Ball Joint Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2004 Ford Ranger. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Raise and support the vehicle. For additional information, refer to JACKING & LIFTING .
Prior to performing any inspection of the ball joints, inspect the front wheel bearings.
Position a safety stand beneath the front suspension lower arm to be tested.

Fig 1: Supporting Front Suspension On Safety Stand
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
While an assistant pries upward on the bottom of the tire, measure the relative movement between the lower spindle arm and the front suspension lower arm ball joint. Any movement at or exceeding the specification indicates a worn or damaged lower ball joint. Install a new ball joint as necessary. For additional information, refer to FRONT - 2WD (4x2) or FRONT - 4WD TORSION BAR (4x4).

Fig 2: Measuring Relative Movement Between Lower Spindle Arm And Front Suspension Lower Arm Ball Joint
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
While an assistant pries upward on the bottom of the tire, measure the relative movement between the upper spindle arm and the front suspension upper ball joint. Movement at or exceeding the specification indicates a worn or damaged upper ball joint. Install a new upper arm as necessary. For additional information, refer to FRONT - 2WD (4x2) or FRONT - 4WD TORSION BAR (4x4).