I sold my 850 so can't verify, but I don't recall the clips on mine...that's when I took the control arm off to replace it and also with the replacement piece. If it comes off easily, take it off and see what's under it. If nothing, I don't see that not having the clips on will hurt anything. If anyone disagrees, please chime in. I suppose the bushings and balljoint are okay? If they aren't there will be signs of swelling cracks or deterioration of the rubber. In pre-'94 models the control arms are aluminum (not good) so only the ends can be replaced (with a hybraulic press) unless the aluminum is bent, but with '94 and beyond the whole piece is steel and the ends can't be replaced...the whole A-arm has to be. Hope some of this information helps.