My mechanic replaced this on my 01 civic. Told me after that there is still alot of play in the wheel and therefore the ball joint i got(aftermarket) was defective. IS it possible he damaged it while installing? He is just a back yard mechanic. I took him a wheel bearing several months ago to put on and he broke it. Did'nt charge to replace it. How hard would it be to break one when installing?

If it was installed incorrectly or forcefully, that could cause the ball joint to break going in.

Aftermarket was the first error. With parts list these I always go with OEM.

Honda also never offered the ball joint as a replacement at first. it was the whole knuckle that had to be replaced. Now Honda sells an updated ball joint. That could be why the aftermarket one never worked.

Read this thread: https://www.civicforums.com/forums/4...er-assmnt.html

Maybe you'll understand why it's better to replace the whole knuckle, complete with ball joint.

Replacing the whole knuckle often isn't financially the best solution. They are crazy expensive. If done properly you can install an aftermarket ball joint and not have issues. Aftermarket joints often include a snap ring that keeps the ball joint in place. Also, they press in the same way that OEM ones do. That one example is just improper install.

That being said don't buy a 7 dollar ball joint and think it's going to be quality. Stick with good names like Moog and you will be safe.

OP: Read this bulletin (PDF link)
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j...fb5yZAC3SLNeFw