S55 Ball joints and control arm issue

Nov 19, 2009 | 05:32 PM

rondocap

Thread Starter

Super Member

Joined: Jul 2008

Posts: 769

Likes: 5

From: New York

Mercedes S55 AMG

S55 Ball joints and control arm issue

So the other day I was driving on the highway, with an S55 2001. I heard a bit of a screeching sound, and afterwards anytime I'd drive slowly or turn the steering wheel slowly, the front was making a creaking sound. This was especially true when going over bumps slowly. At speed on the highway there is no noise.

OK, so I took it to Mercedes and got it checked it. Both lower ball joints have a lot of "play" and wear on them, and the control arm too - they said it's a little bit cracked. (But not broken).

So the cost to replace those 3 parts is $1620. The parts themselves aren't expensive...but the labor is like 125 an hour. Is there anywhere legitimate that I can get this done cheaper? Any good indie Mercedes Techs in the NY tri-state area?

Also...strangely enough it was raining today and after they looked at it the noise stopped - Is it possible the water lubricated it a bit?

Is it safe to drive with the ball joints a bit worn? How long can I drive it for, or is it something that needs immediate attention?

Thanks!

Nov 20, 2009 | 11:00 AM

Zachmac

Senior Member

Joined: Apr 2009

Posts: 411

Likes: 29

From: Aiken, SC

2007 S600

Quote:

Originally Posted by rondocap

OK, so I took it to Mercedes and got it checked it. Both lower ball joints have a lot of "play" and wear on them, and the control arm too - they said it's a little bit cracked. (But not broken).

So the cost to replace those 3 parts is $1620. The parts themselves aren't expensive...but the labor is like 125 an hour. Is there anywhere legitimate that I can get this done cheaper? Any good indie Mercedes Techs in the NY tri-state area?

Is it safe to drive with the ball joints a bit worn? How long can I drive it for, or is it something that needs immediate attention?

First, there isn't any reason a Mercedes Tech or shop has to do the work. ANY good shop that does suspension work should be able to handle it as there isn't anything magical about Mercedes ball joints or control arms. Just look for a shop that works on German cars, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, etc. and you should be fine.

As far as driving, if the ball joints are making noise, its time! PLUS, the cracked control arm is just plain dangerous. Get the repairs done. Not to mention that worn ball joints mean you are wearing out your tires faster so you will COST yourself money if you wait.

Nov 20, 2009 | 06:46 PM

rondocap

Thread Starter

Super Member

Joined: Jul 2008

Posts: 769

Likes: 5

From: New York

Mercedes S55 AMG

I mis typed it - it's the bushing of the control arm that's cracked, not the actual arm - I don't know if that makes a slight difference.

I am having a bit of a hard time finding a good independent tech in my area - I live in Westchester, NY - any one know of somewhere that's good? Or is there a database of places?

Nov 20, 2009 | 07:31 PM

Zachmac

Senior Member

Joined: Apr 2009

Posts: 411

Likes: 29

From: Aiken, SC

2007 S600

Quote:

Originally Posted by rondocap

BIG differnce between bushing and arm itself. Much LESS to worry about until you get it fixed. You have some time to shop around for the best shop / price combo.

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