202 needs Lower Ball Joints at 55K miles
 

I was just told by the dealer that I needed lower Ball joints for a 98 C280 with only 55K miles.

I've never had ball joints fail this soon and wondered if this is typical on this model and if not how long should they last?

Also is this something I can do myself without any special Mercedes tools?
I've done Ball joints several times before on american vehicles without any difficulty just didn't want to get it half apart and get surprized

Thanks
Bob

Many W202's have their front lower ball joints replaced early. Happend more often where roads are very poor -- anywhere in Canada...

W202 ball joint replacements
 

Same thing happened to my '95 C280. And, I NEVER drove it on dirt roads.

How can you tell if lower ball joints are bad verses something else in the suspension?

Jack it up so the front wheels are just off the ground. Then get, say, a crowbar to use as a lever. Anchor it against (not quite level to) the ground, and lever up on the bottom of the tyre. If there is play (i.e. it loosely moves up and down before it starts moving the spring, wishbones and all the suspension etc.) then they need replacing.


It's easiest to see if you are under the car doing it. Mine needs a front one doing, and the ride is (relatively..) awful. Far, far, far worse than with good joints. Doing it next monday.


Anything else he should know?

Re: W202 ball joint replacements
 

I've driven in Seattle a few times, and would think that those lower ball joints would wear pretty quick there. I drove on some REALLY bad roads, and found myself out of my seat a few times in I-5, it was so rough!

Would anyone know the proper torque values for these bolts?

Also, I assume an alignment is not needed afterward. Correct?


Cheers

I'm about to replace my ball joints,'96 C280. Does anyone know the answers to these two questions? (the torque value being for the nuts, not bolts)

Thanks, Dan