Repair Procedures: Inspection

Check the bushing for wear and deterioration.
Check the lower arm for bending or breakage.
Check the lower arm for deformation.
Check all bolts and nuts.
Check the ball joint rotating torque.
If there is an abnormality, replace the ball joint.

Standard value : 9.8 - 29.4 N.m (1.0 - 3.0 kgf.m, 7.2 - 21.7 lb-ft)
1. Move the ball stud (A) 5 times to the front and back, and rotate 5 times to evenly apply the grease. Fix the ball stud stationary for 24 hours at the center, then roll 3 times to the front and back, and rotate 3 times before measuring the torque.
  
  Fig 1: Locating Ball Stud
  Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.
2. Read the constant torque value within 180° when it is rotated at speed of approximately 12°/s.
  Standard value : 9.8 - 29.4 N.m (1.0 - 3.0 kgf.m, 7.2 - 21.7 lb-ft)
3. Make sure that the ball stud rotates smoothly.
Check the ball stud (A) axial free play, In case of any free play exist, replace the ball joint (B).

Fig 2: Identifying Ball Stud Axial Free Play
Courtesy of KIA MOTORS AMERICA, INC.