ball joints, what else to replace?

[asetoftools]

So i was doing a brake inspection and i noticed that the front lower balljoint, the boot is leaking grease, so i assume its time to replace that. This is only on one side, but i think you have to (should) replace them in pairs.

My question is that seeing as i probably have to get an alignment anyways after this, while i am under there, is there anything else i should be replacing? Some of the rubber looks a bit caked, but is there anything else that one would replace when doing the lower balljoints? I am particularly interested in parts that will require an alignment in the same area. i am not eager to spend money, but i dont want to have to re do the alignment in 6 months because i didn’t swap out some 15 dollar part when i had the chance.

Is there traditionally any other parts that go with the balljoint repair? I realize i should probably take a picture of the wheel so that you all can see the condition of the other things, and i can probably do that on the weekend. I am just thinking that maybe something else should be replaced at the same interval.

vehicle is 2003 kia optima. ill try and lift the car on the weekend and take some pics if the weather is OK.

Topic

[Mike]

Ball joints don’t have to be replaced in pairs–unlike shocks, struts and brakes.
Since the job is rather easy (2 bolts and 1 nut.) it would tempt me to change both lowers before getting an alignment.
What other rubber looks caked with grease?
If it’s an axle boot and the grease is not from someone overgreasing the lower balljoint, you’ll want to look carefully for any tears.
As for what parts require realignment after replacement, those are ball joints, tie rods and some control arms or struts.

[asetoftools]

no the balljoint boot is cracked when you push it it expels grease.

The other worn rubber i saw appears to be the stabilizer link which is cheap as well so ill probably do it. its nice to know that i dont need an alignment after doing that.

thanks

[Author]

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