Ball Joints And Axle Bearing, Visually Inspecting

-- Check ball joint boots -arrow- for leaks and damage.

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

-- Check the axle bearing -arrow- for the following damage:

Courtesy of VOLKSWAGEN GROUP OF AMERICA, INC.

Large cracks, tears or cuts in the rubber piece.
Complete tear of the connection between rubber molded part and metal.
Large amount of play between the bearing and the axle components, which can significantly influence the bearing negatively.

NOTE:

Rips and tears that are only on the surface such as small detachments between the rubber molded part and metal do not influence the function of the elastokinematic bearing and are not cause for concern.