Are Ball Joints Covered Under Warranty?
Are ball joints covered under warranty? If your car is still under warranty, then you may be covered for ball joint replacement. But it depends on the reason for the failure and the Type Of Warranty that you have. If the failure is due to a manufacturing defect, then it should be covered. if the failure is due to normal wear and tear, then it likely won’t be covered. So, it’s important to know why the ball joints failed before assuming that they’ll be replaced under warranty.
- Manufacturer’s Warranty. If your vehicle is still covered by the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty, which typically lasts for a certain number of years or miles, ball joints might be covered if they fail due to manufacturing defects or premature wear. However, warranties usually do not cover wear and tear due to normal use, so coverage for ball joints might vary.
- Mopar Extended Warranty. If you have purchased a Mopar Extended Warranty, it might cover ball joint replacement if the issue is listed as a covered component. Extended warranties can vary widely in terms of coverage, so you should review the terms of your specific contract to understand what is covered.
-
Wear and Tear. The majority of warranties, whether provided by the manufacturer or aftermarket, typically exclude coverage for components that experience wear and tear over time due to normal use. It is important to note that ball joints, as suspension components that are prone to wear, may fall under this category and may not be covered in such circumstances.
- Maintenance and Usage. Warranties often demand proper maintenance and adherence to manufacturer’s guidelines for vehicles. Failure to do so or improper usage may void the warranty if it contributes to ball joint failure.
Review the warranty documents provided by the manufacturer or the warranty provider carefully. If you’re unsure about whether a specific issue like ball joint failure is covered under your warranty, it’s best to contact the warranty provider or the dealership where you bought the vehicle or the parts. Accurate information is available based on your specific situation and warranty terms.
Consider An Official Mopar Extended Warranty from Chrysler-Factory-Warranty
How Much Does It Cost To Replace Ball Joints?
The cost to replace ball joints can fluctuate due to various factors, such as vehicle make and model, ball joint type, location, and choice of service provider.
- Labor Costs. The cost of ball joint replacement primarily stems from the labor involved. This task is intricate and demands specialized tools and expertise. Labor expenses can differ, typically falling between $200 to $500 or beyond, contingent upon the intricacy of the job and local labor rates.
- Parts Costs. The cost of ball joints varies depending on their quality and brand. Typically, a single ball joint can range from $20 to $100 or more. Considering that many vehicles require multiple ball joints, the overall cost for parts can accumulate.
- Additional Parts. Additional components like control arms, bushings, and tie rods may also require replacement, which could raise the total cost.
-
Type of Ball Joints. Various ball joint options exist, including OEM and aftermarket choices. Though pricier, OEM ball joints offer superior quality and adhere to manufacturer specifications.
- Lower Ball Joint. The lower ball joint is situated on the lower control arm of a vehicle’s suspension. It links the control arm to the steering knuckle or spindle. This particular type of ball joint bears the weight of the vehicle and aids in regulating the movement of the wheels.
- Upper Ball Joint. The upper ball joint is located on the upper control arm of the suspension, connecting it to the steering knuckle or spindle. Along with the lower ball joint, it helps regulate wheel movement.
- Load-Carrying Ball Joint. Trucks and SUVs with heavy-duty suspension systems may have Load-Carrying Ball Joints, which are designed to handle greater loads and provide extra support for the vehicle’s weight and any added cargo.
-
Greaseable and Sealed Ball Joints. Ball joints can either be greaseable or sealed. Greaseable ball joints feature fittings to inject grease for proper lubrication. Sealed ball joints, on the other hand, are self-contained units that do not need regular greasing.
- Press-In and Bolt-In Ball Joints. Different methods can be used to install ball joints. Press-In Ball Joints are installed by pressing them into the control arm or steering knuckle, whereas bolt-in ball joints are secured using bolts.
- Adjustable Ball Joints. Adjust suspension and alignment angles with adjustable ball joints. Commonly found in performance and racing applications.
- Alignment. Alignment is often advised after ball joint replacement for proper suspension geometry adjustment, which may increase the overall cost.
Considering these factors, the overall expense for ball joint replacement may vary between $300 and $1,000 or higher. It is advisable to obtain quotes from multiple mechanics or repair shops in your vicinity for a more precise estimation based on the specific details of your vehicle and circumstances. Consider both cost and the quality of work and parts when ensuring the safety and performance of your vehicle.
How To Tell If You Need New Ball Joints?
Ball joints are just one part of the complicated mechanics of the front suspension, so it’s difficult to point the finger directly at them without getting a detailed inspection.
- Clunking or Knocking Noises. Worn ball joints often cause a clunking or knocking noise when driving over bumps or rough roads. This noise is more noticeable when turning or maneuvering the vehicle.
- Vibration or Shaking. Worn ball joints can cause vibrations or shaking in the steering wheel or even in the vehicle’s body. This can be felt especially at higher speeds or when driving on uneven surfaces.
- Uneven Tire Wear. Worn ball joints can result in improper alignment and uneven tire wear. The presence of uneven wear on the inside or outside edges of your tires may indicate issues with the ball joints.
- Difficulty Steering. If your vehicle becomes more difficult to steer, particularly at lower speeds, it may be due to worn ball joints impacting the proper functionality of the suspension.
- Poor Handling and Control. If your vehicle’s handling feels less responsive or if you notice a lack of control while driving, it might be caused by worn ball joints impacting the suspension’s ability to maintain proper alignment and stability.
- Tire Alignment Issues. Consistent pulling to one side after alignment may indicate worn ball joints impacting the alignment settings.
Promptly have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic if you experience any of these symptoms. Worn ball joints can jeopardize your vehicle’s safety and stability. A professional mechanic can diagnose the problem and suggest replacing the worn ball joints, among other actions.
