Eight problems related to front suspension lower ball joint have been reported for the 1998 Chevrolet Blazer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
1. Two days ago, at 50 mph, I started having steering problems (quickly steering from left to right to stay on road). It is in the shop (only 84k miles) to the tune of $600 to replace both ball joints.
Had to replace lower ball joints for second time within 20,000 miles.
Upper and lower ball joint failure. If the upper or lower ball joint fail on a 1997 prior to 8 years or 100,000 miles they will be replaced according to your system. This would lead me to believe that they should not fail within 100,000 miles. My Chevrolet Blazer has failed at aproxamately 87,000 miles.
When turning left or right, there is a loud noise. Took vehicle to the dealer for an oil change, mechanic stated that ball joints were shot. Consumer indicated that there was a recall for same part on 1996 and 1997 models. . Consumer was informed by manufacturer that vehicle was not included in recall due to the VIN.
Truck bought new. At 47,576 miles, left and right lower ball joints replaced. Again, at 84,200 miles same ball joints to be replaced. Another chevy dealer told me 96to97 Blazers have ball joint defect recall, recall not extended to 98 Blazers. Seems fishy. My truck is serviced every 3,000 miles.
When turning the steering wheel, there is a vibration and a loud groaning sound. This began in March 01, and continues. At this point it is almost constant. A gm service manager said it was the ball joint and that he was surprised that there was not a recall. We have tried to keep up with the recalls, but there haven't been any regarding this matter. We are concerned that it might be a safety hazard, but at this point we have no other option than to drive this vehicle.
Replaced front ball joints 3 times. Once within a month after recall 98v053000 repairs. The vehicle had to be serviced again for clunking but dealer couldn't determine the cause. Consumer fells uneasy driving this vehicle.
Lower ball joints were worn out, rear bushings seized. Dealer contacted and repairwork done, replacements made. Provide further information.