And most of the time, for the noise you're referring to and the circumstance for creating that noise, it's not the lower control arm, it's the strut rod or something similiar in design. It's been that way since the 1st LS400 hit about 80k miles. But, sometimes it starts with the lower control arm. Take a look at the attached diagram. The lower control arm is #9. It has a suggested RETAIL price of $267.14. But can be bought for $184.69 from parts.com (where I got this diagram). However, look at #s 12 and 10 in that diagram. #12 is called a "stopper", sells for about $10 bucks. And number #10 ($62 bucks) is the LS430's definition of the "strut rod bushing" of the older LS400's, which were 99% responsible for the exact same noise you're describing.
So I have the same problem with a 01 LS430 with the Ultra package (109,000 miles). Lucky me I just spent $4,500 on 3 new air struts. I am getting the groaning when I brake hard but I also have a lot of movement in the front end when I hit a bump. It feels loose and makes noise. Any advice on what I should start replacing. When the dealership replaced the air struts they indicated that I needed new lower control arms. I would like to avoid that expense if I can try replacing other parts. Any advice would be appreciated.
Ls430 Lower Control Arm Bushing
in 01 - 06 Lexus LS430
Posted
So I have the same problem with a 01 LS430 with the Ultra package (109,000 miles). Lucky me I just spent $4,500 on 3 new air struts. I am getting the groaning when I brake hard but I also have a lot of movement in the front end when I hit a bump. It feels loose and makes noise. Any advice on what I should start replacing. When the dealership replaced the air struts they indicated that I needed new lower control arms. I would like to avoid that expense if I can try replacing other parts. Any advice would be appreciated.