1996 Volvo 850 Ball Joints

1996 VOLVO 850
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BORDER
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Steering problem
1996 Volvo 850 Engine Size unknown Two Wheel Drive Automatic 145000 miles
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Hello,

I just had my rear brakes put on my car and while it was in the shop I asked them to do a front end alignment. The shop said they did not do the alignment because I needed new ball joints. Is there a handling characteristic or symptom if the ball joints are bad, such as shimmying or something? The reason I wanted an alignment is I just replaced the front tires. They wore prematurely and showed the steel belt on the inside of each front tire after about 20,000 miles. What do the ball joints do and what would happen if I do not replace them?

Thanks,
Scott
Feb 12, 2008 at 2:00 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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They are the lower pivot point for the spindle, which is what the brakes and tires mount to. What you describe from the wear it could be bad ball joints, does it feel loose when you go over a bump?
Feb 12, 2008 at 3:28 PM
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BORDER
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No. I have not noticed any looseness when I go over a bump.

Thanks,
Scott
Feb 12, 2008 at 3:32 PM
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2CARPRO JACK
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Doesnt mean they arent bad. Might want to have them done if nothing else to keep it from screwing up anymore tires
Feb 12, 2008 at 4:06 PM