3rd Gen Lower Ball Joint Replacement/Maintenance

Hi all,

I’ve had my eye on my lower ball joints and noticing some seeping from the boots and some grease coming out on the passenger’s side. Is this a cause for immediate concern that they might seize or fail, or should I just monitor them? I’m feeling very very slight vibration in my steering over small bumps in the road but it’s rare. I don’t know if this has anything to do with the ball joints. Larger bumps or speed bumps are fine and everything is normal.

My mileage is at 75k. Warranty is out of the question.

Also have Bilstein 5100’s with stock springs With 2” lift but they were installed a few weeks ago. This is not because of those. Noticed the seep prior to installation.

I performed a check for play (12 and 6 o’clock) but it seems solid as well as the pry bar pushing and lifting up on the wheel. All solid.

Also, has anyone successfully replaced only the ball joints with the aftermarket Moogs or is my best bet to do a full lca replacement? If so, please describe how easy and if you used a press from Autozone, etc.. I’m handy and do all my own repairs/maintenance.

Photos of the passenger’s side (worse) and the drivers side as well attached below..

 

Did you use the correct method of support when checking?
https://www.moog-suspension-parts.com/resources/moog-ball-joints/how-to-check-ball-joints.asp

 

Ah.. jack placement was wrong indeed..

 

Did you end up replacing the whole lower control arms?
Wondering cause I noticed mine are leaking and looks like yours in the photo but no vibrations or anything yet

 

Hi, 45k miles later, and still no issues. I just ignored it and it still looks exactly the same

 

Nice! I’m going to check mine for play over the weekend and if all good I’ll just keep driving on it also and keep an eye on it lol

 

From what I gather, some seepage like that is normal. Mine have been that way for a little while, I’m at ~80k. No issues, like u said, just keep an eye on it