WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Oldsmobile Bravada, 2003 GMC Envoy XL, 2003 GMC Envoy, and 2003 Chevrolet TrailBlazer. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Fig 1: Identifying Abrasive Step Wear
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Pattern on the roller ends caused by fine abrasives. Clean all of the parts and the housings. Check the seals and the bearings. Replace any leaky, rough, or noisy bearings.