Front Suspension Lower Ball Joint problems of the 2011 Jeep Patriot

Bad lower ball joint at 73k had to replace lower control arm.

I went to my dealership for an oil change and was told my front lower ball joints are bad and if not replaced I could not have my state inspection done. I only have 16, 499 miles on my Jeep. This makes no sense to me. I have read that the oem parts are all defective. I want Chrysler to help pay the costs. I was quoted around $675 with labor.

Took my car into mechanic for four new tires. At that time was told by them that lower ball joints showed signs of abnormal wear and tear. They recommended fixing. As I didn't have the time to get it into the shop at that point, I waited. Took car in for state mandated annual inspection and it failed - at 38000 miles. Not only that but car needed another new tire because ball joint had affected the new tires I just bought. Mechanic stated this shouldn't be happening in a car that's barely 4 years old. I do not do any off road driving - just normal about town and some minimal highway. I am the only owner - bought this car brand new. Seems like this is a defect that ought to be addressed. I see a lot of conversation on the web about this issue. Hope they decide to recall.