Two problems related to battery have been reported for the 2000 Chevrolet Blazer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
11/18/2009: smoke was coming from the steering column. Spoke with a family member who works as a technician for pep boys. He believed the cause to be the multifunction switch. 11/20/2009: brake lights would not turn off even when the vehicle was turned off. They stayed on until they completely drained my battery. Looked up recalls and found there was a recall on the multifunction switch: NHTSA action number: rq08001. 11/21/2009: called the gm number listed on the NHTSA recall form to ask for assistance with the cost of replacing the part. Was refused assistance and given the following reasons: my particular VIN was not one included in the recall. I didn't purchase my vehicle from a gm dealer. I purchased my vehicle used (there was only one previous owner). My vehicle has over 100,000 miles on it. I don't have a (proven) history of being a loyal gm owner. I don't have my repairs done at a gm dealer. The estimated cost of the multifunction switch itself is $200. That does not include labor. The repair needs to be done immediately as the vehicle is unable to be driven as is.
Have put 3 batteries in car that's 3 1/2 years old. Have replaced passenger hub assembly. Have replaced leaking oil lines. Constant carbon build-up on throttle. Car sometimes "dies" with no reason. Battery light comes on, but normally cranks again. Dealership claims they are clueless. All this has occured in 3 1/2 years and I bought the car new.