Hey TL fans. Happy new year. My 06 MT with 230K on the clock is still going well, putting some money into it to make it last a wee bit longer. Whilst changing the oil, i noticed a small crack where the lower control arm attaches and then noticed what was causing it - a bit of metal-on-metal. After comparing to the left side, it was obvious what has been causing the clunking in my frontend. I want to confirm all i need to replace it is 51394-SEP-A01 from this diagram: https://www.acurapartswarehouse.com/...lower_arm.html

I have attached a few pics. The lower control arm itself seems fine. I think all I need is that part, #10 in the diagram, which is a whole lot less than the whole thing (51$ versus 400$ + )

Thanks everyone.


This is right side, where i noticed the crack/wear-through where lower control arm attaches. Thoughts on if this should be welded or not?

Right side, you can see it resting on the frame.

Left side, noticable gap between frame and lower control arm

 

U should see the crack in mine. I probably should replace the subframe but hard to locate one for 07 type s. I definitely plan on getting it welded for now

 

Due to the same problem? or something else?

 

You've got a cracked subframe

Looks like you let the control arm compliance bushing get too worn.

Have someone replace the compliance bushing and also fix the crack. It may be time to replace all the lower control arm bushings at this mileage.

 

same issue. Not replacing compliance bushing like i should have.

 

Pick up a used subframe and get new bushings on both sides for the control arms.