I previously posted about my steering wheel locking up while driving resulting in a spin out and crash on the interstate. It was EXTREMELY terrifying and thankfully, I’m okay! I got the chance to take pictures of the damage yesterday and we noticed the steer arm on the passenger side front tire was broken. I’m not sure if it was the cause of the crash or the result of the crash. We’re currently waiting on a mechanic to take a look at it, but I was wondering if anyone has had a similar problem? I’m not super knowledgeable on cars, but I’m pretty sure this shouldn’t happen!

 

Can you post a picture of the top area of the upper suspension arm? Just trying to see if the upper ball joint didn't fail first.

 

Is this what you mean?

 

Yes.

It seems the inner tie rod broke. Completely sheared both ends. The upper arm ball joint is unscathed.

 

Is this something I should contact Lexus about? I assume that’s probably a wear and tear thing, but there were absolutely no signs. No shaking, no noise, and my car was aligned. I would’ve never been driving if I knew it was at risk of breaking.

 

wow never seen anything like that before. possible it was fatigued but by what? only thing i can think of that can break it is if it actually struck something.
this is a head scratcher for sure, and glad you are OK!

 

Could you post a close up of the point where the arm broke? I'm curious to see the failure mode, and it should (hopefully) be apparent by looking at the point of failure.

Thanks,
Sass

 

Post crash I'd guess. It's bent and said bend was high impact. The right front tire and wheel are destroyed; yes?
Care to share some exterior shots?
Glad you're ok!