The lower ball joint and wishbone (control arm) are key suspension components that help keep the wheel aligned while allowing the suspension to move. Some vehicles have replaceable ball joints, while others require the entire wishbone to be replaced.
After replacing either component, a wheel alignment is recommended.
New ball joint or wishbone (correct for your vehicle)
Jack and axle stands
Wheel nut wrench
Socket set and spanners
Torque wrench
Ball joint separator (ball joint splitter)
Pry bar
Penetrating oil
Hammer (if required)
Park on level ground.
Engage the handbrake and select Park/gear.
Loosen the wheel nuts slightly.
Raise the vehicle and support it securely on axle stands.
Remove the wheel.
The wishbone is attached to:
The vehicle's subframe by one or two bushes.
The steering knuckle (hub carrier) via the lower ball joint.
Inspect the surrounding area for worn bushes, damaged rubber boots or excessive corrosion.
Remove the split pin (if fitted).
Undo the ball joint retaining nut.
Use a ball joint separator to release the joint from the steering knuckle.
Tip:
If the joint is seized, applying penetrating oil and using a suitable separator usually works better than striking the threaded stud.
If replacing the complete wishbone:
Undo the mounting bolts securing the wishbone to the subframe.
Remove the wishbone from the vehicle.
Compare the new part with the old one to ensure they match.
If replacing only the ball joint:
Follow the manufacturer's procedure, as the ball joint may be bolted, riveted or pressed into the wishbone.
Position the new wishbone in place.
Loosely install the mounting bolts.
Insert the ball joint into the steering knuckle.
Fit the retaining nut and tighten to the manufacturer's specification.
Install a new split pin if required.
Many manufacturers specify that wishbone mounting bolts should be fully tightened with the suspension at normal ride height.
This helps prevent premature wear of the suspension bushes.
If necessary:
Support the suspension arm with a jack until it is close to its normal driving position.
Tighten the mounting bolts to the specified torque.
Reinstall the wheel.
Tighten the wheel nuts by hand.
Lower the vehicle to the ground.
Torque the wheel nuts in a star pattern.
Turn the steering from lock to lock to check for smooth movement.
Inspect all fasteners to ensure they are secure.
Listen for any unusual noises during a slow test drive.
A wheel alignment (tracking) should be carried out after replacing a wishbone or ball joint, as suspension geometry may have changed.
Replace suspension components in pairs where practical to maintain balanced handling.
Inspect the anti-roll bar drop links, track rod ends and suspension bushes while everything is accessible.
If the old ball joint boot has split, check for wear in nearby suspension components as dirt and moisture may have entered the joint.
Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
Replace any damaged split pins with new ones—do not reuse old split pins.
If steering feels loose, pulls to one side or knocks after replacement, stop driving and inspect the suspension before using the vehicle again.