Upper Link: Inspection

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2013 Nissan Armada. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check ball joint for grease leakage. Check dust cover for damage.
Check the ball joint for excessive play. Replace the upper or lower link assembly if any of the following exists:
- Ball joint stud is worn.
- Ball joint is hard to swing.
- Ball joint play in axial directions or end play is excessive.

NOTE: Before checking the axial forces and end play, turn the lower ball joint at least 10 revolutions so that the ball joint is properly broken in.

Measure the ball joint swinging force, turning force, and vertical end play using a suitable tool.

Measure at the cotter pin hole for upper ball joint as shown below.
Measure at the groove for lower ball joint as shown below.

Fig 1: Identifying Cotter Pin Hole And Groove
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Swinging force (A)

Upper ball joint: Refer to "BALL JOINT ".

Lower ball joint: Refer to "BALL JOINT ".

Turning torque (B): Refer to "BALL JOINT ".

Vertical end play (C): Refer to "BALL JOINT ".

Fig 2: Identifying Ball Joint Swinging Force, Turning Torque And Vertical End Play
Courtesy of NISSAN NORTH AMERICA, INC.