Front Steering Knuckle: Service and Repair

Steering Knuckle Replacement

Removal Procedure

1. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Service and Repair.
2. Remove the wheel drive shaft, if equipped. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement .

Note: If removing the knuckle assembly to service the lower ball joint, skip step 3.

3. Remove the wheel bearing and hub assembly. Refer to Front Wheel Hub, Bearing, and Seal Replacement .
4. Disconnect the outer tie rod from the knuckle. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.




5. Support the lower control arm.
6. Separate the upper ball joint from the knuckle. Refer to Upper Control Arm Replacement .
7. Separate the lower ball joint from the knuckle. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement .





Note: If removing the knuckle assembly to servicing the lower ball joint, DO NOT remove or disconnect any of the brake or electrical components. Secure the knuckle assembly to the side.

8. Remove the knuckle from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

1. Install the knuckle on the lower ball joint. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement .
2. Install the upper ball joint in the knuckle. Refer to Upper Control Arm Replacement .
3. Connect the outer tie rod to the knuckle. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
4. Install the wheel bearing and hub assembly. Refer to Front Wheel Hub, Bearing, and Seal Replacement .
5. Install the wheel drive shaft, if equipped. Refer to Wheel Drive Shaft Replacement .




6. Remove the support from the lower control arm.
7. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation Service and Repair.
8. Verify the front wheel alignment> Refer to Wheel Alignment Specifications Wheel Alignment Specifications.