The ingenuity of every Mercedes Benz car lives up to its existing prestige---the timeless elegance of functionality and style. Every part that comprises a Mercedes is bred through a careful process so that it would meet the efficiency that it is required of. Every part, no matter how small or big can do wonders for the Mercedes ride. For instance, a tiny ball can be utilized and made into a cross between a steering and suspension aid---the Mercedes Benz Ball Joint. The Mercedes Benz Ball Joint is the pivot between the wheels and the suspension of the vehicle. The ball joints play a critical role in the safe operation of one's steering and suspension. The Mercedes Benz Ball Joint is a steel bearing stud and socket enclosed in a steel casing. The bearing stud is tapered and threaded. It fits into a tapered hole in the steering knuckle. A protective encasing prevents dirt from getting into the joint assembly. Sealed ball joints do not require lubrication as they are "lubed for life" but standard ball joints must be lubed from time to time. It is best to inspect standard ball joints once a year. Generally speaking, standard ball joints will outlive sealed ones because eventually the seal will break, causing the joint to dry out and rust. While there is no exact lifespan that can be put on a sealed ball joint, they can fail as early as 125,000 miles. Signs of a failing ball joint start with a clicking or snapping sound when the wheel is turned and eventually turns into a squeaking sound at the end of a stop. Also, when the gas pedal is used and when hitting bumps. One must take note that if a ball joint fails, the results can be dangerous as the wheel will attempt to fall off the vehicle, causing one to lose control. Because the tire will be at an odd angle the vehicle will come to a screeching halt, damaging the tire. Also, during failure, debris can fly out at orbital speeds, damaging other parts of the vehicle. When there is evidence of a failing ball joint it is best to avoid pot holes, especially at high speeds, as these will cause stress on the ball joint. But fortunately, the Mercedes Benz Ball Joint has proven its durability among its patrons. Whenever a driver turns his Mercedes, the left and right side wheels must travel in different-sized circular paths, making it necessary for the Mercedes Ball Joint and tie rod assembly to be finely tuned to allow the tires free motion. The threaded rod on the tie rod is one of the devices that make this possible, allowing the tie rod to be lengthened or shortened to achieve the correct geometry. When the ball joint is not in correct adjustment, one or more of the tires may grind on the pavement instead of rolling free, which will result in an area of accelerated tire wear. But this rarely happens to a Mercedes. Steering and suspension both play critical roles in driving a car. But in driving a Mercedes, the simple solution that fuses these two functions together comes in the form of an ingenious ball.