ball joints+ on . . . 2001?

[knhenson]

Got a 2001 Sport (73k) and last year I was told by Goodyear that my balljoints were bad. I didnt know anything about them so i was in no position to disagree--had them replaced--cost a few hundred $$. Now--CEL came on and I took it to Ford dealer, told me EGR needed replacement--done. Also told me upper ball joints "ahve play". 2 miles from lot and CEL comes back on.

Questions:
1. should ball joints be so problematic? there is an aweful skweaking noise coming from the front wheels--could it just be bushings? Car is real loose on unstable roads, too.
2. Can the CEL be reset without actually doing any other work on the car--the reason i ask is i suspect that the ford dealer didnt even run a disagnostic check and just assumed the EGR needed replace; they replaced it, reset CEL and sent me on my way $200 poorer (included oil change)

Thanks for your wisdom,
Kyle

 

[X24]

You can disconnect the battery for 15 mins or so to reset the computer.

 

[SWLathrop]

Did Goodyear replace the lowers and uppers? Or just the lowers? The ball joints that Ford is using on the Ranger/Explores and F-150's are crap. They're made by MOOG and consist of a metal housing and a metal ball inserted into a nylon socket. Then sealed with a cheap plastic boot. Ford actually has a heavy duty greasable ball joint that can be installed. Anybody having ball joint problem while under warranty should get and request these ones for their buggies.