We don’t always think about the inner workings of our vehicles, but it is important for us to realize that all vehicles have a complex maze of systems and parts that work together to ensure we experience optimal performance and safety while driving. One of the leaders in the design and implementation of these parts and systems is BMW.
BMW has a long history filled with innovation and technology. Because of this, the brand has built a reputation of creating vehicles with exceptional performance and world class engineering. However, this doesn’t mean that the parts and systems in your BMW will never need maintenance or repairs.
Your BMW 3 Series is a master in performance, handling and engineering, and this is in part due to the suspension system in the vehicle. The suspension system is made up of a few different parts that all come together to influence the handling and steering of your BMW 3 Series.
One of the main components of the suspension system is the ball joints. The ball joints connect the control arms which connect your wheels to your car. The connection between the ball joints and control arms keeps your suspension working properly especially when turning. Here are some reasons your ball joint might not be working as well as it should.
The Environment
The natural elements are not always your car’s best friend. Parking your car outside might be necessary, but it’s good to know what can happen to your car because it’s not being parked in a garage. Rainy weather or high humidity may cause the steel on ball joints to break down. This will cause your BMW’s ball joints to crack or break completely. If your car is parked in extremely hot weather conditions, the oil that keeps the ball joints lubricated can dry out easily. This makes the ball joints susceptible to debris.
Natural Wear and Tear
Natural wear and tear is the most common reason for ball joint failure, especially in the BMW 3 Series. Driving your car frequently, and at times roughly, can lead to the deterioration of ball joints. Grease acts as a lubricant and maintains the quality and durability of a ball joint. If the dissipates over time, the functionality of the ball joint becomes compromised. This makes steering difficult because the movement and rotation of the ball joint is damaged.
Dried Seals
Tight seals cover the ball joints of your BMW 3 Series. The seals keep everything in place. Over time, however, these seals may crack. When this happens, debris, oil and dirt can enter your vehicle’s tires. The combination of oil and dirt can lead to a broken seal and affect how your car drives.
We Are Here to Help
There are a few warning signs to watch out for if you suspect the ball joints on your BMW 3 Series are in need of repair. Failing ball joints will lead to strange noises coming from your car. If you hear a heavy clunking sound or a screeching noise, your ball joints may need to be looked at.
Along with strange noises, you may feel heavy vibrations coming from your car. This is a sign that your ball joints need to be replaced. Finally, if your vehicle feels unsteady and difficult to drive, bring your vehicle in to be looked at.
If you are noticing any of these symptoms, the experienced and knowledgeable mechanics at Das European Autohaus is here to help. We are the #1 European automobile service and repair shop in Spring, TX, and are proud to provide service for car drivers in the communities of Spring and Houston, TX.
We pride ourselves on our reliable and affordable service and the best alternative to dealership services. We specialize in European vehicles, and our mechanics have years of experience and knowledge working with them.
When you have your vehicle serviced at Das European Autohaus, we are dedicated to providing you with friendly and exceptional customer service, certified and experienced mechanics, and high quality service and repair work. Whether your ball joints need to be repaired or you need a routine tune-up, we are here to diagnose and repair and get you back on the road as soon as possible.
