1996 Lexus LS 400 , 140,000 miles

The dealer said that the front end needs new ball joints and struts. I took the car to two other shops, Pep Boys and STS; they both said that the ball joints and struts are OK.

How can a layman tell the difference? Are there signs and symptoms to look for?

thanks

 

Welcome to Club Lexus.

Generally you'll will get audible sounds like clunking, thumping, creaking with wearing suspension bushings.

This is one thread on clunking from worn strut bar bushings. Ball joints will exhibit play when the suspension is uncompressed and checked.

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls4...er-thread.html


As well, you'll notice uneven tire wear. If none of the above symptoms are present, just keep driving it. The dealer is quite conservative on what may actually need replacement.