Ball Joint

Front lower control arm ball stud tightness in the knuckle boss should be checked when inspecting the front lower control arm ball stud. Raise the vehicle allowing the front suspension to hang free. Grasp the tire at the top and bottom and move bottom of tire in an in-and-out motion while checking for movement of the stud end or castellated nut at the knuckle boss. A loose castellated nut may indicate a bent stud or a damaged hole in the knuckle boss. Observe any horizontal movement of the knuckle relative to the control arm. Ball joints/studs must be replaced if any looseness is detected in the joint or the ball joint seal is cut. Worn or damaged parts must be replaced with correct service parts. Failure to use the correct front lower control arm ball stud and specified fastener torque may eventually cause a loose joint and may result in loss of steering control which could result in personal injury.