Common Problems with Control Arm Bushings and How to Prevent Them
Vehicle control arms, bushings, and ball joints are very important suspension and steering components. These parts allow flexibility and controlled movement according to the road conditions and the steering input from the driver. But, when they become worn, it can cause problems for the vehicle that compromise handling and comfort, or result in catastrophic damage to the suspension and steering system.
Bushings
As we talked about in our last article, bushings function similar to cartilage. They cushion the suspension system which, in turn, controls noise and vibrations, and also provide a softer ride over bumps. Just as worn or damaged cartilage results in bone on bone contact and discomfort, worn or damaged bushings can allow metal on metal contact. This creates tire wear, discomfort, strange noises, and vibrations. Bushings typically deteriorate due to heat, age, exposure, heavy loads, salt, oils, and the stress of frequent movement.Ball Joints
Ball joints are another common culprit in failing suspension systems. There is not exact lifespan on sealed ball joints, but they can fail as early as 80,000 miles, or even earlier in some vehicles, depending on your driving style. Like the ball and socket joint that connects your leg to your hip, a control arm’s ball joint connects and holds the front suspension of your vehicle together. Just like your hip joint facilitates leg movement, a ball joint enables the wheel and suspension to move together in the same manner. It’s important to watch for signs of ball joint failure and address them in a timely fashion. If a ball joint fails completely it can cause a complete loss of control, putting you and any passengers in serious danger. Typically, the tire will be at an angle, and the vehicle will come to an abrupt halt. This could damage the wheel and tire, other suspension components, and possibly even other parts of the vehicle.The Signs and Symptoms
There are many signs of a failing ball joint or control arm bushings including:- Clicking, popping, or snapping sound when the wheel is turned. Eventually, the clicking and popping can turn into a squeaking sound at the end of a stop, when the gas pedal is used, and/or when turning the steering wheel.
- A significant shift in the vehicle’s steering alignment, which may cause the steering to pull to the side. This will require constant correction to steer the vehicle straight.
- Knocking or clunking noises coming from the suspension when going over bumps. The sound will continuously get louder as the component wears or eventually breaks.
- Worn bushings or ball joints can cause wheel shimmy, which may cause vibrations that are felt in the steering wheel. Vibrations may increase during acceleration and smooth out at higher speeds.
- Dry ball joints usually have dramatically increased friction and can cause the steering to stick or be more difficult.