Ford Falcon Ball Joint Issues Explained: Symptoms and Causes

Ford Falcons are classic cars that have a large following among car enthusiasts. However, like any car, they can experience issues with their suspension system, specifically with their ball joints. When these components fail, it can cause significant problems for your vehicle. In this article, we will discuss Ford Falcon ball joint issues, including symptoms, causes, and how to replace them.

Symptoms of Ball Joint Problems

Let’s start by understanding what ball joints are before discussing the related issues. Auto ball joints are important parts that connect the steering knuckle to the control arm. They link these two parts and allow the wheel to travel up or down on uneven surfaces. As such, they are critical elements of a car’s suspension system. Their main job is to support the weight of your vehicle while steering.

One common issue with ball joints is insufficient greasing or deteriorated grease. This can happen due to a torn boot that’s supposed to protect them. Water and dirt can get into the joint through the tear, causing problems. Over time, it loosens the joint, which should normally be tight and precise.

Ball joint problems can cause a wide range of symptoms, including:

  • Clunking or knocking noises while driving over bumps
  • Steering wheel vibration
  • Uneven tyre wear
  • Vehicle pulling to one side
  • Loose or wandering steering
  • Sagging suspension system
  • Difficulty steering or controlling the vehicle

The Ford Falcon series, comprising models such as the AU, BA, and FG, is renowned for its performance and reliability. However, like any vehicle, they are not immune to mechanical issues. Ball joint problems are a notable concern among owners. Understanding the possible issues with such components is important for maintaining your Ford Falcon.

  • AU Falcon Ball Joints: The AU Falcon which is known for its robust performance, may eventually suffer from ball joint problems. Over time, these joints may wear out, leading to steering instability and compromised safety on the road.
  • BA Falcon Ball Joint Failure: BA Falcons, in particular, have been associated with ball joint failures. This can manifest as excessive play in the steering, uneven tyre wear, and in severe cases, loss of control while driving. BA Falcon ball joints are susceptible to wear and tear over time, especially if proper maintenance is neglected. Regular inspection and timely replacement can prevent potential failures for enhanced on-road safety.
  • FG Falcon Problems: Despite advancements in design and technology, FG Falcon’s ball joints may still cause problems. These issues can affect the vehicle’s suspension, handling, and overall driving experience.

Causes of Ball Joint Failure

Now, let’s explore what causes these components to break down or deteriorate. Understanding the triggers can prevent potential issues with your car’s suspension system. There are several reasons why vehicle ball joints can fail, including:

  • Normal wear and tear: Over time, the ball joint can wear out and become loose. This is natural for any machine with lots of moving parts.
  • Lack of lubrication: Without proper lubrication, ball joints will wear out quickly.
  • Dirt and debris: Accumulation of dirt or debris can cause these joints to wear out faster.
  • Damage: Hitting a curb or pothole, can cause damage to the ball joint causing it to fail.
  • Poor manufacturing: Low-quality ball joints or those made from inferior materials are more likely to fail.
  • Improper Installation: The use of improper tools, such as a ball joint separator, can damage the joint and shorten its lifespan. This can generally happen during part replacements or servicing.

Potential Consequences of Driving with a Bad Ball Joint

A bad ball joint can cause serious problems for your vehicle. Ignoring it only results in complete failure of the ball joint while driving. This could cause a loss of control and potentially lead to accidents or damage to other parts of your car. Therefore, it’s crucial to address any ball joint problems promptly to ensure safe driving conditions.

Driving with a bad ball joint can be dangerous and lead to more significant issues, such as:

  • Tyre wear: A bad ball joint can cause uneven wear, which can lead to premature failure.
  • Steering problems: It can cause steering issues, such as wandering or loose steering.
  • Suspension damage: A bad ball joint can cause damage to other parts of the suspension system, leading to expensive repairs.
  • Wheel detachment: In extreme cases, a bad ball joint can cause the wheel to detach from the vehicle, which can cause an accident.

If you have noticed any symptoms of ball joint failure, don’t wait to have them inspected and replaced. Changing ball joints is important to ensure your safety and prevent more significant problems down the road.

At JRB Auto, we specialise in replacing ball joints for various vehicle models, including the Ford Falcon. Ball joint replacement costs can vary depending on several factors. This may include the vehicle model and the extent of the service required. Our team is dedicated to providing transparent pricing and high-quality service to our customers. Honest service is what sets us apart from other providers, making us a trusted company in Werribee. If you have questions about our services or the cost of changing ball joints, you can call us on 03 9741 2725, or email us at jrbauto@bigpond.com.