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.
Where to jack to check ball joints?
To check a loaded ball joint, place a jack or jack stand under the lower control arm to support the weight of the vehicle. Attach a dial indicator to the lower control arm and place the dial in a vertical position to measure axial runout at the steering knuckle.
How to check Subaru ball joints?
And I'll show you now what's causing. It. There should be no upward. And downward motion in a ball joint. So when you're doing your test with the tire. On you'll feel this clunking.
How do I check if my ball joints are bad?
You can check for bad ball joints by listening for clunking or squeaking noises while driving and by performing a physical inspection when the vehicle is jacked up. To inspect, raise the vehicle and shake the wheel vertically at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions; any play indicates a problem with the upper or lower ball joint. A second, more definitive test involves placing a pry bar between the control arm and knuckle, then prying to check for excessive movement, or by visually inspecting the joint for a torn or damaged dust boot.
Driving symptoms
- Noises: Listen for clunking, popping, or squeaking sounds when going over bumps, making turns, or changing road surfaces.
- Steering issues: The steering wheel may feel loose, or the car may pull to one side while driving.
- Vibration: You might feel vibrations in the steering wheel, especially at highway speeds.
- Uneven tire wear: Look for excessive or uneven wear on the inner or outer edges of your front tires.
Physical inspection (when the vehicle is safely supported)
- Shake test:
- Safely jack up the front of the vehicle and support it with jack stands.
- Grasp the top of the tire at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions and rock it back and forth.
- Any noticeable movement or play in the wheel can indicate a worn-out ball joint.
- Pry bar test:
- With the wheel in the air, place a pry bar between the control arm and the steering knuckle.
- Gently pry the components apart.
- Look for excessive movement or a clicking sound; a tiny amount of play is normal, but more than a "hair's width" suggests a bad joint.
- Visual inspection:
- Look for a torn or damaged rubber dust boot on the ball joint.
- If there is a grease fitting, check if the "boss" (a small metal boss) has receded into the housing; if it's flush or recessed, the joint is likely worn.
How long do Subaru ball joints last?
70,000 to 150,000 miles
Ball joints typically last 70,000 to 150,000 miles depending on their usage and road conditions.
