Ball Joints

[Corie1032]

I have a 1998 ranger that needs new ball joints, how much do you think it will be for a total cost after labor and all that? Thanks!

 

[91stranger]

Are you doing it yourself or taking to a shop? You save HUNDREDS if you do it yourself. I found the kit on Ebay for $70-100 depending on which one you get. The complete kit has upper/lower ball joints, inner/outer tie rods, and sway links. If you take it to a local mechanic I would expect the bill to be around $300-400 for upper and lower ball joints. Dealership will be about $500+ and they will try to sell the tie rods and an alignment too. Don't forget that you will need an alignment after you replace these too. So the question is are you handy? you'd save a lot of money.... $70 for the parts, a nice weekend to do it at your leisure and then about $50-60 for an alignment.

 

[Uncle Gump]

I would stay away from those cheap Chinese parts... you get what you pay for. Unless you plan on selling it.

 

[19Walt93]

If you do it yourself don't buy anyone's "value line" parts or you'll be doing the job again soon. Also, whenever any front end parts are replaced it's wise to check the alignment because once uneven tire wear starts it's too late. If you're hiring it done you can get estimates but make sure they're all quoting premium parts and not the "value" sub standard ones. I worked at a dealer for 42 years, 35 as service manager, I would avoid chains like Midas if you're not going to a dealer and look for an independent with a good reputation who's been in business for a while.