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.

- Gardnerville, NV, USA

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.

- Fairbanks, IN, USA

Had to replace lower ball joints for second time within 20,000 miles.

- Maple Grove, MN, USA

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.

- Cambridge, VT, USA

Wiper stopped working intermediately. Replaced upper and lower ball joints, idler arm, cap, rotor and coil wire.

- Ripon, WI, USA

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.

- Baltimore, MD, USA

Lower ball joints wore out at 800 miles on vehicle. This was noticed when consumer took vehicle into repair shop. Contacted dealer. Dealer also found idler arm loose. Dealer adjusted camber and caster on both sides and set toe. Manufacturer notified but will not open a recall unless this is a safety issue. However consumer was given complaint number si-4462134.

- Lincoln, NE, USA

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 Blazer have ball joint defect recall, recall not extended to 98 Blazer. Seems fishy. My truck is serviced every 3,000 miles.

- Cedarburg, WI, USA

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.

- Ginter, PA, USA

Dealer has been very helpful, however second set of lower ball joints only lasted 11,000 to 12,000 miles. When getting the vehicle aligned I was told the pitman arm an idler arm are worn excessively. I am being told that this is not a normal occurrence. I am concerned with the high rate of wear on these steering components. The vehicle is not "off roaded". it is used as a commuter vehicle by my wife. The vehicle has the original tires and the suspension has not been altered. At this point my dealer has not yet been able to inspect the latest problem due to scheduling conflicts I have had, not the dealers fault. I have recently notified Chevrolet of my concern, but have not yet received a response from them. Is this a common problem? I do believe this is a safety concern.

- New Ulm, MN, USA

Lower ball joints were worn out, rear bushings seized. Dealer contacted and repairwork done, replacements made. Provide further information.

- North Tonawanda, NY, USA