There should be no noticeable play detected in the ball joints when checked in this manner.Checked 2026-08-12
Ball joints and bushings
The pivots and rubber mounts that let suspension parts move — and the wear items an inspector checks.
Also called: ball joint · control arm bushing
What it means
Definition
Ball joints are the pivots connecting the control arms to the steering knuckle, letting the wheel steer while the suspension travels. Bushings are the rubber or polyurethane sleeves that let arms pivot where they attach to the body. Both are wear items with defined inspection tests: Virginia's code states there should be no noticeable play detected in the ball joints when checked in the prescribed manner, and fails a bushing worn to the extent that the component can be moved by hand along the axis of the component.
Why a buyer cares
What it changes
These are the components behind most suspension clunks, and the state test for them is observational rather than a matter of judgement — which makes it something an inspecting mechanic can answer plainly.
In practice
Where you meet it
Under steering and suspension on an inspection sheet, checked with the vehicle raised.
Two things that look alike
Not the same as
A tie rod end connects the steering linkage to the knuckle; a ball joint connects the control arm to it.
Read next
Related terms
Struts and shocks
The dampers that control suspension movement; a strut also carries the spring and locates the wheel.
Wheel alignment and tire wear
The wheel angles that decide how evenly a tire wears, and the wear patterns that reveal them.
Pre-purchase inspection (PPI)
A mechanical inspection of a used car by a mechanic the buyer chooses, carried out before the sale closes.
Where it shows up
Related problem files
Where this comes from
Sources
Any control arm or suspension positioning part using bushings for control, support and normal functioning is missing the bushing, or the bushing is worn to the extent that the component can be moved by hand along the axis of the component.Checked 2026-08-12
One state's criteria. Others word the test differently.