Four problems related to ball joint have been reported for the 2011 Jeep Patriot. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
My 2011 Jeep Patriot was purchased new in mid November 2010. It has 42,972 miles on it. I had to replace the tires, one was worn clear down on the inside. The tire supplier said I needed an alignment. When I went in to get an alignment they were unable to do one because my ball joints needed replaced. I've owned this vehicle (my first & last Jeep) for 63 1/2 months and driven it less than 677 miles a month or less than 10 miles per day, I should not be replacing my ball joints with these low miles on my car! it is bad enough that I was told not to even drive my car until the parts come in which is going to be another 13 days! please tell me how this is normal wear & tear on a vehicle that has never been off road and has never had the 4 wheel drive engaged longer than to just pull out of slick spot? please make this right and recall the Jeeps that are having this issue!.
Took the vehicle into get a wobble in the front end checked. Was told by technician that the ball joints on both side are worn out. He said it was a very common problem due to poor quality components. From reading complaints, it seems to be a very common issue. It it's a safety hazard and should be addressed. I have contacted an attorney and will proceed.
While turning right and entering a highway using a 270 degree on ramp, the cars steering became unstable and suddenly tightened it's turning circle and lunged farther to the right. Inspection has revealed that the lower left ( drivers side ) has worn out after only 42,000 miles. A search online revealed that this is a common problem with the Jeep Patriot and compass and it is traceable to a bad batch of ball joints. Chrysler refuses to acknowledge the problem and cover it under warranty. . Read more...
Ball joints are worn and need replacement at approximately 35,000 miles. Vehicle has only been driven on highway and around town. No off-roading. Looking at Jeep Patriot forum on-line this appears to be pretty typical. Perhaps a recall should be done so that Jeep can put in parts that are durable and safe.