When you hear a squeak coming from your vehicle’s steering wheel while turning, it is often a warning that there may be a problem with your vehicle’s suspension system. A very common problem that causes this type of noise is a worn out ball joint. Ball joints are a major component of your vehicle’s steering and handling. Ball joints connect your vehicle’s control arm to your vehicle’s steering knuckle and provide for the movement of your vehicle’s wheels to mimic the movement of your vehicle’s suspension. Over time, the ball joint will lose its original grease/lubricant and/or develop excessive wear.
As a result, the ball joint will create an annoying noise and negatively impact the handling characteristics of your vehicle. Identifying potential issues as early as possible through regular inspections conducted by Skiles Automotive Services can help you avoid expensive suspension repair costs in the future.
How Ball Joint Wear Affects Steering Control
The noise you hear from a worn ball joint is just the beginning. When the components inside the joint degrade, there will be too much play in the joint. Over time the excessive amount of free movement (play) in the ball joint can result in an alignment problem with the tire and a reduction in your ability to control steering. Skiles Automotive Services can inspect your vehicle’s entire suspension system to identify the degree of play in the ball joint and/or if the free movement has caused other components to fail. Timely repair of this condition can restore predictable handling characteristics to your vehicle and provide for safer operation.
Why Are Timely Ball Joint Replacements Important?
Ignoring a worn ball joint increases the chances of causing further damage to your suspension and losing control of your vehicle. Excessive wear may eventually result in complete separation of the joint.
Therefore, if you consistently hear squeaking in combination with loose steering or abnormal wheel movement, you should get your ball joints examined immediately. A qualified technician can evaluate the extent of the damage and advise you on whether replacement is necessary. Auto Repair in South Bend, IN Service provides reliable repairs for vehicle owners dealing with issues regarding their suspension systems via inspections and repairs.
Additionally, Skiles Automotive Services can evaluate various components within your suspension system to identify other signs of wear before they turn into major mechanical problems.
Keep Your Suspension Working Smoothly
A low-noise suspension system allows for comfortable rides as well as dependable steering. With each trip you take, the ball joint will move up and down under repeated stress. Over time, due to their age or rough roads, they will begin to wear out. By having regular suspension checks, it is possible to find damaged boots and worn ball joints prior to them becoming worse.
