OEM 2003 Toyota Prius Ball Joint

2003 Toyota Prius Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Q: How to service and repair the lower ball joint on 2003 Toyota Prius?

  A: A service or repair of the lower ball joint starts by taking out the steering knuckle with its axle hub followed by removing the lower ball joint after removing its cotter pin and nut. Special Service Tool: 09628-62011 should be employed for removing the lower ball joint. The installation process requires testers to place the ball joint stud in a condition of constant rotation for 5 turns at a rate of 2-4 seconds prior to nut tightening. Once the nut is tightened testers need to measure its torque on the 5th turn to confirm it falls within the specified range of 1.0 - 4.9 Nm (10 - 50 kgf-cm, 8.7 - 43 inch lbs.). To install the lower ball joint attach it to the car body with a torque of 103 Nm (1,050 kgf-cm, 76 ft. lbs.) then mount a fresh cotter pin. Additional nut tightening goes up to 60 degrees when the cotter pin holes do not match. Install the steering knuckle with the axle hub and check ABS speed sensor signal before conducting front wheel alignment tests.