4 Symptoms of a Bad Lower Ball Joint
The lower ball joint connects the steering knuckle to the wishbone. The lower ball joint consists of two parts: a socket and a ball. These parts are housed inside a rubber sleeve that is filled with lubricant.
Essentially, the lower ball joint connects the wheel and tire to your vehicle and steers. This means you can use the steering wheel to turn right or left. It also allows your vehicle’s suspension system to move over rough terrain without kicking back.
Symptoms of a Bad Lower Ball Joint
The lower ball joint is probably an inconsequential part when viewed alone due to its small size. However, it is a part that allows the rest of your suspension system to function properly. When a lower ball joint wears out or breaks, it can cause a variety of negative symptoms. Below are the four most common signs that a lower ball joint is failing.
1) Vibration
When a lower ball joint is bad, you may feel vibrations in the steering wheel or from side to side of the vehicle. These vibrations come from the suspension system.
When a lower ball joint wears out, it becomes loose, causing vibrations. If the ball joint is loose, it will continue to vibrate while driving. This kind of shaking is a clear sign that something is wrong and you should check your lower ball joint.
2) Rattling noises
One of the symptoms regularly experienced due to a bad lower ball joint is a rattling noise. These noises come from the suspension of the vehicle.
When you have a worn and loose ball joint, it will start to rattle and bang against its socket. This causes the rattling noise. You will hear this noise more when driving on uneven terrain or roads, especially on bumpy surfaces.
If you don’t replace the ball joint immediately, the noise will get louder and eventually break completely.
3) Uneven Tire Wear
One sign of a bad lower ball joint that people don’t often consider is uneven tire wear. If you notice excessive or abnormal wear on either the inside or outside edge of the tire, this is also a sign that the lower ball joint may be defective. This symptom may not be a quick fix, but it can become a big problem if ignored for a long time. It’s good to check the condition of your tires regularly, otherwise you’ll hear about wear the next time you change your tires.
4) Wobbling Steering Wheel
Have you noticed that your steering wheel is pulling too much to the left or right? If so, it’s probably due to poor alignment or a faulty lower ball joint, as the wheel will move out of alignment and you’ll have to work harder to keep the steering wheel straight.
Don’t let your steering wheel wander like this for long periods of time, as the problem will only get worse over time. If the ball joint is the cause, replace it immediately.