Volvo S60 (2011-2016) Front Suspension Ball Joint Replacement Guide
Hearing clunks or feeling looseness in your S60's steering? Your front ball joints may be the culprit.
- The most common symptom of a bad ball joint on an S60 is a clunking noise from the front suspension over bumps.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacing ball joints to prevent tire damage and ensure safe handling.
- While Volvo often replaces the entire control arm, aftermarket ball joints are available for individual replacement.
- There are no specific recalls or TSBs for ball joint failures on the 2011-2016 Volvo S60.
Is Your S60 Making a Clunking Noise?
The most common sign of a failing ball joint on this generation of Volvo S60 is a distinct clunking or knocking sound from the front end. This noise is often most noticeable at low speeds, especially when driving over bumps, dips, or uneven pavement. You might even feel the knock through the floorboard. As the wear gets worse, the sound will become louder and more frequent.
Other Symptoms of a Bad Ball Joint
- Steering Wander or Vagueness: The steering may feel loose, sloppy, or require constant small corrections to keep the car driving straight. You might feel vibrations through the steering wheel.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A worn ball joint can alter the wheel's alignment, causing the inside or outside edge of your front tires to wear down much faster than the rest of the tread.
Important: Ball Joint vs. Control Arm Assembly
There is significant confusion about this part for the 2011-2016 S60. From the factory, Volvo often treats the ball joint as part of the complete lower control arm assembly. Many dealerships will only replace the entire arm, which includes new bushings and the ball joint. However, aftermarket manufacturers offer the ball joint as a separate, replaceable part. This guide focuses on the individual ball joint, which can be replaced by a mechanic with the proper tools to press the old one out and the new one in.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ball Joint
Not all aftermarket parts are created equal. For a European car like your Volvo, the quality of suspension components is important for safety and ride quality. Here’s a breakdown of the available brand tiers based on general reputation and owner feedback.
Tier 1: Premium Aftermarket
Brands like Delphi fall into this category. They are known for manufacturing high-quality components that often meet or exceed original equipment (OE) standards. For owners looking for long-term reliability and performance close to the original part, a premium brand is a strong choice. They are a dependable option for replacement parts.
Tier 2: Mid-Range Aftermarket
Brands like Mevotech typically fit here. They aim to provide a good balance of quality and affordability, making them a popular choice for daily drivers. While generally considered a decent value, they may not have the same robustness or long-term durability as premium brands for heavy-duty use.
Tier 3: Economy Aftermarket
Brands like Dorman and Suspensia often represent the economy tier. These parts are the most budget-friendly, but this can come with trade-offs in materials, construction, and lifespan. While they can be a cost-effective solution for a quick repair, some Volvo owners caution that using the cheapest suspension parts can sometimes lead to premature failure and needing to do the job again.
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Ball Joint (Single) | $26.59 - $63.55 |
| New OEM Ball Joint (or Control Arm) | $79 - $135+ |
| Shop Labor (Per Side) | $140 - $238 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Per Side, Aftermarket) | $167 - $302 |
Pro Tip: Since a wheel alignment is required after replacing a ball joint, it is often cost-effective to replace both the left and right ball joints at the same time. This saves you from paying for a second alignment shortly after the first.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to replace the entire control arm?
Not necessarily. While Volvo's official repair method is often to replace the whole control arm with the ball joint included, aftermarket ball joints are available separately. Replacing only the ball joint is more labor-intensive as it must be pressed out of the arm, but it uses a less expensive part. Replacing the full control arm is faster and also renews the control arm bushings, but the part is more expensive.
Is a wheel alignment necessary after replacing a ball joint?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing a ball joint will affect your vehicle's suspension geometry. A four-wheel alignment is required to ensure proper handling, prevent steering pull, and avoid premature tire wear. Most shops will include this as part of the total repair estimate.
Were there any recalls for the 2011-2016 S60 ball joints?
No. Searches of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database show no recalls or specific Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) for suspension ball joint failure on the 2011-2016 Volvo S60. Recalls for this vehicle range pertain to other issues like door latches and seat belts.
How long should a new ball joint last?
The lifespan of a ball joint depends heavily on driving conditions and the quality of the part. An OEM or premium aftermarket ball joint can last 70,000 miles or more under normal conditions. However, frequent driving on rough roads, through potholes, or exposure to road salt can shorten this lifespan.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 31317662 (Control Arm Assembly, Right) 31317663 (Control Arm Assembly, Left) 32221192 (Ball Joint Kit, replaces 31360835)
The front lower ball joint connects the steel lower control arm to the steering knuckle. Replacement requires separating the tapered stud from the knuckle and pressing the joint body out of the control arm, unless the entire arm is replaced.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Volvo S60:
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your S60 Making a Clunking Noise?
- Other Symptoms of a Bad Ball Joint
- Important: Ball Joint vs. Control Arm Assembly
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Ball Joint
- Tier 1: Premium Aftermarket
- Tier 2: Mid-Range Aftermarket
- Tier 3: Economy Aftermarket
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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