Audi 80 Quiz
Suspension and Steering

Checking Front Suspension Ball Joint Dust Boots

In this manual: Suspension and Steering
Technical Description — 39Engines — 41Exhaust System — 13Cooling System — 28Fuel tank and fuel pump — 12Air Filter and Intake Ducts — 13Mono-Motronic Injection System — 18Digifant Injection System — 19KE-III-Jetronic Injection System — 35MPI and MPFI Injection Systems — 32Clutch — 11Transmission and Driveline — 21Suspension and Steering — 33Brake System — 41Anti-lock brake system — 8Wheels and Tires — 13Body Electrical System — 35Ignition System — 24Lighting — 14Signaling Devices — 7Instruments and Auxiliary Equipment — 54Heating and Ventilation — 7Body Components — 18Troubleshooting — 6Specifications — 13
~1min read

The front axle joints connecting the suspension control arms and the strut assemblies are maintenance-free. The steel ball studs of the ball joints are inserted into plastic sockets filled with grease. Rubber dust boots protect against moisture and dirt. Penetrating dirt acts like sandpaper in the joint; penetrating moisture promotes rust and seizing of the joint.


PROCEDURE

Turn the steering wheel fully in one direction.

Check the left and right ball joint boots for damage.

A damaged dust cover cannot be replaced separately; the entire joint must be replaced. This is entirely appropriate, since dirt and water have almost certainly already entered the joint through the crack.

Therefore, if cracks are present, the joint is considered defective, even before play or squeaking becomes noticeable.

Replace the joint.

Test yourself

A quick Audi 80 quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.