As automotive specialists, we know what it takes to increase the safety of your vehicle and cut down on expenses in the long-run.

As we all know, cars are made of hundreds of small and large parts which make transporting us from point ‘A’ to point ‘B' easy. In particular, the suspension of a vehicle includes many different parts, working together to make the car function.

One component of that is the control arm, which is found mostly in the front wheels, although can be found on the rear of the vehicle in some cars and trucks. It connects the front suspension of the vehicle to its frame. There are two control arms in the suspension; upper and lower and contain a rubber bushing at the end. The bushing is made up of a rubber lining enclosed between two metal sleeves.

To make sense of the proper functionality of these parts, we have put together a guide to give you a comprehensive understanding of their importance.

Why Are Control Arm Bushings Important?

As the crucial element and connector between the suspension and frame, the control arms are the element that ensure your wheels are turning.

When Do You Need New Ones?

Most control arms are only built to last a certain number of kilometres. Once your vehicle reaches that point, you should replace your control arms to avoid any danger that may ensue. Control arms can often break if you drive over a pothole or big bump, so extra caution is required. You also need to be mindful if you notice any vibration coming from your steering wheel; typically, that is a sign the control arms are reaching the end of their cycle.

There are a few reasons why a control arm may need to be replaced. A worn-out ball joint that cannot be replaced separately is one of the most common reasons. A ball joint is an extremely important component. If it wears out, the car is unsafe to drive and the front wheel can separate from the lower suspension causing the vehicle to lose control.

If this happens at a low speed, it can still have massive repercussions. However, if this happens when you are driving at a fast speed on the highway, the consequences could be fatal.

Worn out or torn control arm bushings is another reason a control arm may need to be replaced. In some cars, the control arm bushing can be replaced separately, but it involves more labour and could cost more. For this reason, the whole control arm is usually replaced if the bushings are worn out. The control arm is also the most common part that bends in a collision involving one of the front wheels or after hitting the curb. A bent control arm must be replaced.

What Happens If Control Arm Bushings Not Replaced?

It is advised to change the immediately, as delaying the repairs can cause extra wear and tear of the suspension and its other parts. If not replaced as soon as an issue arises, the cost in the long-run can be much higher.

Consequences of an unreplaced control arm include noticing every small bump in the road, causing an unpleasant driving experience.

I Want to Replace my Control Arm Bushing; How Do I Check Them?

Replacing bushings is usually as simple as replacing the components the bushing presses into. If you are attempting to replace the control arm on your own, it is suggested to replace body bushings one side at a time. When installing control arms with rubber bushings, the pivot bolt must be tightened with the weight of the vehicle on the wheels. If they are not, then the bushing will be quickly destroyed.

Specialists in Aftermarket Parts

Aftermarket suspension parts are designed sturdy and able to make your driving and off-roading experiences more enjoyable. Often these products are designed with extra strength. A more durable control arm means your vehicle is ready for bigger bumps and obstacles. In other words, you won't have to worry about unintended movement between the chassis and the wheel hub when you get a high-quality control arm.

We know that every car enthusiast has unique requirements for their vehicle. That's why at Machter Auto we allow you to search for parts based on the make, model and variant of your vehicle. Simply set the parameters, and you'll only see parts that work for your vehicle.

Here at Machter Auto, we not only offer high-quality products at unbeatable prices, but our customer service is unmatched. If you have any questions or need assistance with any parts, get in touch with us today and we will be more than happy to assist with any queries you may have.