Checking tie rod ends and ball joints (VW Polo 4)

Special tool required:

• Garage jack.
• Lamp.

Examination

Safety instructions

There is a risk of accident when lifting a vehicle! Therefore, please read the section "Lifting a vehicle" beforehand.

Raise the car from the front onto jacks so that the wheels hang freely.



Illuminate the protective caps of the lower ball joints "arrow" on the left and right with a lamp and check for damage.



Illuminate the protective caps of the steering rod ends "arrow" on the left and right with a lamp and check for damage.

If the dust cap is damaged, for safety reasons the corresponding joint must be replaced together with the protective cap. Penetrating dirt is guaranteed to destroy the ball joint.

The cross steering rod "arrow" on the left and right is strongly shaken by hand in different directions. There should be no gap in the corresponding ball joint, otherwise the cross steering rod end should be replaced.



Check the tightness of the lock nuts on the steering rod ends and the ball joint mounting nuts, without allowing them to turn.

Check the steering gear bellows for damage and replace the bellows if necessary.