Ball Joint Inspection
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Toyota Prius and 2002 Toyota Prius. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
NOTE:
Ball joint must be removed for the following inspection procedure. See LOWER CONTROL ARM and BALL JOINTS
under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION.
Remove ball joint and place in vise, with ball joint stud pointing upward. Flip stud back and forth about 5 times. Reinstall ball joint nut. Place torque wrench on ball joint nut and turn nut continuously, 1 turn every 2 to 4 seconds. Read torque measurement on 5th turn. See BALL JOINT TURNING TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS table. If torque is not within specification, replace ball joint.
BALL JOINT TURNING TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
| Application | INCH Lbs. (N.m) |
|---|---|
| Prius | 8.7-43 (1-4.8) |