If Ball Joints wear out you will experience uneven tyre wear or unreliable steering

A ball joint is a steel bearing stud and socket enclosed in a steel casing. Ball joints are subject to a harsh environment so to properly protect them, ball joints are housed in an enclosed rubber boot to keep dirt away from the joint assembly, which would otherwise cause premature wear and failure. Ball joints connect the control arms to the steering knuckles and allow the knuckle to pivot when turning. Ball joints have to be strong enough to support your car's weight. If the ball joints wear out and are not changed, you will soon experience uneven tyre wear or unreliable steering, such as wandering. Worn out ball joints are a safety issue that must be tended to and fixed immediately.

For the same reason as above, Outer Tie Rod Ends and Inner tie rod ends are just as important

• Outer Tie Rod Ends are almost identical to ball joints, but are normally smaller because they don't carry the weight of the vehicle. They do however connect your steering rack to the wheel spindle, pushing and pulling it to turn the wheel.
• The Steering rack is connected to an inner tie rod that is covered by a rubber bellows for protection. The inner tie rod end is connected to the outer tie rod end. These tie ends have the ability to move in any linear direction. Finally, the tie rod end is connected to the wheel spindle.

Protective Rubber Boots Stop The Worst Enemy: contamination!

Contamination is the worst enemy to all these suspension components. All of these joints are protected by some sort of rubber cover called a boot, gaiter or bellows. These rubber guardians keep the important lubricating grease in, and keep OUT road debris such as dust, dirt, water, and stones - otherwise they will enter the moving joints causing premature wear, which could result in failure. If caught early enough the protective boot can simply be replaced and the joint regreased. If left unreported or neglected, premature wear and failure will occur, resulting in the expensive replacement of the complete assembly.

At Mansfield Motors we always inspect your suspension during a service in order to protect your safety and prevent costly repairs. Please consider our recommendations and rebook your car at your earliest convenience.