What Do Ball Joints Do?

The ball joints in a vehicle are objects shaped like spheres that enable a certain degree of rotary movement. It is an important component of a car's suspension.

Body Analogy

The ball joints work like the ball-and-socket joints in a person's hip. They have rounded head parts that swivel and thus enable the movement of a car's front wheels.

Location

The ball joints are located in a car's front suspension. This is a complex system of rods, links, springs and other components that connects a car to its wheels.

Number

A car typically has four ball joints. Each of the front wheels has an upper one and a lower one.

Duration

Ball joints can last for years, but they do eventually wear out. This can be determined by wobbly steering, shimming, or funny suspension noises. Some ball joints have a measure tab to denote the appropriate time to replace them, while mechanically adjustable ball joints can be adjusted at the dealership according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Tip

Consult your car manufacturer, mechanic or dealer to determine when the ball joints of your vehicle have worn beyond the manufacturer's specified limits for safe operation.

References

• Your Car's Ball Joints
• Merriam-Webster definition of ball joints