How to check a ball joint on a car for wear

First, let's figure out what a ball joint is.This part is a hinge joint capable of transmitting alternating loads from the wheel to the car body at different angles.

The main function of the ball joint is to allow the wheels to move freely in a vertical plane and turn to the required angles.

The ball joint consists of several parts:

Signs of wear on ball joints

To check the condition of the joints, we recommend contacting a car service center, but if this is not possible, there are signs that tell the driver about a malfunctionsupports:

• knock in the suspension when the car is moving on a rough road;
• creaking when turning the steering wheel;

Causes of joint malfunction

• Torn boot - it is necessary at every opportunity (seasonal tire change, replacement of pads, etc.) to check the integrity of this element, since its main function is to protect against the penetration of water and dirt into the part.Damage to it will cause accelerated wear of the joint.
• Increased load on the joint - occurs when the car moves quickly over significant uneven roads.When driving through large potholes at high speed, the joint experiences increased shock loads.The same thing happens when transporting cargo that exceeds the vehicle's carrying capacity.
• Natural wear and tear depends on the mileage of the vehicle and the design life of the part provided by the manufacturer.

Now let's move on to such an important issue as checking the ball joint on the car.There are three options to do this:

• without removing the wheel and lifting the car;
• use a jack to lift;
• using a lift (it is the most accurate).

How to check the upper ball joint

1. Put the car on the handbrake on a flat surface.
2. We take the upper part of the wheel with our hands and try to swing it.
3. If the hingeworn out, we will hear a knock.

Diagnostics will be more reliable if you use a jack or lift.We follow the same pattern, rocking the wheel.To do this, hold the top and bottom of the wheel with both hands.If we notice sounds identical to knocking, the hinge must be replaced.

How to check the lower ball joint

The sequence of actions is similar to checking the upper support.

1. We place the car on an overpass (inspection hole) or a lift.
2. On the overpass, we use a jack for diagnostics.
3. Install a pry bar between the steering knuckle and the lever.supports.Then we swing it in the vertical direction, by this we sequentially load and unload the support; if you feel play and knocking, the support requires replacement.