1996 Chevrolet Blazer steering problems

Filed Jun 15, 2009 · Steering, Suspension · 216,000 miles · WI

The front tires are worn, and I have been told that I need upper and lower ball joints. I have had these replaced in the past. This is a continual repair and getting costly. I called gm and they told me there was a recall but because of the time that has past that it is no longer covered. I am in fear of getting in an accident driving the way it is. It is very unsafe. I was told also that I need idler arm replacements.

Filed Nov 16, 2004 · Steering · 10,000 miles · MA

I have a 1996 chevrolet blazer with about 60,000 miles on it. I have already had to replace the front end parts about 4-5 times. With out fixing this everytime it would be impossible to drive the car. The steering becomes loose, and there is much play in the steering wheel.

Filed Jan 22, 2004 · Body, Engine · WI

Most of the problems that surfaced had already been repaired at least once. *ph most of the problems had already been repaired at least once under warranty and have recurred. The A/C seal leaked and needed a pump. There were problems with the idler pulley, oil filter lines, crank shaft,door hinges, power steering, throttle positioner sensor 2, left front axle seal, and the differential side covers. *sc *mr

Filed Aug 15, 2003 · Steering, Suspension · KS

Lower ball joint failure/ right & left side idler. Also idler arm & pitman arm loose. *mr *scc

Filed Jun 10, 2003 · Steering, Suspension · 72,500 miles · PA

My 1996 chevrolet blazer did not pass a state inspection due to corrosion of the upper and lower ball joints and as well that the idler arm,. The front steering and suspension must be replaced. Upon searching the internet, I have discovered that this has been a serious problem with 1996 blazer's and a recall was issued. I did contact chevrolet and speak with a representative about the recall,however, after providing my vehicle's VIN number, I was told that my blazer does not qualify for the recall. I feel that this is inappropriate. If my vehicle is experiencing the exact same problem discribed in the recall, then it should qualify for the remedy.

Filed Apr 19, 2003 · Brakes, Engine · 99,000 miles · WV

Windshield wipers front & rear failed, water pump quit, drive shaft broke, ball joints right front broke, heater quit, air conditioner quit. Drivers side rear view mirror fell off, steering problems, brake problems, universal joints worn out, cracked front rotors,etc.

Filed Apr 18, 2003 · Steering · 101,000 miles · WI

The vehicles front spindle broke which resulted in loss of control.

Filed Sep 26, 2002 · Brakes, Steering · NY

Consumer states ball joints are constantly failing. Consumer has had to replace them twice. A recall was initiated, but consumer's VIN was not included. Related recalls 01v200000 and 01i018000. *ak right front wheel fell off as a result of the faulty ball joints. There was squeaking noise on turns due to idler arm failure. Front pads worn out and rotors failed, both were replaced.

Filed Apr 10, 2002 · Steering · OH

Certified master auto mechanic, that's why no specific vehicle. Have seen a tremendous amount of these gm trucks, all lines, blaxer, tahoe, k3500, etc. With the belt tensioners coming apart. The center rots out and the spring just makes the tensioner fall sideways. For a while its not bad, the belt is still on and only slips wet. When they come off there is suddenly no power steering, along with of course no alternator. We are changing these at probably one per day, and check all of these vehicles. I have found that all of them with at least thirty thousand miles either need a new tensioner or have already had the tensioner replaced. This covers a few years, from at least 1995 through 1999, and is such a common problem that all the aftermarket suppliers I have seen (gates, napa, carquest) stock these parts. I can tell you the carquest part number, 89231, from memory. As a side issue, you might consider a seperate form for mechanics to fill out, with questions aimed more the information we can provide. After all, we are in the front lines, and can pick up many of these problems more quickly than individual owners probably can.

Filed Dec 26, 2001 · Airbags, Brakes · RI · crash

While driving 20 MPH, steering wheel locked, causing driver to lose control of vehicle, resulting in a collision.*ak consumer stated the brakes also failed, airbag failed to deploy, and power steering fluid was also leaking.