Ball Joint: Testing and Inspection

Fig. 6 Ball joint wear inspection:

INSPECTION

With weight of vehicle resting on wheel and tire assembly, attempt to move grease fitting with fingers. Do not use tool or added force to attempt to move grease fitting. If grease fitting moves freely, ball joint is worn and should be replaced.

REPLACEMENT

On these models, the ball joint is a permanent part of the lower control arm and must be replaced as a unit. Refer to LOWER CONTROL ARM for proper procedure.