how to check if my Ford Explorer's ball joints are bad?

Ford Explorer Sixth Generation (2020-present)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

medium

Severity

4 min read

613 words

Problem Statement

Learn how to check and replace bad ball joints in your Ford Explorer. Step-by-step guide with symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair instructions.

Affected Component

Suspension

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and secured with wheel chocks before lifting.
•Disconnect the battery if working on electrical components nearby.
•Always use jack stands when the vehicle is lifted to prevent accidents.

Symptoms

•Clunking or popping noises when turning or hitting bumps
•Uneven tire wear
•Steering wheel vibration or looseness
•Vehicle wandering or pulling to one side
•Tires appear to be misaligned

Diagnostic Steps

1
Raise the vehicle and visually inspect the ball joints for any signs of wear, such as cracks, tears, or excessive dirt accumulation.
2
Grasp the tire at 12 and 6 o'clock positions and try to rock the wheel back and forth. Any noticeable movement indicates a potential ball joint issue.
3
Lift the front suspension system with a floor jack and assess the play in the ball joint by using a pry bar to apply force on the control arm. Observe for excessive movement.
4
Inspect for grease leaking from the ball joint boots, indicating they may be compromised.
5
Take the vehicle for a short drive and listen for unusual noises while turning or going over bumps.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Floor jack
•Jack stands
•Socket set
•Torque wrench
•Pry bar
•Tie rod separator
•Ball joint press

Parts Required

•New ball joints (specific to the model year of Ford Explorer)
•New control arm bolts (if needed)

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Diagnostic Steps

1
Raise the vehicle and visually inspect the ball joints for any signs of wear, such as cracks, tears, or excessive dirt accumulation.
2
Grasp the tire at 12 and 6 o'clock positions and try to rock the wheel back and forth. Any noticeable movement indicates a potential ball joint issue.
3
Lift the front suspension system with a floor jack and assess the play in the ball joint by using a pry bar to apply force on the control arm. Observe for excessive movement.
4
Inspect for grease leaking from the ball joint boots, indicating they may be compromised.
5
Take the vehicle for a short drive and listen for unusual noises while turning or going over bumps.

Solution

1. Preparation

Tools Required: Floor jack, jack stands, socket set, torque wrench, pry bar, and safety glasses.
Safety Warnings: Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface and secured with wheel chocks before lifting.

2. Remove Wheel

Loosen the lug nuts while the vehicle is on the ground.
Raise the vehicle with a floor jack and secure it on jack stands.
Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

3. Remove Ball Joint

Separate the Tie Rod: Use a tie rod separator to disconnect the tie rod from the steering knuckle.
Remove Control Arm Bolts: Unbolt the control arm from the frame and the steering knuckle. Use a socket set to remove the bolts.
Detach the Ball Joint: If the ball joint is pressed into the control arm, use a ball joint press to remove it, or if it’s a bolt-in type, simply unbolt it.

4. Inspect and Replace

Inspect: Check the new ball joint for any defects and ensure it matches the old part.
Install New Ball Joint: Use a ball joint press to install the new ball joint into the control arm or bolt it in place if it's a bolt-in type.
Reassemble: Reattach the control arm to the frame and the steering knuckle. Torque the bolts to manufacturer specifications.

5. Wheel Reinstallation

Reinstall the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the specified value (typically around 100-120 ft-lbs).