Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse cross-Ball joints

2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross ball joints — what they do and when to replace them

Ball joints are relevant and used on the 2017 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross. Technical sources including the Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross (GK) Workshop Manual – Group 33 Front Suspension, Mitsubishi Motors AU/NZ model specifications listing a MacPherson strut front suspension, and standard chassis texts (for example, The Automotive Chassis: Engineering Principles) confirm that MacPherson front ends use a lower ball joint to connect the steering knuckle to the lower control arm. So yes — the Eclipse Cross runs front ball joints.

On this model, the ball joint is a tough little spherical bearing that lets the front wheel hub move up and down with the suspension while also turning left and right for steering. It carries significant load and helps keep wheel alignment angles in check, which is why a worn joint can make the steering feel vague and the tyres wear oddly.

Owners will often notice a few tell-tale signs when a ball joint is on the way out:

• Clunks or knocks over bumps, especially at low speed
• Steering wander or a loose, disconnected feel
• Uneven or rapid tyre wear on the front
• Split or leaking dust boot, rust streaks, or play when levered during inspection

For servicing, think of ball joints as “inspect regularly, replace when worn.” They’re usually sealed-for-life, so there’s no greasing point, but they should be checked at routine services — roughly every 10,000–20,000 km or annually — especially if the vehicle sees corrugated roads, potholes, or gravel common around Aus and NZ.

Replacement is required if there’s measurable free play beyond Mitsubishi’s workshop limit or if the boot is torn and contamination has got in. Many parts suppliers offer the joint as either a stand-alone component or as part of a complete lower control arm assembly, workshops often choose the full arm to refresh the bushes at the same time. After any ball joint or control arm work, a wheel alignment is a must to keep tyres wearing evenly and the steering tracking straight.

Professional fitment matters. Use the correct separator tools, torque fasteners to spec, replace any single‑use hardware (like pinch bolts or nuts) where required, and tighten control arm pivots at normal ride height to avoid preloading the bushes. Quality parts, proper torque, and an alignment will keep the Eclipse Cross steering sweet and the front end quiet.

FAQs

Do all 2017 Eclipse Cross models have front ball joints?
Yes. The front suspension is MacPherson strut across the range, which uses a lower ball joint at each front wheel. The rear end uses links and bushes rather than a serviceable lower ball joint like the front.

How often should ball joints be replaced on a 2017 Eclipse Cross?
There’s no fixed kilometre interval. Have them inspected at regular services and replace them when there’s play, noise, or a damaged boot, or when alignment can’t be maintained. Rough roads and heavy loads can shorten their lifespan.

Can the ball joint be replaced separately from the control arm?
Depending on the brand and part supplier, you may be able to replace just the joint, but many workshops prefer fitting a complete lower control arm to refresh bushes and fasteners in one go. Check with your parts catalogue using the VIN.