Ball Joint

Uneven highways, tough city streets, and unpredictable terrain can give your steering system more trouble than it can handle. Unless you can avoid such driving environments all the time, you'd better check your steering assembly's ball joints at least once a year.

A ball joint is a steering component that attaches the control arm to the steering knuckle. It consists of a threaded stud with a spherical bearing that goes inside a metal socket. The stud links with the steering knuckle, while the socket connects with the control arm. Because of this ball-and-socket connection, your ride's wheels can freely turn from side to side, as well as endure the up and down movements of your car. However, it's also because of its construction that some ball joints come already sealed with enough lube inside. If yours aren't of that type, then you must keep them sufficiently lubricated to prevent them from premature wearing.

Excessive steering wander and clicking or squeaking noises when braking or turning are just some of the signs of failing ball joints. Another sign can be uneven wear patterns on your tires. Ball joints should last for at least 80,000 miles, so be sure to get only a ball joint that exceeds that. Get one with a fine-grained steel housing and a rust-resistant metal bearing for extra strength and durability. And, of course, it should come from reliable auto parts stores, like The Family Car, that provide reasonably priced products with excellent quality.

Featured Ball Joint