How much to replace ball joints on a Ford Ranger?
Ball joint replacement on a Ford Ranger generally costs hundreds of dollars per joint, including parts and labor. Expect roughly $300–$600 per joint, with higher totals if you replace multiple joints or both sides.
Costs vary by Ranger model year and suspension design, whether you replace a single joint or multiple joints, and the local labor rate. Some Rangers require pressing out and pressing in joints, while others may use components that involve replacing entire control arms or knuckles. An alignment is usually recommended after front-end work.
What drives the price
Several factors influence the final bill, including the complexity of the job, parts quality, and regional labor rates.
- Labor rates in your area and the shop’s pricing structure
- Whether you replace a single joint or multiple joints (upper, lower, or both sides)
- Whether the ball joints are press-in or serviceable within a control arm
- Whether you also replace control arms or knuckles, which increases parts and labor
- Need for an alignment after the work
In summary, the final price is a function of parts availability (OEM vs aftermarket), labor time, and any related components touched during the repair.
Estimated price ranges
Prices below assume standard ball joints and typical labor rates. Regional variations can push numbers up or down.
- One ball joint replacement (single joint on one side): Part costs roughly $40–$150; labor roughly 1–2 hours at $80–$120/hour. Total range: $200–$550.
- Both ball joints on one side (upper and lower): Parts $80–$300; labor 2–4 hours. Total range: $350–$800.
- Ball joints on both sides (one joint per side): Parts $80–$300 per side; labor 2–4 hours total. Total range: $400–$900.
- All four joints (two per side, upper and lower on both sides): Parts $160–$600; labor 4–6 hours. Total range: $800–$1,700.
Note: If the shop replaces control arms that include ball joints, or if OEM parts are used, expect the high end of the range or above. Alignment is typically extra, commonly $60–$120.
What to ask your shop
Before approving the work, ask about the following to avoid surprises:
- Whether the price includes parts and labor for the specific joints, and whether an alignment is included or extra
- What type of ball joints will be used (aftermarket vs OEM); whether joints are press-in or serviceable within a kit
- Estimated labor hours and any potential extra charges for rust, seized components, or knuckle work
Getting multiple quotes can help you compare whether a shop is charging fairly for parts and labor, especially in areas with high labor rates. Some shops offer warranties on ball joints, typically 1–3 years.
Summary
Replacing Ford Ranger ball joints typically costs a few hundred dollars per joint, with total job costs ranging from roughly $200–$550 for a single joint, up to $1,700 or more for a full four-joint replacement on both sides, plus possible alignment fees. Costs vary by model year, suspension design, parts choice (OEM vs aftermarket), and local labor rates. Plan ahead and get quotes from a few shops to confirm current pricing.
Endnote
If you’d like, share your Ranger’s year and whether you need one or both sides replaced, and I can tailor a more precise estimate.
