Infiniti M45 Front Lower Control Arm. 2006-2010. Bad balljoints, torn bushings

This is the process of removing the lower control arm of an Infiniti M.
These are the other videos I referenced:
1. Strut removal. • Infiniti M35 M45 Front...
2. Brake job. • 2006 Infiniti M45 Fron...
3. Video on lower control arm (showing a trick with the passenger side bolts). • pt1. Control Arm near ...
4. Buying new control arms? Check this out - • Infiniti M35 M45 Contr...
A safer way to pull the outer tie-rod end, without using a hammer. (not my video). • How to Remove / Separa...
Contact Info.
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[@EdBwoy]

I should have added two things: 1. There are different ways to remove the outer tie rod. Here is another. This tool doesn't damage the ball joint boot like a pickle fork would. kzbin.info/www/bejne/gJ6tlWiKZ5ueqs0 2. Before committing to do the work, it would be wise to take the vehicle to a competent suspension shop to diagnose the problem. They charge $10 around here. No point in spending the time or money to replace parts based on a wild guess. 3. Final tightening of suspension components is best done with the vehicle on its wheels. Get creative with that.

[@retro2897]

@EdBwoy whts the difference between rwd n awd control arm bc all I find is rwd control arm I have a 08 m45x needs replaced

[@EdBwoy]

@@retro2897 the way the big bushing at the rear is mounted. The AWD bolts go into the subframe horizontally

[@retro2897]

@@EdBwoy thx n where can I find em bc im having a real hard time finding awd one

[@retro2897]

@@EdBwoy hey im having an issue where my cv keeps popping out when I turn left lasted 4 months n popped out n tore up the boot. Wht can be the cause of this bc its the right size its definitely long enough

[@retro2897]

@@EdBwoy I saw u were having an issue before but I think u were lowered on your q50. I have and m45x n have tht issue but don't know the cause like I said I got the correct size I need

[@TheHybridQ50S]

Honestly, this is probably the most helpful, informative and detailed diy I’ve ever seen.

[@EdBwoy]

Thanks for the kind words. I'm glad you found my efforts & methods valuable

[@nightcrawler9888]

Great video, thanks for taking the time to stop and discuss what youre doing and why. I drive a 2008 G35 RWD sedan 6MT. This video was very helpful even though they are not exact same models!

[@gaddy8964]

Thanks for sharing this video....this really helps me understand that clunky noise I was hearing.

[@EdBwoy]

You're welcome. And if you work on yours, please keep us updates on what you find.

[@gaddy8964]

@@EdBwoy I definitely will. My busy work schedule is making me think differently about doing this, but at least I have a more clear understanding of what's done. Again really appreciate you taking the time to share this. I always like your videos and let them play thru to help your KZbin stats.

[@oluwatosinolayemi7319]

Hi Edbwoy, are these bushings on the lower control arm replaceable? And, are them ball joints workable? Them ball joints moves freely, so I guessed they should be torqued or something? I know the cost of repairing would be way cheaper than quotations I got in replacing a used or new control Arm. I own a 2011 M37 RWD with 68k plus . I need your guidance if these parts are repairable than replacement (don't know why Infiniti doesn't make them ball joints separately, why on the arm directly?)... Please, I will appreciate your earliest response.

[@Mr4RiLLa]

Just changed my lower control arms. Feels like a new car. Got a new rack and pinion, control arms, sway bar links, and most of the suspension. Any suggestions for the rear suspension? Your videos always come in clutch for the Infiniti guys. I have an 09 M35 S and 08 M35 S. Can't come to selling the 08, going to restore it. Much Appreciated

[@anthonynatas5008]

Thank you for posting this video✊. Well done and helpful. Question: I assume you took the brake assembly and steering knuckle off for easier demonstration purposes and so you didn't have to get under the car? I ask because I don't believe you have to dismantle all that to remove and replace the LCA. I only had to remove the end link and ball joint in order to have the LCA swing away from all that, and them take off the two areas that connect the LCA to the frame. I would like to know your thoughts on that. Thanks again✊

[@EdBwoy]

Thank you. You are correct in that you don't really need to remove all that to get to the LCA. The main reason was for ease of demonstration, because I wanted the camera to have a clear view with an assumption that most people watching would be working in mostly the same conditions. My hope when posting such a video, is that people use it as a reference while preparing to do the job, just to have the proper tools handy, to know what hurdles they could face, and also to decide whether they really want to DIY the task or just pay a shop, haha. What should come out of it is an observation much like yours, and I usually encourage people to share their own tips and tricks to doing the jobs.

[@EdBwoy]

Also, on that note, I still disassemble more than just the 3 lower control arm fasteners to replace the LCA. I reckon working with a lift dramatically increases your access and technique. Most times I'm replacing an LCA, I'm also addressing something else so many components come out, starting with the heavy brakes.

[@simonx6445]

@@EdBwoy You're videos are greatly appreciated! Thank you👍

[@EdBwoy]

@@simonx6445 thank you for the kind words.

[@1goldydog]

My Control arm came with no cone on ball Joint . I want back to part store and the same thing on another lower control arm. I tried to remove cone off old one, not budging. Any suggestions?

[@EdBwoy]

This is how I removed it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmTIeKKveq-Ebbs

[@jerrysanchez7374]

Same problem here!

[@desmondcollier1256]

I need some help here I was driving racing started to fall my car 2008 infinity m35x I had it is the mode for if rain falling the wiper will come on automatically then when the rain start to fall it comes on and go off and never comes back on I switch it on to work normally it never work up to now no wiper work

[@edogboemeje5588]

Good day sir, did you find a way to refurbish the ball joint? We do not have support for these over here

[@EdBwoy]

No, I haven’t found a way to service the ball joint. I know the original manufacturer had to install it in there somehow but for the time input to figure it out it’s easier for most of us to just buy a whole arm.

[@deasttn]

I think this is what's wrong with my 08 m35x. I get clunk when going over bumps (like railroad tracks, etc). My struts are fine (removed and checked those). Sway bar end links replaced and bushings replaced. Clunking is still there.

[@EdBwoy]

Good chance with age. Around 170k, they'll start to go

[@tphidnation7525]

Hello I have a question I have a infiniti m37x and when I drive it my front end goes to the right or to the left on its on while the steering wheel is straight and I have to catch it and bring it back to center... I have replaced both lower control arms on it with ball joints and the car only had 64,000 miles on it when I replaced it the first time...my car is at 77,000 miles now I dont drive it as much.... my mechanic thought it was my alignment and they re-did that for me and I took it home and parked it and now that I had to drive it till I get my other car fixed...its doing it again..when I drive the car it feels like no control...I know its all wheel drive..would you know what the problem might be

[@i-55southstl55]

Bro your the m series God. I wish you was in Missouri

[@dazzaas4184]

I have a jdm v36 skline with she same kind as yours but the one I bought has messed up my steering is the more than one version

[@michaelperson3805]

Hey got a question.. I got a alignment and I change the inner and outer tie rods but when I go like 45 or 50 mph my steering wheels shacks I got the tires Balance and everything what could be the problem ?

[@adiadon25]

Hey. I always watch your videos. I have a question. All of the control arms that I find are RWD? Can I purchase those for AWD? Your help is much appreciated!

[@memphis1033]

I have that same question also

[@EdBwoy]

@@memphis1033 unfortunately not. The subframe design is different so you will run into issues at the large rear bushing. For RWD it is bolted down as shown in the video, but for AWD the bolts go in sideways.

[@adiadon25]

@@EdBwoy thanks as always!

[@toddkanzenbach3209]

Any problems accessing or removing this lower control arm rear bushing bolt for AWD models?

[@desmondcollier1256]

I check the fuseis all good does in the hood and under way the driver is they all good but the wiper never come back

[@1ies617]

Dope video im about to do this this weekend how long did the job take you from start to finish?

[@EdBwoy]

Thank you. I'd estimate 2 hours tools up to tools down. But I had to take time to talk to the camera and show it what I was doing

[@aRealEstateBroker]

Are the 05 Q45 front control arms a similar removal or completely different process? Awesome videos btw.

[@EdBwoy]

Thank you. I haven't done the Q one, but when I looked at it, it will be slightly different. That doesn't necessarily mean more difficult though

[@RichWeede]

How can you tell if the control arm or the steering rack needs to be replaced? I have two mechanics, one told me steering rack, the other told me control arm. I didn't tell either one what the other guy said. My car is making a knocking sound when I turn or ocassionally when I go over a bump or come to a complete stop.

[@EdBwoy]

The best way is to test each one as you disassemble. But that's inefficient, I just take mine to firestone to confirm my guesses. Or, get a third opinion and go with gut feeling. Depending on your mileage and other factors, it might be a totally different issue. forums.nicoclub.com/occasional-clunk-in-the-front-right-t623162.html#p6788377

[@skorpio88]

The lower control arm looks the same as my 2011 g37 sedan. Is the replacement process the same? Thank you for this video btw!

[@EdBwoy]

Sorry man, I'm not certain about that as I haven't done this work on a G. I would say, the principles of removal are the same though

[@skorpio88]

@@EdBwoy ok thanks!

[@deasttn]

How did you remove the ball joint for steering? I removed cotter pin, but the nut just spins when I use a wrench on the nut.

[@deasttn]

I got it done. I used vice grips to keep the shift from spinning

[@EdBwoy]

@@deasttn right on! Glad you got it done

[@javienballog1119]

I doubt anyone would respond to me but IM STUCK!! y left hand bolt on the strut ( wishbone ) is stuck/stripped/broken... who knows but it’s not coming loose, the other bolt was removed on the right hand side. Any suggestions ?

[@EdBwoy]

PB blaster, or CRC freeze off to try and loosen it...plus a long cheater bar

[@EdBwoy]

If it is seized, the problem is most likely at the bushing sleeve. If you employ any destructive methods to remove it, like cutting, just keep in mind you might not be able to reuse the control arm as it is. You'll need to address the bushing. Of course, it depends on whether you are trying to replace the strut or control arm

[@BoostInMotion]

fellow infinti bro here

[@EdBwoy]

Yes indeed!

[@Vr30_Tony]

is this the same for a 2006 Infiniti M35x?

[@EdBwoy]

Not exactly. The AWD control arm looks different and mounts onto the subframe differently

[@inayatj89]

Great and really informative video.

[@EdBwoy]

Thanks my man.

[@djfonz2409]

On AWD, taking out all of that is necessary just for the LCA?

[@EdBwoy]

I would say, yes. At minimum it is the same process, but I can't say exactly what would be easier or harder with the front axles there.

[@toddkanzenbach3209]

Do you just release the CV axle and work around it or remove it? Would it be in the way?

[@i-55southstl55]

Dude rwd do not have front axles. Only the back.

[@abdirahmanahmed985]

So did you replace the hole control arm or u just replace the pushing ??? cause they keep telling me u can’t replace the pushing alone u should replace the hole thing ??? Any idea bro

[@EdBwoy]

The whole control arm chief. That's what I was talking about in the beginning of the video. You can't replace any part of the control arm, maybe the strut lower mount... but the ball joint and front bushing I haven't found any means to replace them.

[@oluwatosinolayemi7319]

@@EdBwoy Hi, I own a 2011 M37 RWD and currently is at the mechanic for the lower control arm job. Some of its bushing are cracked, the ball joints moves freely when the arm was totally out (what the heck of engineering mounting a ball joint directly on this control arm unit, they just don't want us fixing this thing). Are them bushings on the lower control arm replaceable? Are them ball joints repairable or can be torqued back to be tight and not loose? Cost of replacement is very high. Also, I'm replacing one of my shocks (passenger's side). Will appreciate your earliest response.

[@toddkanzenbach3209]

Is the lower control arm replacement the same with '08 M45x? Instead of RWD?

[@EdBwoy]

Sorry I missed this. The AWD control arm is slightly different at the rear bushing, but in principle, it's the same steps

[@jay5ive1000]

? I have a 08 Infiniti m45x it’s not the base. I need help getting the control arm will the one your using fit on mine or do o gotta buy the m45x control arm that 150 more expensive

[@EdBwoy]

Unfortunately, the RWD control arm will not work for you, mainly because of the rear mount design. Where have you been checking the prices you have?

[@deasttn]

Yeah, the AWD X models and the RWD models have different parts.

[@don-cw1yz]

Buying a whole new control arm assembly is really expensive. Why didn't Infiniti design the control arm assembly so new bushings /ball joints could be pressed in or unbolted /bolt in as you do in other vehicles? Perhaps so they can sell you a new complete assembly at an inflated price?

[@EdBwoy]

Maybe it was the best way to get a part that provided the handling they wanted out of a car. I know it's not cheap, but I don't mind too much since it's not a frequent replacement item.

[@don-cw1yz]

@@EdBwoy I am in Canada, that part is $1200.00 Cdn. plus you need another $60.00 part when you do the job. I think they are about $600.00 in the USA. Here is an interesting video where the owner found a rear ball joint replacement kit for a G35. The mechanic doing the job was surprised it worked. I recently did the ball joints on my daughters Toyota Corolla and my Subaru Outback. You are looking at about $60. -$80. to do both sides on those cars. That is one hell of a lot cheaper than the Infiniti. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a6nUfouHp8yEpJY

[@leali74]

Do you think the lower control arm will bend before the frame

[@EdBwoy]

It depends. There are a lot of components that will fail before the frame bends. But again, the unibody has crumple zones that bend in some front collisions

[@leali74]

I really do appreciate you getting back. Im going to replace the low control arm next hoping for the best lol. And your video was very well done it dont get no better then that

[@dazzaas4184]

And do you know if my old one is refurbishable

[@EdBwoy]

We still have no known way to refurbish them. Your V36 Skyline should be more directly compatible to the US Infiniti G37, G35.

[@kennyrhad102]

Are the front lower control arms the same on the g37 coupe

[@slickbusem]

This what I’m trying to find out to

[@EdBwoy]

The part numbers are very different. I hope someone who owns both cars can compare and tell us the differences. One might be wider

[@Tropical0009]

Can that cause shaking at the wheel going freeway speeds on a 2004 Infiniti fx45 AWD?

[@EdBwoy]

Yes, it can. Among other things like tire wear, wheel imbalance, bad alignment, bad rotors etc

[@Tropical0009]

@@EdBwoy how can I check which one is the issue

[@EdBwoy]

@@Tropical0009 where are you located?

[@Tropical0009]

@@EdBwoy San Bernardino county California

[@EdBwoy]

@@Tropical0009 ok, I have friends all over the world now. Just wanted to make sure my advice is relevant. My strategy starts with an alignment professional 1. Firestone in my area has a $10 alignment inspection. They put it on a lift and do their best to identify the problem. Call around, see what shops around you offer. 2. If they can't isolate a suspension issue, you might need to deal with the wheels. Usually I rotate them to see if the shake changes in location or severity. Wheels do need to get rebalance ever so often 3. After that, you either let them repair it or try to do it yourself. 4. Note that sometimes you,might need to make several trips. 5. Since I usually do the replacements myself, I buy lifetime alignments for the cars we are gonna keep... Or those very jacked up and the alignment pays for itself about 3 uses into the trial and error exercise

[@kennethcarr2449]

Thanks for sharing

[@EdBwoy]

You're welcome, I'm glad to help

[@whatchutalkinboutwillis7001]

Where are you finding the torque specifications?

[@EdBwoy]

In the factory service manual. www.nicoclub.com/infiniti-service-manuals#m35_m37_m45_m56

[@whatchutalkinboutwillis7001]

EdBwoy Awesome, thanks!

[@ezequiel101910]

Do you have the torque specs

[@EdBwoy]

I don't have all the numbers with me currently, but this file should have most of what you need - www.nicoclub.com/service-manual?fsm=M35+M37+M45+M56%2F2006+M45-M35%2Ffsu.pdf

[@ggbx793]

After this will you need an alignment

[@EdBwoy]

Yes, strongly recommended

[@tiguydoo]

Thank you men! very good video, you save me lot of $$ ;)

[@Jesus-lz7nd]

Where is your cv axle?

[@EdBwoy]

This car doesn't have CV axles in the front. It is a rear wheel drive model

[@Jesus-lz7nd]

EdBwoy i replaced the lower control arm on my m35x and i tightened the lower ball joint nut but it looks like its lose still do you have a fb so i can show you what lm dealing with maybe you can help me out

[@EdBwoy]

@@Jesus-lz7nd email me at [e-mail].

[@Sirmar]

I wish we were neighbors. 😁

[@EdBwoy]

That's my luck. No Infinitis in my neighborhood. I always live where the brand seems underappreciated

[@3isq73]

hlo my friend can me ask Questions !!????

[@EdBwoy]

Hello, ask away. I'll answer what I can

[@3isq73]

EdBwoy Brother i have something in m45 light VDC off/RAS/SLIP Do you know how to fix the solution or what is the problem?

[@EdBwoy]

The first thing people do is to check the brake fluid level. If it is low, add fluid and consider replacing your brake pads soon. If the fluid level is ok then it might be an issue with your clockspring.

[@3isq73]

EdBwoy Brother i checked all bat he have proplem in ABS system Brother have wats!!??

[@EdBwoy]

There is a problem with the ABS system? What does it have? It's OK if you write in another language, I will try to translate it.

[@jesusmartinez2233]

Hey, I have a 2007 Infiniti m45. I see alot of great information on your channel on these cars. Youve helped me out a ton. Thanks so much. By any chance do you have an email or phone number I can contact you at for maybe a couple questions? Thanks so much!

[@EdBwoy]

Thanks man, I am glad my work here is useful. If it's a general question, you can always post them here in case someone else can answer your questions or benefit from it. Otherwise, my email is edbwoy at gmail.