Ball joints are part of your vehicle's suspension system. They connect the steering and suspension so you can move up, down, and turn right or left via the spherical bearings that are connected to the steering knuckles.
The ball joint consists of a ball and socket fitting together. The ball rotates freely inside the socket, filled with lubricant and sealed with a rubber boot to protect it from dirt and debris. Over time, the lubricant can dry out, and the boot can crack or tear, causing the joint to wear out prematurely.
Symptoms of Failing Ball Joints
- Clunking noises coming from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps
- Uneven or rapid tire wear
- Vibrations in the steering wheel
- Steering wander or a loose steering feel
If you experience any of these issues, having your vehicle inspected by a qualified technician as soon as possible is best. Driving with excessively worn ball joints can be dangerous, as they may fail suddenly and cause loss of vehicle control.
Ball Joint Replacement
If your ball joints are severely worn, the only repair is to replace them. This involves removing the control arm, pressing out the old ball joint, and pressing in a new one. It's important to have this work done by an experienced technician to complete it correctly.
At LeMond Chevrolet, our factory-trained technicians can inspect your ball joints and suspension and let you know if any repairs are needed to keep your vehicle riding smoothly and safely. We use high-quality replacement parts and a warranty backs our work.
If you have any concerns about your vehicle's steering or suspension, stop by and see us soon.