Streaks of black stuff on front wheel covers

[japan]

I've been noticing the front wheel covers seem to have a lot of black streaks on them and when asked mechanic he said it was from the car wash who use the tire cleaner. It's been a month since car was washed and waxed so not sure about that explanation. When looking at inside of tires I saw this on the drivers side. To me looks like something disentegrating. I don't know what that part is. Can someone tell me how to send pics to this forum. Tried but says too big. Don't know how to manually downsize like it says to

 

[japan]

Disintegrating car part

What is the name of this part?

 

[uss2defiant]

upper ball joint

 

[tommudd]

What is the name of this part?

upper ball joint ready to fall out, have to replace the whole arm if going back to stock

 

[TAT]

yep, you will deff want to have that fixed! Potentially a horrible situation waiting to happen! It will happen if not fixed. Nice chance to upgrade!!!!!

 

[japan]

I was told by mechanic today that it is a grease boot and ok to drive till get back from two day trip Just looked at the answers here. Now I'm concerned. Should I not drive it?

 

[wheeee32]

To be on the safe side I wouldn't drive it. Get it replaced as soon as you can.