Is it expensive to replace ball joints?

Yes. Replacing a ball joint typically costs several hundred dollars per joint when you factor in parts and labor, and the total rises if you replace both sides or work on premium vehicles. Alignment and any related suspension work can add to the price.

Ball joints are a critical part of the front suspension, connecting the steering knuckles to the control arms and allowing for smooth steering and wheel movement. They wear out over time from road debris, potholes, and general mileage. The price you’ll pay depends on the vehicle, the type of ball joint, and labor costs in your area. In most cases, you’ll see a noticeable difference between a low-cost repair and a more comprehensive replacement, especially on newer or luxury cars where parts and labor are pricier.

What influences the cost of ball joint replacement

The final price is driven by the vehicle’s design, the quality of parts chosen, and local labor rates. Some cars use serviceable ball joints on a separate control arm, while others rely on sealed, integrated joints or complete control arms. Labor complexity and the need for an alignment after replacement also affect the total.

Typical costs in the United States

Below are common ranges you’ll encounter when getting quotes from auto repair shops. These figures cover parts plus labor per joint and assume standard front-ball-joint replacements. Prices can be higher for luxury brands, newer models, or unusual suspension setups.

• Parts cost per ball joint: approximately $50–$250, depending on whether you choose aftermarket or OEM parts and the vehicle type.


• Labor cost per ball joint: about 1–3 hours of labor, depending on access and whether the joint is in a press-in or sealed configuration; typical labor rate is $75–$150 per hour.


• Total estimated cost per joint (parts + labor): roughly $200–$800.


• Cost for replacing ball joints on both sides (a common service when one side wears quickly): about $400–$1,600, depending on parts and labor rings.


• Additional costs: wheel alignment after replacement typically adds $75–$150.

These figures are general guidelines. Your actual quote might be higher or lower based on the car, the shop’s labor rates, and whether additional parts (like control arms, bushings, or mounting hardware) need replacement.

Factors that affect price

Vehicle type and joint configuration

Some modern vehicles use lightweight, sealed ball joints or combine the joint with the control arm, which can change both part cost and labor time compared with traditional serviceable joints.

Location and labor market

Labor rates vary widely by region. urban areas and specialty shops typically charge more per hour than rural shops, which can swing the total by several hundred dollars.

Brand and part quality

OEM (dealer) parts are usually the most expensive, while quality aftermarket parts come at a middle price. Replacing both sides with premium parts will raise the total compared with budget components.

Additional repairs

If the ball joints have caused or revealed damage to related components (control arms, tie rods, alignment), the job may expand beyond a straightforward joint replacement.

Signs your ball joints may need replacement

• Clunking or grinding noises when going over bumps


• Loose steering or a wandering feeling at highway speeds


• Tire wear that is uneven or unusual


• Vibration or play in the wheel assembly


• Visible damage or grease leakage around the joint

If you notice these symptoms, have a qualified mechanic inspect the suspension. Driving with worn ball joints can lead to more extensive and expensive damage.

What to expect during service

A typical replacement involves lifting the vehicle, removing the wheel and possibly the brake caliper or other components for access, separating the joint from the steering knuckle and control arm, installing a new joint (or a new control arm, if required), torquing fasteners to spec, and performing a wheel alignment. Some vehicles may require special tools to press in or remove the joint. Afterward, the shop will check for proper alignment and rebound control.

Is DIY a viable option?

Replacing ball joints is generally not recommended for casual DIYers due to safety considerations. The process often requires heavy tooling, precise torque specifications, and alignment adjustments. If you have professional-grade tools, a good mechanical setup, and follow manufacturer procedures, you may save on labor, but mistakes can create dangerous driving conditions. If you’re uncertain, rely on a reputable shop for safety-critical work.

Summary

In most cases, replacing a single ball joint costs several hundred dollars, with higher totals if you replace both sides or work on premium vehicles. The final price depends on part quality, vehicle configuration, labor rates, and whether an alignment is required. For a safer and more predictable outcome, get multiple quotes from nearby shops, ask about package pricing for both sides, and confirm whether the price includes an alignment and any related hardware. Regular inspection can help you plan ahead and avoid larger, costlier repairs later.

Bottom line: ball joint replacement is a significant repair but not universally prohibitive. With informed choosing of parts and a competitive quote, you can manage the cost while maintaining vehicle safety.

What are the signs of bad ball joints?

Signs of a bad ball joint include clunking or squeaking noises from the suspension, uneven tire wear, loose or wandering steering, and vibration through the steering wheel. A failing ball joint can make your vehicle unstable, so it is important to have it inspected by a professional if you notice any of these symptoms.
 
Audible signs

• Clunking or popping sounds: You may hear these noises, especially when going over bumps or turning.
• Squeaking: A squeaking sound can occur when accelerating, braking, or hitting a bump. 

Steering and vibration issues 

• Loose or wandering steering: The vehicle may feel unstable and drift to one side, requiring you to constantly correct the steering wheel. 
• Vibration: You may feel excessive vibration through the steering wheel, seat, or brake pedal. 
• Unresponsive steering: The steering wheel might feel loose or less responsive than usual. 

Tire and alignment problems 

• Uneven tire wear: Worn ball joints can cause tires to wear down unevenly or rapidly.
• Alignment difficulty: Your car may be difficult to keep aligned. 

Other signs

• Vehicle sitting lower: The front of the vehicle may appear to be sitting lower than usual. 
• Visible damage: In some cases, the boots on the ball joint may be torn, which indicates a problem. 

What to do

• If you notice any of these symptoms, have your vehicle inspected by a professional. Ignoring a bad ball joint is a serious safety risk that can lead to further damage or a complete suspension failure. 

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.

Can I drive a car with a bad ball joint?

No, you should not drive with a bad ball joint because it is a critical safety component, and failure can lead to loss of steering control, a wheel collapsing, or a serious accident. If you notice symptoms like clunking noises, steering issues, or a shaky ride, have the vehicle inspected by a mechanic immediately and avoid driving it to prevent catastrophic failure.
 
This video explains why it's unsafe to drive with bad ball joints: 55sBarbour's Auto HelpYouTube · May 12, 2020
Dangers of driving with a bad ball joint

• Loss of control: A failed ball joint can cause you to lose steering control and potentially lead to a rollover accident. 
• Wheel detachment: A complete failure could result in the wheel separating from the vehicle. 
• Sudden failure: While some level of play might not cause immediate failure, a complete breakage can happen suddenly, especially under stress, leading to an instant loss of control. 
• More damage: Driving with a bad ball joint can cause additional damage to other suspension components, leading to higher repair costs. 

This video discusses the risks of driving with bad ball joints and potential consequences: 55sMaxTheCarGuyYouTube · Nov 15, 2023
What to do instead

• Park the car: Do not drive the vehicle if you suspect a ball joint is bad. Arrange for it to be towed to a repair shop. 
• Seek immediate repair: Ball joints should be replaced as soon as possible to ensure your safety and the safety of others. 
• Get a professional inspection: Have a mechanic inspect the ball joints to confirm the issue and perform the necessary repairs. 

How much should it cost to replace ball joints?

The average cost for a single ball joint replacement is $250 to $500, but this can be higher if you need to replace control arms or have both sides done. For a pair of ball joints, expect to pay around $400 to $750, and the total price may be between $600 and $750 or more if you need a full control arm replacement. A wheel alignment is usually necessary after the repair, costing an additional $100. 
This video explains the cost of replacing ball joints, including parts and labor: 58sTalkingTechTrendsYouTube · Mar 10, 2025
Cost breakdown

• Parts: Ball joint parts typically cost between $50 and $125 per joint, depending on the vehicle and quality. 
• Labor: Labor costs depend on how difficult the job is. 
  • A "bolt-on" ball joint is much cheaper and faster to replace than a "press-in" type. 
  • If the ball joint is integrated into the control arm, you may have to pay for a full control arm replacement, which can cost between $600 and $750 or more for parts and labor. 
  • The total labor time can vary from 30 minutes to a couple of hours per side. 
• Wheel alignment: A post-replacement alignment is a standard and essential step to ensure your car handles correctly and its tires wear evenly. The cost is typically around $100. 

Factors that affect the cost

• Vehicle type: Costs vary depending on the make, model, and age of the vehicle. 
• Complexity of the repair: "Press-in" ball joints are more difficult and time-consuming to replace than "bolt-on" types. 
• Labor rates: Labor costs vary by region and by the specific repair shop. 
• Part quality: OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts are often more expensive than aftermarket parts. 

How to save money

• DIY: If you are comfortable with car repair and have the right tools, you can save money by doing the work yourself. 
• Shop around: Get multiple quotes from different shops to compare prices. 
• Check if your vehicle has integrated control arms: Some cars require replacing the entire control arm if the ball joint fails. 

This video explains how to replace a ball joint: 1mCar Performance ProsYouTube · Mar 20, 2025