Top 5 Best Ball Joints – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide (2023)
Step into the world where stability meets innovation as we present the most comprehensive and insightful guide to the year’s Top 5 Best Ball Joints. Just as the backbone of a structure provides strength and support, ball joints play a pivotal role in the seamless functioning of vehicles, ensuring smooth rides and safe travels.
In this dynamic guide, we delve deep into automotive engineering, exploring the finest ball joints meticulously selected to enhance your driving experience. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic seeking the best options for your clients or a car enthusiast determined to maximize performance, our carefully curated list is your roadmap to making informed decisions.
Join us on a journey through unparalleled precision and durability as we dissect the inner workings of these mechanical marvels. From heavy-duty trucks to nimble sports cars, our reviews and buyer’s guide cater to a diverse range of vehicles, ensuring you’ll find the perfect match for your needs.
5 Steps to Know if a Ball Joint is Bad
Tired of a clunking sound every time you hit that bump? Suspect it’s your ball joints to blame? Before you go on a suspension-tearing spree, let’s check if they’re the ones at fault!
Let’s start with the basics.
Your vehicle’s suspension system comprises several components that work together to keep your wheels in contact with the road and provide a smooth ride. The ball joints are an important part of this system, as they allow the suspension to move up and down while also allowing the wheels to steer.
Now, let’s talk about how to check if your ball joints are bad.
Step 1: Visually inspect the ball joints
First things first, let’s take a look at your ball joints. If you can see any visible damage or wear, that’s a good sign that they may be bad and need to be replaced. Look for cracks, excessive rust, or looseness in the joint.
Step 2: Check for play in the ball joints
Next, it’s time to get hands-on with your suspension. With the vehicle on level ground, grab hold of the tire at the top and bottom and try to move it back and forth. If you feel any play or movement in the ball joint, that’s another indication that it may be worn out.
Step 3: Test for ball joint noise
If the ball joints are starting to go bad, you may hear a clunking or knocking sound when driving over bumps or turning. To test for this, take your vehicle for a drive and listen for any strange noises coming from the suspension.
Step 4: Check the alignment
If your ball joints are worn out, it can cause your wheels to be misaligned. To check your alignment, measure the distance between the tire and the fender at the front and back of the tire. If the measurements are not equal, your wheels are likely misaligned.
Step 5: Check your suspension
If you’ve checked all of the above and are still unsure if your ball joints are the problem, it’s time to bring in the pros. A mechanic can perform a more thorough inspection of your suspension and give you a definite answer on the status of your ball joints.
That’s how to check if your ball joints are bad. Remember, it’s always better to catch problems with your suspension early on before they turn into bigger (and more expensive) issues.
Mevotech ball joints are known for their durability and are a popular choice for those looking to improve their vehicle’s performance.
Related post: Are Detroit Axle Ball Joints Good?
Top Pick Section
Best for Overall Performance – Moog K80026 Ball Joint
Best for 2WD – Detroit Axle – 2WD 8Pc Ball Joints
Best Complete Ball Joint Kit – Detroit Axle – 14Pc Front Suspension Kit Ball Joint
Best for Budget – AC Delco 46D2281A Advantage Ball Joint Assembly
Best for Easy Installation – Detroit Axle – Front Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement
Top 5 Best Ball Joints
1. Moog K80026 Ball Joint
The Moog K80026 Ball Joint is top of this list because of its durable composition and incredible performance. The ball joint gave my team a satisfactory performance during testing.
The ball joint is designed from steel to improve its strength and wear-resistance. This allows it to last for an extended period.
Moog K80026 includes oversized housing, offering a more secure fit when installed in a vehicle. Plus, the greasable socket construction promotes lubricant flow, reducing corrosion and flushing out contaminants and old grease easily.
The ball joint rotates excellently due to the full metal stud, resulting in a more responsive steering performance.
Things I like
- Strong and durable
- Highly responsive
- Fits perfectly
- Great price
Things I don’t like
- Has grease fitting issues.
- It comes as a single piece.
2. Detroit Axle – 2WD Ball Joints
Detroit Axle 2WD 8Pc Front Upper Control Arms is the perfect replacement part for 2-Wheel Drive vehicles.
The durability and wear-resistance of this ball joint are top-notch, as it’s made with excellent quality materials. This ensures that they last long. Moreover, it has undergone thorough testing to ensure its quality and safety.
My team installed this ball joint in a 2003 Dodge Ram 1500 2WD, and it fitted impeccably, without any issue. If you’re looking for a ball joint for your truck, this Detroit Axle ball joint will make a good choice. It’s one of the best ball joints for lifted trucks.
Things I like
- Installation is easy
- Compatible with most Dodge Ram 2WD trucks
- Resistant to impact and wear
- Tested to ensure its durability and quality
- Affordable
Things I don’t like
- Some models are not tapped for the grease fitting.
3. Detroit Axle – 14Pc Front Suspension Kit Ball Joint
Detroit Axle 14Pc Front Suspension Kit includes everything that you need to replace your worn-out ball joint for better performance.
The full ball joint kit contains upper, and lower suspension ball joints, four front inner and outer tie rod ends for an excellent fitting.
It also includes two front stabilizer bar links end links, adjustment sleeve, Pitman arm, and Idler Arm to make installation easier.
The ball joint is reasonably easy to grease, as it comes with grease certs that permit users to push out the old lubricant easily.
The best part is the ball joint is affordable, even with its superb quality.
Things I like
- High-quality
- Value for money
- It fits well when installed.
- Comes in a full kit.
Things I don’t like
- The lower ball joints seem a little oversized.
- Incompatible with specific vehicles
4. AC Delco 46D2281A Ball Joint Assembly
If you want the best ball joints for F150, you should consider AC Delco 46D2281A Advantage Front Lower Suspension Ball Joint Assembly.
AC Delco is a top supplier of premium quality, reliable automotive parts. This ball joint replacement part boosts a vehicle’s overall steering performance excellently.
It is highly resistant to wear and extreme impact and abrasion, thanks to its forged polyurethane housing and machined shell. The forged housing and machined shell also maximize the product’s durability.
The ball joint assembly is ISO-9001 certified, so you are sure of its safety and quality. It’s also coated with resistant material to minimize corrosion, promoting longevity.
Things I like
- Resistant to extreme impact and wear
- Certified for safe use
- Durable
- Coated to prevent corrosion
- Great value for money
Things I don’t like
- Doesn’t fit well on other vehicle brands.
- Somewhat difficult to grease
5. Detroit Axle – Front Upper Control Arm Ball Joint
This is another excellent Detroit Axle ball joint to consider if you want the best replacement part for your Ford F-150 vehicle and Lincoln Mark LT.
The Detroit Axle Front Upper Control Arm lower ball joint replacement kit contains all the accessories that provide an outstanding service.
It includes one front upper left and right control arm and ball joint assembly, two front lower ball joints, and two front outer tie rod end links for improved control.
The kits are super easy to install and fit perfectly on compatible vehicle models. Given the price and quality, I’d say this a great replacement part.
Things I like
- Great price
- Great fit
- Highly durable
- Installs conveniently
Things I don’t like
- The tie rods are relatively short.
- Has compatibility issues
Moog Ball Joints vs. OEM
| Criteria | Moog Ball Joints | OEM Ball Joints |
|---|---|---|
| Quality | Known for high-quality aftermarket options. | Can vary based on the manufacturer and vehicle brand. |
| Durability | Designed for longevity and extended service life. | Usually built to meet the minimum requirements. |
| Material | Utilizes advanced materials for improved strength. | Generally made to meet manufacturer specifications. |
| Performance | Engineered to often exceed OEM performance. | Primarily designed to meet vehicle specifications. |
| Compatibility | Offers broad coverage for various vehicle models. | Tailored specifically for the respective vehicle. |
| Cost | Can be more affordable compared to OEM parts. | May be pricier due to branding and exclusivity. |
| Warranty | Often comes with a warranty, varies by model. | Covered by vehicle warranty, varies by manufacturer. |
| Ease of Installation | Generally designed for easier DIY installation. | Should fit seamlessly as they’re OEM equipment. |
| Availability | Widely available through various retailers. | May require sourcing through dealerships or suppliers. |
| Aftermarket Support | Moog provides customer support and resources. | OEM support comes from vehicle manufacturer. |
which one should I choose?
The decision between choosing Moog Ball Joints or OEM ball joints depends on several factors. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed choice:
- Vehicle Type and Usage: Consider the type of vehicle you have (e.g., passenger car, truck, SUV) and how you use it (daily commuting, off-roading, towing). If you’re looking for enhanced durability and performance, Moog ball joints might be a better option.
- Budget: Moog ball joints are often more affordable than OEM parts. If cost is a significant concern, Moog could be a cost-effective solution without sacrificing quality.
- Quality and Performance: If you’re seeking improved performance and longer service life, Moog ball joints are engineered to exceed OEM standards. OEM parts, on the other hand, are designed to meet the manufacturer’s specifications for your specific vehicle.
- Ease of Installation: Moog ball joints are often designed with DIY installation in mind, which can save you money on labor costs. OEM ball joints should fit seamlessly due to being original equipment.
- Warranty: Moog typically offers warranties for their products, providing you with added peace of mind. OEM parts are covered by your vehicle’s warranty, but this coverage may vary depending on the manufacturer.
- Vehicle Age and Condition: For older vehicles, aftermarket parts like Moog ball joints can provide a fresh upgrade. OEM parts might be preferred for newer vehicles or if you’re aiming for an exact replacement.
- Availability and Support: Moog ball joints are widely available through various retailers, while OEM parts might need to be sourced from dealerships or authorized suppliers. Consider the convenience of obtaining the parts you need.
- Consultation: If you’re uncertain, it might be helpful to consult a trusted mechanic or your vehicle’s manufacturer to get their input on the best choice for your specific vehicle and driving needs.
Both Moog Ball Joints and OEM ball joints have their advantages. If you’re looking for a balance between quality and cost-effectiveness, Moog might be a solid choice. However, if you’re concerned about maintaining the exact specifications of your vehicle, OEM ball joints could be preferred. It’s recommended to evaluate your priorities, budget, and vehicle requirements before making a decision.
Things to Consider When Buying the Best Ball Joints
Ready to ditch the rubber ball life in your car? Then it might be time for you to swap out those old ball joints. With many options on the market, how do you decide which ones are right for you? Don’t stress! Here’s our guide to help you make the best purchase decision.
When buying these best ball joints, getting the perfect replacement is crucial. In this guide, my team will take you through factors to consider when purchasing the best ball joint.
Material
The material used in designing a ball joint is an essential factor to consider. You should consider buying parts that are made of steel for more durability and robustness.
Hardened metal is another good alternative material, as they offer some degree of durability and resistance to wear and corrosion [3]. Additionally, you should choose ball joints that have high-resistance coatings like polyurethane. This makes them less susceptible to wear and tear and rust.
Compatibility
Most buyers make mistakes when finding compatible ball joints for their vehicles. Eventually, they end up wasting their money.
Each ball joint is designed to fit a specific vehicle. To ensure you have the right joint, check your vehicle’s specifications on the company’s website or manual to determine whether it’d fit that exact part.
Grease
Some ball joints require you to grease them manually, while others are self-lubricated. Though self-lubricating ball joints sounds fun, greasing them manually will aid in smoother operation. This is because when you grease manually, you push away contaminants and the old grease, elongating the ball joint’s lifespan.
Brand
Do some digging and determine which brands boast good quality and durability at a reasonable price point. Obviously, inexpensive doesn’t always mean good value.
Adjustability
If you’re into street racing or just performance driving overall, adjustable ball joints may be what you need for ultimate control over your ride-handling ability.
Suspension Kit
Some ball joints come as a full kit, containing full upper and lower suspension arms, while others don’t. This can come in handy if you want to replace numerous parts in your vehicle. Also, buying a full suspension kit is more economical than buying single components.
Installation
Certain types may be more user-friendly than others when it comes to installation, so check into this before buying if DIY is not your thing, as hiring professionals can quickly become expensive.
It’s important to note that the specific characteristics of Moog ball joints and OEM ball joints can vary depending on the vehicle’s make, model, and year. Additionally, individual experiences with different brands may differ. When making a decision, consider factors like your vehicle’s needs, your budget, and the level of performance and quality you’re seeking.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the ball joints, and how do they work?
Ball joints are components that help a vehicle to steer accordingly in a precise manner. Like the human ball and socket joint, a typical ball joint comprises a ball that sits inside/connected to the socket. Though inside, the ball rotates freely. The ball joints allow the vehicle’s suspension’s vertical movement while you steer the wheels left or right.
2. Should I replace both ball joints at the same time?
Replacing both ball joints depends on lots of factors. Most experts would recommend changing both ball joints if one of them is faulty. However, replacing all ball joints in a vehicle with a Short-Arm Suspension system (two upper and two lower ball joints) might be expensive. In this case, I suggest that you only replace the worn-out ones to cut down on costs.
3. How often should I replace my ball joints?
The rule of thumb is to replace ball joints after leaving 70,000 – 100,000 miles. Replacing ball joints depends on the road condition, vehicle condition, construction of the ball joint, etc.
Conclusion
In the world of automotive components, the choice between Moog Ball Joints and Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) ball joints boils down to a careful balance between quality, performance, and practicality. Our journey through this comparison has illuminated the unique attributes of each option, empowering you to make an informed decision tailored to your vehicle’s needs.