Ball Joint Car: Function, Causes of Damage & How to Fix It

Speaking of car components, there is one car component that you must know, which is the car ball joint. When you hear the name of this component, you might feel unfamiliar with the term. In fact, this component plays an important role in your comfort when maneuvering. 

To satisfy your curiosity, let's find out what the functions of the car ball joint are, the causes of its damage, and how to fix it. 

Functions of the Car Ball Joint

What is the function of the ball joint in a car? The ball joint is a crucial component located in the suspension system that maintains the stability of the car body when turning or experiencing shocks. Here are some other functions of the ball joint:

1. Connects the knuckle part of the wheel with the arm.
2. Acts as the pivot point for the car when turning.
3. Serves as a load receiver, both lateral and vertical.
4. Provides comfort to the car during maneuvers by lightening the steering.

Factors Causing Ball Joints to Wear Out Quickly 

After you know the function of the ball joint, you must also understand what causes this component to wear out easily. Here are the factors that cause car ball joints to fail.

1. Frequently Driving on Flooded and Damaged Roads

When a car frequently drives over damaged and flooded roads, it experiences severe shocks to the ball joint. This condition can cause the lubricant to deplete quickly and create harsh friction that will damage the ball joint. 

2. Forgetting to Replace Suspension Bushings

Suspension bushings function as vibration dampers caused by the suspension or wheels of the car. When the bushings are worn out, they need to be replaced immediately. If not, it will alter the steering angle of the car, making it unbalanced.

3. Incorrect Steering Angle Setting (Alignment)

Alignment (steering angle) can affect load balance and wheel movement. If you incorrectly set the steering angle, the position of the ball joint will be off, causing this component to fail.

4. Forgetting to Replace Grease

Grease serves to lubricate the ball joint. If the ball joint is never lubricated, this component will harden and easily break. It is advisable to regularly add lubricant when the car has reached a distance of 10,000 km. 

Signs of a Damaged Car Ball Joint

What happens if the ball joint is damaged? Here are some signs you can recognize when the ball joint is experiencing damage:

1. The car often squeaks while driving
2. Noisy sounds occur when the car turns
3. The car is difficult to control when turning on uneven roads
4. Excessive shaking occurs even on slightly uneven roads
5. The car tires wear out quickly
6. The front wheels feel wobbly while the car is moving
7. When passing over uneven roads, a rumbling sound comes from the car
8. The boot (cover rubber) is easily damaged

Read Also: 4 Components to Check When the Car Suspension Makes a Creaking Sound

How to Repair a Damaged Ball Joint

Here are some steps you need to pay attention to in order to repair the ball joint: 

1. First, remove the ball joint from its seat.
2. Next, remove the cover rubber or boot.
3. Tap the back of the ball joint until this component is snug (not loose).
4. Then, reattach the boot (ball joint cover rubber) to its original position.
5. Next, reinstall the ball joint seat as it was.
6. After installation, tighten the nut and install the safety pin as before.
7. When the ball joint is properly installed, adjust the steering angle (alignment) correctly. 

If the above methods do not resolve the issues caused by a damaged ball joint, it is best to replace the ball joint with a new one. You can purchase genuine car ball joints at the nearest Daihatsu dealer.