How to Replace Your Car’s Lower Control Arm Bushings

What Are Lower Control Arm Bushings?

Lower control arm bushings are an important suspension component found on virtually all modern vehicles with independent front or rear suspensions.

The control arms connect the wheel hubs to the vehicle’s frame or subframe, and allow the wheels to move up and down while isolating road vibrations.

Control arm bushings are rubber or polyurethane pieces fitted inside the control arm pivot points where they are mounted to the vehicle.

The bushings provide a cushioned interface between the metal arms and the vehicle, allowing some flex and movement.

This absorbs shock, noise, and vibration from the road surface for a smoother, quieter ride.

Without bushings, the suspension would transmit significantly more road noise and impact into the chassis.

Bushings are usually constructed of rubber, polyurethane, or a combination of composite materials.

Rubber bushings flex well to absorb vibrations but wear out faster. Polyurethane is more durable but transmits more road noise.

Newer bushings may use multi-durometer rubber, fluid or grease fillings, or other innovations to balance flex, noise isolation, and longevity.

Proper bushing selection depends on the vehicle, suspension design, and driver preferences.

Symptoms of Worn Lower Control Arm Bushings

Worn out lower control arm bushings can cause several noticeable symptoms while driving.

Here are some of the most common signs that the lower control arm bushings need to be replaced:

• Excessive Vibration When Driving – As the bushings deteriorate, they lose the ability to dampen vibrations properly. This leads to excessive vibration felt in the steering wheel and floorboards when driving, especially at highway speeds. The vibration gets worse as speed increases.
• Uneven Tire Wear – Worn bushings can cause improper wheel alignment, leading to uneven tire wear. You may notice tires wearing excessively or unevenly on the edges. Uneven tread wear is a clue the alignment needs adjustment due to bad bushings.
• Clunking Noises Over Bumps – Bad lower control arm bushings will no longer absorb impacts from the road properly. This leads to clunking or knocking noises when going over bumps. The sounds occur as the control arm shifts position due to lack of bushing support.
• Difficulty Keeping the Vehicle Going Straight – Worn bushings allow more wheel shimmy and wander. You may have to constantly correct the steering to keep driving straight if the lower control arm bushings are worn out.
• Excessive Swaying of the Vehicle – Damaged lower control arm bushings lead to more body roll or swaying during cornering and on uneven road surfaces. The vehicle will feel less stable overall.

Any of these symptoms indicate worn control arm bushings that need replacement soon. Ignoring the issue leads to further alignment problems, tire damage, and safety concerns.

When to Replace Lower Control Arm Bushings

Lower control arm bushings are a worn item that will degrade over time and miles driven.

While there’s no set replacement interval, most manufacturers recommend inspecting bushings around 60,000-100,000 miles and replacing them if worn.

Signs that it’s time to replace include:

• Excessive vibration or steering wheel shake when braking or hitting bumps. As the bushings wear, it allows more unwanted movement in the suspension.
• Clunking or knocking noises from the front suspension over bumps and turns. Worn bushings will allow the control arm to move beyond its normal range.
• Excessive tire wear, such as cupping or uneven wear patterns. Worn bushings can throw off wheel alignment over time.
• Visible cracking, splits, or deterioration of the rubber bushing itself.

Replacing worn control arm bushings provides several benefits:

• Restores proper wheel alignment and steering precision.
• Reduces vibration, steering wheel shake, and drivetrain movement.
• Eliminates clunks, knocks, and other suspension noises.
• Extends tire life by keeping alignment in spec.
• Prevents further damage to other suspension components from uncontrolled movement.

It’s recommended to be proactive with bushing replacement, as leaving them to wear excessively can lead to more extensive repairs.

Replacing them at the first signs of wear will maximize component life.

Lower Control Arm Bushing Replacement Cost

Replacing worn lower control arm bushings can be an expensive repair, with costs varying significantly depending on whether you tackle it as a DIY project or hire a professional mechanic.

The parts themselves are relatively inexpensive, usually ranging from $20-60 for a complete control arm bushing kit.

However, labor is where the costs add up. Book time for control arm bushing replacement can be 3-5 hours in some vehicles, at shop labor rates of $80-150 per hour.

This means the total repair bill at a shop is likely to be $300-600 or more just for labor, plus parts.

For DIYers, the main costs are just the parts, making it a more budget-friendly repair you can potentially tackle in a home garage.

However, experience working on suspension components is recommended, as removing pressed-in bushings and pressing in new ones takes some mechanical skill.

The job also requires a hydraulic press, which you may need to rent or borrow if you don’t have one.

Factors that influence the overall replacement cost include:

• Shop hourly rate: Higher-end shops tend to charge more per hour than smaller independent garages. Shop rates can range from $70 per hour into the low $100s.
• Vehicle make and model: Some vehicles are harder to work on than others. German luxury cars and truck-based SUVs often have more labor-intensive control arm service.
• Location: Shops in higher cost-of-living urban areas tend to have higher hourly rates.
• Scope of work: If other suspension work is needed in addition to the control arm bushings, total costs will increase.
• DIY vs pro repair: DIY repairs cost significantly less in parts only, but require mechanical skill and specialty tools. Paying a professional typically costs more but may have advantages like a warranty.

In summary, control arm bushing replacement is one of those repairs that is ideally suited for DIYers who have some mechanical experience.

Paying a professional for the labor can quickly make it a very costly job. Knowing your options can help you make the best choice for your time, budget, and skills.

Lower Control Arm Bushing Replacement Procedure

Replacing lower control arm bushings is a straightforward but time-consuming job. Here are the steps for removal and installation:

Removal

1. Jack up the vehicle and support it securely on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the wheel to access the control arm.
3. Locate and remove the lower control arm bolts at the frame and lower ball joint. A breaker bar may be needed to loosen tight bolts.
4. Use a hammer to knock the tapered bolts free from the ball joint and frame. Take care not to damage the threads.
5. Remove the lower control arm from the vehicle. A pry bar may be needed to separate it from the ball joint.
6. Use a press or ball joint separator tool to push the ball joint stud out of the control arm. Do not hit the ball joint or use excessive force.
7. Clamp the control arm securely in a vise. Use wood blocks to prevent damage.
8. Using a hammer and punch, carefully knock the old rubber bushings out of the arm. Take care not to damage the control arm.
9. Thoroughly clean the empty bushing holes and arm of any dirt, grease, or debris.

Installation

1. Apply a thin layer of lithium grease to the outside of the new lower control arm bushings.
2. Press or tap the new bushings evenly into the control arm holes using a socket, hammer, and wood block.
3. Reinstall the ball joint stud and torque it to spec with a torque wrench.
4. Reattach the control arm to the vehicle and torque all bolts to spec.
5. Reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle.
6. Have the alignment checked by a professional to avoid uneven tire wear.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a pickle fork to separate the lower ball joint instead of hitting it with a hammer. This prevents damage.
• Soak stuck tapered bolts with penetrating oil to make removal easier.
• Use a ball joint press for easy and safe bushing and ball joint replacement.
• Have a helper support the control arm when removing and installing to prevent injury.
• Ensure proper bushing orientation – the split side faces outwards.
• Lubricate the bushings and bolts with anti-seize compound to prevent rust and ease future removal.

Best Practices for Replacement

When replacing lower control arm bushings, there are some best practices to follow:

• Inspect and replace any other worn components – When you have the control arms removed to replace the bushings, inspect the ball joints, tie rod ends, sway bar links, and other suspension components. Replace any that are worn out to avoid having to take things apart again later.
• Use quality replacement bushings – Don’t just go with the cheapest bushings you can find. Quality aftermarket polyurethane or rubber bushings will last longer and perform better than cheap ones. Stick with reputable brands.
• Replace bushings in pairs – Even if only one bushing is bad, go ahead and replace both sides. The other side is likely worn too and will need replacing soon anyway. This prevents uneven wear or handling.
• Torque bolts to spec – Make sure to torque all bolts and nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications when installing the new bushings and control arms. Proper torque ensures a secure fit and prevents parts from coming loose. Use a torque wrench to get it right.

Following these best practices will ensure safe, reliable, and long-lasting lower control arm bushing replacement.

Take the time to do the job right, and you won’t have to worry about sloppy suspension or premature bushing failure down the road.

DIY Lower Control Arm Bushing Replacement

Replacing lower control arm bushings yourself can save money compared to taking your vehicle to a mechanic.

However, it does require some mechanical skills and specialized tools. Here’s an overview of the DIY process and important considerations:

Tools and Supplies Needed

• Floor jack and jack stands
• Wrench set
• Ball joint separator tool
• Hammer
• Grease gun and polyurethane grease
• New lower control arm bushings
• Brake cleaner
• Shop rags

DIY Tips and Precautions

• Use the proper procedure for jacking up and securing the vehicle safely. Never work under an unsupported vehicle.
• Separating the lower control arm ball joint can be difficult. Use a ball joint separator tool properly to avoid damage.
• When pressing out the old bushing, make sure the control arm is properly supported. Don’t allow it to bend or warp.
• Thoroughly clean the control arm housing before pressing in the new bushing. Old grease and dirt can prevent proper seating.
• Make sure to grease the new bushing before installing it per the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Re-torque all fasteners to spec after installation. Double check all work.
• Get an alignment done after replacing control arm bushings. This prevents uneven tire wear.
• Dispose of old bushings and grease properly.

With the right tools and preparation, DIY lower control arm replacement is possible. But take precautions and seek help if unsure of any steps. Vehicle safety depends on proper installation.

Preventative Maintenance

To extend the life of your lower control arm bushings, there are a few key preventative maintenance steps to follow:

• Inspect bushings regularly – During routine tire rotations or oil changes, have a mechanic inspect the condition of the control arm bushings. Look for cracks, splits, or excessive play which are signs they may need replacement soon. Catching problems early allows you to replace bushings before they cause damage to other suspension components.
• Lubricate bushings – Lubricating rubber bushings can extend their lifespan. Use a silicone spray lubricant formulated for rubber bushings and joints. Spray bushings until lubricant penetrates fully. Wipe away any excess. Lubricating once a year helps keep bushings supple and delays wear.
• Check wheel alignment – Have your wheel alignment checked if experiencing uneven tire wear, pulling, or wandering. Misalignment puts extra stress on suspension bushings and joints. Keeping alignment in spec reduces abnormal wear from torque and twisting forces.
• Inspect ball joints – Worn ball joints can place greater stress on connected control arm bushings, accelerating wear. Check for looseness or play in the ball joints and replace them if necessary.
• Use high-quality parts – Opt for bushings made of high-durometer rubber or polyurethane. These materials are more durable than standard rubber and resist wear better. Quality bushings and proper installation will increase longevity.
• Clean and protect – Pressure wash control arms to remove dirt and grime buildup. Dirt holds moisture against the bushings, promoting rust and deterioration. Coat bushings with rubber protectant to shield from UV rays and ozone damage.

Following these preventative maintenance tips will maximize the lifespan of your control arm bushings, saving you money on premature replacements.

Lower Control Arm Bushing Problems

Lower control arm bushings can develop issues for a variety of reasons. Here are some of the most common lower control arm bushing problems:

Common Installation Errors

Improper installation is one of the leading causes of premature bushing failure. If the new bushing is not seated correctly or the control arm is misaligned, it can lead to uneven wear and tear.

Using the wrong tools or techniques when pressing in new bushings often leads to installation errors. Always follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended procedures.

Quick Wear Causes

Even correctly installed bushings may wear out faster than expected in some cases.

Aggressive driving over bumpy roads, potholes, or curbs can put extra stress on the bushings.

Worn out suspension components like ball joints can also contribute to rapid bushing wear.

Environmental contamination from road salt, mud, or dirt can also deteriorate bushings quickly.

Noisy Bushings

As rubber bushings wear out, they can begin to squeak or creak when turning the steering wheel or going over bumps.

This is an indication the bushing has hardened or cracked internally and needs replacement. Noise usually starts out very faint and gradually gets louder over time.

When to Seek Professional Help

For most vehicles, the average driver can replace control arm bushings at home with some mechanical ability.

However, if the bushing is pressed into a metal sleeve, it requires a hydraulic press to remove and install.

In this case, the job is best left to professional mechanics with the proper equipment.

Seeking help is also a good idea if you don’t have the tools, experience, or time for a DIY bushing replacement.

New Control Arm Bushing Technologies

Advances in automotive technology have led to innovations in control arm bushings and suspension components.

Manufacturers are using new designs, materials, and construction methods to improve durability and performance. Here are some of the latest developments:

New Materials

• Polyurethane – More durable than rubber and provides improved response and handling. Resists wear better. Can be noisy over bumps. Offered by companies like Whiteline, Mevotech, and Moog.
• Delrin – Hard plastic material that is more rigid than standard rubber or polyurethane. Used by high-performance brands like Killer B Motorsport. Provides the most responsiveness and performance but a harsher ride.
• Fluid-filled – Silicone or hydraulic fluid inside the bushing to dampen vibrations. Companies like Meyle and Febi use this tech. Provides a smooth, quiet ride but less responsiveness.

Design Improvements

• Tapered flanges – Spread load over more area and reduce tearing or cracking. Offered by Moog, TRW, and others.
• Interlocking metal sleeves or cases – Add structural rigidity to the bushing and prevent separation or deformation. Used by Mevotech, AC Delco.
• Greaseable fittings – Allow fresh lubricant to be pumped inside, reducing squeaks and extending life.

Performance vs Cost

Upgraded materials and designs generally improve durability, handling, and noise reduction but cost more than basic OE rubber parts.

Polyurethane offers a good balance of performance and value. Delrin is best for race use.

For the average driver, fluid-filled OE-design bushings provide a smooth ride at a moderate price. Shoppers should consider their usage and needs.