Welcome to Barbour’s Auto Help! In today’s video, we will be discussing the safety issues associated with bad ball joints that have excessive play. We will explain why it is unsafe to drive with bad ball joints and the potential consequences of neglecting this issue.
First, let’s take a closer look at a ball joint with excessive play. As you can see, the boot on this ball joint is torn, allowing moisture and dirt to enter the joint and causing the lubrication to be compromised. The metal-to-metal contact and rusting inside the joint result in the excessive play. On the other hand, a ball joint with normal play has an intact boot and is well lubricated, ensuring smooth operation.
So, why is it unsafe to drive with bad ball joints? Let’s dive deeper into the role of ball joints in a vehicle’s suspension system. Typically, there is at least one ball joint per front wheel, with some vehicles having both upper and lower ball joints. The ball joint connects the spindle to the vehicle’s control arm, allowing the wheel to turn and the suspension system to compress and rebound. The point of contact between the spindle and the suspension system is crucial for stability and control.
In the worst-case scenario, a ball joint with excessive play can actually pop out of its socket, resulting in a complete loss of connection between the spindle and suspension system. This can lead to the vehicle “belly flopping” on the ground or veering off the side of the road, posing a significant safety risk.
In addition to the worst-case scenario, there are other potential issues that can arise from bad ball joints. One common problem is an alignment issue. When the ball joint moves out of position due to bumps or other factors, it can throw off the alignment of the vehicle. This can cause the steering to pull to one side, making it difficult to maintain control.
Furthermore, a damaged ball joint can hinder the vehicle’s steering capability. If the joint becomes rusted or clogged with debris, it may restrict the free movement and rotation of the joint. This can make it challenging to steer the vehicle, creating a safety hazard.
It is crucial to address any issues with ball joints as soon as possible. If your mechanic informs you that your ball joint boots are damaged, it is often recommended to replace the entire ball joint rather than just repairing the boot. Even if the boot is replaced, wear and tear have already begun, and it is difficult to determine how long the joint has been compromised.
Just like your brakes, the security of the spindle attachment is vital for your safety on the road. Therefore, it is strongly advised to have your ball joints repaired or replaced by a professional. Don’t take any chances when it comes to the safety of your vehicle and the well-being of yourself and others on the road.
We hope this information has been helpful in understanding why it’s unsafe to drive with bad ball joints. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. Make sure to read the description below the video for additional valuable information. If you are watching this video on a platform other than YouTube, please visit our YouTube channel, “Barbour’s Auto Help,” to access the full video description.
Thank you for watching, and remember to prioritize safety on the road!
