To check the balljoint, first raise the vehicle and support it securely on jackstands. Visually inspect the rubber boot for any cuts, tears, or leaking grease; if any issues are found, the balljoint needs replacement. Use a large pry bar under the balljoint to push it up, then place the pry bar between the
Steering Knuckle and the lower arm to apply downward pressure. Any movement during these checks indicates a worn balljoint. An assistant should shake the tire at the top and bottom while you touch the balljoint stud nut; if looseness is felt, suspect a worn balljoint stud or a widened hole in the steering knuckle boss, which would require replacing both the steering knuckle and the balljoint. For 1999 and later models, the balljoint is not replaceable, and if faulty, the entire lower suspension arm assembly must be replaced. For 1998 and earlier models, loosen the wheel lug nuts, raise the vehicle, and support it on jackstands before removing the wheel. Support the lower suspension arm with a floor jack, then remove the steering knuckle. Unscrew the three balljoint-to-lower arm bolts and take out the balljoint. To install the new balljoint, position it on the lower arm and secure it with the three bolts to the specified torque. Reinstall the steering knuckle, remove the floor jack, and complete the installation in reverse order. Finally, install the wheel and lug nuts, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.