How to torque ball joint nuts on fwd cars

## How to Torque Ball Joint Nuts on FWD Cars

Ball joints are critical suspension components that connect the control arms to the steering knuckles. They allow the wheels to pivot up and down while also providing support for the weight of the vehicle. Over time, ball joints can wear out and need to be replaced.

If you’re replacing the ball joints on a front-wheel drive (FWD) car, it’s important to torque the nuts to the correct specifications. Otherwise, the ball joints may not be able to properly support the weight of the vehicle, which could lead to a dangerous accident.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Torque wrench
19mm socket
21mm socket
Safety glasses
Gloves
Jack stands
Lug wrench

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Safety first! Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. Put on your safety glasses and gloves.
2. Loosen the lug nuts. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that’s attached to the ball joint you’re replacing. Don’t remove the lug nuts completely; just loosen them enough so that you can remove the wheel by hand.
3. Jack up the car. Place the jack stands under the designated jack points on the car. Slowly jack up the car until the wheel is off the ground.
4. Remove the wheel. Grip the wheel firmly and pull it straight toward you to remove it from the hub.
5. Locate the ball joint nuts. The ball joint nuts are located on the back of the steering knuckle. There are typically two or three nuts that hold the ball joint in place.
6. Break loose the ball joint nuts. Use the 19mm socket to break loose the ball joint nuts. Don’t remove the nuts completely; just loosen them enough so that you can remove them by hand.
7. Remove the ball joint. Once the nuts are loose, you can remove the ball joint by hand. Grip the ball joint firmly and pull it straight out of the steering knuckle.
8. Clean the ball joint seat. Use a clean rag to wipe away any dirt or debris from the ball joint seat on the steering knuckle.
9. Install the new ball joint. Insert the new ball joint into the steering knuckle. Make sure that the ball joint is fully seated in the socket.
10. Tighten the ball joint nuts. Use the 21mm socket to tighten the ball joint nuts. Torque the nuts to the specifications listed in your vehicle’s service manual.
11. Reinstall the wheel. Place the wheel back on the hub and tighten the lug nuts by hand.
12. Lower the car. Slowly lower the car until it’s back on the ground.
13. Tighten the lug nuts. Use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specifications listed in your vehicle’s service manual.

Tips

If you don’t have a torque wrench, you can rent one from your local auto parts store.
Be sure to use the correct size sockets for the ball joint nuts. Using the wrong size sockets can damage the nuts or the ball joint.
If you’re not comfortable replacing ball joints yourself, you can always take your car to a mechanic.

## Additional Notes

The torque specifications for ball joint nuts can vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle. Always refer to your vehicle’s service manual for the correct specifications.
If you’re replacing ball joints on a rear-wheel drive (RWD) car, the torque specifications may be different. Consult your vehicle’s service manual for the correct specifications.
Ball joints should be replaced in pairs. If one ball joint is worn out, the other one is likely to be worn out as well.
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign that your ball joints need to be replaced:
Clunking or rattling noises when driving over bumps
Difficulty steering
Uneven tire wear
The car pulls to one side when driving
The steering wheel vibrates when driving

## Conclusion

Replacing ball joints is a relatively simple task that can be done in a few hours. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can safely and correctly torque the ball joint nuts on your FWD car.