Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost – A Hole In Your Wallet?

Imagine yourself driving over a dirt road with a surface as uneven as the one on the moon. The passenger cabin is kept all cozy by the suspension which irons the bumps out. The lower control arm is an integral part of the suspension that forms the link between the wheel and the frame. So, will this element ever fail, and if it does, how much will it cost you to replace it? Is a lower control arm replacement cost really that expensive?

• What Is The Lower Control Arm?
• Repair & Replacement Costs
• Durability Of The Lower Control Arm
• Signs Of A Bad Lower Control Arm
• DIY Repair & Fixes
• Types Of Bushings
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Lower Control Arm

The control arm, as we mentioned earlier, can be simply called the component that connects the wheel to the frame. They facilitate the vertical movement of the wheels in tandem with the irregularities of the surface.

The control arms usually have three mounting points. A ball joint connects it to the wheel, while the remaining two mounting points connect the arm to the frame. This is possible via the usage of flexible rubber bushings, called control arm bushings. These rubber bushings allow the arm to flex under load and let the wheel move up and down.

With the bendable mounting of the control arm, the suspension gets assistance to smoothen the bumps on the road. So, at the end of it all, a little bit of credit can be given to this key part of our vehicle’s suspension.

When To Replace Lower Control Arm

As the control arm forms the main linkage between the arm and the frame of the vehicle, it is imperative that it is kept in its top shape. A failure in the arm can result in, well, not being able to move the car or truck. Therefore, it’s crucial that you pay close attention to replacing the lower control arm if it’s due. Usually, a lower control arm would last around 100,000 miles.

The problems in the control arm can stem from wear and tear after long years of usage. As the control arm ends are subjected to constant movement when the vehicle is in motion, the deterioration is higher at these points. It goes without saying that the rubber bushings at these points progressively degrade and tear away, bit by bit.

The control arms can cause issues due to these worn-down rubber bushings or the ball joint. This leads to excessive wobbling of the wheels and brake assembly, creeping into the cabin as rattles and vibrations.

“Lower control arm replacement” by ChurchOfBK is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 .

If there is damage to the lower control arm, it is paramount that it gets replaced. For some vehicles, just the bushings can be replaced. But for most vehicles, the entire lower control arm needs a swap.

How Much To Replace Control Arm

The lower control arm replacement cost can be split into two sections, the cost of the part itself and the labor charges for fitting it in. A new control arm can set you back anywhere between $50 to $100, depending on your car or truck.

As it is an advanced task, the replacement of this component can cost you more than $100 and go way up to $400 or more. So, in total, you may have to keep aside about $150 to $500 for this task, if you own an economical vehicle. It goes without saying that if you own a luxury car, the costs can easily skyrocket.

As per a survey conducted by autoservicecosts.com, the average lower control arm replacement cost is found to be $578. This survey took into consideration the lower control arm replacement cost of vehicles ranging from a Ford Focus to an Audi A8 Quattro. The top ceiling of the costs in this survey is occupied by Toyota Avalon, at an exorbitant cost of $2,286. But, keep in mind that this will vary from state to state or even garage to garage.

It is not necessary that you have to replace both left and right control arms in one go. However, if one of the lower control arms requires a replacement, the other may be damaged in the same way. So give the other control arm a check as well to see if that needs a swap. It does not matter if you replace either one or both of them, the wheels need to get aligned. This can cost you another $60-$120.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost Considerations

Here are some other things to consider when tallying up the lower control arm replacement cost…

1. The Impact of Car Brand and Model

Different car brands and models have specific requirements when it comes to their components. High-end brands might require specialized parts that are often priced higher. Meanwhile, older vehicles might have parts that are no longer being produced, leading to increased costs for sourcing these components. Always research the specific costs for your car’s make and model.

2. Materials Used in the Control Arm

Control arms can be made from various materials, each with its own price tag. Steel, aluminum, and composite materials are commonly used. Aluminum, for instance, is lightweight but may be pricier than steel. Composite materials, on the other hand, could be even costlier due to their durability and weight benefits.

3. Aftermarket vs. OEM Parts

Aftermarket parts are typically less expensive than Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) parts. However, OEM parts guarantee a perfect fit and are often backed by a warranty. Aftermarket parts can offer a similar quality at a lower price, but make sure to research the brand’s reputation first.

4. Regional Pricing Differences

Prices can vary significantly based on your location. Urban areas with a higher cost of living often have pricier labor rates. Conversely, smaller towns might offer more affordable rates, but the availability of specialized parts could be limited.

5. Labor Intensity and Complexity

The labor intensity depends on your car’s design. Some vehicles allow easy access to the control arm, reducing labor hours, while others might require additional components to be removed first, thus increasing labor costs.

6. Additional Parts Replacement

It’s not just about the control arms. Sometimes, related components, like bushings or ball joints, may also need replacement. These parts, although smaller, can add up in costs, especially if they’re worn out or damaged.

7. Shop Reputation and Expertise

Well-established automotive shops might charge more due to their experience and reputation. But remember, with experience comes the assurance of a job well done. Sometimes, it’s worth paying a little extra for peace of mind.

8. Warranty and Guarantees

Some shops offer warranties on their labor, ensuring that if there’s an issue after the replacement, they’ll address it without additional charges. A longer warranty period might come with a slightly higher initial cost, but it can be beneficial in the long run.

9. Periodic Offers and Discounts

Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts or promotions from auto repair shops. Sometimes, you can avail of a significant discount, especially during off-peak seasons.

10. The Importance of Wheel Alignment

As mentioned, after replacing a control arm, a wheel alignment is necessary. But, it’s crucial to understand why. A misaligned wheel can lead to uneven tire wear, decreased fuel efficiency, and even compromised handling. Although it adds to the cost, it’s a step you shouldn’t skip.

Replacing the lower control arm is an investment in your vehicle’s performance and safety. Always ensure that you’re making an informed decision. Gather multiple quotes, understand the scope of the work, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. Being proactive can save you not only money but also potential future headaches. Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Prioritize quality and safety above all.

How Long Do Control Arms Last

Yes, the repair can be expensive, but it depends on the vehicle you own. Some manufacturers supply just the bearings of control arms. But to replace them, the labor charges will still be roughly the same, or even higher as it may need a hydraulic press to squeeze the bushings out of the control arm.

With the cost out of the way, the question that may loom in your mind may be about how often you will need to replace the control arm. There is some good news for you. It is not very often.

“Lower control arm replacement” by ChurchOfBK is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0 .

The lower control arm is a sturdy mechanical component and can last quite a long while, especially if you ride mostly over wall-paved roads. But in cars and trucks that regularly ply on dirt roads and other battered surfaces, deterioration of the lower control arm bushings can be a real threat. This issue can creep in after some years of driving the car or truck.

Bad Control Arm Symptoms

Like most parts of the vehicle, when the rubber bushings or the ball joints start wearing out, it starts showing up as vibrations. But the problems with the control arm can cause way more than just vibrations. Please note that the following issues are not always caused only by the lower control arm. But if you experience any of it, it is worthwhile to get it checked. Let us have a glance at what these issues can be.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost, Symptoms #1: Vibrations

The very first sign of a worn-out bushing can be vibrations that creep in. The driver may be able to feel the vibrations from the lower control arm through the steering wheel. As the control arms are directly connected to the front wheels, any excessive vibration from a worn-out bushing or a ball joint will travel onto the steering.

Most of us may pass these off as irregularities on the road, especially if we drive an old car with weakened steering units. But you certainly will not miss it under hard acceleration when the vibrations pick up strength. If you feel the steering shaking more than usual, it is advisable to get the vehicle checked as soon as possible. This can save you from the inconvenience of a breakdown and a tow truck ride to the nearest garage.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost, Symptoms #2: Noises

If there are vibrations, it will not take that long for noises to show up. Worn-out bushings loosen the ends of the control arm. Loose ends are an open stage for knocking, especially when the vehicle is driven over rough roads. The metal-on-metal clank can be quite disturbing and if this does not make you stop the car, we are not sure what will.

The more the sound is ignored, the more deafening it can get. So, if there is a sound clattering from your wheels, stop and get your suspension checked.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost, Symptoms #3: Uneven Steering Alignment

One of the very first symptoms of a fault with the lower control arm can be felt through the steering. The wearing down of the bushings can easily affect the alignment of the steering. With this uneven setup, the vehicle can wander off to the left or right, constantly requiring driver input to travel in a straight line.

This can be a serious safety hazard as it reduces control over the car/truck. During events that require emergency braking or a change in direction, this steering issue can create havoc.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost, Symptoms #4: Uneven Tire Wear

You must be familiar with the fact that misalignment causes uneven tire wear. It will also be useful to know that a deteriorated bushing or ball joint of a control arm can cause misalignment. Connecting the dots, uneven wear on your tires can hint at a possible issue with your control arm. All tires wear out naturally. But if your drives eat into your right tire more than your left tire, or vice versa, you should check them.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost, Symptoms #5: Vibrations Under Braking

Even though the control arm has no direct contact with the car’s braking system, it can cause trouble under braking. The ball joint is fastened close to the brakes of the car, and it will show the effects of a worn-out joint. The vehicles that have worn-out control arm mounts will shake under braking. The front end may vibrate, especially under emergency braking. This can be an indication that it is time for your old control arm to part ways with your vehicle.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost, Symptoms #6: Wobbly Wheels

Now, this is something you may not necessarily experience while driving. But when the vehicle is lifted on jacks, it is hard to miss too. The wheel will show a wobble when lifted off the ground and spun by hand. If there is considerable wobbling, it may be an indication of an improperly functioning lower control arm.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost, Symptoms #7: Age Of Your Vehicle

If all other symptoms hint at a bad control arm, the age of your vehicle can let you be prepared even before it fails. No part in any vehicle is designed to live forever, especially the ones under constant movement. The lower control arm is one such part that gets constant pressure exerted on it.

This component is bound to fail at some point and the vehicle’s age can be a good indicator for knowing when. If your car has more than 100,000 miles on the clock, it is not a bad idea to give the lower control arm a check. It is an even better idea to get them replaced. Prevention is always better than cure. Is it not?

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost, Symptoms #8: Accident Or Hitting A Kerb

It is obvious that an accident that impacts the front tire regions will have damaged the lower control arm. But it can also take a serious hit if you bang on a curb hard. In this case, you will start experiencing wobbles, vibrations, and noises. It is highly recommended that you stop driving the car and get the lower control arm checked.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost, Symptoms #9: Automotive Recalls

Manufacturers regularly announce recalls for many of their cars due to some faulty components in them. Your vehicle can be a part of a recall caused by a wrongly engineered or installed lower control arm. In this case, it is crucial that you follow the instructions issued by your manufacturer.

Check the NHTSA’s recall list to see if there are any recalls issued for your vehicle, and if you are from Canada, head over to the Transport Canada website for your country-specific list.

What Happens If Control Arm Breaks While Driving

Well, we should be thankful that the lower control arm is not a component that fails with no warning. The gradual wearing of the bushings is a blessing in disguise, giving us enough time to prepare. We already know that the control arm is a key link between the wheels and the frame. A failure of this system can be catastrophic as the control of the vehicle will be lost.

When a lower control arm breaks, the vehicle may veer off in the direction of the tires. This is obviously a hazard for the passengers, as well as the people on the road. The replacement of the lower control arm is certainly not the type of mechanical repair one can procrastinate.

Overall, it is no fun. The moment your vehicle gives you the first symptoms, drive right to the nearest garage and give it a check. This is especially true when you are driving an older car that is closer to a lower control arm failure.

Can I Repair The Lower Control Arm Myself

With labor costs soaring to $300 and beyond, there can be a certain desire for a DIY repair. It can cut down on the cost and give you a sense of satisfaction. But is it worth the effort? Can you really replace the lower control arm on your own? Or rather pragmatically, should you?

Just like almost all car repairs, yes you can replace the control arm by yourself. Do we recommend it? Depends. If you are an experienced person with several successful DIY repairs under the belt, yes. Else, no. For replacing the lower control arm, the car must be jacked up for better access to the part. If you have access to an elaborate tool kit and some experience in automotive repairs, you can pull it off.

“Right Front Lower Control Arm” by EP3OMAR is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 .

But, this may not be the job for you if you have not had grease on your hands yet. The replacement of the lower control arm is an intermediate/advanced level of car maintenance. Hence, it is best left to an expert to take care of. He/she can bring a lot of experience into the mix, and this can mean a world of difference.

And even if you manage a DIY replacement of the lower control arm, you will still need a tire alignment. This anyway needs a visit to a garage, ergo hiring a professional for the whole procedure is the easier fix.

How To Replace Lower Control Arm

The replacement of the lower control arm is a tedious process. But with proper equipment and expertise, it can be pulled off in half a day.

The procedure for the repair includes the following steps.

• Use a lift or jack to raise the car/truck for better access
• Remove the front wheels
• Disconnect the sway bar from the lower control arm
• Carefully unhook the lower ball joint from the wheel hub
• Unbolt the lower control arm from the vehicle frame
• Slowly pull the control arm from the vehicle to completely remove it
• Install the new control arm at the same mounting points
• Torque the nuts based on the instructions
• Fasten the wheels back on
• Realign the wheels and, you are good to go.

It is quite an elaborate process that requires experience. Just winging it with a DIY YouTube guide playing in the background may not cut it. Instead of saving a few bucks, this can easily vacuum out your wallet in the long run. With an expert around, you can rest assured that the lower control arm is not going to give up anytime soon.

The following YouTube video will give you a good visual idea about the whole process.

Aftermarket Control Arms

As is the case of any automotive spare part, OEM parts can be more expensive than their aftermarket equivalents. Choosing an aftermarket part sourced from a low-cost manufacturer can save you a few bucks at first. But, the new control arm may start making even weirder noises after a while. This will pave the way for an even bigger expense. Not to mention the hassle of visiting a garage and stripping apart your car’s front end again.

The control arm is a key mechanical part and skimping on its cost is not a great idea. If your aftermarket part is made by a renowned manufacturer, yes, it is okay to go forward. But an unmarked box, will most probably not be a cost saver.

Lower Control Arm Bushing

Generally, the bushings of a lower control arm are made of rubber. Most stock cars utilize rubber for their bushings. Rubber is a soft compound, that flexes more under load, smoothening the ride out. But this property of rubber bites it back too. The flexibility of rubber scores a hit on its durability. Rubber bushings of lower control arms can wear away quicker than other types of bushings.

But fret not, having a rubber bushing does not mean that you will have to replace your lower control arm every 10,000 miles.

Now, what if you are ready to sacrifice some ride comfort in favor of more durability? Then Polyurethane or PU bushings may be the right fit for you. These bushings are made of a flexible polymer that is more durable than rubber. Though flexible, a PU bushing in a lower control arm may not flex as much as that of a rubber bushing-equipped control arm. This lower flexibility blesses the PU bushings with the ability to outlast rubber.

But the lower flexibility of PU bushings can take a hit on ride comfort. It will not soak up bumps as well as rubber bushings, letting some judders creep into the cabin. PU bushings, hence are good for a weekend blast of spirited driving but not your daily school run. If your kids laugh when fed with G forces, that is a different story.

And if you are completely deranged, you can add aluminum bushing. It gives absolutely no flex whatsoever but it can be as stiff as a rock, the perfect trait for a track machine? So if you have a project car in your garage waiting to be turned into a track rocket, you may want to throw a couple of aluminum bearings at it.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost: In Conclusion…

The significance of the lower control arm and its health must be crystal clear to you by now. It is extremely important that the bushings and ball joint of the lower control arm be kept in top condition. Any negligence in its timely replacement can cause a life-threatening injury, not just to you but also to fellow road users.

The repair bill of more than $150-500 may look like a steep hill. But on the other side, a massive mountain of accidental repairs and possible injuries awaits. So, it may be the best decision to keep an eye on its health and replace it as soon as it wears down.

The key to a proper repair job is to find an experienced mechanic nearby. A person who knows their way around automobile components will be a valuable asset for you. Not just for this replacement, but for the general health of your car.

Utilize platforms like Google, Yelp, etc. to sift through your local garage list to find the one with the best reviews. If they are good enough to score a bunch of 5 stars from a bunch of people, it will be good enough for you.

Control Arm Replacement Facts for Car Owners

1. The control arm connects a car’s structure to the steering knuckle and helps orient the wheel properly.
2. The bushings in the control arm can degrade after around 100,000 km and cause the suspension to creak or knock against the bracket.
3. A damaged control arm can cause a car to pull to one side, veer off course, and have uneven tire wear.
4. It’s important to replace a damaged control arm as soon as possible to prevent more expensive suspension problems in the future.
5. A technician can identify a worn lower control arm through a test drive or a bounce test.
6. To replace a lower control arm, a technician must remove the wheel and tire and disconnect the ball joint and upper control arm.
7. It’s recommended to check the ball joint concurrently with changing the control arm and have the four wheels aligned after a control arm replacement.
8. A control arm replacement typically costs between $500 and $750, with parts ranging from $400 to $550 and labor costing $150 to $200.
9. Control arm bushings can be damaged by aggressive driving or driving on uneven terrain, and routine inspection is necessary to keep them clean and free of grease or oil.
10. Control arm replacement can be a mid-level do-it-yourself project, but it should be done safely to prevent serious damage or death.

Lower Control Arm Replacement Cost: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you’re still curious to learn more about a lower control arm replacement cost, our FAQs here might help…

How Much To Replace Ball Joints

If your car needs a ball joint replacement, just know that it doesn’t come cheap. On average, replacing worn ball joints will cost you anywhere from $400 to $800. To be fair, the ball joints themselves are rather cheap. You can find good-quality parts for as little as $80 or even $20 if you’re willing to opt for third-party, non-OEM, aftermarket ball joints. The bulk of the expense in a ball joint replacement cost isn’t the parts, but it’s the labor required. To replace the ball joints, a mechanic would have to take apart and disassemble much of the suspension assembly before they’re able to get to the ball joints. This alone could take several hours, hence why labor costs for replacing a ball joint could be as high as $300 or more.

What Are Bushings On A Car

The bushings on your car are also otherwise known as flexible mountings or anti-vibration mountings. As the name suggests, the bushings are responsible for absorbing bumps and shock as you’re driving along. Moreover, these bushings also manage and control the movement of certain components, ensuring that they won’t transmit too many vibrations and noises into the cabin. Bushings can be found primarily on suspension and steering components, such as on the control arms, sway bar links, and so on. Although, you’ll also be able to find bushings on non-moving components, like the body mounts and strut mounts.

What Do Control Arms Do

Control arms are among the most important parts of any vehicle. Essentially, it helps to connect the front wheel assembly with the rest of your car’s frame. Thus, not only allowing you to steer your vehicle accurately. But, the control arms also bear the brunt of any shock, movement, and load that your wheels absorb while you’re driving. When you’re in motion, the control arms synchronize the motion between the chassis and the wheels. On top of that, it aids in coordinating the operation of both the suspension and steering systems in your car. This ultimately yields a comfier yet sportier ride, and lets you take better control of the vehicle.

How Long Can You Drive With Bad Control Arm Bushings

If your car’s control arm bushings have gone bad, it’s wise to replace them as soon as possible. Otherwise, there’s a serious risk of the control arm bushings failing entirely as you’re driving. Given how much it impacts your car’s handling and driveability, having the control arm bushings fail midway as you’re driving can significantly heighten the risk of an accident. Although, it’s not always necessary to replace the control arm bushings right away. It all depends on how severe the wear and tear is on the control arm bushings. If it’s still driveable, you’re likely able to put on a few more miles before needing a total replacement.

How To Check Control Arm Bushings

Before you ascertain whether or not you need a set of new control arm bushings, it’s a good idea to give it a check-up. Begin by conducting a visual inspection of the control arm bushings. In particular, take notes if you’ve noticed any tears or huge cracks on the bushings themselves. If it’s passed thus far, you can then move on to checking the control arm bushings for any play or looseness. Simply grab a pry bar or a long metal rod. Then, place the pry bar near the control arm bushings, and start pulling it in back and forth. The control arm and its bushings should have some degree of looseness. But, if you notice severe play and looseness, then it’s likely due that you need to replace the control arm bushings.