Ball joints are the part not to run to failure
Most suspension wear is gradual and forgiving. A tired shock makes the ride float, a worn bushing adds a clunk, and the vehicle carries on. Ball joints are different, and they are worth understanding because of how they fail.
A ball joint is the pivot that connects the steering knuckle, which carries the wheel, to the control arm. It lets the wheel steer and move up and down at the same time. On many vehicles it also carries a share of the vehicle's weight. As it wears, play develops in the joint. Early on that shows up as a knock over bumps or a loose feel in the steering. If it keeps wearing, the joint can separate, and when that happens the wheel can fold out of position at whatever speed the vehicle is going.
That is why ball joints sit apart from other suspension parts. They are not a comfort item.
Signs worth booking for
- A knock or clunk from one corner over bumps, driveways or railroad crossings.
- Wander or looseness in the steering, especially at highway speed.
- Uneven tire wear on the inside or outside edge of one front tire.
- A creak when turning at low speed, as a dry joint moves under load.
What the inspection looks for
With the weight taken off the wheel, the technician checks for movement in the joint that should not be there. Some joints have wear indicators built in. The answer is usually clear, and it decides whether the part can wait or should be replaced now.
Replacing ball joints changes the geometry, so an alignment normally follows, and it is at this store. Brakes share the same corner of the vehicle, and brake repair is offered here too. The national suspension repair page covers the other parts that wear.
About this store
The Washington store runs seventeen services and is managed by Kurt Kottwitz.
See the national suspension repair page for all 34 locations.