2022-2025 Lucid Air Suspension Subframe: Noises, Recalls, and Used Part Inspection

Symptoms of Subframe and Mount Issues

Problems with the subframe or its related components on a Lucid Air can manifest in several ways. While the vehicle is too new for widespread mount wear-out, manufacturing issues and loose components have been reported. Listen and feel for these specific symptoms.

Clunking or Rattling from the Front Suspension

A metallic rattle or clunking sound from the front of the car, especially at lower speeds over bumps, is a commonly reported issue. While this could indicate a serious problem, many Lucid Air owners have found the cause to be improperly torqued nuts on the front stabilizer (sway bar) end links. This is a relatively simple fix but produces a noise that can sound like a major suspension failure. In some cases, this has been addressed by Lucid service centers as part of a service campaign (TSC-S0925-020).

Poor Handling or Vague Steering

If the subframe itself is loose due to failing mounts or loose bolts, the vehicle's steering may feel sloppy, vague, or imprecise. The car might feel like it's wandering on the highway or require more steering input than usual to change direction. This is because the subframe is shifting, altering the suspension geometry (the angles of the wheels) dynamically.

Unusual Tire Wear

When subframe mounts fail, they can allow the subframe to shift slightly from its intended position. This change in alignment can lead to accelerated and uneven tire wear, often on the inner or outer edges of the tires. If you notice your tires are wearing out quickly, a full alignment check is necessary, which can also reveal a subframe position issue.

Creaking or Groaning Noises

A creaking noise when going over bumps could be related to the subframe assembly. In one documented case, a creaking noise was traced back to High Voltage Battery (HV-B) bolts that were not torqued to specification from the factory. Since the battery and subframe are interconnected, a noise from this area warrants a thorough inspection of all major mounting bolts.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins

Several official recalls and known issues are relevant to the subframe and suspension of the 2022-2025 Lucid Air.

NHTSA Recall 22V-727: Front Subframe Tow Eye Bracket

This is the most direct subframe-related recall. On some 2022 Lucid Air models, the front subframe was manufactured with an improperly attached tow eye bracket. The adhesive used was inadequate, creating a risk that the bracket could detach during vehicle recovery (towing). The remedy involves Lucid service centers adding two rivets to the bracket to secure it properly.

Known Issue: Loose Stabilizer Bar End Links

As mentioned in the symptoms section, a rattling or clunking from the front end is frequently caused by loose stabilizer bar end link nuts. This appears to be a factory assembly issue on some vehicles. Lucid has a technical service campaign (TSC-S0925-020) to address this by re-torquing the nuts. This should be one of the first things checked if you hear a front-end rattle.

Related Suspension & Driveline Recalls

While not directly part of the subframe mount, other recalls affect components in the immediate vicinity:

• NHTSA Recall 22V090: Affects some 2022 models where front strut dampers were assembled incorrectly, potentially causing a snap ring to fail. This could lead to a sudden loss of ride height and damage to the brake lines.
• NHTSA Recall 25V669: Affects certain 2024-2026 RWD models where improperly secured half-shaft bolts could lead to a loss of drive power.
• Rear Subframe Wiring Harness: An earlier recall was issued for a rear subframe wiring harness that was too short, creating stress on the connectors and potentially causing a loss of power.

Buying a Used Lucid Air Subframe Mount

Due to the vehicle's design, you will likely be purchasing the entire subframe assembly, not just the individual mounts. This makes inspection critical.

Physical Inspection Checklist

• Check for Cracks and Damage: The Lucid Air has an aluminum body structure, and the company expressly prohibits structural pulling for collision repair. Inspect the entire subframe for any signs of cracks, bends, or stress marks, especially around weld points and mounting holes. Any evidence of major impact damage means the part should be rejected.
• Inspect the Mounts (Bushings): Look closely at the large rubber bushings. The rubber should be firm and intact. Check for deep cracks, tearing, or separation of the rubber from the metal inner or outer sleeves. Look for any signs of leaking hydraulic fluid, as some advanced bushings are fluid-filled.
• Verify Recall Compliance: If buying a front subframe from a 2022 vehicle, check for the two rivets on the tow eye bracket that signify the completion of NHTSA recall 22V-727.
• Look for Scrapes and Gouges: Heavy scraping on the bottom of the subframe can indicate the vehicle suffered a severe undercarriage impact, potentially compromising the integrity of the part.

Why Used OEM is the Only Choice

For a vehicle as new and complex as the Lucid Air, there are currently no aftermarket manufacturers producing replacement subframes or mounts. A used OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part is the only viable option outside of a brand new part from Lucid. A recycled OEM part that has passed inspection offers the original factory fitment, material quality, and engineering, which is essential for maintaining the safety and performance characteristics of the vehicle.

Cost Breakdown for Subframe Replacement

Replacing a subframe is a labor-intensive job. The costs below are estimates and will vary based on location and the specific repairs needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)