How to Check if a Ball Joint is Bad

How to check ball joints and ball joint noise. Learn how to diagnose a bad ball joint for both an upper and lower control arm. I also quickly show you how to tell if it is a bad tie rod, bushings, or a bad bearing just in case your ball joint is not bad. A bad ball joint will make noise which is the first symptom of knowing it's bad.

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Disclaimer:
Due to factors beyond the control of ChrisFix, I cannot guarantee against improper use or unauthorized modifications of this information. ChrisFix assumes no liability for property damage or injury incurred as a result of any of the information contained in this video. Use this information at your own risk. ChrisFix recommends safe practices when working on vehicles and or with tools seen or implied in this video. Due to factors beyond the control of ChrisFix, no information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. Any injury, damage, or loss that may result from improper use of these tools, equipment, or from the information contained in this video is the sole responsibility of the user and not ChrisFix.

[pgo]

If a man isn't careful he can actually become a pretty descent DIY auto repairman with these type of videos. Much appreciation for the priceless tutorials.

[jahbay]

As a former mechanic I agree 100% with this video. Everything stated was accurate concise and to the point. Thank you Chris for another excellent tutorial.

[Stephen-bril]

You have to be one of the few Youtubers who actually DESERVE their subscribers.

[scotmetcalf]

Chris I have been a get bye mechanic for the last 60 years and I learn so much watching your videos. Always thought I knew what I was doing changing brakes but after watching your 10 tips on them I realized I was missing important steps and things to check! You ROCK bud thanks so much.

[benmartinez]

What I like about ChrisFix is tht your straight to the point and not a long drawn out explanation.. as to why. thanks ChrisFix..

[woofa]

28 seconds into Chris fix and chill and you find out you have bad ball joints.

[sonnybunny]

Just had my car serviced today to replace the lower ball joint. Heard a “popping/clunking” noise when I would break, then it got to the point where the car would drift when driving. When I took it to the shop, the tech said it was dangerous to drive on and the ball joint needed to replaced. So happy that I did not ignore this and can continue to drive my vehicle. This video is still helpful 8 years later.

[jdemonte]

Was wondering what that noise was. Found out when my wheel folded in lol

[bethsamons]

That was an awesome Video! My husband passed away close to 2 years now and it's been ruff to having to do things like this on my own. and I may not can fix every time but at least with great people like Chris I know pretty much what's wrong with my Jeep. Thank you so much Chris!!:-)

[fiveo]

You make some excellent videos, thanks. I followed your quick radiator and heater core flush. The job was simple and smooth just like your directions. I just got my inspection sticker and the mechanic said there's a tiny bit of movement on the drivers side ball joint. Now I can visualize what to look for. Thanks again

[billthompson]

Chris Fix, I really do appreciate your videos.
I've never regretted subscribing your Channel, thank you for your VAST wealth of knowledge.

[Akula]

Thanks, Chris. Quick, to the point and easily understandable. Well done!

[colchilibeck]

Just to make it clear, when using the pry bar method you need to make sure the ball joint is not "loaded". You can do this by jacking up the lower control arm or lowering the vehicle onto a jack stand which is under the control arm (this is assuming the lower ball joint is your loaded joint). If you just jack up the vehicle by the frame and let the suspension hang, you may not get any play, even though the ball joint is worn out.

[craigerickson]

Clear and simple, best video I've seen to explain how to check ball joints. Your video photographer does an xlnt job detailing things, good focus, good framing, it's all great stuff.

[dennisrowe]

This video literally just saved me about $100 at the local Pep Boys for a suspension diagnostic! I was driving my hummer H2 through the local Wendy’s drive-through and made a pretty sharp turn and all of a sudden I started hearing the squeaking noises. I also noticed that my driver side front tire is leaning a bit. Being far from home, I had no jack to lift the vehicle. So I go on YouTube and type in “ do ball joints squeak when they go bad?” And lo and behold this video pops up and the vehicle in the video sounds exactly the same as my H2……. Next up!! Ordering some kryptonite ball joints.

[aejenne]

Thank you sir that was exactly what I needed to know. I appreciate you getting right to the point and not wasting our time with a long unnecessary commentary.

[rochelleanderson]

So glad I came across your channel. Everything seems to be breaking on my jeep at the worst possible financial time. Just watching a couple of your videos I feel I can fix a couple things that would cost a fortune from a shop. And I want to have a little know how about vehicles so I don't get ripped off. Thanks for your extensive, detailed videos. It's very much appreciated.

[timothyoo]

I appreciate your clear and uncomplicated examples and instructions.

[tonywilliams]

Thanks Chris you the man, people should appreciate you way more than you get credit for.

[KATOKAY]

after a 3 min video i feel like a mechanic now. im over here diagnosing all my neighbors cars. o riley’s should be paying me a cut for the amount of ball joints i helped them sell. very helpful, great video