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Ball joints are a component of the vehicle's suspension system. They are the pivot points that connect the steering knuckle to the control arms, allowing your wheels to turn and move up and down. Ball joints are essential to keeping your vehicle's tires in proper alignment and ensuring a smooth and safe ride. Read on to learn more about ball joints, what they do, and when they may need to be replaced.
What are ball joints?
Ball joints are spherical bearings that link the steering knuckle to the control arms. They allow for the movement of the wheels in multiple directions while keeping the suspension system stable. There are two types of ball joints: upper ball joints and lower ball joints. The upper ball joint is usually found in the upper control arm, while the lower ball joint is found in the lower control arm.
Without ball joints, your vehicle would not be able to steer or move up and down smoothly. In addition, ball joints also support proper tire alignment, which is essential for safe driving.
Why do ball joints need to be replaced?
Over time, ball joints can wear out and become loose. When this happens, they can cause a variety of problems, including uneven tire wear, poor steering, and a bumpy ride. If left unchecked, worn ball joints can lead to more serious problems, such as a total loss of control of the vehicle. It's important to have your ball joints checked regularly and replaced if necessary.
How do you know if your ball joints need to be replaced?
There are several signs that your ball joints may need to be replaced.
- Uneven tire wear - If your tires are wearing unevenly, it could be a sign that your ball joints are worn and need to be replaced.
- Clunking or knocking sounds - If you hear clunking or knocking sounds when driving over bumps, it could be a sign that your ball joints are worn and need to be replaced.
- Poor steering - If your vehicle is difficult to steer or feels loose, it could be a sign that your ball joints are worn and need to be replaced.
- Bumpy ride - If your vehicle feels bumpy when driving, it could be a sign that your ball joints are worn and need to be replaced.
If you notice any of these warning symptoms, it's important to have your ball joints checked by a qualified mechanic. At Premier West Gears, we specialize in ball joint replacement and can help keep your vehicle running smoothly.