Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost can be a concern for many owners looking to maintain their SUV’s smooth ride and steering performance. Whether you’re experiencing unusual tire wear, clunking noises, or loose steering, a faulty ball joint could be the culprit. Understanding the costs involved helps you budget for the repair and avoid unexpected expenses.
In this guide, we’ll break down the factors affecting replacement costs, from labor charges to parts pricing. Plus, we’ll explore DIY vs. professional repair options to help you make an informed decision.
Related: Ford E350 Ball Joint Replacement Cost
What Are Ball Joints and Why Should You Care?
Before we start crunching numbers, it’s essential to know what a ball joint actually does. Ball joints are vital components in your Ford Edge’s suspension system. They act as the connection between your vehicle’s control arms and the steering knuckles. In simple terms, they help your wheels move up and down while allowing for smooth steering. When they start to wear out, the consequences can be severe.
A worn ball joint can lead to poor handling, uneven tire wear, and in extreme cases, a complete failure of the suspension system, which could be dangerous. Signs of worn ball joints include a loose or vibrating steering wheel, clunking noises when turning or driving over bumps, or uneven tire wear, especially on the inside edge.
“A bad ball joint on a Ford Edge is like a loose hinge on a door—it wobbles, creaks, and eventually fails. Catch it early, and you’ll save yourself a world of trouble.”
— David Carter, ASE-Certified Mechanic
Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement: Factors That Affect Cost
The cost of Ford Edge ball joint replacement can vary depending on a variety of factors. Let’s break them down to give you a clear picture.
1. Model Year
The year of your Ford Edge plays a significant role in the overall replacement cost. The 2010 Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost might differ from the 2020 Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost due to the availability of parts, labor time, and design differences in the suspension systems across different model years.
For instance:
- The 2010 Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost can range between $250 and $500, depending on whether you’re replacing the upper or lower ball joint.
- For a 2019 Ford Edge ball joint replacement, you might find the cost closer to $350 to $600 due to newer design features and potentially higher labor rates.
2. Parts Quality
You can choose between OEM (original equipment manufacturer) parts or aftermarket options when replacing your ball joints. OEM parts are typically more expensive but are designed specifically for your vehicle. Aftermarket parts are usually cheaper and can offer similar performance, but they may not last as long.
The cost of Ford Edge ball joint replacement will naturally be higher if you choose OEM parts. On average, OEM ball joints for a Ford Edge can cost between $50 to $150 per joint, while aftermarket parts may cost anywhere from $30 to $100.
3. Labor Costs
Labor rates vary based on location, shop reputation, and whether you take your vehicle to a dealership or an independent mechanic. On average, labor costs range from $100 to $150 per hour. Replacing a ball joint can take 2 to 3 hours of work, so the cost to replace Ford Edge ball joints in labor could total anywhere from $200 to $450.
4. Ball Joint Location: Upper vs. Lower
There are two primary ball joints in most suspension systems: the upper and lower ball joints. The Ford Edge upper ball joint replacement cost might be a bit higher than the lower ball joint replacement cost, as accessing the upper joint can sometimes be more complicated, depending on the year of the vehicle.
On average, upper ball joints cost between $100 and $250, while lower ball joints generally cost between $75 and $200. If you’re replacing both, expect the total to run higher, but most Ford Edge owners will only need to replace one at a time.
5. Labor Complexity: A Factor of the Year
Certain model years may have a more complex suspension setup, which can affect labor time. For example, replacing a ball joint on a 2010 Ford Edge ball joint replacement might be easier than on a 2016 Ford Edge ball joint replacement due to design changes over the years. A more complicated setup means more labor hours and higher costs.
Related: Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
Breakdown of Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Costs By Model Year
Let’s dive deeper into the average Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost for each model year. This will help you get a better sense of how costs can vary depending on your specific vehicle.
2010 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2010 Ford Edge ball joint replacement, the cost typically ranges from $250 to $450 for both parts and labor. This estimate assumes you’re replacing one ball joint, though the price will increase if both joints need replacement.
2011 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
The 2011 Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost is similar to the 2010 model, usually falling between $275 and $500, depending on whether you’re using OEM or aftermarket parts.
2012 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2012 Ford Edge ball joint replacement, the cost stays in a similar range, from $275 to $475. If you need both upper and lower joints replaced, expect to pay closer to $500 or more.
2013 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
Expect to pay between $300 and $500 for the 2013 Ford Edge ball joint replacement, with the price higher if both upper and lower joints need replacement.
2014 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2014 Ford Edge ball joint replacement, prices can range from $325 to $525, with labor and parts contributing equally to the overall cost.
2015 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
The 2015 Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost can range from $350 to $550. The newer suspension setup of this model might contribute to slightly higher labor rates.
2016 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2016 Ford Edge ball joint replacement, the costs are typically between $375 and $575. The 2016 model is relatively modern, so prices can vary based on location and whether you choose OEM or aftermarket parts.
2017 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
The 2017 Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost may fall between $400 and $600. Expect slightly higher labor charges due to the vehicle’s suspension setup.
2018 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
The 2018 Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost can range from $425 to $625, reflecting the design and complexity of the suspension system in this model.
2019 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2019 Ford Edge ball joint replacement, you’re looking at costs ranging from $450 to $650, with labor likely making up a significant portion of the bill.
2020 Ford Edge Ball Joint Replacement Cost
The 2020 Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost will generally range between $475 and $700, due to the vehicle’s relatively new suspension components and higher labor rates at dealerships.
Related: Ford Escape Ball Joint Replacement Cost
DIY vs. Professional Replacement: Which Option Is Best?
If you’re comfortable with car repairs, you might consider replacing the ball joints yourself. DIY ball joint replacement can save you a significant amount in labor costs. However, ball joint replacement is a complicated task that requires specialized tools, knowledge of suspension systems, and experience.
If you’re unsure or don’t have the right equipment, it’s best to leave it to a professional mechanic. Replacing a ball joint improperly could result in serious damage to your vehicle and compromise safety.
Related: Ford Expedition Ball Joint Replacement Cost
Conclusion
The Ford Edge ball joint replacement cost depends on several factors, including the model year, parts quality, labor rates, and whether you need an upper or lower ball joint replacement. On average, you can expect the cost to range from $250 to $700, depending on the year and other variables.
If you’re noticing signs of suspension issues, it’s essential to address them early to avoid further damage. Whether you’re replacing the upper ball joint or the lower ball joint, knowing the estimated costs will help you make an informed decision. Remember to consult with a trusted mechanic to get the best price and service for your Ford Edge ball joint replacement.
Don’t let suspension problems put your driving experience at risk. Stay proactive and keep your Ford Edge running smoothly with timely repairs!
