How to check ball joints on a Subaru?
Checking the ball joints on your Subaru is an important maintenance task that can help identify potential issues before they become serious problems. Ball joints are critical components that connect the steering knuckle to the control arms, allowing the wheels to pivot and the suspension to function properly. In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to inspect and assess the condition of your Subaru's ball joints.
Identifying Ball Joints
Ball joints on a Subaru are typically located at the bottom of the control arms, where the control arm connects to the steering knuckle. They allow the wheels to move up and down, as well as pivot left and right, as the suspension travels and the steering is turned.
Checking Ball Joint Condition
To check the condition of your Subaru's ball joints, follow these steps:
- Park your Subaru on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
- Raise the front of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
- Grab the tire at the top and bottom and try to move it in and out. If there is any significant play or looseness, it may indicate a worn ball joint.
- Repeat the same process, but this time grab the tire at the 3 o'clock and 9 o'clock positions. Any noticeable up-and-down movement could also signal a problem with the ball joint.
- If you detect any excessive play or looseness, it's recommended to have a professional mechanic further inspect and potentially replace the ball joints.
Regularly checking the condition of your Subaru's ball joints is an important preventative maintenance task that can help identify potential issues before they lead to more serious problems, such as steering or suspension failure.
