What happens if your control arm bushing is worn?
Like bone-on-bone contact, worn bushings can allow metal-on-metal contact. Worn control-arm bushings can allow the vehicle’s front end to slip out of alignment and cause premature tire wear.
What are the different types of control arms?
Control arm bushings usually consist of an outer metal sleeve, a durable rubber or polyurethane bushing, and an inner metal sleeve. Control arm bushings are important for driving comfort and handling.
When to use bushings in suspension and steering?
Many suspension and steering joints utilize bushings when components need to be mounted together where vibration is a concern. Bushings are used in control arms, shock absorber mounts, stabilizer bars, stabilizer links, engine and transmission mounts, and other suspension and steering components.
How are the control arms attached to the subframe?
The inner side of the arm is attached to the subframe or body via rubber bushings to dampen road noise and vibration. The bushings provide pivot points, allowing the control arm to swing up and down as the vehicle drives over bumps.
What kind of bushing is used for control arm?
Typically, control arm bushings have a metal sleeve surrounded by rubber or polyurethane padding. A large bolt or pin goes through the center of the bushing to secure the control arm to the frame.
Where are the bushings on a front suspension?
A large bolt or pin goes through the center of the bushing to secure the control arm to the frame. Each control arm usually has two bushings, one at each point where the arm mounts to the frame. Many front suspensions, as well as some rear suspensions, use control arms and bushings. Faulty control arm bushings should be replaced.
What are the symptoms of bad control arm bushing?
The following problems can be caused by one or more bad control arm bushings: Noise: A knocking or thumping noise — especially when going over bumps — can indicate a bad control arm bushing. This happens because the worn bushing no longer holds the control arm firmly in place. Instead, the arm bangs around, causing a noise.
How do you remove bushing from an arm?
Look at the bushing so the flex part of the bushing is in the same location as the original. Position the lower control arm into a hydraulic press using a press cone and cup to force the bushing from the arm. There will be an audible “pop” when the bushing starts to move. Continue pressing the bushing until fully it is removed from the arm.