BMW X5 front end clunking and wandering during cornering, possibly related to new lower control arms on BMW X5

Some BMW X5 owners report experiencing front end clunking and wandering during cornering, particularly after replacing lower control arms. The clunking noise may stem from failed ball joints, bad tie rods, control arm bushings, upper strut mounts, or damaged struts. Additionally, owners are advised to investigate common sources of suspension clunking, such as sway bar links, before considering more extensive repairs like wheel carrier replacement. The wandering issue, characterized by the vehicle drifting from side to side, could be linked to mismatched tires, uneven tire pressure, linkage binding, or steering gear problems. Some users have noted intermittent clunking sounds from the front driver's side suspension, especially when navigating bumps or releasing the brakes. To diagnose these issues, some owners utilize "sound sentry" devices to help pinpoint the source of the noise. It is crucial for owners to conduct a thorough inspection of these components to effectively address the clunking and wandering concerns in their BMW X5.