What kind of maintenance is required after replacing ball joints?

After replacing ball joints, performing a wheel alignment is necessary to ensure that the vehicle's wheels are correctly angled in relation to each other and the road. Ball joints are crucial for the suspension system and help maintain proper steering and stability. When they are replaced, the geometry of the suspension can change, which can lead to misalignment. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear, affect handling, and compromise safety.

Proper alignment ensures that tires maintain consistent contact with the road, promoting even wear and extending tire life. While tire rotation and brake system inspection are important maintenance tasks, they are not directly tied to the procedure of replacing ball joints. Fluid top-off, while necessary for overall vehicle maintenance, also does not relate specifically to the activities associated with ball joint replacement. Therefore, wheel alignment is the most critical step following such a repair to maintain optimal vehicle performance and safety.