lower ball joint replacement

What does a lower ball joint do?

Ball joints consist of a bearing stud and socket that fit snugly inside a lubricated casing. They connect the car wheels to the suspension system, and allow them to move together. As the name suggests, the clever ball-and-socket design is similar to the hip joint in the human body, working together to form a pivot mechanism. The ball joints connect the control arm to the steering knuckles and allow for smooth and solid movement in the suspension. The front suspension of most cars has at least lower ball joints and some may have upper ones as well.

Ball joints quickly deteriorate if dirt or grit enter the joint or if grease escapes, leading to a lack of lubrication. Added to this, rusting and general wear and tear also damage these suspension parts.

How often should a lower ball joint need replacing?

In general, ball joints should need replacing after 70,000 to 150,000 miles. This figure will vary depending on the car make and model, driving habits and the conditions that the car is driven in. For example, frequently driving on bumpy or uneven road surfaces can lead to the ball joints wearing out more quickly.

The law, vehicle regulations and your MOT

As well as being a vital component in the smooth running of your vehicle, ball joints are also checked as part of an MOT and excessive wear or deterioration can result in an MOT failure. To save excessive damage being done to your car (and wallet!) It's best to have any issues related to your ball joints checked out as soon as possible.

What happens when we do a lower ball joint repair on your car?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely jack your car and remove the wheels.

• Inspect the ball joints.

• If necessary they will replace the faulty ball joint(s).

• They will advise if any other related components need to be replaced.

• Next they will realign your car’s wheels.

• Finally they’ll re-check the suspension and test drive the car.

What causes a lower ball joint to break?

The underside of your vehicle is exposed to everything. Dirt, grime, oil, water, and anything else that you drive over on the road can make its way into the ball joint and impact the joint’s lubrication and effectiveness.

Over time ball joints can also rust and deteriorate, which will prevent them from performing as well as they should. Cracks or splits in the ball joint can also cause it to lose grease, leading to a lack of lubrication. When this happens the ball joint will quickly deteriorate due to damage caused by friction.

When should a lower ball joint be replaced?

As soon as you notice any of the symptoms related to a bad ball joint you should schedule your car in to be looked at. Your car’s ball joints form a vital part of your car’s suspension system. The front suspension not only allows your front wheels to move up and down independently of one another to give you a smooth ride, it also makes both wheels turn left or right together so that you can make your vehicle go where you need to go. Therefore it is crucial that your ball joints remain in good working order to ensure your vehicle remains drivable and roadworthy.

What are the signs of a bad lower ball joint?

Usually, there a few signs you can look for:

• Car vibrates whilst driving. Can often be felt through the steering wheel.

• Thudding or clunking noises coming from one of the wheels on the car.

• Car feels unstable or pulls to one side.

• Premature or uneven tyre wear.

• If your steering wheel is difficult to turn smoothly or 'sticks' when turning.

• A squeaking noise when stopping, turning a corner or going over a bump.

How often should you replace your lower ball joint?

In general, ball joints should need replacing after 70,000 to 150,000 miles. This figure will vary depending on the car make and model, driving habits and the conditions that the car is driven in. For example, frequently driving on bumpy or uneven road surfaces can lead to the ball joints wearing out more quickly.

What happens during a lower ball joint repair?

Our certified mechanics will:

• Safely jack your car and remove the wheels.

• Inspect the ball joints.

• If necessary they will replace the faulty ball joint(s).

• They will advise if any other related components need to be replaced.

• Next they will realign your car’s wheels.

• Finally they’ll re-check the suspension and test drive the car.

Can you drive with a bad lower ball joint?

A failing lower ball joint is not a problem that should be put off. A complete failure of any ball joint will result in your front suspension coming apart and causing loss of control of your vehicle. Should you suspect worn ball joints, you should have your vehicle looked at by a mechanic as soon as possible.

Do lower ball joints deteriorate with age?

Yes, over time ball joints can become worn or loose, decreasing their effectiveness. This is particularly true if dirt, grime or debris enters the socket as the dirt will decrease the lubrication within the joint leading to premature wear and damage.