What Causes Control Arm Wear?
Control arms and bushings are critical components of your suspension system. Working together, they allow your tires to move up and down in a smooth, controlled motion. Without them, most rides would be extremely rough and uncomfortable.
Control Arms
Control arms connect the wheel hubs and steering knuckles to the frame of the vehicle. They allow the wheels to move up and down while preventing forward and backward movement. Most cars have one or two control arms per wheel, one upper and one lower, on both the front and wheel suspensions. Most trucks and SUVs have both an upper and lower control arm, while many front wheel drive vehicles only use a lower control arm.
Bushings
Many suspensions and steering joints utilize bushings where vibration is concerned. they can be used in control arms, shock absorber mounts, stabilizer bars, stabilizer links, engine and transmission mounts, and other suspension and steering components. Bushings are especially important, as they impact comfort and handling. They cushion the suspension system, which controls noise and vibrations and provides a softer ride on rough roads. Their unique material can flex and move, but always return to the original shape and position.
Some Common Problems
Like any car component control arms wear down over time and need to be replaced. Control arms can bend or break when driving over large potholes or bumps, while bushings can also wear out on their own due to age. Over time, the wear from constant movements and New England potholes can also cause them to break. If your control arm assembly needs to be replaced you might notice a banging or clanging noise while driving over bumps.
Bushings, on the other hand, serve a function similar to cartilage. Damaged cartilage results in bone-on-bone contact and discomfort, similar to the way that worn or damaged bushings can allow metal-on-metal contact, tire wear, uncomfortable rides, noises, and vibrations. Bushings typically deteriorate due to heat, age, exposure, heavy loads, salt, oils, and the stress of frequent movement.
At V&F
Our expert mechanics use the latest diagnostic equipment, and high-quality CARQUEST auto parts, to make sure we get the job done right. Plus, our auto repair services are backed by an industry-leading 3-year / 36,000-mile warranty on parts and labor. Call us today at (413) 314-2280 or schedule an appointment online.
Happy Shock-tober! We’re using the entire month of October to review suspension basics, maintenance, and repair. This article was originally published in November 2018 and has been updated.