short answer is… it depends on how bad they are. the lower ball joint typically gets more wear than the upper. i’d say, if there’s just a little wiggle in either joint, you should have no problem driving 500 miles.
What happens if you drive with a messed up ball joint?
A broken ball joint may be the cause of a mysterious clunking noise or drifting steering. And once they’re worn, they will seriously affect your steering and suspension. If a ball joint fails completely, it can even result in the wheel dramatically falling off the car.
What’s the worst that can happen with a bad ball joint?
By far the worst that can happen, when driving on a bad ball joint, is breakage. The ball joint can break in two ways: the ball detaching from the socket and stud breakage. No matter the form of breakage, the end result is catastrophic. When the ball joint completely breaks, the wheel is free to move in any direction.
How many hours does it take to replace ball joints?
It can take a little over an hour to get it replaced, so the full ball joint replacement cost will be between $100 and $400. You never know how much the mechanic is going to charge you until you get the replacement done, but it can help to have an estimate beforehand.
What do bad ball joints feel like?
Feeling a vibration in the steering wheel while driving down a level, straight road, or your vehicle drifting to the right or left when going over bumps may also be signs of ball joint wear. Tires – Uneven tire wear may be a sign that your ball joints are wearing out.
How long does a worn ball joint last?
While ball joints may last 70,000 miles or more, they don’t last forever. Their actual lifespan will depend on your driving habits, road conditions and exposure to road splash and salt. As the ball and socket wear together, the normally close tolerance between them will increase and the ball joint will become loose over time.
How long can you Drive on a bad ball joint?
The answer to this will depend on the extent of the damage. For some people, driving five hundred miles should not be a problem. For others, even ten more miles could be a risky venture. It would help if you got a professional to assess the extent of the damage.
What happens when you have a bad ball joint?
A failed ball joint can allow the wheels to move in whatever direction inertia takes them, and they will stay in that position until inertia forces them somewhere else. When a tire rides on any section except the center, it causes uneven tire wear.
Is the ball joint on a car permanent?
Ball joints are always working any time that you are driving, and they are not permanent fixtures in your vehicle. They are vulnerable to damage from rough road conditions, as well as ordinary wear and tear.
