Typically a ball joint that that is really shot will tend to bind and release in the socket. So you will get a popping noise and feel from it. Seems to be most noticeable making sharp show speed turns, like in parking lots and in and out of the driveway. It will feel like someone hit the control arm with a ballpeen hammer.

If youre getting a grinding noise and feel while turning, it is most likely a wheel bearing.

 

Jonathan I'll be back at the end of January. Shock options will depend on what you want to do to the car and how deep your pockets are. I think the most likely suggestions for you would be bilsteins or maybe some koni's but I hear the koni's wear out every 2 or 3 years where as the bilsteins will last a lot longer.

 

I have a question about this - my daughter had her control arm replaced recently, and 2 days later had a bad accident where the tire tore off as they were on a freeway onramp - luckily no one was badly injured, but the car was totaled. Does this sound like there could have been a mistake made when they installed the new control arm? It was the same spot (driver's front) that had been repaired...

 

If they overlooked either torque specs or the pinch bolt for the control arm bushings to hub then it's likely after hitting a bump, it disconnected itself from the control arm. I had a ball joint failure earlier this year. Ball joint ripped out of the aluminum socket. Luckily it was at low speed and minimal damage. No other cars involved. I would investigate of possible.

 

Btw, what year car? Any pictures?

 

thanks for the quick reply 2007 Chevy HHR here's what happened to the tire:

 

Glad she is OK!
Are those Fuchs?

 

I have no idea what that is, sorry!