Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Ball Joint Inspection

1. Raise and support the vehicle.

2. Prior to carrying out any inspection of the ball joints, inspect the wheel bearings.

3. Position a safety stand beneath the jacking point to test the lower arm.

4. While an assistant pulls and pushes the top and bottom of the tire, observe the relative movement between the ball joint and the suspension lower arm. Any movement at or exceeding the specification indicates a worn or damaged ball joint. Install a new lower arm as necessary.

5. Remove the safety stand.

6. Lower the vehicle.