When Chevrolet introduced the Trailblazer in 1999 they did so to considerable acclaim; here was a mid sized SUV with fantastic design and brilliant engines – indeed, the 4.2 liter six cylinder won awards for its prowess – and a fabulous range of options, setting the standards for this class of vehicle.

Several updates later, and the Trailblazer remains a very popular vehicle indeed, being prevalent across most of the USA.

Perhaps the most interesting version of the Trailblazer is the SS, a model introduced for the 2006 model year. This exciting and astonishing car set entirely new parameters for an SUV, and looking at the performance figures it is no wonder.

The SS, powered by a 6.0 liter V8 that pushes out an amazing 395bhp, boasts acceleration figures that are more akin to a top class supercar: this mighty vehicle can reach 60mph from standstill in just 5.8 seconds, and cover a quarter mile in little over 13 seconds. This is practically unrivalled, and puts the SS Trailblazer in a class of its own.

It is a pity, therefore, that 2009 will be the last year that Trailblazers will be on sale in Chevrolet dealerships. The planned upgrade was cancelled in late 2008 thanks to the economic crisis and the costs involved, and production at the plant in Moraine ended in December, at which point the plant was closed.

With models such as the SS on offer, and with the massive range of options in both engines and trim, it is with sadness that many in America see the end of Trailblazer production. However, with around one and a half million Chevy Trailblazers built during the models production run, it remains so that the band of loyal supporters this excellent vehicle has built up will keep them running for many years to come.

Running an old car is something of an honor these days, and that’s the way it is with my Chevy Trailblazer. It follows that older cars need maintenance, but how much of it do you do yourself?

It’s not only cost effective to do your own maintenance, but its fun and part of the enjoyment of running an old car. In the past I’ve done all of the following, myself, on my Chevy:

Replaced all four wheels with new alloys; changed the leaking radiator; fitted new fog lights; put new side mirrors on; changed the oil filters; put new seats in, and that’s just in the last few weeks. It’s great, out in the sun with the radio on, working away on the old girl.

I enjoy searching for new parts, too, and use a number of different sources. There’s the Chevy dealer, and the auto store in town, then there’s the online suppliers like Go-Part.com and the junkyard. I only use the latter of the part I want is very hard to find!

My Trailblazer will stay on the road for years to come, and I look forward to fettling her week in, week out: it’s part of the deal with keeping our heritage on the road.