The suspension ball joints are an important component of the front suspension of your car. The front suspension is a combination of links, joints, bushings, and bearings that allow your front wheels to move freely and turn left or right.
The role of ball joints is to allow free movement of your vehicle’s suspension so the tire has maximum contact with the road and you have optimal control over the stability of your vehicle.
The ball joint consists of a ball and socket that are similar to the hip joint in the human body; they provide pivoting movement between the steering knuckle and control arms so you can enjoy a smooth ride.
If you wish to learn more about the suspension ball joint and see if it’s time to visit an auto repair shop in Houston to get your ball joint repaired, then you are at the right place.
Types of Ball Joints
Primarily, there are two types of suspension ball joints:
1. Upper Ball Joints
The upper ball joints are made to absorb radial loads that include turning forces. They allow efficient rotation of the steering knuckles and also help absorb vertical movements of the car.
2. Lower Ball Joints
The lower ball joints function to carry the load of the car and support the force generated by the movement of the car. They play a key role in helping the car maintain its wheel alignment.
Operating of a Suspension Ball Joint
As discussed before, the primary function of the suspension ball joint is to allow the suspension system to move freely and absorb shocks. It allows the suspension to move freely and reduces wear and tear.
The ball joint is a cylindrical piece of metal connected to the steering knuckle and the lower control arm. It comes with two ball bearings that allow it to rotate and absorb shocks. A rubber boot is used between the bearings to keep dirt and moisture out and extend the joint’s life.
When going on a bumpy road, when the suspension of your car moves up, the suspension ball joint also moves up. When it goes down, the ball joint also goes down.
Due to continuous working, the ball joint malfunctions after some time. Dirt, oil, and wear cause the ball joint to become loose, which translates to irregular movements while driving.
Symptoms of a Worn-Out Suspension Ball Joint
If you think that your suspension ball joints may have worn, then these are some signs you need to look out for:
1. Cabin Vibrations
When the suspension ball joints become loose, they cause the suspension to rattle as you drive. The vibration can be very harsh and can be felt in the seats, steering wheels, and also through the accelerator pedal.
2. Front Wheels Wear Unevenly
If your suspension ball joints are loose or not functioning properly, then the front wheels might wear unevenly. You might notice that the outer or inner treads of your tires are more worn as compared to the middle.
The reason behind uneven wear is that, due to loose ball joints, the wheel alignment is sacrificed and the tires don’t make proper contact with the road.
3. Rattling Noises
If you are feeling awkward noises coming from the wheels while driving, then it’s a common sign that your suspension ball joints are worn out. The voices can be increased if you are driving over bumps or making sharp turns.
4. Steering Wheel Feels Loose
If you feel that your steering wheel is not in your control while driving or that your car drifts towards one side of the road, then it’s a common sign of worn-out ball joints.
When you start to feel all or any of these symptoms, it’s always recommended that you visit a certified mechanic, such as Eric’s Car Care so they can help you make timely decisions regarding the replacement of ball joints.
How Much Does Ball Joint Replacement Cost?
Getting your ball joints replaced is not very expensive; the average price of a ball joint is somewhere around $30 to $60. Some cars also need a combination of control arm and ball joint, which can cost up to $500. The labor costs can go up to $400; it also depends on the type of car you are driving.
