I recently had my mechanic install new front end bushings. I believe the ones he replaced were the control arm bushings. He noted that the ball joints in the front were looking worn, but didn't say they needed immediate replacement. this was about four months ago.

recently I've noticed that the front end feels rather loose, but also that there's a little vibration when I brake. I can especially feel the vibration if I have my hand on the automatic shifter handle while I'm braking. I'm assuming that the loose front steering feeling is the ball joints, but would this also account for the wobbling when I'm braking? The rotors do not appear to be warped.

If I do need to replace the ball joints, is this a major undertaking or one that I can do with some jackstands, a set of wrenches, and a weekend afternoon to kill?

thanks for your advice