Hello, my 2001 Jag S-type started to drive funny, the steering felt too loose and jerky and sometimes the car wouldn't turn with me if that makes any sense.

Anyway I took it to a local mechanic and he says that the lower ball joint on the passenger side is damaged and that the only way to replace that is to get the whole assembly from the dealer, he wanted $1200 just for the part.

I know that you can get the ball joint separate but does anyone know a good mechanic here in San Diego, CA that knows how to handle this?

And I guess I shouldn't be driving like this am I right?

Thanks.

 

Replacing the ball joint alone is a temporary cheapskate solution.
In this case the ball joint migth get loose over time

Try to get the complete upright assembly online for less.

 

Call ed at euromarque, he's a good Guy. Depending on what you want to do, you can buy the steering knuckle or just the ball joint.

http://item.mobileweb.ebay.com/viewi...d=370393621034

 

Nonsense!! Just replace the ball joint. The early S Type uses the same part as the Lincoln LS. Be aware there is a 14mm and a 16mm lower ball joint. You most likely have the 14mm version. They were upgraded sometime around 2002 to 16mm on both the the S Type and the Lincoln LS. Us Gen II guys (2003 and up S Types) can't use the Lincoln part and, as of now anyway, must purchase the entire control arm.

One other thing to think about. The other side is just as worn. I really doubt you damaged the ball joint with the age of the car it's time for them to wear out. You did not mention how many miles on the car? Outer tie rod ends are a known wear item and not to expensive. Consider changing these while you are there. The tie rod has to be removed to replace the lower ball joint anyway. Plus you will need to get an alignment after the repair. Might save some time and money down the road??
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I had both of my lowers replaced on my 2000 S-Type at a local front end alignment / tire shop for $800.00. You do not need to go to Jaguar, a good shop can do it.

 

My jag has 124K miles on it and right now I can't afford to get the whole arm that's why I only want to do the ball joint which I know it's possible.

 

You can use this link or any sponsor to this forum. - Ball-joint for 2001 S-Type Ball Joint - Motorcars LTD

I also found a few TSB’s on the ball-joints

http://www.jagrepair.com/images/TSB/...l%20Joints.pdf

I hope this helps!

 

they have a open recall for the lower ball joints on a jag s type 2000-2001

 

It's open after 13-14 years?

 

No recall on ball joints. It's just time and miles. At this point you need to change a number of things on the suspension.

Part of owning an old car.
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I agree - its ridiculous- just replace the ball joint. Getting the steering knuckle off to press the ball joint off is a bit fussy but not rocket science. Any competent mechanic should be able to do it. The standard balljoint C clamp tool works fine to press out the ball joint and press one back in. For a car that's trade-in value is a couple of thousand why would one put in big bucks for such a basic replacement. Pay the guy 2/3 hours labor and be done with. Here's one for under 10 bucks used to be around 35 - I've used parts from FCPEuro parts on multiple cars with no issues.
Jaguar Lower Ball Joint (S Type) Economy XR8-52808BJ | FCP Euro

 

That had been my thinking, but I learned otherwise. I had the left ball joint fail on my '02, and just assumed the other side was due for replacement, too, or at least close to it. I took my car to a local independent Jag specialist. He said the right side was fine. I was reluctant, but he finally convinced me to replace just the bad one. The only extra expense would be a second alignment, so I decided to take the gamble. Four years later, everything is still peachy with just the one new ball joint, so I'm a happy camper.

FWIW.