A ball joint parts cost for most cars is usually around $80 – $150 each, but it can cost as high as $350 each in some luxury or performance cars. Meanwhile, labor cost is usually
around $250 – $300
.
Is it better to replace both ball joints?
A: Plenty of mechanics will recommend that
you replace both the upper and lower ball joints at the same time
. They may also recommend checking related components at the same time, such as the stud hole in the steering knuckle.
How much should it cost to replace lower ball joints?
Over time, this component can wear out or break down, and you’ll have to get it replaced. For replacing the lower ball joint, you will pay
about $250
, on average. The labor ranges from $225 to $285, and the parts can cost you anywhere from $90 to $120.
Can you drive a car with a bad ball joint?
Can I Drive With a Bad Ball Joint? …
You should not drive with a bad ball joint
. Continuing to drive can cause damage to other vehicle components and if the joint fails completely you could lose control of the vehicle, leading to a crash and injuries.
How long can you drive on a bad ball joint?
short answer is… it depends on how bad they are. the lower ball joint typically gets more wear than the upper. i’d say, if there’s just a little wiggle in either joint, you should have no problem driving
500 miles
.
What are the signs of a ball joint going bad?
- Clunky or squeaky noises.
- Drifting to the side.
- Loose or shaky steering.
- Uneven tyre wear.
What does a bad ball joint sound like?
Metallic clunking noise
: One of the most noticeable and common symptoms of a bad ball joint is a clunking or knocking noise when the suspension moves up and down. A worn ball joint will begin to rattle inside the socket when driving over an uneven road, rough terrain, potholes or speed bumps.
How hard is it to replace ball joints?
Ball joint replacement is not straightforward, as they
can be very tricky to access and install
– especially with age and rust. On some cars, the ball joint is integrated into the control arm. If you’re not familiar with the suspension and wheel assembly, it’s best to visit a garage for a professional check.
How long does it take to replace ball joints?
It can take
a little over an hour
to get it replaced, so the full ball joint replacement cost will be between $100 and $400. You never know how much the mechanic is going to charge you until you get the replacement done, but it can help to have an estimate beforehand.
How do I know if my ball joints or wheel bearings are bad?
If the tire rocks by any noticeable degree
, and especially if the movement is accompanied by a clinking or clunking sound, you likely have a bad ball joint or two. This test can also indicate a bad wheel bearing, but that will also grumble and vibrate as you drive in a straight line.
What sound does a bad tie rod make?
A knocking or clunking sound from the front
of the vehicle when turning at low speeds can be a symptom of bad tie rods. As they become loose, tie rods can rattle around at the joints and links, causing the new noises you’re hearing.
How much does it cost to fix a ball joint?
A ball joint parts cost for most cars is usually around
$80 – $150 each
, but it can cost as high as $350 each in some luxury or performance cars. Meanwhile, labor cost is usually around $250 – $300. However, sometimes they can be as cheap as $150 depending on the repair shop’s labor rates.
Is replacing ball joints expensive?
In general, ball joints are
inexpensive
with a range between $20 to $80 each. Labor will vary greatly by model. Some vehicles cost as low as $60 to $80. Yet others, especially four-wheel drive trucks, can range from $160 to $200 per ball joint.
Can I replace my own ball joint?
Ball joint replacement is a common mechanical issue that needs to be fixed. Ball joints can become worn down and need to be replaced. You can save some money by doing it yourself instead of going to a mechanic.
Can you put a ball joint in without a press?
A lot of people seemed to doubt that you can do ball joints without a press. Well you can but you’ll need
a ball joint installation tool
.
Can you replace just the ball joint without replacing control arm?
Yes,
you can replace the upper ball joint
while the UCA is still in the car. Some ball joints can be replaced independently of the control arm, but not an easy DIY (need a press to get the ball joint out)! If this is going to be a DIY, change the entire control arm.
