A worn ball joint usually shows several clear symptoms. You may hear clunking or knocking noises from the front suspension when going over bumps, turning into driveways, or driving on rough roads. The steering might feel loose, wander, or pull to one side. You may also notice vibrations through the steering wheel. Another common sign is uneven tire wear, especially if the inside or outside edges of the front tires are wearing faster. A technician can lift the vehicle and check for play by moving the wheel and inspecting the joint and its rubber boot. If there is movement in the ball joint or the boot is torn and leaking, replacement is typically recommended.