1. Gather Tools and Materials:
- Ball joint press or pickle fork
- Replacement ball joint
- Socket set
- Wrenches
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Jack and jack stands
2. Safety First:
- Park the car on a level surface, apply the parking brake, and engage the wheel chocks on the opposite wheels.
3. Raise the Vehicle:
- Use a jack and jack stands to safely lift the front end of the vehicle until the tire on the affected side is about 6 inches off the ground. Ensure the jack stands are stable before proceeding.
4. Remove the Tire:
- Use a lug wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts, then remove the tire.
5. Remove the Brake Caliper:
- Disconnect the brake line by unbolting it from the caliper bracket (use caution to prevent brake fluid spillage).
- Remove the bolts that hold the caliper to the bracket and set the caliper aside.
6. Dismount the Ball Joint:
- Using a ball joint press or a pickle fork, carefully separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
- Pry the ball joint from the control arm if necessary.
7. Remove the Lower Ball Joint:
- Remove the nut that secures the lower ball joint to the control arm.
- Use a wrench to loosen and remove the ball joint stud from the steering knuckle.
- Remove the old ball joint from the control arm.
8. Install the Replacement Ball Joint:
- Carefully insert the new ball joint into the control arm, ensuring it is properly seated.
- Secure the ball joint by reinstalling the nut and tightening it securely.
9. Reattach the Ball Joint to the Steering Knuckle:
- Reinsert the ball joint stud into the steering knuckle.
- Install and tighten the nut to secure the ball joint to the knuckle.
10. Reinstall the Brake Caliper:
- Reattach the brake caliper bracket to the steering knuckle, securing it with the bolts you removed earlier.
- Reconnect the brake line to the caliper and tighten the fitting.
11. Reinstall the Tire:
- Place the tire back onto the wheel hub and secure it with the lug nuts.
- Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure proper seating.
12. Lower the Vehicle:
- Use the jack to carefully lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
13. Road Test:
- Take your vehicle for a road test to verify proper steering and handling.
Note: Proper alignment is recommended after replacing a ball joint, especially if you notice steering issues or uneven tire wear.
