Track rod end ball joint worn
How it can appear on an MOT certificate
- “Track rod end ball joint has slight play”
- “Track rod end ball joint excessively worn”
- “Track rod end ball joint dust cover deteriorated”
What it is
Track rod ends connect the steering rack to each front wheel. They have a ball joint that lets the wheel steer while moving with the suspension.
Why it matters
Wear causes play in the steering, uneven tyre wear and knocking. A badly worn track rod end is a serious steering defect.
What to check when viewing a car
On a test drive, notice whether the steering feels loose or wanders. Wheel alignment usually needs checking after a track rod end is replaced.
Has the car you're looking at had this before?
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What the MOT categories mean
- Dangerous
- A direct and immediate risk to road safety, or a serious impact on the environment. The car fails and shouldn't be driven until it's repaired.
- Major
- It may affect the car's safety, put other road users at risk or harm the environment. The car fails and should be repaired straight away.
- Minor
- No significant effect on safety or the environment. The car passes, but it should be repaired as soon as possible.
- Advisory
- Something to keep an eye on that could need repairing in future. The car passes.
Related: suspension and steering
- Coil spring fractured or broken
- Shock absorber leaking or worn
- Suspension arm ball joint worn
- Suspension arm pin or bush worn
- Anti-roll bar linkage (drop link) worn
- Anti-roll bar bush or mounting worn
Buying a used car?
General information about this type of MOT defect, not advice about a particular car. How serious it is depends on the car; have any car you're buying inspected by a qualified mechanic.