Post by
deserttaxguy »
https://forums.nicoclub.com/deserttaxguy-u303636.html
Wed Dec 14, 2022 5:40 pm
Sorry, to say this, but if your control arm doesn't have serviceable, replaceable ball joints and bushings, that you are better of just biting the bullet and getting the right part. I just did the lower control arms on my 03 M45.. and while the price of the part is terrible, if one thing is bad, the others aren't too far away. My bushings where torn on both sides and my car has 90,000 miles. I just got the right part for around $350 each ($180 off list too!), The OEM part number is 54500-CR900 and the part you are thinking of is advertised as replacing part 54500-AG500. I'm betting thats got something to do with the bores on the control arm not having the slots for the retaining ring to hold the service part in.
I guess for the few bucks they want for that replacement ball joint, you could try to do it. Probably won't work. If you really don't want to spend the money on the right part, I'd look at a salvage part online. I found some for sale, but you never know how long that will last.
I'm hoping it will for all of us 03 owners! Good luck