Ball Joint Checking

Raise and support vehicle. Allow suspension to hang freely. Inspect ball joint seals for cracks or tears. Replace ball joint if seal is damaged. Grasp tire at top and bottom. Move top of tire using an in-and-out motion. Note horizontal movement of the knuckle relative to the control arm. Replace ball joint if any looseness exists. Ball stud tightness in steering knuckle boss should be checked by shaking wheel and looking for looseness at stud end. Repair or replace as necessary.