On my 2000 Explorer when I go over a speed bump or coming into a parking lot that has a good size bump the front end will make a groaning noise. I know nothing about suspensions and was hoping that someone could tell me whether this is worth getting checked out. About 3 years ago during the annual inspection the mechanic told me that the lower ball joints needed to be replaced. I declined at the time but am wondering if this could be related. She has over 115K and has never had anything done other than very routine engine, trans, differential maintenance performed.
Groaning while going over speed bumps
- Thread starter Barkleymut
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I'm going to guess your lower ball joints need to be replaced.
The reason I didn't get them replaced at the time is because in VA the inspection costs $10 and shops are notorious for stating that you need some type of costly repair and then pumping in 2 squirts of grease into a problem area and then charging you $300 for 3 oz. of grease.
That said, the Explorer has been making this sound for over 3 years. What is the danger in not having the ball joints looked at? I drive this vehicle across the state thru some very rural areas from time to time and don't want to have a massive breakdown.
That said, the Explorer has been making this sound for over 3 years. What is the danger in not having the ball joints looked at? I drive this vehicle across the state thru some very rural areas from time to time and don't want to have a massive breakdown.
Broken ball joints will cause a massive breakdown.
Don't give it another thought,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,As long as you believe the Lord watches over fools and small childeren!
Bob
Bob
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First determine that your ball joints are, in fact, sound or in need of replacement. Groaning isn't one of their symptom noises. In fact, I've never truly "heard" a bad ball joint. I've felt them.
I don't know your front end, but it's either a upper or lower loaded ball joint. You're either jacking by the frame or jacking by the lower control arm and applying upward pressure with a bar upon the tire/wheel assembly from the bottom. Any play at the ball joint (either upper or lower - depending) constitutes replacement.
Your groaning is probably control arm bushings.
I don't know your front end, but it's either a upper or lower loaded ball joint. You're either jacking by the frame or jacking by the lower control arm and applying upward pressure with a bar upon the tire/wheel assembly from the bottom. Any play at the ball joint (either upper or lower - depending) constitutes replacement.
Your groaning is probably control arm bushings.
Ball joint noise, usually described more as a squeel than a groan is really pretty common. If you're not trained or have no experienced person to help check for wear, you really should leave diagnosis to a professional,,or two. Check around get different opinions and repair estimates. Just remember that's not normal and you're likely going to have to spend a few bucks.
Bob
Bob
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