How to Replace Control Arm with Ball Joint 99-03 Nissan Maxima
Difficulty: Advanced · About 100 min · Nissan Maxima
Replace a front lower control arm with its ball joint on a 1999–2003 Nissan Maxima, freeing the axle and stabilizer link, transferring the alignment bar, and arranging a professional wheel alignment after reassembly.
Tools you will need
- 14mm Wrench
- Torque Wrench
- Hammer
- 15mm Socket
- Rust Penetrant
- Jack Stands
- 21mm Socket
- 27mm socket
- 32mm Socket
- Center Punch
- Ratchet
- Floor Jack
- Needle nose pliers
- 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
- 22mm Socket
Parts and supplies
- Front lower control arm with ball joint
- Ball joint cotter pin
- Axle nut locking hardware
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen wheel nuts while the vehicle is on the ground, then raise and support the front securely on a stand. Remove the wheel and keep the hardware organized.
Free the axle from the hub
Remove the axle nut's cotter pin and locking hardware, then loosen the nut using the correct socket. Confirm the axle splines move in the hub before proceeding; protect the threads if gentle pressure is needed.
Disconnect the stabilizer link
Hold the back of the lower stabilizer link fastener with a wrench while removing its nut. Move the link aside without damaging its bushings or threads.
Remove the control arm
Apply penetrant to corroded fasteners. Remove the control arm alignment bar and bracket bolts, separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle, and support the knuckle so the brake hose and axle are not strained.
Transfer the alignment bar
Compare the replacement arm with the original and transfer the alignment bar in the same orientation. Keep any eccentric washers or alignment marks in their original positions and tighten the connection to specification.
Install the replacement control arm
Position the ball joint in the knuckle and secure it with the specified nut and a new cotter pin. Refit the axle, alignment bar, and bracket bolts by hand, then raise the arm to normal ride height before tightening bonded bushings.
Reconnect the stabilizer and axle
Reinstall the stabilizer link and tighten its fastener to specification. Install the axle nut and locking hardware using the manufacturer's torque and staking procedure.
Install the wheel and align
Reinstall the wheel and torque its nuts in a star pattern to specification. Arrange a professional wheel alignment before normal driving and inspect the brake hose, ABS wire, ball joint boot, and axle boot.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.