A Ball joint is a flexible ball and socket that attaches the wheel hub to the rest of the suspension, that can move in every direction to help in steering and shock absorption.
We recommend getting your ball joints lubricated or checked every time you have your oil changed, but if you’re hearing clicking, popping or snapping sounds when the wheel is turned, chances are your ball joints are failing. Replacing your ball joints is not part of routine maintenance, but eventually, the grease inside the ball joints will dry out, causing the joint to become loose or to fail. If ignored long enough, a worn ball joint can break - causing substantial damage to your steering and suspension system.
Proper maintenance and replacement of your car’s ball joints is critical for your safety. If a ball joint fails at high speed, the damage could be catastrophic.
From an environmental point of view, there is little or no impact from a failing ball joint.