Thinking of getting a Blazer for my daughter
 

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

RE: Thinking of getting a Blazer for my daughter
 

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

RE: Thinking of getting a Blazer for my daughter
 

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.

RE: Thinking of getting a Blazer for my daughter
 

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).

RE: Thinking of getting a Blazer for my daughter
 

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

RE: Thinking of getting a Blazer for my daughter
 

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!

RE: Thinking of getting a Blazer for my daughter
 

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.

RE: Thinking of getting a Blazer for my daughter
 

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.