7 Common Symptoms of Bad Control Arm and How to Avoid Them

7 Common Symptoms of Bad Control Arm and How to Avoid Them

Control arms are critical components of your vehicle’s suspension system. They connect the wheels to the vehicle’s frame, ensuring proper steering, handling, and overall stability. When control arms fail, it can have a substantial impact on your vehicle’s performance and safety, as well as result in expensive repairs. 

Control arms contribute to the dynamic performance of your vehicle. They serve as the essential link between your vehicle’s structure and the wheels, controlling their movement. This article will delve into the 7 most common bad control arm symptoms, guide you on how to diagnose bad control arm symptoms, and helpful advice for preventing these problems from arising.

Recognizing the 7 Most Common Bad Control Arm Symptoms

Control arms are important components within your vehicle’s suspension system, playing a multifaceted role in ensuring safe and comfortable driving. By paying close attention to these indications and responding quickly, you can avoid future damage to your vehicle’s suspension system and ensure a safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable driving experience.

Wandering Steering: This happens when your car veers off from its intended path without the use of the steering wheel. Worn-out control arm bushings or ball joints might misalign the wheels, resulting in the disconcerting “wandering” sensation.

Excessive Tire Wear: Uneven tire wear patterns, such as excessive wear on the inner or outer borders of the tires, are a clear sign of misaligned wheels, which are frequently the result of malfunctioning control arm components.

Difficulty Maintaining a Straight Line: If you find yourself constantly correcting your steering to keep your vehicle in a straight line, it could be a sign that your control arms are not functioning correctly.

Increased Body Roll: Noticeable body lean when cornering or even while driving on relatively flat ground can indicate worn-out control arm bushings that are unable to appropriately support the vehicle’s weight.

Vibrations in the Steering Wheel: Vibrations, particularly at higher speeds, may indicate loose or worn-out control arm components, leading the wheels to become somewhat imbalanced.

Noises Upon Steering: Clicking, clunking, or grinding noises coming from the suspension area, especially when turning or going over bumps, are frequently indicative of worn-out ball joints or bushings inside the control arm assembly.

Vehicle Pulling to One Side: If your car continually pulls to one side of the road, even on flat ground, this indicates a misalignment problem, which is commonly caused by malfunctioning control arm components.

Diagnosing Control Arm Problems: A Step-by-Step Guide

While some initial checks can be performed by yourself, a professional diagnosis is often recommended for accurate identification of control arm issues. Here’s a more detailed guide:

Visual Inspection: Carefully examine the control arms for signs of physical damage beyond cracks and bends. Look for:

• Corrosion: Rust or pitting can weaken the control arm’s structural integrity.
• Metal fatigue: Signs of metal fatigue, such as hairline fractures or stress cracks, can indicate a weakened component.
• Oil or grease leaks: These could signify a failing ball joint or a damaged bushing.

Checking for Play in the Control Arm Bushings: Use a pry bar or similar tool to gently attempt to move the control arm at the bushing points. Any movement greater than a modest amount of give indicates worn-out bushings, which can impair stability and steering.

Advanced Ball Joint Inspection: While checking for play in the ball joint is important, a more thorough examination may be necessary. Inspect the ball joint boot for tears or cracks, which can allow dirt and moisture to contaminate the internal components.

Road Test Analysis: During your road test, pay close attention to:

• Steering wheel feedback: Note any unusual vibrations, shimmying, or a feeling of looseness in the steering.
• Cornering behaviour: Observe the vehicle’s tendency to understeer or oversteer, which can be indicative of control arm issues.
• Noise variations: Note if noises change in intensity or frequency based on road conditions or steering inputs.

Professional Diagnostic Tools: Qualified mechanics have access to specialized diagnostic tools and equipment, such as alignment racks that can precisely measure wheel alignment and identify any deviations caused by faulty control arms. These tools can help pinpoint the source of suspension noises and identify worn or damaged components. Therefore, a professional diagnosis is often recommended for accurate identification of control arm issues.

The Impact of Ignoring Signs of Bad Control Arm Bushings

Beyond the previously mentioned consequences, neglecting worn-out control arm bushings can have a cascading effect on your vehicle’s overall health and safety:

Accelerated Wear and Tear on Other Components: Faulty bushings can make other suspension components, such as ball joints, tie rods, shocks, and struts, work harder to compensate. This increased stress can lead to premature wear and tear on these components, resulting in additional repair costs and further compromising vehicle safety.

Compromised Vehicle Control in Emergencies: Worn-out bushings might make it difficult to maintain control of your car in critical situations like unexpected lane changes or emergency braking. This increased risk of accidents underscores the importance of addressing bushing issues promptly.

Reduced Ride Comfort: While ride comfort may appear to be a minor issue, worn-out bushings can result in harsher ride quality by conveying more road vibrations and impacts into the vehicle’s interior. This can not only be uncomfortable for passengers but also contribute to driver fatigue on longer journeys.

Diminished Resale Value: If you plan to sell your vehicle in the future, ignoring control arm bushing concerns will dramatically reduce its resale value. Potential buyers will likely identify these issues during an inspection, leading to lower offers or even deterring potential buyers altogether.

By addressing worn-out control arm bushings promptly, you can not only avoid these negative outcomes but also maintain your vehicle’s safety, performance, and overall value.

Preventive Maintenance Strategies for Control Arms

Control arms require effective preventive maintenance to ensure the longevity and function of your vehicle’s suspension system. Implementing certain measures can reduce the probability of control arm difficulties while also improving overall driving safety. Here are some more preventive maintenance measures to explore.

Regular Suspension System Check-Ups

Incorporate comprehensive suspension system check-ups into your routine vehicle maintenance schedule. During these check-ups, a professional mechanic can inspect not only the control arms but also associated components like bushings, ball joints, and shocks. Look for visual signs of wear, such as cracking or deformation. This proactive approach allows for early detection of potential issues before they escalate into more significant problems.

Lubrication of Control Arm Joints

Many control arms feature grease fittings that allow for periodic lubrication. Keeping these joints well-lubricated reduces friction, minimizes wear, and helps prevent the deterioration of bushings. Check your vehicle’s service manual for recommendations on lubrication intervals and types of lubricant to use. If your control arms do not have grease fittings, consider using high-quality bushings designed for durability and reduced friction.

Monitor Load and Weight Distribution

Overloading your vehicle or improperly distributing weight can place undue stress on control arms and suspension components. Pay attention to your vehicle’s load capacity and avoid exceeding it, especially when hauling heavy items or towing. Ensure that loads are distributed evenly to maintain balance, which helps prevent excessive wear on suspension parts.

Alignment and Tire Rotation

While we’ve discussed alignment before, it’s worth emphasizing the importance of regular wheel alignment and tire rotation. Misalignment can cause uneven tire wear and place additional stress on control arms. Schedule alignments every 6,000 to 10,000 kilometers or whenever you notice handling issues. Additionally, routine tire rotations can help maintain even wear across all tires, contributing to overall stability.

Road Condition Awareness

Being mindful of road conditions can significantly impact the lifespan of your control arms. Avoid potholes, speed bumps, and rough terrain when possible. If you frequently drive in areas with poor road conditions, consider adjusting your driving style to minimize impact. Slowing down while approaching rough sections can assist in reducing the stress on the suspension system.

Use of Quality Tires

Investing in high-quality tires can help improve the performance of your control arms. Quality tires improve grip and handling, lowering the possibility of unpredictable motions that might strain suspension components. Make sure your tires are properly inflated since under or over-inflated tires can influence vehicle handling and cause control arm wear.

Environmental Considerations

Be mindful of the environmental conditions in which your vehicle runs. Exposure to road salt, dirt, and moisture can hasten corrosion and wear on control arms and bushings. Regularly wash your vehicle’s underbelly, especially during the winter when road salt is widespread. Protective coatings or rust inhibitors can also assist prevent corrosion in suspension components.

Use the Right Driving Mode

If your vehicle has adjustable driving modes (such as sport, comfort, or off-road), make sure you choose the right option for your driving conditions. Using the appropriate driving mode can improve suspension performance and decrease stress on control arms in a variety of driving circumstances.

Document Maintenance Records

Keeping accurate records of maintenance and repairs will allow you to monitor the state of your vehicle’s suspension system. Documenting when you last had the control arms inspected, greased, or changed can provide useful information about their lifespan and performance. This information can help you make future maintenance decisions and identify when replacements may be required.

Implementing these preventive maintenance strategies for control arms can significantly enhance the longevity and performance of your vehicle’s suspension system. Prioritizing the maintenance of your control arms is an investment in your vehicle’s performance and your peace of mind on the road.

Control arms are critical components of your vehicle’s suspension system, affecting steering, handling, and overall stability. By following the diagnostic guidelines outlined in this article and implementing regular preventive maintenance strategies, you can ensure the longevity and proper function of your vehicle’s control arms, enhancing safety, improving handling, and ultimately prolonging the life of your vehicle.

Keep in mind that your car is a major investment, so consider taking your car to YST Auto Service for a regular car maintenance service. YST Auto Service is your one-stop destination auto repair garage in Mississauga, Toronto. Our professional mechanics can identify potential issues and ensure your vehicle is ready for the changing season.

At YST Auto Service, we deliver only the highest quality car services and repairs. We provide all manner of auto repair and car maintenance services to keep your vehicle running strong and smooth. From keeping proper tire traction to ensuring your battery is up to the task, we will help you enjoy the drive with confidence and comfort.