How much does it cost to replace ball joints on a Honda Accord?
A front-ball-joint replacement on a Honda Accord typically costs between about $300 and $1,200 per axle, depending on whether you replace a standalone joint or swap the entire control arm, plus alignment and local labor rates.
What ball joints do and why prices vary
Ball joints act as pivot points between the wheel hub and the suspension, allowing the wheel to move up and down with the suspension while steering smoothly. Over time, they wear from road conditions, debris, and repeated impacts. On many Honda Accord models, the upper ball joint is integrated into the front control arm, meaning a service may require replacing the arm rather than a separate joint. Because of this design, part choices (OEM vs aftermarket) and whether a joint is serviceable on a given year/model significantly influence the final price. Labor rates and regional differences also play a big role in total cost.
Typical cost ranges for Honda Accord ball joints
Prices below reflect common scenarios encountered by U.S. shops in 2025 and include parts, labor, and a standard wheel alignment.
- Standalone front ball joint replacement on one wheel (if the joint can be serviced separately): Parts typically $20–$180 (aftermarket to OEM), labor roughly 1–3 hours at $80–$150 per hour. Total ball joint job: about $120–$550. Alignment: $75–$125.
- Front control arm replacement with ball joint attached (common when the joint is integrated into the arm): Parts typically $150–$450 per arm, labor about 2–4 hours, total $350–$1,000 without alignment. Alignment: $75–$125.
- Replacement on both front corners (both sides) in a single visit: Standalone joints on both sides estimate $240–$1,100 for parts and labor, plus alignment. Replacing both front control arms with integrated joints can run roughly $700–$2,000 or more, plus alignment.
Note: These ranges vary by year and trim of the Accord, whether the work is done at a dealership, independent shop, or quick-lube, regional labor rates, and whether OEM or aftermarket parts are chosen.
Factors that influence price
Several variables drive price beyond the basic parts and labor:
- Model year and trim: Some Accords have serviceable ball joints; others require replacing a control arm with an integrated joint.
- Parts choice: OEM vs aftermarket parts, and whether you select a heavy-duty or standard joint.
- Labor rate and location: Dealer vs independent shop, urban vs rural areas, and whether the job includes an alignment.
- Scope of work: Replacing a single joint, replacing a whole arm, or performing both sides at once.
- Additional related repairs: Worn tie rods, wheel bearings, CV joints, or a damaged knuckle can add to the bill.
- Warranty and service plans: Some shops provide warranties on parts and labor that can affect overall cost.
When budgeting, obtain a detailed, itemized quote that separates parts, labor, and alignment, and clarify if the price includes tax and disposal fees.
What to expect at the shop and tips for saving
To get a fair price and reliable service, ask for an written estimate that specifies: (1) whether a standalone ball joint or a control arm replacement is required, (2) parts options (OEM vs aftermarket), and (3) whether alignment is included. If possible, consider replacing both sides in the same visit to save on labor, and budget for a wheel alignment after the repair to protect tire wear and steering geometry. Check if the shop offers a warranty on both parts and labor and whether that warranty transfers if you sell the vehicle.
Summary
Ball joint replacement costs for a Honda Accord vary widely because of model year, whether the joint is serviceable separately or part of a control arm, and your choice of parts plus local labor rates. Typical total ranges per axle span roughly from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand, with higher costs when both sides or a control-arm replacement is required. Getting an itemized quote, weighing OEM versus aftermarket options, and factoring in alignment costs will help you budget effectively while ensuring safe, reliable suspension performance.
Is it worth replacing ball joints?
Ball joints are critical to your vehicle's suspension system, connecting the control arm to the steering knuckle. Over time, ball joints can wear out, impacting your car's handling, steering, and safety. As a responsible vehicle owner, it's important to recognize the signs that your ball joints may need to be replaced.
How much to replace a ball joint on a Honda Accord?
The average cost for a Honda Accord Suspension Ball Joint Replacement is between $246 and $399.
Can you drive a car with bad ball joints?
No, you should not drive a car with bad ball joints because it is extremely unsafe and can lead to a catastrophic failure. A failed ball joint can cause you to lose control of your steering and braking, and the vehicle could veer off the road or even roll over.
This video demonstrates what can happen when a ball joint fails and you lose control of your car: 1mCountermanYouTube · Dec 7, 2020
Risks of driving with bad ball joints
- Loss of control: A completely failed ball joint can disconnect the wheel from the suspension, causing an immediate and total loss of steering control.
- Accidents: The sudden failure can cause the vehicle to veer off the road or potentially roll over.
- Further damage: Driving on worn ball joints can cause additional damage to other suspension and steering components.
- Steering difficulty: In some cases, a bad ball joint can make steering difficult or cause the steering wheel to pull to one side.
- Uneven tire wear: Worn ball joints can lead to uneven tire wear, which is a sign that they need to be replaced.
What to do
- Avoid driving: If you suspect a bad ball joint, avoid driving the car as much as possible.
- Minimize mileage: If you must drive, keep the mileage as low as you can and avoid aggressive maneuvers like hard braking or sharp turns.
- Get a professional inspection: Have a mechanic inspect and replace the ball joints as soon as possible. It's best to have professionals do this, as they can be tricky to access and install.
How much does it cost to replace all 4 ball joints?
The average cost for a Suspension Ball Joint Replacement is between $305 and $471. Labor costs are estimated between $211 and $310 while parts are priced between $94 and $161. This range does not include taxes and fees, and does not factor in your unique location. Related repairs may also be needed.
