How do you know when it’s time to replace a control arm? Four symptoms provide the clues you need to make a smart diagnosis.
1. The ball joint boot is cracked or torn. Grease can escape, causing corrosion, wear and failure;
2. The ball joint and/or bushing is loose. The resulting noise and/or vibration can lead to larger driveability and safety issues;
3. The opening in the control arm is deformed. This could compromise safety and handling; and
4. One side of the tire is wearing unevenly. This could be caused by a collapsed bushing or loose ball joint.
