I have a 1998 Chrysler Cirrus with 75,000 miles. I had new tires put on and asked the mechanic to check pass side ball joint. I saw the boot was cracked and you could see the ball. He thought both ball joints were good and not a concern at this time.

The ball joint and control arm are one unit and about $450 to replace. Any way to lessen wear and tear caused by the torn/cracked boot?

Background-Two little old ladies (my Mom and Aunt) put 45,000 miles on it between 1998 and 2019. I put 30K on in the last year. It's in great shape and has been well maintained.

Thank you

 

Keep well Lubed and keep an eye on it.... Replace them when it is time.... For now just lube it and keep a little great packed around it to keep the dirt and water out of it..

 

Another thought to add to "The Cowboy's"thoughts. Once the ball is exposed, the wear and sloppiness will occur fast. And even faster if you're in wetter and dirtier locations. My thought would be to replace as soon as affordable so that this joints wear won't add to or accelerate the wear of the other components. Since it sounds like a "cream-puff now", you wouldn't want to destroy the ride and experience prematurely. Another view.

 

You can buy boots, they're not expensive. Just replace and put it back together just don't use a pickle fork to separate the joint.