BMW 3 Series Ball Joint Failure

How to Deal With 3 Series Ball Joint Failure in Your BMW in Thousand Oaks


By Bavarian Performance Specialists April 17, 2019

The BMW brand is known for its sleek drive, sporty appeal, and state-of-the-art parts. The sporty feel mixed with luxurious amenities makes this brand an ideal choice for drivers all over the world.

In addition to being beautiful, the BMW is packed with power. It has a wonderful engine that’s worshiped by car enthusiasts all over the world. So much so that people stop just to hear the engine take off.

The BMW is so powerful, many individuals like to test its power by driving on tough terrains or accelerating to high speeds. While this may be an exciting experience, it’s not great for the general upkeep of your vehicle. As we’ll learn later, this abuse of the engine could be the cause of unnecessary issues.

Since people already pay such a hefty price for the BMW, it’s unfortunate when problems arise that can be an additional cost to the car owner. One of these problems has to do with ball joint failure. This is particularly common in the BMW 3 series.

If you have this vehicle make and model, it’s likely that you’ve heard of this issue. Countless car forums discuss ways to avoid, handle, and solve this problem. If you’re currently going through this issue and don’t know where to start, let’s first consider the role of the ball joint, its common problems, and how to handle it.

What Role Does the Series Ball Joint Play?

As part of the suspension system, these pieces work to keep the car balanced while driving. They work as a bridge between different parts of the suspension system, ensuring that the drive is smooth despite rough terrain. In the 3-series, these parts are extremely durable. They have the power and longevity to handle even the roughest of terrains and drivers. However, over time, if not carefully looked after, these little pieces can cause quite the drama in the BMW.

Symptoms of Failing Ball Joints

When your suspension system starts to fail, this inevitably impacts the ball joints. One of the primary signs to look out for is strange noises coming from your vehicle. Some drivers report a heavy clunking sound as opposed to a traditional screeching noise.

In addition, you may feel strange vibrations coming from your car as you drive. These vibrations are often heavy, much like the clunking noise. When these problems occur, it’s best to get your ball joints replaced immediately. If not, you’ll experience a rough drive and cause unnecessary damage to your suspension system.

Another key symptom is an unsteady vehicle. If you notice that your wheels aren’t aligned or that it’s very difficult to keep them in place, this may be a clear indicator of a ball joint issue. The best way to combat this problem is to have your ball joints replaced. This will make your ride smoother and you’ll avoid causing undue damage to your tires.

The Take-Away

Over time, general wear and tear will cause specific pieces of your BMW to deteriorate. When this occurs, getting a thorough replacement is necessary. This keeps your car in good condition and increases its lifespan.

In addition, try not to push your car beyond its limitations. It may be tempting to see how fast your car can go or test its power. However, this could be the reason your suspension system is damaged. Drive with moderation in mind and don’t push your car beyond its specifications.

How We Can Help

When you own a German vehicle like BMW, you BMW E90 3-Series need a team of experts on your side who are skilled and knowledgeable about the brand. Bavarian Performance Specialists is just the team for you. Servicing the Thousand Oaks, Agoura Hills, Westlake, Malibu, and Newbury Park, CA areas, we’ll go above and beyond to make sure your BMW is taken care of. You’ll never have to worry about being sold unnecessary products or services. We’ll make sure to complete your service with honesty and efficiency.

If you’re experiencing issues with your ball joint, bring your car in today. We’ll perform a thorough diagnostic testing of all aspects of your suspension system. Should you need a comprehensive replacement, we’ll be glad to provide the best parts with services that won’t break the bank. Stop by today and speak with a member of our friendly staff.

* BMW E90 3-Series image credit goes to: DarthArt.