Should I replace the ball joints or the tie rods first?

Really, if you need to do both, neither is better to do first. Safety wise, the tie rod ends would be better to do first, then the ball joints, but I wouldn’t put either off, as it will cause further wear to tires and other suspension components.

How do I know if I need ball joints or tie rods?

A ball joint is connected to the top and bottom of the spindle, while the tie rod end connects to the spindle and controls its pivot which allows vehicle to be steered.

What else should I replace when doing ball joints?

You just replace the lower joint, replacing the entire lower control arm would be a bear of a process and its not necessary in the least. The upper joint, however, is a different matter. With an OEM setup, you must replace the entire upper control arm, the joint itself is not replaceable.

When should tie rods be replaced?

Tie rods can show signs of slack or “free play” when pushing up/down on the tie rod. This is a sign that the tie rod is worn and should be replaced. Another way to check the tie rods is to raise the vehicle and remove the front wheels.

How long does it take to replace ball joints and tie rods?

How long does it take to replace ball joints and tie rods? The inner and outer tie rods on your vehicle can take up to some time. The dealership will change out the tie rod ends and then perform a vehicle alignment, so the time there will be to the upper 3 to 4 hours.

What are some of the signs that your car’s ball joints or tie rods are bad?

5 Signs that the Tie Rod Ends in Your Vehicle May Be Bad

  1. Inability To Steer.
  2. A Squealing Sound When You Turn. …
  3. Uneven, Excessive Tire Wear. …
  4. Misaligned Front End. …
  5. A Steering Wheel that Feels Unusual. …


How much does it cost to get ball joints replaced?

Average Ball Joint Replacement Cost



You can expect to pay around $300 in most cases, including both parts and labor. Most ball joints cost about $100 to $150, while the labor costs will run you $150 to $200. An independent repair shop will almost always be cheaper than the dealership as well.

How much does it cost to replace ball joints and tie rods?

In general, ball joints are inexpensive with a range between $20 to $80 each. Labor will vary greatly by model. Some vehicles cost as low as $60 to $80. Yet others, especially four-wheel drive trucks, can range from $160 to $200 per ball joint.

Can you replace ball joint without replacing control arm?

Some ball joints can be replaced independently of the control arm, but not an easy DIY (need a press to get the ball joint out)! If this is going to be a DIY, change the entire control arm. Some ball joints can be replaced independently of the control arm, but not an easy DIY (need a press to get the ball joint out)!

Are ball joints easy to replace?

Ball joint replacement is not straightforward, as they can be very tricky to access and install – especially with age and rust. On some cars, the ball joint is integrated into the control arm. If you’re not familiar with the suspension and wheel assembly, it’s best to visit a garage for a professional check.

Should you replace ball joints in pairs?

And, if you do notice a problem with one ball joint, it’s recommended to replace the damaged ball joint as well as its pair. This is because when one ball joint starts to fail, the other side is likely to follow soon.

How much does it cost to replace a tie rod on a car?

Tie rod replacement costs between $170 and $475. This estimate includes labor and parts. After a tie rod replacement, your car will most likely need an alignment, and this could add an additional $65 to $100 to the overall cost of your tie rod replacement.

How long do ball joints last on a car?

While ball joints may last 70,000 miles or more, they don’t last forever. Their actual lifespan will depend on your driving habits, road conditions and exposure to road splash and salt.

Which ball joints wear out first?

The lower ball joint usually takes the biggest hits and wears out first. Not only does it need to handle the load of the vehicle, but it also absorbs the shocks of potholes and other bone-jarring road hazards.

How do I know if my ball joints are bad while driving?

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There should be no upward. And downward motion. In a ball joint. So when you're doing your test with the tire on you'll feel this clunking. Also when you're driving you might even feel or hear this