Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (power steering, steering column, rack and pinion).
Mileage when the problem started
Owner reports
Selected complaints filed with NHTSA by 1998 Chevrolet Blazer owners, lightly cleaned up (personal details are redacted by NHTSA).
My wife and I have had to make major repairs to our 1998 Blazer. We had to replace the water pump ($294.55) in October 2002. Then, the transmission started slipping and got worse. We took it to aamco, where we were informed that it had to be rebuilt. This was in July of 2002. The total cost was ($2077.37). I inquired that same month at Chevrolet about recalls, and they said that there were none. Since then, we have had numerous minor problems with the lame SUV, including broken recliner handles, steering that pulls and grinds, and a malfunctioning electrical system (clicking sounds from under the glove box, three batteries replaced). I saw a report last week about the use of dexcool and its possible link to problems in GM vehicles. Are there any remedies available at this time?
I recently had to replace the ball joints and idler arm on my 1998 Chevrolet Blazer. I was advised by the dealership that this is a constant problem. I do not understand that if the manufacturer knows that there is a problem with the steering components becoming defective, then why don't they solve the problem. This is the third set of balljoints that have needed to be instaledl on the vehicle. The first set along with the pitman arm went defective at 29,000 miles and the dealership replaced them under the manufactures warranty.
Loud sound during acceleration (catalytic converter shot again not replaced, contacting GM, no assistance), oil leak on front of engine (power steering pully shaft seal), noisy ac compressor(replace), fluid leak on front of rear differential (replace yoke and seal [2nd seal]), rear differential clunks on acceleration (change case and shaft bearing), dash grill cracked, ideler arm replaced again.
Suspension - rides rough: replaced shocks electrical - interior/exterior problems with the horn, headlights, directional, windshield wipers, and caution lights. Replaced: electrical unit inside steering column and oxgen sensor. Steering - replaced: wheels, tires, rotors, ball joints, and several attempts to balance tires and front end alignments with no real difference. Idles - rough.
The turn signal on my1998 Chevy Blazer won't stop clicking. I've already replaced the combination flasher/signal part that's behind the glove box with no result. Today I saw wisps of smoke coming from the steering console. I checked the fuses and they are fine. I'm afraid my car is going to catch on fire!
I have had severe problems with the suspension on my truck. I have recently taken it o pinkerton Chevrolet and wanted them to fix the problem . At this time I did not know of any recall on the 1996 and 1997 models. I thought I would have to pay for this repair. But the guy at the place informed me there May be a recall, but he wanted to look at it and call me back. Well a few hrs later he called me and said that it was not my ball joints it was the idler arm so I had it replaced and thought I was done. Well 3 days later my truck is worse than it was before .so I have since called the dealer and I am going to take it today to see if we can come to terms on this. My complaint is that there is a recall on the 96 and 97 models, is my truck affected? Why did the mechanic tell me he checked ball joints when he didn't . He sent me on the road unsafe with my child. …
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.
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.
When making a right turn steering wheel would lock up intermittently. Vehicle been in dealer shop on three occasions, and informed consumer that they could not duplicate the problem. Feel free to provide any further information concerning this matter.
While driving approximately 10 to 15 MPH power assisted steering was lost and the driver had a difficult time maintaining control of vehicle. Upon examination, belt tensioner bar broke which resulted in the loss of steering control.
Steering complaints in other Blazer years
Frequently asked questions
How common are steering problems on the 1998 Chevrolet Blazer?
NHTSA has 29 complaints about the steering of the 1998 Chevrolet Blazer, 4% of the model year's 716 complaints. The component named most often is linkages › arm › idler and attachment (10 mentions).
Is there a recall for 1998 Chevrolet Blazer steering problems?
No. NHTSA lists no steering recall for the 1998 Chevrolet Blazer, though it has 3 recalls for other components. If the problem is widespread, a repair may still be covered by an extended warranty or a manufacturer service bulletin — ask a dealer.
At what mileage do 1998 Chevrolet Blazer steering problems start?
Half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 61,000 miles.
Is it dangerous?
Owners linked 1 crash, 0 fires and 1 injury to steering problems on this model year. If you notice symptoms, have the car checked before driving further.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.