Front Ball Joint: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2012 Subaru Outback and 2012 Subaru Legacy. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Measure the play of the ball joint using the following procedures. Replace with a new part if the play exceeds specification.
1. With 686 N (70 kgf, 154 lbf) loaded in direction shown in the figure, measure the length l ₁ .
  
  Fig 1: Measuring Play Of Ball Joint
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
2. With 686 N (70 kgf, 154 lbf) loaded in direction shown in the figure, measure the length l ₂ .
  
  Fig 2: Measuring Play Of Ball Joint
  Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
3. Determine free play using the following formula.
  S = l ₂ - l ₁
4. Replace with a new part if the play exceeds specification.
Front ball joint

Replacement standard S: Less than 0.3 mm (0.012 in)
If the play is within specification, visually check the dust cover.
If the dust cover is damaged, replace with a new ball joint.