How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Control Arm?
When my 2002 Honda Accord started making a clunking noise when I turned, I knew that I needed to take it in for repairs. The mechanic diagnosed the problem as a faulty control arm and quoted me $800 to replace it. I was shocked. I had no idea that a single control arm could cost so much to replace.
After doing some research, I found that the cost to replace a control arm can vary widely, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the severity of the damage, and the location of the repair shop. The average cost for a control arm replacement is between $500 and $1,000, but it can be as low as $200 or as high as $1,500.
What is a control arm?
A control arm is a suspension component that connects the wheel to the frame of the vehicle. It allows the wheel to move up and down as the vehicle travels over bumps and rough terrain. Control arms also help to keep the vehicle stable while cornering.
Control arms are made of metal and are usually coated with a protective layer of paint or plastic. They can be straight or curved, and they may have one or more ball joints at the end. Ball joints allow the control arm to pivot, which is necessary for the suspension to function properly.
Symptoms of a bad control arm
There are several symptoms that may indicate that you have a bad control arm. These symptoms include:
- Clunking or rattling noise when turning
- Loose or wobbly steering
- Difficulty keeping the vehicle aligned
- Uneven tire wear
- Reduced ride comfort
Causes of a bad control arm
There are several causes of a bad control arm. These causes include:
- Wear and tear
- Damage from road debris
- Accidents
- Corrosion
How to replace a control arm
Replacing a control arm is a job that is best left to a mechanic. However, if you are confident in your DIY skills, you can save some money by doing the job yourself. Here is a general overview of the steps involved in replacing a control arm:
- Gather your tools and materials.
- Raise the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.
- Remove the wheel from the affected side.
- Disconnect the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
- Unbolt the control arm from the frame of the vehicle.
- Install the new control arm.
- Reconnect the ball joint to the steering knuckle.
- Tighten the bolts that secure the control arm to the frame of the vehicle.
- Reinstall the wheel.
- Lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
Tips for saving money on control arm replacement
If you are on a tight budget, there are several tips that you can follow to save money on control arm replacement:
- Shop around for the best price.
- Consider buying used parts.
- Do the job yourself.
By following these tips, you can save a significant amount of money on control arm replacement.
FAQ about control arm replacement
Here are some frequently asked questions about control arm replacement:
-
Q: How often should control arms be replaced?
A: Control arms typically last for 100,000 to 150,000 miles. However, they may need to be replaced sooner if they are damaged or if the vehicle is used in harsh conditions. -
Q: Can I drive with a bad control arm?
A: It is not advisable to drive with a bad control arm. A bad control arm can cause the vehicle to be unstable and difficult to control. -
Q: How much does it cost to replace a control arm?
A: The average cost for a control arm replacement is between $500 and $1,000. However, the cost can vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the severity of the damage, and the location of the repair shop.
Conclusion
Control arms are an essential part of your vehicle’s suspension system. They help to keep the wheels aligned and allow the vehicle to move smoothly over bumps and rough terrain. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of a bad control arm, it is important to have the problem diagnosed and repaired as soon as possible.
Are you interested in learning more about control arms? If so, please feel free to leave a comment below and I will be happy to answer your questions.
