What Is A Ball Joint, And Why Is It Important?
Ball joints are a critical part of your Toyota's complex front suspension and steering systems. A ball joint connects the front suspension's lower control arm to the steering knuckle. Vehicles have a control arm and steering knuckle on both front wheels. Depending on your Toyota’s suspension design, a ball joint may also attach an upper control arm to the steering knuckle. While rare, some vehicles on the market offer four-wheel steering and may have rear ball joints. Like a human body's hip or shoulder joint, a ball joint allows suspension and steering to articulate freely.
A ball joint consists of a stud with a polished round metal joint inside a socket. The ball joint is filled with grease for constant lubrication and sealed with a rubber boot. The rubber boot ensures long life by preserving the grease and protecting the ball joint from dirt and debris.
What Is The Job Of The Ball Joint?
Ball joints are an important part of the steering and front suspension. Both the steering and suspension must work together in a complex assembly of parts, including:
- Bearings that provide smooth, low-friction rotation of components
- Bushings that cushion the movement and vibration of parts
- Joints that allow flexibility between two connected parts
- Links that connect suspension components at two separate points
Ball joints work in harmony with all of these parts to:
- Allow the wheels to travel up and down independently
- Permit the wheels to turn left or right in unison
- Maintain precise and safe control of the vehicle under all conditions
- Optimize tire contact with the road to achieve maximum traction and even tire wear
How Long Do Ball Joints Last?
There is no specific maintenance interval for ball joints. The longevity of ball joints depends on several factors, including mileage, climate, age, and driving conditions. A few decades ago, ball joints typically had a grease fitting and required regular lubrication to maintain longevity. The rubber boot was also less resilient and more prone to cracking and splitting over time.
Advancements in technology have led to sealed-for-life OEM ball joints with long-lasting synthetic grease and more durable rubber boots to prevent premature failure. Modern OEM ball joints can last 100,000 miles or more. Some last the life of the car. Still, because so many things can affect ball joint life, periodically inspecting them is essential in higher mileage vehicles.
Genuine OEM Ball Joints From Olathe Toyota Parts Center
We have a large selection of durable OEM ball joints for your Toyota vehicle. All OEM parts are backed by the standard Toyota 12-month, unlimited miles warranty. Count on ball joints from Toyota Parts Center because:
- We have a large selection of parts and accessories for your Toyota vehicle.
- We're centrally located in Kansas City, we provide fast shipping to the east and west coasts.
- All our OEM parts are backed by the standard Toyota 12-month, unlimited miles warranty
Do you have questions? We’re here to help. Please feel free to contact us!