Why did the original ball joints on my 85 300 D last for almost 18 years, then the new ones I put in a couple of years ago start to squeak. I wish these things had grease nipples...there was real satisfaction in periodically getting under the car and greasing suspension components, and seeing the old dirty grease come out and nice clean grease go in. I'm not sure about these maintenance-free suspension components.

I had my son push front end up and down and steer car while I put my hand on various front suspension/steering components. It's definitely the ball joints. Is there any way to quiet these things down...is this squeaking indicative of pending failure. These were replaced in 2002 using required tool...OE parts (febi I think??). Can I just forget about them and hope the noise goes away, or plan on replacing them again?

Thanks,

Mark

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1984 300TD Wagon, 407,800 mi (current daily driver)
1985 300DT Sedan, 330,000 mi (gone to that great autobahn in the sky)