Ball Joint

Inspect the front wheel bearing before checking the lower control arm ball stud.

Carefully inspect for loose ball studs. Carefully inspect for ball stud seal damage. Service as necessary.

Perform the following steps to inspect the ball stud:
1. Raise and support the front of the vehicle. Allow the front suspension to hang free.
2. Grasp the tire at the 12 o'clock and the 6 o'clock positions.
3. Move the tire in an in-and-out motion.
4. Observe for any vertical movement of the steering knuckle relative to the lower control arm.
5. Inspect the steering knuckle pinch-bolt area for movement or for distortion of the ball stud slot.

Replace the ball stud if any movement is noted at the ball stud and the pinch-bolt area is satisfactory.