For 1990-2009 cars only
Important:
• The vehicle must rest on a level surface. • The vehicle must be stable. Do not rock the vehicle on the floor
stands. • The upper control arm bumper must not contact the frame.
- Raise the vehicle. Support the vehicle with safety stands. Support the lower control arm with a floor stand or jack, as far outboard as possible, near the ball joint.
- Wipe the ball joints clean. Check the seals for cuts or tears.
- Adjust the wheel bearings. Refer to Wheel Bearing Adjustment
- Check the ball joints for horizontal looseness.
- Check the ball joints for vertical looseness.
| • | Position the dial indicator against the lowest outboard point on the wheel rim. |
| • | Rock the wheel in and out while reading the dial indicator. This shows horizontal looseness in both joints. |
| • | The indicator reading should be no more than 3.18 mm (0.125 in). If the reading is too high, check the lower ball joint for vertical looseness. |
| 5.1. | Position the dial indicator against the spindle to show vertical movement. |
| 5.2. | Pry between the lower control arm and the outer race while reading the dial indicator. This shows vertical looseness in the ball joints. |
| 5.3. | The indicator reading should be no more than 2 mm (0.08 in). If the reading is too high, replace the ball joint. Refer to Upper Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement or Lower Control Arm Ball Joint Replacement |
