Ball Joint replacement & repair made easy

Ball joints are used throughout a car's suspension system, most prominently at the front of the car, and enable a flexible and fluid connection between the uprights / wheel hubs and the other parts of the suspension and steering. Ball joints are aspherical bearings that consists of a (cup-like) socket in which a bearing stud (ball-shaped) can move around freely, much like the hip or shoulder joint of a human being. The ball is usually kept in place by an internal spring and is encased by a rubber boot.

One application of a ball joint is for the steering system where it connects the steering arm's tie rod end to a wheel's upright. Equally, it connects an upright to the upper and lower control arms of the suspension. This enables the linkages to move flexibly as the wheel moves, transfering the forces from the wheel to the suspension.

• The mechanic will jack the car safely and remove the wheels.
• The mechanic will inspect the ball joints.
• If necessary the mechanic will replace the faulty ball joint.
• The mechanic will advise if other components need to be replaced.
• The mechanic will re-align the wheels.
• The mechanic will re-check the suspension and test drive the car.
• If necessary, the mechanic will make adjustments.

Unless you are a qualified mechanic with the required skills, training and equipment to do the job, we strongly recommend a ball joint replacement is only carried out by a professional mechanic. ClickMechanic can help get you a vetted and local mechanic to carry out the work. Just enter your postcode and your car's registration number at the top of this page and select the work needed to get an instant fixed price up front.

• When the car vibrates whilst driving, noticeable through the steering wheel.
• When the car feels unstable or pulls to one side.
• When there is a thudding or clunking noise coming from one of the wheels on the car.
• When the car's tyres have worn exponentially.
• When the steering 'sticks' when turning the steering wheel.
• When there is a squeaking noise when cornering, stopping or going over a bump.

A ball joint replacement typically takes 1 hour, but can take less or more time. Ultimately, the time that the job will take depends on a range of factors. For example, your vehicle's make and model, year, as well as other factors. Select your car at the top of this page for information on job time and cost for your vehicle through ClickMechanic.

Over time, the ball joints can wear out, as most moving components of the suspension they are prone to deterioration. Sometimes the ball joints dry out if they have not been lubricated correctly, which leads to increased friction and, for example, heavier steering. In some cases the steering might even stick. Eventually, due to wear the ball joints can become loose leading to imprecise steering and handling, usually identified by a 'woolly' steering feel.

Further signs that there is an issue with a ball joint can also be identified when going over bumps, stopping the car or going around a corner. A thudding or clunking noise coming from the suspension will then point to problem with a ball joint. In turn, this can unbalance the car's wheel alignment, in turn leading to increased tyre wear. In more severe cases a ball joint can fail outright leading to a potentially dangerous situation where you, as a driver, can lose control over the vehicle.

Addressing issues timely and professionally is therefore key to ensure a safe driving experience. Should you experience suspension problems then it is advisable that you have it inspected and, if necessary, have the faulty ball joint replaced. Always service the ball joints as and when stipulated in the guidelines set out by your car's manufacturer.

Ultimately, the cost of a Ball Joint replacement depends on your car and what parts your car's manufacturer recommends using for the replacement. Find out what you could save by having your ball joint replaced by ClickMechanic by selecting your car at the top of this page!

A bad ball joint is not something to put off as it can fail completely if not addressed timely, potentially causing you to lose control over the vehicle. Also a bad ball joint that isn't addressed can further deteriorate and cause damage to other components. It is recommended therefore not to drive the vehicle, and find help from a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

Yes, ball joints are checked at an MOT test so if they show excessive wear or are otherwise faulty it can lead to the vehicle failing its MOT.

Yes, ball joints are checked during an MOT, like all steering and suspension components. The MOT tester will look to determine whether it has been worn or damaged and poses a safety risk. 

The most common cause of ball joint failure is simply wear and tear. Over time, the ball joint wears down and becomes loose, eventually causing it to break. Other causes of ball joint failure include corrosion, manufacturing defects, and damage from an accident.

Ball joints are generally designed to last the life of the vehicle, but depending on driving habits and external conditions, they may only last 50,000 to 70,000 miles.