ball joints

On vehicles, ball joints are the pivot between the wheels and the suspension of an automobile. Ball joints play a critical role in the safe operation of an automobile's steering and suspension. No matter what the road condition may be, the suspension needs to move up and down to keep all four tires on the ground and keep the ride comfortable. The steering system also needs to turn left and right, and the ball joints assist with steering in the front. Bushings allow for movement on a single axis (up-down or forward-backward), but ball joints allow for movement on three axes (up-down, forward-backward, and left-right).

How Can In ’N Out Car Services Help?

Through examination of your suspension system

  • Ensure any issue is tied to the ball joints and no other elements of your suspension

  • Examine the lubricant and bearings associated with the ball joints

  • Replacement of ball joints if needed

auto suspension

What To Watch For:

  • The steering wheel feels loose or your vehicle wanders, you may have a loose ball joint or tie rod end

  • Abnormal noise over bumps

  • Tires are wearing abnormally; a loose ball joint may not be holding the alignment angle

  • If the wheel has a shimmy or vibrates

  • Difficulty steering or noise when steering may be caused by a ball joint that needs lubrication…this is rare as many ball joints are maintenance-free, but they will require replacement if they wear out or start binding