Owners Skoda Rapid Models of 2017 are often faced with the need to check the suspension, especially after covering 80-100 thousand kilometers. One of the key elements ensuring the safety and controllability of a car is ball joint. In the conditions of Russian roads, this unit experiences enormous loads, which leads to its premature wear.
Ignoring signs of malfunction can lead to critical consequences, including the wheel being torn off the body while driving. For model Rapid 2017 is characterized by certain problems with the front suspension, which require careful attention and timely diagnosis. In this article, we will look at how to recognize a breakdown, what the service life of original and analog parts is, and also how to properly replace it yourself.
Design features and service life of ball joints on Rapid 2017
Car suspension Skoda Rapid 2017 is built on the VW PQ25 platform, which makes it reliable, but sensitive to the quality of the road surface. The front part uses a MacPherson strut, where ball joint performs the function of a hinge connecting the steering knuckle to the suspension arm. It allows the wheel to rotate and change its angle when turning the steering wheel.
Original parts from the concern Volkswagen usually have a rubber-metal boot, which becomes tanned and cracks over time. As soon as dirt and moisture enter the mechanism, the lubricant is washed away and the ball pin begins to deteriorate. The average service life of an original part is 100-120 thousand kilometers, but on bad roads this life is halved. Many owners note that ball joint requires replacement at 60 thousand mileage.
It is important to consider that Rapid 2017, the ball joint is often assembled with a lever, which complicates and increases the cost of the repair process. However, there are options that allow you to replace only the support itself, if the design of the lever allows this. For 2017 vehicles, it is critical to check the condition of the boots at every maintenance, since the integrity of the rubber is the main factor in the longevity of the unit.
Symptoms of wear and fault diagnosis
Determine the fault ball joint can be based on a number of characteristic signs that become noticeable when moving. The very first signal is a knocking or squeaking sound that occurs when driving over bumps, especially at low speeds. The sound usually comes from the front of the suspension and gets louder as you turn the steering wheel.
When driving over speed bumps or potholes, you may feel a shock that is transmitted to the steering wheel. If the play in the joint is already significant, the car may begin to βscourβ along the road, pulling it to the side when the steering wheel is released. Another characteristic feature is uneven tire wear, often on the inside of the tread.
- π Dry metallic knock when driving over bumps
- π Steering wheel vibration at low speeds
- π Car pulls to the side when braking
- π Uneven tire wear
For an accurate diagnosis, you need to lift the car on a lift or use a jack. Ball joint checked for play by rocking the wheel in a vertical plane. If you feel a knocking sound or see the finger moving relative to the body, the part requires immediate replacement.
- Up to 50,000 km
- 50,000 - 100,000 km
- 100,000 - 150,000 km
- More than 150,000 km
Choosing a spare part: original or high-quality analogue?
When choosing ball joint on Skoda Rapid In 2017, a dilemma arises: buy an original lever or look for a high-quality analogue. The original part (VAG) is distinguished by high quality materials and precision workmanship, but its cost can be prohibitive, especially if it comes complete with a lever.
The market offers many alternatives from trusted manufacturers. Many owners have had success using parts from brands that specialize in suspension. The main rule is not to skimp on critical security components. Cheap Chinese analogues can fail after just a few thousand kilometers, which creates a direct threat to life.
- π Lemforder - German quality, often put on the conveyor
- π‘οΈ TRW - excellent durability and accuracy
- βοΈ Febi Bilstein - a decent balance of price and quality
- π« Durable - a budget option with an unpredictable resource
Pay attention to the articles. For Skoda Rapid 2017 often fit parts from Volkswagen Polo and Seat Ibiza of the same generation. When purchasing, be sure to check the package contents: some manufacturers sell the ball joint with mounting bolts and nuts, while others do not.
Comparison table of popular manufacturers
To help you navigate the variety of offers, we have compiled a table with the main characteristics of popular brands of ball joints. The data is based on mechanic feedback and failure statistics.
| Manufacturer | Country | Average resource (km) | Price (RUB) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lemforder | Germany | 120 000+ | 3500 - 5000 | Original quality |
| TRW | Germany/Poland | 100 000 | 2800 - 4200 | High rigidity |
| Febi | Germany | 80 000 | 2000 - 3000 | Good value |
| Sidem | Belgium | 70 000 | 1800 - 2500 | Frequent complaints about anthers |
β οΈ Attention: When purchasing analogues, be sure to check that the boot is included in the kit. If the boot is sold separately, it may not be possible to replace it without removing the support, which often results in damage to the new unit during installation.
Why are original levers so expensive?
Often in the original VAG catalog they sell not just a ball joint, but a suspension arm assembly with supports and silent blocks. This is done to simplify assembly at the factory, but for the car owner this means high replacement costs. There are technologies for pressing a separate ball, but this requires special tools.
Tools and preparation for replacement
Before starting replacement work ball joint it is necessary to prepare the appropriate tool. The work requires physical strength and certain skills, so it is better to do it on a pit or a lift. You will need a standard set of sockets, wrenches and a specialized puller.
Pay special attention to the 18 or 21 mm wrench (depending on the year of manufacture and modification), which is used to unscrew the nut securing the ball to the steering knuckle. You will also need a ball joint remover, as knocking out the pin with a hammer can damage the threads or the steering knuckle housing.
- π§ Socket set and ratchet
- π¨ Ball joint puller (fork or hydraulic)
- π¨ WD-40 or penetrating lubricant
- π Torque wrench
βοΈ Preparing to replace the ball
Don't forget to remove the wheel and clean the work area of dirt and rust. If the nut won't come off, use WD-40 and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. An attempt to remove a stuck nut without preparation may result in its failure or tool breakage.
The use of a ball joint remover is mandatory. Hitting the pin with a hammer can deform the steering knuckle, which will lead to disruption of the suspension geometry and rapid wear of the new part.
Step-by-step instructions for replacing the ball joint
The replacement process begins with removing the wheel. After this, you need to unscrew the nut securing the ball joint to the steering knuckle. If you have a puller, place it under your finger and tighten until the hinge comes out of the hole. If you donβt have a puller, you can gently hit the side of the steering knuckle ear with a hammer, but not the pin itself.
Next, you need to unscrew the bolts securing the lever to the subframe. On Skoda Rapid 2017 it is often necessary to loosen the sway bar to gain access to the link. By removing the lever, you can replace the ball joint (if it is separate) or replace the entire lever assembly.
Installing the new part is done in the reverse order. Be sure to use new arm mounting bolts, as they are graded and may become deformed during removal. The ball pin fastening nut is tightened to a certain torque, which is indicated in the repair instructions.
β οΈ Caution: When tightening the suspension arm bolts, make sure the vehicle is on its wheels and the weight is distributed on the suspension. Tightening in a suspended state can lead to misalignment of rubber-metal hinges and their rapid failure.
After replacing the ball joint, be sure to perform a wheel alignment. Any intervention in the suspension geometry changes the wheel alignment angles, and without adjustment the car will pull to the side, and the tires will wear out unevenly over a couple of thousand kilometers.
Common repair mistakes and expert advice
Many newbies make the mistake of trying to replace just one ball joint. If the car's mileage exceeds 100 thousand kilometers, it is recommended to change the supports in pairs - left and right. This will ensure uniform suspension behavior and prevent rapid wear of the new part due to load imbalance.
Another common mistake is not tightening the ball stud nut properly. If you tighten it too loosely, your finger may fly out while moving. If you overtighten, you can break the threads or deform the body. Use a torque wrench and strictly observe the tightening torques.
- β Do not replace only one side if the mileage is high.
- β Do not use WD-40 as a lubricant inside the joint.
- β Do not tighten the lever bolts by weight
- β Do not ignore replacing boots if there is visible damage.
If you are not confident in your abilities, entrust the work to professionals. Incorrectly installed ball joint may cause an accident. However, if you decide to do everything yourself, carefully study the suspension diagram of your specific model year.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
How often should the condition of the ball joints be checked?
It is recommended to carry out a visual inspection and check for play every 10-15 thousand kilometers or at each scheduled maintenance. If extraneous noise appears, the test must be performed immediately.
Is it possible to drive with a cracked ball joint boot?
Strongly not recommended. A crack in the boot allows dirt and moisture to enter the mechanism. The lubricant is washed out and the ball pin wears out much faster. It is better to replace the boot or the support itself immediately.
How long does it take to replace the ball support on the Skoda Rapid?
An experienced craftsman spends about 40-60 minutes replacing one side. If the lever in the assembly changes and the removal of the stabilizer is required, the time can increase to 1.5-2 hours. For self-replacement, lay 2-3 hours.
Do I need to do a wheel alignment after replacement?
Yes, after replacing ball supports or suspension levers, adjustment of the angles of the wheel installation is required. This will ensure proper management and save the tire life.