Lower control arm replacement
 

I have a 2000 X5 4.4 with only 30 000 miles. Started to hear a clunking sound at low speeds but still drives fine. I am pretty sure the sound is coming from the drivers side lower control arm on the frame side of the control arm. Is it likely to cause damage if I don't replace it soon?I have read the DIY and it looks pretty easy. Is the lower control arm under any tension? I will probably buy the Ball joint fork tool as well. Is it OK to change one side or would you do both sides. Any specific place to purchase the control arms? Any other tips would be appreciated.
I have not done any suspension work in the past but have changed brake pads and do most maintanence at home.

Go ahead and do your sway bar links if the noise persists after doing the control arm swap. :goodluck:

no tension. you can just R&R if you both front off the ground.

I have my 540i at the dealer as we speak for the same problem...lower control arms and center link. You will need to change the bushings and will have to get an alignment done after replacing the parts. I decided to get both done...why change one now and have to do the other in a few months?? Wish I had the time & tools to do it myself, I would have saved about $1800!!:(

I wonder if this will solve my clunking noice in my 04 4.8 with 26k. It's been to the dealership more than 2x for the same clunking noice. BMW replaced a strut and a wheel bearing under warranty in hopes to solve the cluncking issue but it still remains.

The sound I get is actually more like a creaking sound that seems to originate from the lower control arm hinge. I don't feel any change is steering or ride.

Mine is a popping noise that happens right when I am reversing and turning my wheels.

I have this issue as well. Did you ever figure out what it was?

Thanks

I did replace the lower control arm and things have been fine. I had trouble removing the control arm and took it to a local garage for install.

2000? only 30,000 miles! to have parts wearing out, it must have been all offroad miles

Oops! just noticed it was one of our great neighbors in Canada. but still 30K in 9 years!?