Inspection After Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Infiniti QX56. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Check the front lower link and bushing for any deformation, crack, or damage. Replace if necessary.
Check the rubber bushing for damage, cracks and deformation. Replace the front lower link and bushing if necessary.
Before checking, turn the ball joint at least 10 revolutions so that the ball joint is properly broken in.
Check the ball joint. Replace the front lower link if any of the following conditions exist:

Ball stud is worn.
Joint is hard to swing.
Play in axial direction is excessive.

Swinging force "A": Refer to "BALL JOINT ".
Turning force "B": Refer to "BALL JOINT ".
Vertical end play "C": Refer to "BALL JOINT ".

Fig 1: Checking Swinging Force "A", Turning Force "B" And Vertical End Play "C"
Courtesy of NISSAN MOTOR CO., U.S.A.