsmobile Bravada window & wiper problems 30
- 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada window & wiper problems 1
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 04V-046 repair free?
Yes. Chevrolet dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will cover the windshield wiper module vent hole with a patch. Also, the wiper motor, circuit board, and electrical connector will be inspected to signs of water intrusion and/or corrosion and be replaced as required. The recall began July 6, 2004.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 581,394 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.