Over time, the ravages of the road will start to wear on your car. That means, eventually, some parts can wear out from miles and miles of travel. In the suspension system, ball joints are one such part. These are lubricated joints that help connect the wheels to the steering and suspension system for a smooth, controlled ride. If it becomes damaged, or leaks, or comes loose, it'll need to be replaced. In most cases, this is a routine and affordable repair that keeps your faithful car in service for miles and miles to come. Here are the signs you need to watch out for:
4. Uneven Tire Wear
Worn suspension parts mean your car won't sit perfectly balanced on the wheels. Over time, that will take a toll on your tires. Excessive, improperly supported forces can cause your tires to wear out rapidly on one edge, meaning you'll have to replace them sooner for safe travel. A new set of tires will increase your repair bill substantially, so have this symptom checked out soon after you take notice! A fast suspension repair like new tie-rod ends or ball joints will save you money on tires and suspension components in the long run.
3. Squeaking Noises
The suspension on a brand-new car is quiet and doesn't squeak because all the joints are properly sealed and lubricated. So the metal components can slide against each other smoothly. That's why they're covered by protective rubber sleeves called "boots."
If your ball joints are squeaking, it could be caused by a ball joint boot that's been ruptured, allowing oil to seep out and dust and dirt to get inside the joint. When this happens, it's time to have the ball joint replaced.
2. Clunking, Clicking Sensation In Steering
When a ball joint becomes dangerously worn out, it becomes a loose point in your vehicle's suspension. A technician can test for this by moving the wheel up and down or side to side while the vehicle is lifted off the ground. If something gives or rattles back and forth, chances are you'll need new ball joints.
When you're driving, this clunking can often be perceived in the driver's seat as an audible clunking noise and a clicking sensation in the steering wheel when you first begin to turn. Worst of all, this can rob you of predictable steering control, which can even be dangerous!
1. Loose, Wandering Steering
Because the suspension and steering systems of the front wheels are so closely related, a problem with the suspension can feel like a problem in the steering, or vice-versa. So, whether it's a bad control arm, worn tie rods or loose ball joints, they can all cause a similar symptom: a feeling of looseness in the steering wheel. If the steering wheel feels like it's only suggesting a direction to go, and the vehicle has a bit of a mind of its own, wandering about in your lane, have a technician take a closer look at the ball joints. Ball joints and tie-rod ends are considered "wearable parts" which means they'll last for a certain amount of time, then need to be replaced as part of regular maintenance.
Capitol Subaru of Salem
920 Auto Group Ave NE
Salem, OR 97301
- Sales: 503-587-5500
- Service: 503-587-5500
- Parts: 503-587-5500
