Control Arm Assembly Repair Costs
Front Lower Control Arm Replacement
Typical labor time: 1.5-2.5 hours per side
Labor cost: $187-$312
Parts cost: $75-$250 per arm (varies by vehicle)
Total estimated cost: $262-$562 per side
Front Upper Control Arm Replacement
Typical labor time: 1.5-2 hours per side
Labor cost: $187-$250
Parts cost: $60-$200 per arm (varies by vehicle)
Total estimated cost: $247-$450 per side
Rear Lower Control Arm Replacement
Typical labor time: 1-2 hours per side
Labor cost: $125-$250
Parts cost: $70-$225 per arm (varies by vehicle)
Total estimated cost: $195-$475 per side
Rear Upper Control Arm Replacement
Typical labor time: 1-1.5 hours per side
Labor cost: $125-$187
Parts cost: $50-$175 per arm (varies by vehicle)
Total estimated cost: $175-$362 per side
Note: Prices are estimates only. Final costs may vary based on vehicle make/model, parts availability, and additional repairs needed. Some luxury and performance vehicles may have higher parts costs. All labor calculated at $125/hour shop rate.
Additional Considerations:
- Alignment is typically required after control arm replacement ($80-$120 additional)
- Both sides often need replacement at the same time
- Bushings and ball joints may need replacement as part of the service
- Some vehicles require additional parts removal for access, increasing labor time
Upper Control Arm Repair Procedure
Step 1: Initial Inspection and Setup
• Raise vehicle and secure with jack stands
• Remove wheel and tire assembly
• Inspect for visible damage, wear, or loose components
Step 2: Component Removal
• Mark alignment positions for reference
• Remove cotter pin and castle nut from ball joint
• Disconnect sway bar links if necessary
• Remove upper ball joint from steering knuckle
• Remove control arm mounting bolts
Step 3: Installation
• Compare new control arm to old unit
• Install new control arm with new mounting bolts
• Torque bolts to manufacturer specifications
• Connect ball joint to steering knuckle
• Install new castle nut and cotter pin
Step 4: Completion
• Reinstall wheel and tire assembly
• Lower vehicle
• Perform wheel alignment
• Road test vehicle
Lower Control Arm Repair Procedure
Step 1: Initial Inspection and Setup
• Raise vehicle and secure with jack stands
• Remove wheel and tire assembly
• Support lower control arm with jack
Step 2: Component Removal
• Mark alignment positions
• Remove brake caliper and secure (don't let it hang)
• Disconnect ball joint from steering knuckle
• Remove strut assembly if necessary
• Remove control arm mounting bolts
• Remove old control arm
Step 3: Installation
• Install new control arm with new bushings
• Install new mounting bolts
• Reconnect ball joint to steering knuckle
• Reinstall strut assembly if removed
• Torque all fasteners to specifications
Step 4: Completion
• Reinstall brake caliper
• Install wheel and tire assembly
• Lower vehicle
• Perform wheel alignment
• Road test vehicle
Important Notes:
• Always refer to vehicle-specific repair manual
• Replace worn bushings and ball joints
• Use new hardware when specified
• Wheel alignment is required after control arm replacement
• Both sides should be replaced if showing similar wear
Note: Labor time typically ranges from 1.5-3 hours per control arm depending on vehicle make and model.
Understanding Control Arm Assemblies
Lower Control Arm Assembly
The lower control arm is a crucial suspension component that connects your vehicle's frame or body to the steering knuckle and wheel assembly. It allows for controlled up-and-down wheel movement while maintaining proper wheel alignment. This component bears most of the vehicle's weight and absorbs road impacts, making it essential for ride comfort and handling.
Upper Control Arm Assembly
The upper control arm works in conjunction with the lower control arm in vehicles with double-wishbone or SLA (Short-Long Arm) suspension systems. It provides additional stability and helps maintain proper wheel camber throughout the suspension's range of motion. The upper control arm is typically shorter than the lower arm and helps control wheel movement during cornering and braking.
Front Control Arm Assembly
Front control arms are specifically designed for the front suspension system, where they play a vital role in steering and handling. These assemblies often include integrated ball joints and bushings, allowing for precise steering control while absorbing road vibrations. They're crucial for maintaining proper wheel alignment and ensuring responsive steering.
Rear Control Arm Assembly
Rear control arms help maintain proper wheel alignment and stability in the vehicle's rear suspension. They control the forward and backward movement of the rear wheels while helping to prevent excessive body roll during cornering. In vehicles with independent rear suspension, these components are essential for maintaining consistent handling characteristics.
Lateral Control Arm Assembly
Lateral control arms, also known as trailing arms or track bars, help prevent side-to-side movement of the axle or wheel assembly. They're particularly important in maintaining stability during cornering and ensuring the wheels track properly. These arms work alongside other suspension components to provide precise handling and reduce unwanted wheel movement.
Note: The specific design and configuration of control arm assemblies can vary significantly between vehicle makes and models. Always consult your vehicle's manual or a professional mechanic for specific information about your vehicle's suspension system.
Common Failure Symptoms of Control Arm Assembly: Warning Signs to Watch For
Control Arm Assembly: Signs of Failure & Maintenance Guide
Upper Control Arms
Signs of Failure:
- Clunking or knocking noise when going over bumps
- Steering wheel vibration
- Vehicle pulling to one side
- Uneven tire wear
- Loose or wandering steering
Service Schedule:
Typically inspect every 50,000 miles. Replacement usually needed between 80,000 to 100,000 miles depending on driving conditions. More frequent inspections needed in areas with rough roads or severe weather conditions.
Lower Control Arms
Signs of Failure:
- Squeaking or creaking sounds during turning
- Excessive bouncing after hitting bumps
- Uneven tire wear patterns
- Poor wheel alignment
- Visible bushing wear or damage
Service Schedule:
Inspect every 30,000 miles. Replacement typically needed between 70,000 to 90,000 miles. Heavy-duty vehicles or those used in challenging conditions may require earlier replacement.
Control Arm Bushings
Signs of Failure:
- Rubber cracking or deterioration
- Clicking sounds during low-speed turns
- Steering wheel shimmy
- Loose feeling in front end
- Visual separation of rubber from metal
Service Schedule:
Inspect during regular maintenance intervals (every 15,000-20,000 miles). Replacement typically needed between 60,000 to 80,000 miles. Climate and driving conditions can significantly impact bushing life.
Important Note: These are general guidelines. Actual service intervals may vary based on vehicle make, model, and driving conditions. Always consult your vehicle's manual or a certified technician for specific recommendations.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
