chandrava

Hi guys,

Newbie here seeking for some advice. I recently bought a 2009 LS460 AWD (with Air Suspension) that had 83k miles.

During day to day driving, I noticed the suspension seemed to bottom out on the smallest pot holes on the road. The car seemed to handle the bumps ok and felt a bit bouncy over small bumps, but the pot holes would feel like I m driving with no shock absorbers at all. I test drove a 2010 AWD model with 39k miles and the difference is night and day. So I know there is definitely something wrong with my car's suspension.

Took it to a local Lexus dealer (Warwick, RI) and they said both the front lower ball joints were blown. I called the Lexus corporate guys they were great about it and offered to pay for half the repair cost.

Car now has new front lower ball joints, but the suspension still feels rough, and bottoms out with loud thud over pot holes and rough patches. I am going to take the car back to the dealer and have them inspect again, but I don't have high confidence in their expertise anymore.

Do you guys have any recommendations for independent repair shops/mechanics in MA/RI who specialize in LS460s?

The car also shudders slightly when the engine revs around 2000 rpm and occasionally when decelerating at highway speeds. Can this be a result of bad Control Arms (bushings)?? I have been reading around the forums here, I get a sense that it could be bad struts as well. Both seem to be expensive to replace without factory extended warranty.

I think I read almost 90% of the threads that talk about suspension troubles and control arms. But it seems like replacing these is a hit or miss affair. I was hoping to find someone who could inspect the car and tell me exactly what is involved in fixing it.

Thanks to all you guys in advance.
-- AV