1996 Chevrolet Blazer Suspension Problems
- Complaints
- 149about this part
- Share
- 13%of 1,153 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 73,250miles
- Trend
- StableComplaints filed in the last 3 full calendar years are within 25% of the 3 years before.
NHTSA recorded 149 complaints about the suspension of the 1996 Chevrolet Blazer, 13% of the 1,153 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 73,250 miles. 10 of these say a crash was involved and 1 a fire, according to the filers. 1 recall campaign on record is filed under a similar system.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“I have a 96 chevy Blazer with cooling problems. I have replaced the water pump 2 times in the last yr. The radiator needs to be flushed and clean about every 2 months due to slugged and rust build up. I have also had the upper ball joints break on me.”
NHTSA complaint #10039038, filed 2003-09, 50,000 miles“Nhtsa campaign id number: 01v200000 product campaign bulletin no: 01048 after nearly losing control on the interstate highway I decided to have the front end checked. The front ball joints need replaced. I further learned of the above mentioned references however, the dealership in ankeny was unhelpful, rude, and basically told me they don't have to do any work regardless of bulletins, etc... Each day the vehicle is harder to handle and a mechanic friend advised will start to cause additional problems with suspension. …”
NHTSA complaint #10170476, filed 2006-10, 60,500 miles“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. …”
NHTSA complaint #10021348, filed 2003-06, 72,500 miles“While driving at 30mph on a well paved road, heard a loud bang. Two seconds later, another loud noise was heard, and the Blazer tilted to the left like have a blown tire. Luckily, we were going at slow speed and managed to pull the Blazer to the curb. After told to the nearby service station, the mechanic said the upper ball joint on the front driver side was pulled off the socket. Subsequently, the wheel rim was cut and tire was blown. After learning that there was a recall of this kind on 1996 Blazer, I called GM and gave the VIN. …”
NHTSA complaint #10041774, filed 2003-10, 62,189 miles“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.”
NHTSA complaint #10016198, filed 2003-04, 99,000 milesRelated recalls
- 01V200000Jun 28, 2001On certain sport utility vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland…Covers: Chevrolet Blazer 1996–1997, GMC Jimmy 1996–1997, Oldsmobile Bravada 1996–1997
Suspension: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 2 | 6% |
| 2024 | 1 | 2% |
| 2022 | 1 | 2% |
| 2021 | 4 | 3% |
| 2020 | 4 | 2% |
| 2004 | 6 | 12% |
| 2003 | 4 | 5% |
| 2002 | 16 | 7% |
| 2001 | 40 | 12% |
| 2000 | 100 | 17% |
| 1999 | 72 | 17% |
| 1998 | 60 | 8% |
| 1997 | 105 | 14% |
| 1996 | 149 | 13% |
| 1995 | 35 | 3% |
| 1994 | 10 | 2% |
| 1993 | 7 | 1% |
| 1992 | 3 | 1% |
| 1991 | 5 | 2% |
| 1990 | 2 | 6% |
| 1988 | 1 | 3% |
| 1985 | 2 | 7% |
Other parts of the 1996 Chevrolet Blazer
443 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
182 complaintsEngine cooling
149 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
96 complaintsElectrical system
62 complaintsAir bags
56 complaintsFuel system
36 complaintsSeat belts
30 complaintsEquipment
29 complaintsBody and structure
29 complaintsSteering
28 complaintsVehicle speed control
28 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1996 Chevrolet Blazer
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 31, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology