How much does it cost to fix a ball joint on a Honda Civic?

The average cost to fix a ball joint on a Honda Civic ranges from $200 to $400, including parts and labor. The exact cost can vary depending on factors such as the specific model year of the Civic, the mechanic's labor rates, and whether additional repairs are needed.

Understanding Ball Joints and Their Importance

Ball joints are essential components in a vehicle's suspension system, connecting the steering knuckle to the control arms. They allow the wheels to move up and down and turn left and right, providing a smooth and responsive ride. Over time, ball joints can wear out due to regular use, leading to issues like uneven tire wear, steering problems, and even potential safety hazards if left unrepaired.

Factors Affecting the Cost to Fix a Ball Joint on a Honda Civic

• Parts Cost: The cost of the replacement ball joint itself can range from $50 to $150, depending on the specific make and model of the Civic. Genuine Honda parts tend to be more expensive than aftermarket options.


• Labor Cost: The labor cost to replace a ball joint can range from $150 to $250, depending on the mechanic's hourly rate and the complexity of the repair. Some mechanics may charge a flat rate for the job.


• Additional Repairs: If the ball joint replacement reveals other issues, such as worn control arms or tie rods, the total cost can increase significantly. These additional repairs can add $100 to $300 or more to the overall bill.


• Location and Mechanic Expertise: The cost of the repair can also vary depending on the location and the expertise of the mechanic. Mechanics in high-cost areas or those with specialized expertise may charge more for the same repair.

It's important to note that the cost to fix a ball joint on a Honda Civic can also be influenced by the specific model year and trim level of the vehicle, as well as any additional modifications or customizations that may have been made.

Symptoms of a Failing Ball Joint

Some common signs that a ball joint may be failing on a Honda Civic include:

• Uneven or excessive tire wear


• Steering wheel vibration or wandering


• Clunking or popping noises from the suspension


• Difficulty steering or a loose feeling in the steering wheel


• Visible wear or damage to the ball joint boot

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's important to have your Honda Civic inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to avoid further damage and ensure the safety of your vehicle.

How much does it cost to replace a ball joint on a Honda Civic?

The cost to replace a Honda Civic ball joint typically ranges from $250 to $750 per ball joint, including parts and labor, depending on the specific Civic model, whether it's a front or rear ball joint, and the mechanic's labor rates. Parts are often between $150 and $350, and the replacement can take one to three hours. It's advisable to also budget for a wheel alignment, which costs about $50 to $150 after the replacement, notes J.D. Power.
 
This video explains how much it costs to replace a ball joint: 51sStudent LessonYouTube · Jun 8, 2024
Cost breakdown

• Parts: Ball joint prices can range from about $20 to $150, while some more expensive ball joints or control arm assemblies can cost over $150.
• Labor: Labor costs can average $80 to $200 per hour and the job can take one to three hours.
• Wheel Alignment: This is often recommended after the replacement and can add $50 to $150 to the total cost. 

This video discusses the components that need alignment after being replaced: 50sOne Trick TechnicianYouTube · May 3, 2025
Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle Year and Model: Costs vary significantly by model year. For example, a 2018 model might be more or less expensive than a 2003 model, depending on the specific part and labor needed. 
• Location of the Ball Joint: Front and rear ball joint replacements can have different costs. 
• Type of Ball Joint: "Greaseable" ball joints are typically more expensive upfront but last longer, while "non-greaseable" ones have a shorter service life and are cheaper. 
• Labor Rates: Costs will vary depending on your geographic location and the shop or dealership you choose.
• Additional Repairs: If a ball joint has failed completely, it may have caused damage to other components, like a control arm or axle, increasing the final bill. 

How to get an accurate estimate

• Contact your local mechanic or dealership for a quote tailored to your specific Honda Civic year and model.
• Inquire about the cost for both parts and labor, as well as any additional recommended services like an alignment.
• Consider getting quotes from multiple repair shops to compare prices.

Can I drive with a bad ball joint?

No, you cannot and should not drive with a bad ball joint because it is a critical safety component, and a failure can lead to a loss of vehicle control. Driving on bad ball joints is extremely dangerous and can result in a serious accident due to loss of steering and potential wheel detachment. Instead, you should stop driving the vehicle and have it towed to a mechanic for prompt replacement. 
You can watch this video to learn about the dangers of driving with bad ball joints: 55sBarbour's Auto HelpYouTube · May 12, 2020
Risks of driving with bad ball joints

• Loss of control: A failing ball joint can cause a sudden and complete separation, leading to immediate loss of steering and braking ability. 
• Accident risk: The loss of control can cause the vehicle to veer off the road or lead to a collision. 
• Steering instability: A worn ball joint can cause a "wandering" or loose feeling in the steering, making it difficult to control the car. 
• Component damage: Driving on a bad ball joint can cause further damage to other suspension and steering components. 

What to do instead

• Stop driving immediately: Park the vehicle in a safe location. 
• Get the vehicle towed: Have the car towed to a repair shop for inspection and replacement. 
• Do not attempt aggressive driving: Even if you feel you can drive a short distance, avoid sharp turns, heavy braking, and rough roads to minimize stress on the part. 

Are ball joints expensive to fix?

Replacing ball joints is moderately expensive, with an average cost of $250 to $500 per joint at a shop, but this can vary significantly based on your vehicle, parts quality, and labor rates. Labor is the most significant cost, and if both sides are replaced, it can save on labor charges. The final cost also often includes a necessary wheel alignment, adding an estimated $100 to $150. 
Cost breakdown

• Total cost: The average total cost for a professional replacement ranges from approximately $250 to $500 per ball joint. For a pair, it could be around $400–$750, though prices vary. 
• Parts: Ball joint part prices vary from around $20 to $150, depending on the vehicle's make, model, and the quality of the part. 
• Labor: Labor costs are the most significant factor, often ranging from $200 to $300 per ball joint. 
• Wheel alignment: A wheel alignment is almost always required after replacement, which can add $100 to $150 to the total bill. 

Factors that influence the cost

• Vehicle type: The cost can be higher for luxury vehicles, European cars, or sports cars compared to mainstream vehicles. 
• Parts quality: Choosing higher-quality OEM or branded aftermarket parts can increase initial costs but may lead to better longevity. 
• Labor rates: Labor rates vary by location and the specific repair shop. 
• Additional repairs: If other suspension components, like control arms or bushings, are also worn out, the price will be higher. 
• Number of joints replaced: It is often more cost-effective to replace both ball joints on an axle at the same time, as the labor is already being performed. 

How to save money

• Choose a reliable independent mechanic: Independent shops may offer lower labor rates than dealerships. 
• Install aftermarket parts: Consider reputable aftermarket ball joints, which can offer OEM-equivalent performance at a lower cost. 
• Replace in pairs: Replace both ball joints on one axle to save on labor costs, as both sides will likely need replacing around the same time. 
• Consider the control arm: If your control arm bushings are also worn out, replacing the entire control arm with the ball joint may be more cost-effective in the long run. 
• DIY (with caution): If you are mechanically inclined and have the right tools, you can do the job yourself to save on labor costs. However, you will need specific tools like a ball joint press, and it is crucial to know what you are doing to avoid costly mistakes. 

What are signs of ball joint failure?

Clunking Noises
One of the most common symptoms of a failing ball joint is a clunking or knocking noise from the front suspension, particularly when going over bumps or making turns. The sound occurs because a worn ball joint will have a lot of play, allowing the suspension to knock metal against metal.