When the talk is all about suspension and steering systems, the word is all about springs, struts, coilovers and sway bars but there are actually more important parts that are usually overlooked. One of these is the ball joint.

The ball joint is an integral part of your car's steering and suspension system. It is a the joint that connects the front wheels of a vehicle to its main axle and makes it possible for the wheel to be turned and maneuvered. Because of its use for steering linkage setups and steering knuckle pivot supports, the ball joint is made to be a flexible joint that uses a ball and socket design. These are usually made of hardened-steel, a bearing stud and a socket that is received in a steel housing. The pivot points between the suspensions and tires supports the vehicle's weight. Vehicles with conventional types of suspension systems usually have two ball joints, the upper and lower ball joint.

Most of the time, these joints are lubed permanently and are also permanently sealed. But, when these joints wear out or are damaged. Replacement joints are also lubed but these cannot be compared to the original joints. Replacement joints still need to be regularly lubricated which can be done when changing the vehicle's oil.

Ball joints need utmost care and attention because of the part's important to your car's performance and your safety. These should always be inspected by your local mechanic. If your car has a damaged joint, be sure to trust a reliable store which offers ball joints for various models and makes that make you feel that your replacement joint is as good as the original.