- My model of MX-5 is: NA
- I’m based near: Suffolk
- I’m looking for technical help or recommendations on: Ball joints
Hi all, my MX5 just failed on suspension arm ball joints, specifically ‘Nearside Front Suspension arm ball joint excessively worn (5.3.4 (a) (i))’. I’ve replaced ball joints before, so this won’t be a problem. Trouble is, I’m trying to work out which one needs replacing. Previous MoTs have specified that it’s the lower or upper ball joint, whereas this one isn’t specific.
As it says suspension arm ball joint, does that imply the upper one? Would the lower one be described as separate from the suspension arm? I.e. ‘front lower ball joint’ instead of ‘suspension arm ball joint’.
The man in the shop told me it was the lower one, but then said the whole arm needs replacing which again points towards it being the upper one. To add further confusion, from inspecting all the front ball joints the only one that appears slightly worn with a cracking boot is the upper ball joint!
I’ve ordered a lower joint as that’s what the man said, but now I’m having doubts. Basically, are any of you experienced with the MoT guidelines and can tell the difference between upper and lower just from the fail reason given?
I’ll have to call them up again on Monday to double confirm, but it’s very confusing! Maybe I’ll just replace both…