05 Pontiac vibe (Driver side) Lower control arm and strut replacement

03-08 Corolla/Matrix/Vibe auto trans - driver side control arm
I dreaded replacing this part as there was no good info about the driver side. I didn't want to remove the battery and battery box, so I removed the trans mount frame bolts. The passenger side is really easy in comparison. I ended up replacing the front motor mount also.
This job applies to 03-08 Pontiac Vibe 2WD/AWD corolla matrix
Torque specs:
2 bolts - control arm bushings - 101 ft·lbs
2 nuts, 1 bolt - control arm to ball joint - 66 ft·lbs
1 nut - lower sway bar link end (optional) - 55 ft·lbs
4 bolts - transmission mount to body - 38 ft·lbs
1 bolt/nut - transmission mount bushing - 59 ft·lbs
I used a pair of Vice grips on the backside of the sway bar link to hold it. However it is a 5mm or 6mm on the end but was to rusted to use.
0:00 Intro
0:55 Remove air box
1:05 removed trans mount bolts
2:00 removed front engine mount bolts
2:30 Remove bolt
4:00 old/new Control arm comparison
5:30 new arm installed
6:30 Review

[@luisherrera1186]

Thank you for posting this most videos just show the passenger side your brave

[@crazypeople4x4]

Your welcome. That was the issue I found and figured I'd make one for driver side.

[@mikes.4811]

I have a 03 GT with the 6 speed manual. Will I have the same issue with the trans when I go to replace my control arm? Haven't had a chance to take a look. 👍👍

[@crazypeople4x4]

@@mikes.4811 That I dont know, hopefully the manual is easier.

[@mikes.4811]

@@crazypeople4x4 Guess I'll find out. lol Thanks! :)

[@baileyducommun9037]

@@mikes.4811 Let me know if you had issues! I have a 05 GT, thinking the same thing with it being easier, but not 100% sure.