Replacing left lower control arm

[hasema]

Where should i buy one? I should get a new one right?

I just need to replace the left one, should i replace both at the same time?

Thanks

[RRSperry]

I'd replace them in pairs. That way the ball joints will have the same service life, (front), or the bushings for the rear. And you only need 1 alignment.

[hasema]

I am replacing the front, What other items should i get when doing this?

[RRSperry]

How much money do you have? Lots? control arms, lca bushings, inner and outer tie rods. Alignment.

Less? Press in E30 ball joints, inspect everything else and replace as necessary. Alignment.

lots less? Drive it into the ground.

[BMWManiac]

The E36 M3 ball joints should not be replaced separate from the control arms....as far as I know, and I don't think it is a recommendation. The E30/E36 328 you can press out/in new ball joints. Not on the M3.

And yes, I would replace them in pairs. Look at RMEuropean.com That is where I buy many of my OEM parts unless it is cheaper through the dealer with BMW CCA discount.

[RRSperry]

There seem to be a lot of people that have successfully pressed them in. That said, when the time comes, I'm buying new Lemforders from a dealer.

[M3Alpine99]

That is what I would buy as well as to this point still have not seen an "OEM Replacement" for the E36 m3. Not even a Meyle or Meyle HD. Dealer only part it seems.

Lots of people have pressed in those ball joints with good results.

[hasema]

I don't have much coinage to put into this car. I'm on unemployment. I was hoping to get just replacing one side. The other is aligned ok. I just had an alignment and they said replace the strut and lca to remove positive camber.

[Volf]

I'd replace them in pairs. That way the ball joints will have the same service life, (front), or the bushings for the rear. And you only need 1 alignment.

This

[ThreeD]

If you're looking to do it on a budget, press in new balljoints (inner/outer). Make sure you buy both, you're most likely going to break the boot when you use a pickle fork to remove them.