Front Suspension Ball Joint

WARNING: This page is about a different variant/trim than selected.

Lift up the vehicle until front wheels are off ground.
Grasp the bottom of tire and move it in and out in axial direction. If movement (B) is observed between the brake disc cover (A) and end of front arm (D), ball joint (C) may be excessively worn.

Fig 1: Identifying Distance Between Brake Disc Cover And Front Arm End
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
Next, grasp the end of front arm (C) and move it up and down. If movement (A) between the housing (D) and front arm (C) boss is observed, ball joint (B) may be excessively worn.

Fig 2: Identifying Distance Between Housing And Front Arm
Courtesy of SUBARU OF AMERICA, INC.
If the relative movement is observed in the preceding two steps, remove and inspect the ball joint. If the free play exceeds standard value, replace the ball joint. < Ref. to FRONT BALL JOINT . >
Damage of dust boots
Visually inspect the ball joint dust boots. Replace if ball joint is damaged.