Upper Ball Joint
- Upper ball joint stud is spring-loaded in the socket to minimize looseness and compensate for normal wear. Raise vehicle and support at lower control arm. Remove front wheel assembly.
- Inspect ball joint stud for lateral shake by gripping hub assembly at top and bottom, and moving spindle inward and outward. Replace ball joint if any lateral movement exists.
- Check ball joint, only with ball joint disconnected from steering knuckle, to see if stud can be rotated by finger pressure. Replace ball joint if stud can be twisted. Inspect upper ball joint rubber grease seal for cuts or tears. Replace ball joint if damage is found.