Symptoms of a Failing Lower Control Arm

Today, we are on the topic of the lower control arm in vehicles. The lower control arm of your vehicles are located at the undercarriage chassis of your vehicle. It's purpose is simple, which is to keep the wheels in line with the car body, controlling the uneccessary movement of the vehicle and its wheels. It is an essential component of your suspension system which requires your attention and replacement on a timely basis.

Like many other vehicle component and parts, the lower control arm is susceptible to wear and tear. As the control arm is located underneath the vehicle, it may be open to being worn or being torn at a certain point of time. However, based on previous feedbacks and statistics provided by many car owners and workshop, lower control arm tend to have a lifespan of up to 80,000miles. Its functionality and performance can be detiorated quickly depending on your driving condition (such as potholes, humps etc), or if you met up with a serious car accident. Simultaneously, the bearings and ball joints may also wear off prematurely.

In order to keep your vehicles suspension system in top notch condition, it is recommended to change your lower control arm around 80,000miles (the suggested timeframe) or when you experience one or more of the following symptoms.

1) "Clunking" Noises coming from the front end of your vehicle.

2) Vibration coming from the steering wheels

3) Loud Noise that you can hear from the front suspension system (Especially on uneven road, holes)

4) Tire wear and tear is uneven

5) Shaky steering wheels or you don't get a responsive steering wheel as per before

Cost of Replacing Lower Arms

Replacing the lower control arms varies according to the brand,model and vehicle of your vehicle. Typically, for most vehicles, the price for the part itself ranges between $80-$150 per piece. This will usually be purchased in pairs, as both sides of the control arm have similar wear rates.

As for installation, the average professional workshop will charge anywhere between $100-$200 per pair for the installation. (*For such jobs, it is recommended to always go to a professional workshop with the right people and right tools for the job. Do not opt for a cheap labour alternative!)

Conclusion

As of now, the recommended vehicles that should be due for a Lower Control arm change are those registered anywhere before the year 2015. Popular models that require change includes, Hyundai Elantra MD, Kia Cerato K3, Kia Carens, Hyundai Elantra AD (Selected)

In summary, if you suspect that your vehicle is having issues with its lower control arm or if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, its probably time for you to consider for a quick replacement! Afterall, who would not want their vehicle running at a top notch condition?

Don't wait for your vehicles to give you painful symptoms till you give them your attention! Contact Drivewise Autoparts to find out more about control arms or other parts today!

***Drivewise Autoparts is the only online auto parts platform that brings you on demand autoparts direct to your doorstep. We aim to encourage vehicle ownership through direct autoparts purchase, as we believe every owner have their rights of knowing what should be installed in their vehicle. Our mission is to help each and every car owner to take ownership of their vehicles through understanding the various components of their vehicle and ultimately purchasing these parts directly yourself!