Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost can be a crucial factor to consider when maintaining this heavy-duty SUV. As a robust vehicle designed for towing and off-road adventures, the Excursion’s ball joints endure significant wear and tear over time. Ignoring worn-out ball joints can lead to steering issues, uneven tire wear, and even dangerous driving conditions. Understanding the costs involved, from parts to labor, can help you budget effectively and ensure your vehicle remains in top shape.
Whether you’re a DIY mechanic looking to replace the ball joints yourself or planning to visit a professional auto shop, knowing the Ford Excursion ball joint replacement cost upfront can save you from unexpected expenses. Prices can vary depending on the brand of parts, labor rates, and whether you opt for OEM or aftermarket components. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs, factors affecting pricing, and tips to get the best value for your money.
What Is a Ball Joint, and Why Does It Need Replacing?
Before diving into costs, let’s quickly cover what a ball joint is and why it’s crucial for your Ford Excursion’s performance.
A ball joint is a key part of your vehicle’s suspension system. It connects the steering knuckle to the control arms, enabling the wheels to move up and down while also allowing the vehicle to turn. Over time, ball joints can wear out due to constant friction, heat, and the stresses they endure on rough terrain. This wear can lead to instability, which, if left unchecked, can compromise your safety.
“Ford built the Excursion to be a powerhouse, but even a giant needs strong knees. High-quality ball joints keep this legend rolling for years to come.”
— Ethan Ramirez, Suspension Systems Specialist
Factors Affecting the Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
1. Model Year
The cost of ball joint replacement can vary depending on the model year of your Ford Excursion. Newer models like the 2020 Ford Excursion will generally have higher labor costs and slightly different parts than older models like the 2007 Ford Excursion. Some models may also feature more advanced suspension systems, which can influence the cost.
2. Labor Costs
Labor plays a significant role in the overall cost of ball joint replacement. The amount of time required to perform the replacement can differ based on your mechanic’s rates and the complexity of the repair. In most cases, you can expect the labor charge to be anywhere from $150 to $250 per hour.
3. Parts Quality
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts tend to cost more than aftermarket alternatives, but they may also offer better durability and performance. Depending on your preference, the cost of parts will influence your total bill.
4. Location
The region where you have the repair done can impact the cost as well. For instance, labor rates in metropolitan areas tend to be higher than in rural areas, so expect to pay more in cities like Los Angeles or New York compared to smaller towns.
5. Additional Services
Often, when replacing ball joints, other parts may need attention, such as bushings, control arms, or even steering components. If these parts are worn out, they’ll likely need replacing as well, which could increase the overall cost.
Average Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
On average, the Ford Excursion ball joint replacement cost ranges between $500 and $1,200. This includes both parts and labor. The total cost depends heavily on your vehicle’s model year, the type of ball joint (upper or lower), and where the repair is performed.
Here’s a breakdown by model year:
2007 Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2007 Ford Excursion, the ball joint replacement cost typically ranges from $600 to $900. As one of the earlier models in the Excursion lineup, this year’s suspension system is relatively simpler, which means labor costs are slightly lower than newer models. However, parts availability and pricing might be influenced by the age of the vehicle, so it’s a good idea to shop around for parts and labor quotes. You can expect to pay $300 to $500 for parts and $300 to $400 for labor, depending on whether you go to a dealership or an independent mechanic.
Ball Joint Types for 2007: Depending on whether you need to replace the upper or lower ball joints, costs can vary. On average, the upper ball joint may cost around $100 to $150, and the lower ball joint will be in the range of $150 to $200.
2012 Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2012 Ford Excursion, you’re looking at a cost range of $650 to $950 for ball joint replacement. This model is slightly newer, and parts tend to be more expensive due to newer designs. Labor charges for a 2012 Ford Excursion are around $300 to $500, which reflects the somewhat more complex suspension setup compared to older models. For parts, the cost could be in the $200 to $400 range, depending on whether you go with OEM or aftermarket ball joints.
Ball Joint Types for 2012: The upper ball joint can cost around $120 to $180, while the lower ball joint can be around $150 to $250.
2013 Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2013 Ford Excursion, the cost of ball joint replacement is expected to be between $700 and $1,000. As the model year progresses, labor and parts costs tend to rise. Expect $350 to $500 for labor, and $200 to $300 for parts. For the 2013 model, the parts are more readily available, but they still come at a higher price compared to earlier years. The increased cost reflects the vehicle’s more refined suspension system.
Ball Joint Types for 2013: The upper ball joint will typically cost $130 to $190, and the lower ball joint may be around $170 to $250.
2014 Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
The 2014 Ford Excursion continues the trend of increasing repair costs, with a replacement price typically ranging from $700 to $1,100. For the 2014 model, expect to pay between $350 to $550 for labor, which may increase slightly due to the more advanced suspension setup. Parts for this year are generally priced between $250 and $400.
Ball Joint Types for 2014: The upper ball joint may cost $140 to $200, while the lower ball joint will range between $170 to $270.
2016 Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2016 Ford Excursion, the ball joint replacement cost typically falls between $750 and $1,200. As the vehicle ages, the parts are usually more expensive, and labor time might increase due to potential complications with removing older suspension components. You should budget between $400 and $600 for labor, while parts for this model are generally priced from $250 to $400.
Ball Joint Types for 2016: The upper ball joint can be priced around $150 to $210, and the lower ball joint will likely range from $180 to $280.
2017 Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
The 2017 Ford Excursion sees a slight increase in prices, with a typical cost of $750 to $1,200 for a full replacement of the ball joints. The labor cost is generally around $400 to $600, and parts may cost between $250 and $400, depending on whether you opt for aftermarket or OEM parts.
Ball Joint Types for 2017: The upper ball joint will generally cost $160 to $220, while the lower ball joint will be priced around $190 to $300.
2018 Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2018 Ford Excursion, the cost of ball joint replacement falls within the range of $800 to $1,200. The 2018 model has a more sophisticated suspension system, and the ball joints themselves tend to be pricier due to the newer design and improved materials. Labor costs will typically range from $400 to $600, while parts will cost anywhere from $250 to $400.
Ball Joint Types for 2018: The upper ball joint may cost between $170 and $230, while the lower ball joint can range from $200 to $320.
2019 Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2019 Ford Excursion, you can expect a ball joint replacement cost of $800 to $1,200. As the vehicle nears the tail end of its production, the ball joints are more expensive due to high demand for quality parts. Labor will generally cost around $400 to $600, while parts can cost between $250 and $400.
Ball Joint Types for 2019: The upper ball joint will typically cost $180 to $240, while the lower ball joint will be priced from $210 to $330.
2020 Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost
For the 2020 Ford Excursion, the ball joint replacement cost typically falls between $850 and $1,300. The newer model year sees increased complexity in suspension systems, which can raise both labor and parts costs. Expect to pay between $450 and $650 for labor and between $250 and $400 for parts.
Ball Joint Types for 2020: The upper ball joint will generally cost $190 to $250, while the lower ball joint may range from $220 to $350.
Cost Breakdown: How Much Does It Cost to Replace Ford Excursion Ball Joint?
When you bring your Ford Excursion in for a ball joint replacement, here’s how the cost generally breaks down:
- Parts Cost: A ball joint can cost between $50 and $200 each, depending on whether you go for OEM or aftermarket parts.
- Labor Cost: The labor cost is typically between $150 and $250 per hour. Most ball joint replacements take around 2-4 hours, so you’re looking at $300 to $1,000 for labor alone.
- Alignment: After replacing the ball joint, your vehicle’s alignment will likely need to be checked or adjusted. This service typically costs between $75 and $100.
So, for a full ball joint replacement (both upper and lower joints), the cost to replace Ford Excursion ball joint could total anywhere from $500 to $1,500.
DIY vs. Professional Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement
If you’re handy with tools and have a bit of automotive experience, you might be considering doing the replacement yourself. While this can save you on labor costs, it’s important to note that replacing ball joints is a complex and time-consuming job, especially if you’re working on a heavy-duty vehicle like the Ford Excursion.
Here’s a quick comparison of the pros and cons of DIY vs. professional replacement:
DIY Ball Joint Replacement
- Pros:
- Saves on labor costs.
- Satisfying if you enjoy working on vehicles.
- Cons:
- Requires specialized tools (e.g., ball joint press).
- It’s a time-consuming job (can take 4+ hours).
- Requires expertise to ensure the job is done correctly.
Professional Ball Joint Replacement
- Pros:
- Expertise ensures the job is done safely and correctly.
- Warranty on parts and labor.
- Alignment and suspension will be checked.
- Cons:
- Higher cost due to labor.
If you’re new to automotive repairs or don’t have the necessary tools, opting for a professional is generally the best option.
Comparing Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement Cost to Similar Vehicles
If you’re considering the cost of replacing ball joints on a Ford Excursion, you might be curious how it compares to other vehicles in the same class. Let’s look at a few comparisons:
- Chevrolet Suburban: The cost for ball joint replacement on a Suburban generally ranges between $500 and $1,200, which is similar to the Ford Excursion.
- GMC Yukon XL: This vehicle’s ball joint replacement cost also falls within the $600 to $1,200 range.
- Toyota Sequoia: Replacing ball joints on a Sequoia tends to cost between $400 and $900, slightly lower than the Excursion.
Overall, the Ford Excursion ball joint replacement cost is fairly comparable to other large SUVs in its class, with minor fluctuations based on model year and location.
How to Save on Ford Excursion Ball Joint Replacement
While the ball joint replacement cost can seem steep, there are a few ways you can reduce the price:
1. Compare Prices
It’s always a good idea to get quotes from multiple repair shops. Prices can vary widely, especially between dealerships and independent mechanics.
2. Consider Aftermarket Parts
If you’re comfortable with aftermarket parts, you can often save money on the parts cost. Just ensure the parts are from a reputable manufacturer to maintain your vehicle’s safety and performance.
3. Look for Promotions
Many repair shops run specials or promotions, especially during off-peak seasons. Keep an eye out for deals on labor or parts.
4. Do Some of the Work Yourself
If you’re experienced, you can do some of the preparatory work yourself, like removing the wheel and suspension components. This could save on labor costs.
Conclusion
The Ford Excursion ball joint replacement cost can vary significantly depending on several factors such as the model year, parts used, and labor rates. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,500 to replace both upper and lower ball joints, with prices typically increasing for newer models like the 2020 Ford Excursion. By understanding the factors that influence the cost and exploring options like DIY repair or aftermarket parts, you can ensure you’re getting the best deal for your Ford Excursion.
Regular maintenance of your ball joints will keep your Excursion running smoothly and help avoid more costly repairs down the road. Whether you choose to go DIY or opt for professional help, taking care of this critical suspension component will ensure your vehicle’s safety and performance for years to come.
