2012 Chevrolet Traverse - Ball Joint

What is a Ball Joint?

A ball joint is a vital component of a vehicle's suspension system, acting as a pivot point between the steering or suspension knuckle and the control arm. The ball joint or ball joints allow for smooth movement of the suspension and steering components while maintaining proper alignment between the wheel and the vehicle's body. The ball joint is a ball-and-socket joint, which enables the wheel to move up and down with the suspension, while also allowing for steering control as the vehicle turns.

A ball joint consists of three pieces, which include a ball with a threaded stud, a socket, and a rubber boot. The ball and socket allow your suspension to adjust to different angles when steering and driving over rough roads or bumps. The ball joint also serves as a connection point for your steering knuckle, wheel, and the rest of your suspension, and is integral to the design and safe operation of your entire steering and suspension system. Depending on the design of your vehicle, it may only have lower ball joints in the front suspension, or it may have upper and lower ball joints attached to the control arms in the front and possibly even ball joints in the rear. If a ball joint has a grease fitting, it should be greased regularly - usually at each oil change - for the longest life and best performance.

When to Replace Ball Joints

Ball joints are critical to the safety and handling of your vehicle, and can wear out over time due to constant friction and stress. Symptoms of a worn ball joint include clunking noises, uneven tire wear, and poor steering response. Squeaking in your suspension may be a sign that grease levels in your ball joint are too low or that the grease has been contaminated. This can lead to accelerated ball joint wear, which may cause it to become loose or suffer other damage. If your vehicle is pulling to one side, experiences uneven tire wear, or clunks and pops over bumps or during tight turns, it may point to a problem with a ball joint.

Inspecting the condition of your ball joints should be a priority, as complete ball joint failure can lead to dangerous driving conditions or suspension system collapse. If the ball joint has any notable play, if the ball joint is damaged, or if the grease boot is torn and the grease is contaminated, it may be time to replace one or both of your ball joints. Replacing worn or damaged ball joints is essential for maintaining steering precision and overall suspension performance. If you're ready to replace your ball joints, tie rods, sway bar links, or other suspension and steering parts, shop O'Reilly Auto Parts for the parts you need for the job. We can also provide you with the guidance you need to change a ball joint to get your car back on the road. You can even rent the tools you need for ball joint and suspension service in our Loaner Tool program.