My daughter is a new driver and will be needing a car. She works with horses so she needs a vehicle that can handle dirt/gravel roads. And, she needs something to toss all her gear in. I like the 2 door Blazer and am thinking of something in the '99 - '03 range. Mostly local, so mileage isn't a top priority. How is the handling on the Blazer? Any known issues to look out for? Thank you

 

they are great trucks. They handle grood, the main problem with them is ball joints

 

I used mine all summer to haul around my landscaping gear. Poly pipe, shovels, rakes, really long water hoses all kinds of stuff and it was great. I also agree about the ball joints. I had to replace mine and it was big bucks, but that's no different from any other vehicle. But for hauling, it works great. I guess it depends on what you're hauling too but the seats fold down so there is plenty of room. I got like 4 shovels, a pick, a sledge hammer, a breaker bar and a wheel barrow in the back of mine once with a little room to spare.

 

Thank you for the feedback. I imagine the same ball joint issue occurs with the four door blazers as well. Is that correct? Also, what does a ball joint replacement typically cost?

I have an '04 Suburban (Z71) and replaced 2 lower ball joints ($194 parts, $304 labor).

 

yes the 4 door has the same problem. If your a do-it-yourselfer it will cost about $40 a ball joint.

 

Nice trucks and turn on a dime. The truck in my signature is my son's 95 s10 blazer, thus my online name...mysons95.

Plus, you and her could have some great times together going off-roading. Good times and good memories!

 

Yeah 4 doors have the ball joint issue. And you can replace them yourself if you have the right tools. I didn't have them so I needed to take it to a shop. Cost me about $500. Not too bad but if you have all the tools necessary you'll save lots on labor.

 

Yeah, labor is the killer with auto repair.

You can do your own brake job front and back for about $30 or you can take it in for $200. I always do my own brakes for that reason alone. Well, plus its time with my dad and son. I plan on including everyone in on that party.