Have you ever heard your car squeaking or creaking as you drive down the road? Or maybe you’ve noticed that your car is pulling to one side, or the steering wheel isn’t quite centered. If so, you might have an issue with your ball joints. But what are ball joints? Let's discuss what ball joints are on a car and why they’re important to your vehicle’s performance and safety.

Ball joints are part of your car’s suspension system, which is responsible for absorbing shock and providing a smooth ride. They’re found on the front suspension of all vehicles. They connect the steering knuckle to the control arm. Ball joints are basically a pivot point that allows the wheels to turn and move up and down as you drive over bumps and uneven surfaces.

Ball joints are important because they allow your car to absorb shock and maintain proper wheel alignment. If the ball joints are worn or damaged, your car’s handling and ride quality can be affected. You might experience a rough ride, a pulling sensation when you brake or turn, or uneven tire wear. In extreme cases, a failed ball joint can cause a tire to detach while driving, which can be very dangerous.

So how can you tell if your ball joints are worn or damaged? One of the most common signs is a squeaking or creaking noise when you go over bumps or turn the steering wheel. You might also notice that your car is pulling to one side or that the steering feels loose or unresponsive. If you suspect that your ball joints might be worn or damaged, it’s important to have them inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible.

If your ball joints do need to be replaced, it’s important to choose high-quality parts. Cheap or inferior ball joints can wear out quickly and compromise your car’s safety. A good mechanic will inspect your car’s suspension system and recommend the best ball joints for your vehicle. They’ll also ensure that they’re installed correctly and torqued to the proper specifications.

Ball joints are a critical part of your car’s suspension system that allow the wheels to turn and move up and down. If you hear squeaking or creaking when you drive or notice that your car is pulling or steering feels loose, it’s important to have your ball joints inspected as soon as possible. By choosing high-quality parts and a reputable mechanic, you can ensure that your car’s suspension system is in top condition and provides a smooth ride for years to come.

Need new ball joints? We can help! Lou's Car Care & Fleet Services has been proudly serving  Baldwinsville,NY, and surrounding communities since 1976. Call us or schedule your next appointment online today!

FREQUENTLY ASKED BALL JOINT QUESTIONS:

1. What are car ball joints?

Ball joints are key parts in your car's suspension system. They act like little sockets, allowing your wheels to turn smoothly while holding the car's weight.

2. How often to check car ball joints?

Mechanics generally check ball joints during regular inspections, often around every 5,000 to 10,000 miles. But listen for warning signs like clunking noises when turning.

3. Bad ball joint symptoms?

There are telltale signs of worn ball joints: clunking noises when turning, uneven tire wear, a loose steering wheel, or a vibration in the steering wheel. If you notice any of these, get your car checked.

4. Can I fix ball joints myself?

Replacing ball joints can be tricky. It's often recommended for experienced mechanics. If you're unsure, consult a professional.

5. Replace both ball joints at once?

Mechanics often recommend replacing both ball joints on the same axle at the same time, even if only one seems bad. This is because the other is likely nearing the end of its lifespan too.

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