What Happens If the Ball Joint Makes Noise and Is Not Replaced?
3 Answers
If the ball joint makes noise and is not replaced, it can cause steering wheel vibration, brake deviation, and steering failure. In severe cases, the wheel may suddenly swing sideways due to the ball joint falling off, leading to a loss of control. Therefore, it is recommended to repair or replace the ball joint promptly if it is damaged. Below is the relevant information: Introduction to the Ball Joint: The ball joint in a car is also known as a universal joint. It mainly provides multi-angle rotation for the steering mechanism, reducing vibration and ensuring smooth steering. Symptoms of a Damaged Ball Joint: When driving on bumpy roads, the car may produce a clunking noise. At low speeds, you can clearly feel the wheel shaking.
My previous car had the same issue - the ball joints made creaking noises like an old door hinge. At first I didn't pay attention, but then the steering wheel started shaking while driving, and the wheels felt unstable, especially during turns when it seemed like the car might flip over. Later I discovered the ball joints were severely worn with dried-up grease. If left unreplaced, they cause uneven tire wear - the outer edges wear down extremely fast, ruining a tire in just a few months, which costs way more than replacing ball joints. Worse yet, other suspension components suffer too, and the shock absorbers might fail. The scariest part is sudden loss of control at highway speeds - a rear-end collision would be disastrous. I delayed for two weeks and ended up spending thousands to repair the entire suspension system. Really regretted not fixing it sooner. My advice: get it checked immediately - don't gamble with safety.
A squeaking ball joint indicates part wear, and prolonged neglect will definitely cause problems. You'll feel steering wheel wobble, alignment drift, and loss of control during turns. This accelerates tire wear – new tires cost three times more than ball joint replacement. Other suspension components like tie rods and control arms are also prone to collateral damage. Though a minor issue, it poses significant risks: wheel slippage during high-speed driving, especially dangerous in rainy conditions. Repair costs escalate over time – early fixes save hundreds. During routine maintenance, listen for abnormal chassis noises and address them promptly. Never compromise safety to cut corners.
