Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Buick Park Avenue. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: Use only the recommended tools for separating the ball joint from the knuckle. Failure to use the recommended tools may cause damage to the ball joint and seal.

Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to LIFTING AND JACKING THE VEHICLE .
Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to TIRE AND WHEEL REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION in Tires and Wheels.
Remove the stabilizer shaft link. Refer to STABILIZER SHAFT LINK REPLACEMENT .
Remove the lower ball joint cotter pin (1).
Loosen the lower ball joint retaining nut (2) from the ball stud.

Fig 1: Loosening Lower Ball Joint Retaining Nut From Ball Stud
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

NOTE: Care must be exercised to prevent Tri-Pot joints from being over-extended. When either end of the shaft is disconnected, over-extension of the joint could result in separation of internal components and possible joint failure. Drive axle joint seal protectors should be used any time service is performed on or near the drive axles. Failure to observe this can result in interior joint or seal damage and possible joint failures.
Using J 43828 remove the lower ball joint from the steering knuckle.
Remove the lower ball joint retaining nut.

Fig 2: Removing Lower Ball Joint From Steering Knuckle
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.
Remove the lower control arm mounting bolts and nuts.
Remove the lower control arm from the frame.

Fig 3: Removing Lower Control Arm
Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.