Ball Joint, Checking

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2021 Volkswagen Tiguan, 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan, 2019 Volkswagen Tiguan, and 2018 Volkswagen Tiguan. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Axial Play, Checking

Fig 1: Checking Ball Joint Axial Play

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-- Forcefully pull the control arm down in the direction of the -arrow- and press it up again.

Radial Clearance, Checking

Fig 2: Checking Ball Joint Radial Play

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-- Forcefully push the lower part of wheel inward and outward in the direction of the -arrow-.

NOTE:

There should not be any noticeable or visible "play" in either of the two checks.

Pay attention to the ball joint while performing checks.

Make allowance for any wheel bearing play or "play" in the upper strut mount

Check the rubber boot for damage and replace the lower ball joint, if necessary.