Three problems related to front suspension lower ball joint have been reported for the 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
2003 chev trail blazer. Noticed very odd wear pattern on front tires. Front end of car seemed "loose". No accident, car just hard to steer accurately. Took to dealer. Both front lower ball joints were loose. Front struts were shot. Dealer repleaced lower ball joints and struts. I'm a little old lady who drives in town - only 65,000 original miles and front end is going out. Pour quality! dealer said front end worn because car has 4 wheel drive and is heavier than passenger car. I do not drive off road. Repairs not covered by warranty. No help on 60,000 mile front tires completely shot in 17,000.
Caller says the ball joints started going bad on January 13, 2005. The right front fell off, and was replaced at 35,000 miles and at 40,000 miles. It was replaced under warranty, and at 43000 miles the right and left were defective. Dealer offered to replace the ball joints and the spindles. Manufacturer said consumer could trade the vehicle in and would give him $750. 00. In addition, caller was concerned about the safety of driving the vehicle, and felt he was being taken advantage of because manufacturer had the upper hand.
While traveling at 55 mph the front passenger wheel buckled under the car, and caused the driver to lose control. The vehicle flipped and landed upside down on a center concrete median strip . The lower ball joint was found separated during the investigation and the vehicle was considered a total loss. (ohio traffic report).