How do you grease a ball joint?
Greasing a ball joint is straightforward when the joint is serviceable and has a grease fitting. If the joint is sealed, lubrication isn’t used and worn joints must be replaced. This guide explains how to identify serviceable joints, what tools and lubricants you need, and the proper steps to grease them correctly.
Ball joints are a vital part of a vehicle’s suspension, allowing for smooth steering and wheel movement. Modern cars increasingly use sealed, maintenance-free joints, so always consult the owner’s manual or a professional before attempting lubrication. When a joint is serviceable, using the right grease and technique helps extend its life and maintain proper alignment and handling.
Is your ball joint serviceable?
Before attempting lubrication, determine whether the joint can be greased. Some joints are sealed for life and require replacement when worn.
- Look for a grease fitting (zerk) on the ball joint; a visible fitting often indicates serviceability.
- Check the vehicle’s service manual or OEM specifications for lubrication guidance and the recommended grease type.
- Inspect the rubber boot for cracks or tears; a damaged boot can let grease escape and permit dirt ingress, signaling potential wear.
- If there is no grease fitting or the manual states “sealed for life,” treat the joint as non-serviceable and plan for replacement instead of lubrication.
If the joint is sealed, do not attempt to grease it; follow replacement guidelines set by the manufacturer. If it’s serviceable, proceed with care to avoid overgreasing or boot damage.
Tools and lubricants you’ll need
Gather these tools and lubricants before you start to keep the process efficient and clean.
- Grease gun (manual or pneumatic) with a compatible coupler for automotive zerks
- Automotive grease: NLGI grade 2, suitable for ball joints (commonly lithium-based or synthetic, as recommended by the manufacturer)
- Clean rag or shop towel for wiping fittings and spills
- Safety gear: gloves and eye protection
- Basic workshop gear: jack, jack stands, wheel chocks, and a lug wrench for lifting and supporting the vehicle
Always refer to the owner’s manual for the exact grease specification and lubrication interval for your vehicle. If you’re unsure, consult a qualified mechanic.
Step-by-step greasing procedure
Follow these steps to lubricate a serviceable ball joint without damaging the joint or its boot.
- Secure the vehicle: Park on level ground, chock the wheels, and lift the vehicle using a jack. Support with jack stands and never rely on the jack alone.
- Remove the wheel on the side you’re servicing to access the ball joint more easily.
- Locate the ball joint’s grease fitting (zerk). If you can’t find a fitting, the joint may be sealed and not serviceable.
- Wipe clean the fitting and surrounding area with a rag to prevent dirt from entering the joint when you attach the grease gun.
- Attach the grease gun coupler securely to the zerk. Pump in short bursts and watch for fresh grease appearing at the edge of the boot or around the joint; stop when you see new grease or when you feel resistance indicating the joint is full.
- Wipe away any excess grease to prevent dirt build-up and boot contamination. Inspect the rubber boot for cracks or tears and address them if present.
- Reinstall the wheel, lower the vehicle, and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specification. test the steering and suspension by gently moving the wheel to ensure smooth operation and to listen for any abnormal noises.
Important: Do not grease a joint that shows excessive wear, a torn boot, or significant play. These signs indicate the joint should be replaced rather than lubricated.
Summary
Lubricating a ball joint is a straightforward maintenance task for serviceable joints equipped with a grease fitting. Always verify whether the joint is serviceable, use the correct grease and a proper grease gun, and avoid overgreasing or damaging the boot. If the joint is sealed or worn beyond repair, replacement is the appropriate course of action.
What happens if you don't grease your ball joints?
Ignoring regular maintenance and not greasing your ball joints can cause them to wear out and damage other components such as the control arm.
Can you spray WD-40 on your ball joints?
Wd40 will strip any grease away and accelerate corrosion. Once the boot is torn the balljoint is on very short borrowed time. Get it changed ASAP.
How much grease do I put in a ball joint?
Pump grease into the ball joint until the boot begins to bulge or you see a small amount of new grease start to ooze out from under the boot. A common starting point is 3 to 4 pumps from a standard grease gun, but it's more important to stop once the boot shows signs of being full to avoid over-greasing, which can cause damage. Always wipe the area clean after you're done.
This video demonstrates how to properly grease a ball joint: 58sExpertVillage Leaf GroupYouTube · Dec 12, 2020
Greasing steps:
- Clean the fitting: Before attaching the grease gun, wipe off any dirt or old grease from the fitting to prevent it from being pushed inside the joint.
- Pump slowly: Connect the grease gun to the fitting and begin pumping slowly.
- Watch for the signs: Continue pumping until you see the rubber boot under the joint start to swell or until you see a small amount of new, clean grease come out from the boot's edge.
- Stop immediately: Once you see the grease starting to ooze, stop pumping.
- Clean up: Wipe away any excess grease from the fitting and the surrounding area to prevent dirt from building up.
- Disconnect the gun: Carefully remove the grease gun from the fitting.
Can you grease a squeaky ball joint?
On. And squirt it into your worn squeaky joint on your car. Like this. As that ball joint starts to move listen to the noise. She's an old girl joints are wearing.
