DIY Ball Joint Replacement for Honda Element: Save Money and Improve Safety

Ball joints play a crucial role in your Honda Element’s suspension system, ensuring smooth and safe handling. However, over time, these joints can wear out and require replacement. This comprehensive guide will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to replace ball joints on your Honda Element.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need:

• New ball joints
• Ball joint press or pickle fork
• Socket wrench set
• Impact wrench (optional)
• Jack and jack stands
• Safety glasses
• Gloves

Safety Precautions:

• Park your Honda Element on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Allow the engine to cool before starting any work.
• Wear safety glasses and gloves during the entire process.

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Remove the Wheel:

• Loosen the lug nuts on the affected wheel using a socket wrench.
• Raise your Honda Element using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.

2. Disconnect the Tie Rod:

• Locate the tie rod end that connects to the ball joint.
• Use a wrench to loosen the tie rod nut.
• Separate the tie rod end from the ball joint using a ball joint press or pickle fork.

3. Remove the Lower Control Arm:

• Unbolt the lower control arm from the frame using a socket wrench.
• Use a jack to support the lower control arm while you’re removing the bolts.

4. Remove the Old Ball Joint:

• Use a ball joint press or pickle fork to separate the ball joint from the lower control arm.
• Dispose of the old ball joint properly.

5. Install the New Ball Joint:

• Grease the new ball joint and insert it into the lower control arm.
• Use a ball joint press to press the ball joint into place.

6. Reinstall the Lower Control Arm:

• Lift the lower control arm into position and bolt it back to the frame.
• Tighten the bolts securely.

7. Reconnect the Tie Rod:

• Attach the tie rod end to the ball joint and tighten the nut.
• Torque the nut to the manufacturer’s specifications.

8. Reinstall the Wheel:

• Place the wheel on the hub and tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower your Honda Element and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Alignment Check:

After replacing the ball joints, it’s crucial to have your Honda Element‘s alignment checked by a qualified mechanic. This ensures that the wheels are properly aligned, preventing uneven tire wear and premature suspension component failure.

Troubleshooting:

1. Difficulty Removing the Old Ball Joint:

• If you encounter difficulty removing the old ball joint, use a penetrating lubricant to spray around the joint. Allow it to penetrate for a while before attempting to remove it.

2. Ball Joint Pops Out During Installation:

• Ensure that the ball joint is fully seated in the lower control arm before pressing it into place. If it pops out, start over and make sure it’s properly aligned before pressing.

Final Note:

Replacing ball joints on your Honda Element is a straightforward process that can be completed with the right tools and a bit of mechanical knowledge. By following these detailed instructions, you can save money on labor costs and ensure the optimal performance of your suspension system.

Questions You May Have

1. How often should ball joints be replaced on a Honda Element?

It depends on driving conditions and mileage, but generally, ball joints on a Honda Element should be inspected every 60,000 to 80,000 miles and replaced as needed.

2. Can I replace ball joints myself?

Yes, replacing ball joints is a DIY-able task with proper tools and mechanical experience. However, if you’re not comfortable working on your vehicle, it’s recommended to seek professional assistance.

3. What are the signs of bad ball joints?

Symptoms of worn ball joints include clunking noises when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear, and difficulty steering.