Replacement of Ball Joints
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Replacement of Ball Joints
I'm not sure if I'm posting this message in the right place, but here goes... I have a 2000 Civic and I just found out that the ball joints need to be replaced because they are completely worn out. Has anyone had this done and can possibly enlighten me as to this process? I'm a weekend driver so I don't understand how this could be, but I guess after 5 years some things wear out. Also, what is the normal cost for such work? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
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You will need to pull the hub off and then either press the balljoint out or hammer it out and then press or hammer the new one in.
Seems kind of fishy to me that after 5 years they would be bad already. Mine were much older and still in good shape (minus the torn boot). What symptoms have you observed that suggest that they have gone bad?
I have no idea on the cost, but it isn't a very easy job to do yourself.
Seems kind of fishy to me that after 5 years they would be bad already. Mine were much older and still in good shape (minus the torn boot). What symptoms have you observed that suggest that they have gone bad?
I have no idea on the cost, but it isn't a very easy job to do yourself.
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I will not be doing this work myself that's for sure. A friend of mine took it in to get maintenance while I was away and that's how it was discovered. Something about the mechanism is touching metal to metal because whatever cushion is between is completely worn, which can cause bending if not tended to. Also, apparently the car tends to lean to one side when you let go of the steering wheel and this I (now) noticed. (Sorry that I'm not more knowledgeable on this topic and I don't speak for all women, but I'm not that well versed when it comes to cars and I guess that's why I've sort of neglected my car some...) :hsdunno:
Thanks for any info. you can provide.
Thanks for any info. you can provide.
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Originally Posted by 20civic00ex
I will not be doing this work myself that's for sure. A friend of mine took it in to get maintenance while I was away and that's how it was discovered. Something about the mechanism is touching metal to metal because whatever cushion is between is completely worn, which can cause bending if not tended to. Also, apparently the car tends to lean to one side when you let go of the steering wheel and this I (now) noticed. (Sorry that I'm not more knowledgeable on this topic and I don't speak for all women, but I'm not that well versed when it comes to cars and I guess that's why I've sort of neglected my car some...) :hsdunno:
Thanks for any info. you can provide.
Thanks for any info. you can provide.
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Originally Posted by pomansouth
I wouldnt trust the mechanic your friend took the car to, my ball joints are 11 years old and are ok with busted boots. Ball joints on a honda dont wear like that. Also, that sounds like you just need an alignment.
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Originally Posted by pomansouth
I wouldnt trust the mechanic your friend took the car to, my ball joints are 11 years old and are ok with busted boots. Ball joints on a honda dont wear like that. Also, that sounds like you just need an alignment.
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Just wanted to add that he was told that the ball joints are shot and that the lower control arm that holds wheel to the car will break if not fixed. He said that when they looked under car, the mechanic put his hands on the arm and the wheel shook. Just adding to see if this sounds like it would be the result of ball joint problems...
Don't mean to keep on about this, but just seeking the advice of those with more knowledge about this. Thanks again!!
Don't mean to keep on about this, but just seeking the advice of those with more knowledge about this. Thanks again!!
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Again, get a second opinion. Your mechanic may be of a rare breed and be honest about the problem, or just trying to play you. The only way to find out is to have someone else check it out.