So I think my ball joints may be on their way out....Anyone know a simple test to figure this out...And how difficult they are to replace.......Are these also referred to as tie-rod ends?

 

No ball joints are located above and below your steering knuckles on the end of the axles. To check them for wear jack the tire up from the axle so it's about two inches offthe ground. Insert a large pry bar under the tire and have someone push on it while you look for movement in the ball joints and listen for clicking.

 

Thanks.....Do theses often go with little off road action?

 

I'd imagine that all depends on your definition of "little ...action". I wouldn't imagine that doing minor offroading would wear them too prematurely. As for testing, I think (emphasis on think) you used to grab the top and bottom of the tire with it off the ground and test for play in that direction.

 

Mine failed in 27,000 miles. I couldn't detect any slack by shaking the wheel but it was easy to see when using the prybar. Passenger side was worse than the drivers side.

 

Mine failed at 13,000 no offroading. Covered under warranty.

 

What does it usually cost to replace these?

 

Ok, stupid question.....how did you know they were failing? Or was it something that they found during regular maintenance?

 

Had tires rotated and guy said they were on there way out...not sure though.. Just don't know how..

 

Hellbound,

Is yours still stock? Was wondering for possible warranty? Just in case

Thanks