FREE REPAIR MANUALS & LABOR GUIDES 1982-2013 Vehicles
Courtesy of Operation CHARM: Car repair manuals for everyone.

Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Ball Joint Inspection
1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Firmly grasp the outer end of the lower suspension arm and try to move it up and down, watching and feeling for any movement. Free movement will usually be accompanied by an audible "click". There should be no free movement.
3. If there is any free movement install a new lower arm.
4. If a new lower arm is installed it will be necessary to check and adjust the front wheel alignment. Refer to Specifications.