Multi- function switch problem. The wipers quit working during the rain. In the past I have spoken to dealer service managers and they said a lot of complaints have been made about the multi function switch that controls the wiper delay but there has been no recalls made on it. Mostly what happens is the wipers will not turn off with the switch, the ignition has to be turned off to turn off the wipers. The concern is the wiper stopping during heavy rain causing loss of visibility. This has been occurring for years, I just became aware of this route of complaint process. The replacement of the multi function switch is expensive. Clicking is also heard at times due to the switch, a service manager has said the multi- function switch causes this also. The 10 for number of failures is the minimum number of times I can remember the wipers stopped when operating.

- Colusa, CA, USA

Blinker noise persists even when blinkers are turned off. Sound disapears after engaging brake pedal then persists when break pedal is released. In a heavy rain storm, had to use windshield wipers and after a few minutes of use white smoke came from the steering column. Talked to a GM mechanic who told me that this problem could cause my airbag to deploy - a real liability. Called GM to explain the problem & possible liability of airbag deployment (case #1-333564043) & was told that because of the Blazer being a 1998 there may be nonthing they can do. The same multi-function switch was made in Mexico for 1998-2001 models and if it disfunctions can cause break lights not to work as well as major electrical issues like airbag deployment or fire - wouldn't this be a recall for all models that have the part?

- Salt Lake City, UT, USA

Electrical system-instrument panel cluster-shorted out truck became filled with smoke and had to pull over to get help. No help from my insurance co.

- Paragon, IN, USA

The turn signal on MY1998 Chevy Blazer won't stop clicking. I've already replaced the combination flasher/signal part that's behind the glove box with no result. Today I saw wisps of smoke coming from the steering console. I checked the fuses and they are fine. I'm afraid my car is going to catch on fire!

- Boring, OR, USA

Had drivers side door rehung due to sagging. Shortly after that my interior lights began to malfunction and my auto reserve power(allows radio, interior lights and power windows to operate for 15 minutes after engine shutoff) began to work "occasionally". also, the windshield wipers operate randomly - juggling the wires under the hood helps to make them run. Now, at 3:30am this morning, I realize that my headlights are not operating, checked in the morning and the daytime running lights work, but when you manually turn the headlamps on, the daylights go out and you have no headlights on.

- Memphis, TN, USA

Our Blazer caught on fire while driving down the interstate. We were traveling at 75 mph using the cruise control. The steering wheel jerked a little and we immediately saw black smoke coming from the rear of the vehicle. White smoke was coming out of the passenger side under the hood. We pulled over to the side of the road and turned off the engine. As we were pulling off the road the computer controlled dash instruments started to malfunction, but at no time did the engine appear to have problems. As soon as we pulled over we realized we had a fire & immediately called 911. Someone stopped with a small fire extinguisher to try a stop the flames. The fire appeared to be located towards the dash on the passenger side down in the middle or lower area of the engine compartment. The fire was so hot that it went through the passenger side below the dash board and entered the cab of Blazer. At that point we had nothing left to extinguish the fire and shut all the doors and the hood to try & contain & smother the fire. We then waited for help. We were 150 miles from home when this happened on a rural stretch of interstate (the nearest town was 18 miles away). We would like an investigation to find our what happened to our vehicle. Our insurance company won't help. We have contacted the dealer and we are still waiting for the general manager to call back. We contacted GM and got as far as the product allegation resolution team. They sent a letter stating "our investigation revealed no evidence to support product allegation". we called them back and they admitted that they never looked at the vehicle. He said he followed procedures according to company policy (we have requested a copy of that policy). Our vehicle is still where it was originally towed in March. We would appreciate your help in this matter. Thank you.

- Caldwell, ID, USA

Intermittently the control panel shorted out resulting in a non-functional speedometer. The dealer has repaired and inspected the vehicle several times. The manufacturer has been notified.

- Scottsdale, AZ, USA