[tayanz12]

Greetings,

I recently purchased a 2008 mazda3 with around 70,000 miles on it. The previous owner told me that the left front ball joint was worn and that the control arm should be replaced. The dealer gave them an estimate which came with the paperwork with the car. I went to go check the control arm myself and found I wasn't able to find any play in the balljoint. I jacked up the front of the car, and with the wheels "hanging", put a pry bar under the wheel and lifted to feel for any play, but felt nothing. Nothing is torn either. Am I checking this incorrectly? or is it possible the previous estimate was bogus?

Thanks all

 

[zero_gravity]

that's how i've always tested ball joints myself. that and a road test of course to listen for any abnormal noises.

sometimes the play can be very subtle so you may want to check it over again just to be sure. suspension parts that are worn out are a safety hazard in my book. while you're there, check over the other suspension parts as well. wouldn't be the first time a ball joint gets misdiagnosed.

 

[RocketmanKarl]

The pry bar test is good, but I like to start with jacking up the car and shaking the wheel with hands at 9-and-3, then again at 6-and-12. Press with one hand while you pull with the other, alternating back and forth quickly (doesn't take much force). Any looseness or clunking is a sure sign that something is worn out. Usually, it's easy to see where the noise/motion is coming from if you can get your head behind the wheel while you shake the wheel.

One thing I've learned: never ever take the last guy's diagnosis as gospel. Is the car making noise or does it have a vibration? If you don't have a problem and you can't see anything loose, drive on.

 

[Cdn17Sport6MT]

I like the idea of two persons checking. One to jostle the wheel while jacked up, one to feel the ball joint for play, right on the ball joint itself. I think it'd be best to jack up the car and then place a block of wood as far outboard as possible on the control arm (i.e. right next to the wheel) and do that exactly the same for the other side at the same time... Then lower the car to normal ride height. It may be zero play at droop but 'lotsa play at normal ride ht.

 

[Milanomike]

If you haven't found it yet, on my 08 is was the LCA rear bushing. This is obvious when pushing/pulling with a pry bar.