do I need to change my control arm in my car suspension?

Question

steering is good, no problem steering the car,just went for the wheel alignment and they said to change control arm.

Answer 1

depends on the type of vehicle, chances are that the reason they want to replace a control arm is because one of the bushings/joints is wearing out....you might as well replace it now before it gets to point where you can't steer....preventive maintinance saves lives. depending on the manufacturer you may be able to find just the joint/bushing and have it installed in the same arm.

Answer 2

David H's answer is silly. Any independent suspension, front or rear has control arms. There may be an upper and a lower (multi-link) or just a lower (MacPherson or Champman strut type).

There are 3 things that might result in a recommendation to replace a control arm.

Worn or failed rubber bushings at the pivot points where the arm attaches to the vehicle frame.

A worn or failed ball joint - this is the pivot point at the end of the arm where it attaches to the knucle.

Impact damage such as a bend and/or crack.

OK, there's a fourth. It could be any combination of the above.

Worn or failed bushings can sometimes be replaced without replacing the arm though sometimes its easier/cheaper to install a complete new arm with bushings already in it. Depends on the vehicle.

Ball joints on most vehicles can be serviced without replacing the control arm but in some the arm and ball joint are serviced as one part. Ford Explorers are a common one that comes to mind, as well as some German cars.

Accident damage is.. well, fairly obvious why you have to replace the arm.

Any of the above can be a safety issue.

Answer 3

You are referring to control arms with an alignment issue. Usually control arms locate and manage the rear axle. Most often there is no need to align the rear axle unless a collision is involved. The only front control arms that I am aware of are on 4wd vehicles. Posting more information on your vehicle and to why you need an alignment in the first place would be beneficial.

Answer 4

Buddy best thing is to do what the mechanic says as a second option check with some ther workshop.if they manitain this U HAVE TO CHANGE THAT...