Is there any way to tell the condition of the ball joints without taking everything apart? Local tire dealer was trying to get me to have this done while there for tires. Place has a history of "suggesting" work that may not need to be done.

Without accusing anyone of anything, is there a way for me to tell if the ball joints need replacing?

thanks

 

Raise the wheel off the ground and try to move the wheel in and out and from side to side. If there is play it could be the ball joints or the rod ends. Either way repairs are needed. If you do have problems it will reduce the life of your new tires.

 

Cool, thanks a lot. I'll give it a whirl and post back.