deerman2701

What would cause this noise to occur? Usually only happens when stopped or under 15 MPH.. And turning slowly usually.

Its like sqeeking or something?

HOMEMADEPOWER

Ball joints are bad. I had the same problem.

98civdx

I agree, check the ball joints.

deerman2701

Can I drive with this noise or is it risky?

jbpnoman

Replace the ball joint. The part is cheap, and the procedure is fairly simple. A ball joint finally giving out while driving down the road will collapse your suspension, drop your front bumper into the asphalt, shred your tire, and risk a major accident.

98civdx

I wouldn't recommend it, fix as soon as possible.


A OEM ball joint runs like ~$40, you can rent the ball joint tool, and knock it out in a few hours.

deerman2701

Will do. Would it be easier just to take it off and have a shop press out and in the new joint?

jbpnoman

Definitely easier, yes. That's generally the route I go, but I also have a shop <5 minutes up the road that only charges me $30 for a quick job like that. Try to bring it to a local shop, not a chain.

deerman2701

Gotcha and should I do upper and lower just to be safe?

And anything else I should replace while in there? car has 165k miles everyone orignal...

98civdx

Definitely easier to have a shop do it.

Personally, I would replace both lowers, and uppers at the same time. but, im pretty ****.

With the uppers it's replace the whole control arm, or I believe Moog makes a replacement ball joint. I saw one, but im not exactly sure if it works.


Don't forget to get it aligned after!

jbpnoman

Bare minimum, I'd say both lowers. Both uppers would be a smart idea, but isn't required. You should fully inspect your tie rods, tie rod ends, bushings, wheel hub bearings, brakes (while you have the wheel off, why not?) tire rotation, and alignment.

HOMEMADEPOWER

If i was you I Would change both ball joints on both sides of your car.

deerman2701

Awesome, will be replacing both upper and lower this weekend...

One last question when replacing my tie rod end. should I replace inner and outter or just outter?

I dont have the tool to remove the inner

jbpnoman

You don't need to replace them, just check them for wear and play. If they have too much play, then worry about replacing them.

deerman2701

Sounds good, I know that the boot that are inbetween the outter and inner the bands popped off and grease is everywhere down there..

Can I just buy a new boot and regrease?

jbpnoman

boot flinging grease? Are you sure you aren't talking about the axle/CV shaft boots?

deerman2701

Not "flinging" just the ring that holds the boot onto the rod is missing.