Fitting position
Ball Joint
FEBI
Ball Joint FE19276
LEMFOERDER
Ball Joint LMI10162
LEMFOERDER
Ball Joint LMI39156
MOOG
Ball Joint FD-BJ-12509
REINHOCH
Ball Joint RH03-0030
REINHOCH
Ball Joint RH03-2026
TRW
Ball Joint JBJ807
555
Ball Joint SB-T402
DELPHI
Ball Joint TC3402
DELPHI
Ball Joint TC2322
KOREA
Ball Joint J10514OEM
LEMFOERDER
Ball Joint LMI37349
MOOG
Ball Joint CH-BJ-13876
MOOG
Ball Joint CI-BJ-3355
555
Ball Joint SB-4832
DELPHI
Ball Joint TC1130
FAG
Ball Joint 825 0426 10
FEBI
Ball Joint FE01433
LEMFOERDER
Ball Joint LMI31736
MOOG
Ball Joint OP-BJ-3173
REINHOCH
Ball Joint RH03-2031
Control Arm Ball Joints – A Crucial Suspension Component
The suspension system in your car consists of numerous components. Generally, the newer and more expensive the car, the more components the suspension system contains. The number of these parts not only affects driving comfort but also enhances safety. Regardless of whether your car was manufactured 15 years ago, 5 years ago, or you’ve just bought it, one common element is the control arm ball joint.
These components ensure the stability of the suspension, allow it to interact effectively with the body, and most importantly, enable precise control over your car's wheels. Despite their small size, these parts have a significant role, making it essential to choose only high-quality ball joints. Unfortunately, control arm ball joints often fail or wear out due to continuous and intensive use. The rubber cover protecting the metal part of the joint naturally deteriorates or cracks over time, leading to looseness between the ball joint and the steering knuckle.
Control Arm Ball Joint Failures – Common Causes
The durability of ball joints is also influenced by the roads you drive on daily. If your route to work is bumpy and full of potholes, especially if you drive at higher speeds, your control arm ball joints may wear out more quickly.
Moreover, control arm ball joints can be damaged during collisions. Even a seemingly minor impact on the wheel arch can cause a failure. After any collision, pay special attention to your vehicle's suspension. Below, we outline symptoms that should act as warning signs for you.
Damaged Ball Joint – Costs Can Be Significant
As mentioned earlier, control arm ball joints naturally wear out over time. The degradation of the rubber cover can lead to the joint falling out of its housing. This can have dire consequences, as the steering knuckle detaches from the control arm, resulting in a loss of control over your vehicle. This situation is highly dangerous, not just for you but for all road users.
Don’t ignore symptoms indicating ball joint wear. These include:
- Noises and clunking sounds from the suspension while driving.
- Not only audible but also noticeable looseness in suspension components.
- Lack of response or delayed response from the wheels during small steering movements.
- The need to frequently adjust your driving line with subtle steering corrections, even on straight roads.
If you notice any of these symptoms, visit a mechanic as soon as possible. A professional can inspect for looseness in your car’s suspension using a mounting lever. You can also check this yourself if you have access to a lift or inspection pit, a mounting lever for tyres, and a flat-ended tool, such as a screwdriver.
If the ball joint is damaged, the only solution is to replace it. Driving a car with worn suspension joints is extremely irresponsible and dangerous, as the separation of the steering knuckle from the control arm usually occurs while driving. At high speeds, this can cause a serious accident involving multiple vehicles.
Ball Joint Costs Depend on the Model
Unfortunately, the cost of replacing these components cannot be predetermined. It depends on your vehicle’s suspension system. Some cars have only one control arm, while others feature multi-link suspension systems.
In certain cars, control arm ball joints are replaceable, meaning it may not be necessary to replace the entire component. Instead, the repair may involve a simpler and cheaper replacement of rubber bushings. However, this is not always the case. If you want to reduce maintenance costs, consider this when choosing a car. Naturally, replacing a complete control arm is the most expensive option, not only because of the cost of additional parts but also due to the extra labour involved.
Fortunately, you can purchase control arm ball joints and other suspension components from Inter Cars. We offer high-quality ball joints from renowned brands such as:
- Meyle,
- Moog,
- Reinhoch,
- TRW,
- Yamato,
- Delphi,
- Lemfoerder,
- 555,
- Sasic,
- Febi.
You don’t need to worry about breaking the bank with products from these brands. Shopping at Inter Cars won’t strain your budget, and replacing essential parts will be more affordable than you might expect. Our control arm ball joints are premium suspension components for nearly any car model, available at competitive prices. Don’t wait—prioritise your safety and that of your loved ones. Purchase high-quality control arm ball joints from Inter Cars and enjoy safe and comfortable driving every day.
FAQ
What Is a Control Arm Ball Joint?
Control arm ball joints are spherical joints that connect the front suspension control arm to the front wheel steering knuckle. They are non-disassemblable components. Inside is a metal ball pin surrounded by a sliding polyamide socket, often lubricated with graphite or molybdenum grease for enhanced performance. The joint is externally protected by a rubber boot that shields it from external elements and ensures a secure seal.
What Are the Symptoms of a Damaged Ball Joint?
A damaged ball joint is hard to miss while driving, as it manifests through clunking sounds and noises from around the wheels. Additionally, a damaged joint causes looseness that can be both heard and felt when manipulating the wheel. The car becomes harder to steer, with sluggish wheel turns and delayed responses to steering input. Note that noise from the ball joint area could also indicate other issues.
How Much Does a Ball Joint Cost?
For some cars, replacement ball joints can be found for as little as a few pounds (decent quality aftermarket parts). The most expensive ones can cost over £100 per piece.