Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
Component Tests
2021 Ford Edge SE, 4WDSECTION Component Tests
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2019 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2019 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2019 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.
Ball Joint Inspection
- Prior to inspecting the ball joints for wear, inspect the wheel bearings and wheel hubs. REFER to: Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) .
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NOTE: In order to obtain accurate measurements, the suspension must be in full rebound with the weight of the vehicle supported by the frame.
Raise and support the vehicle by the frame to allow the wheels to hang in the rebound position.
- Inspect the ball joint and ball joint boot for damage.
- If the ball joint or ball joint boot is damaged, install a new lower ball joint as necessary. REFER to: Ball Joint . for RWD vehicles or REFER to: Ball Joint . for 4WD vehicles.
NOTE: Carry out Steps 4 through 6 to inspect the lower ball joint. Carry out Steps 7 through 9 to inspect the upper ball joint. -
NOTE: Do not use any tools or equipment to move the wheel and tire assembly or suspension components while checking for relative movement. Suspension damage may occur. The use of tools or equipment will also create relative movement that may not exist when using hand force. Relative movement must be measured using hand force only.
RENDER: 1.0x
NO RELATED
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.