Can a bad ball joint cause uneven tire wear?
Tire Wear A failed ball joint can allow the wheels to move in whatever direction inertia takes them, and they will stay in that position until inertia forces them somewhere else. When a tire rides on any section except the center, it causes uneven tire wear. Ball joints can lock up at times.
Where are the ball joints on a car?
Ball joints are designed to keep your vehicle’s tires flat against the road as the suspension travels up and down. One ball joint is placed on the farthest edge of both the upper and lower control arms. The ball joint connects the control arms to the steering knuckles on either side of the vehicle.
What happens when a ball joint locks up?
Ball joints can lock up at times. When a ball joint locks up, the movement that it absorbs does not go away. It has to be transferred to another component that is not intended to take that abuse. Typically, this movement is transferred to the control arm bushings.
When do ball joints need to be replaced?
The ball joint connects the control arms to the steering knuckles on either side of the vehicle. Ball joints do go bad over time and must be replaced; otherwise, there may be safety issues.
What happens when a front ball joint fails?
Should a ball joint break, the wheel becomes totally free to move in any direction, which can damage the car’s fender, tire, and several suspension components, if not more. Usually, when front ball joints start to fail, the vehicle will display a few symptoms that alert the driver a problem has occurred.
Is there a recall on Jeep lower ball joints?
SAFETY RECALL F23 – LOWER BALL JOINTS Dear: (Name) This notice is sent to you in accordance with the requirements of the National Traffic and Motor Vehicle Safety Act. DaimlerChrysler Corporation has decided that a defect, wh ich relates to motor vehicle safety, exists in some 2002 through 2006 model year Jeep®Liberty vehicles.
Can a water leak cause lower ball joints to separate?
Water may enter into the front suspension lower ball joints on your Jeep (VIN: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx). This can cause the ball joint to corrode and separate. Ball joint separation can result in a loss of steering control and could cause a crash without prior warning. What your dealer will do…
How long does it take to replace lower ball joints?
To do this, your dealer will replace both front lower ball joints. The work will take about 1 hour to complete. However, additional time may be necessary depending on how dealer appointments are scheduled and processed.