Are you having problems with your car’s suspension recently, and you’re asking yourself how long do ball joints last?
Then fret no more as you have stumbled upon an article that’ll answer all your questions.
But before you get into the favorite best ball joint’s lifespan, we first need you to know what a ball joint is.
Table of Contents
What Are Ball Joints?
Ball joints are a small but integral part of a vehicle that controls the suspension and steering.
They connect the wheels to the steering knuckle. These joints have a similar function as the hip joint in humans.
The wheels of your car consist of a lubricated casing that encases a bearing stud and socket.
This is what makes up a ball joint. Due to this component, the control arm remains connected to the steering knuckles. This enables fluid and stable movement within the suspension.
Many vehicles have lower ball joints in their front suspension, making it comfortable to drive on a bumpy road.
This also helps improve the steering of your vehicle, regardless of the road conditions.
If you want to keep the suspension and steering in top-notch condition, you should pay more attention to this small component.
Why and When Do They Need Replacing?
There can be several reasons that can cause a ball joint to deteriorate, but the most common cause is the loss of lubrication.
The bearing stud and socket are enclosed in a small casing consisting of the lubricant it needs for a lifetime. Ball joints are almost always working when you’re driving your car.
Due to repeated and rough usage, ball joints can often lose lubrication. This can decrease its efficiency and, in turn, reduce your vehicle’s integrity.
On the other hand, dust and impurities getting inside the ball joint can also cause it to lose lubrication. On top of that, rusting and wear and tear can also reduce lubrication.
A new and efficient ball joint will allow you smoothly glide through the road, no matter how unstable they are.
If the wheel jolts up and down uncontrollably, it’s a sign that your ball joint needs replacing.
There are also specific symptoms shown by your car when the ball joints aren’t working correctly.
Paying attention to these symptoms will allow you to change the ball joints before causing any severe accidents. The symptoms are as follows.
• Car drifting to the side automatically
• Squeaky noises when the suspension moves
• Premature tire wear
• A clunky sound every time the car goes over a bump
• Shaky or loose steering
Final Verdict
Most ball joints tend to last a long time but may not last as long as your vehicle.
These small components are often neglected and forgotten. But they can eventually wear out due to dust accumulation, rusting, or overuse.
Ball joints endure a lot of pressure when you’re driving on a bumpy road.
Hence, the lifespan of ball joints depends on how long you’ve driven your car.
So if you’re wondering how long do ball joints last, the answer is simple. Although it may vary for different manufacturers, a good set of ball joints can endure between 1, 12, 354 to 2,41,401 km of driving before it needs replacement.