Component Tests and General Diagnostics

Component Tests

Ball Joint Inspection
1. Raise and support the vehicle.
2. Prior to performing any inspection of the ball joints, inspect the front wheel bearings.
3. Position a safety stand beneath the front suspension lower arm to be tested.





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





5. While an assistant pulls and pushes the top of the tire, observe the relative movement between the upper spindle arm and the ball joint. Movement at or exceeding the specification indicates a worn or damaged ball joint. Install a new front suspension upper arm.