Is control arm replacement normal this early

NICKI MAIOLA

MEMBER
2012 FORD ESCAPE
6 CYL
AUTOMATIC
58,986 MILES

I went in to get my inspection and oil change done. I was told I needed new brakes which I knew. He also said the front control arms are worn and should be replaced. It wasn't urgent but soon. I couldn't do all that in one day so I said I would wait. I got my car 2 years ago from a dealer, one owner 47,200 miles. So I am up to 58,900 miles after 2 years. I got an independent inspection right after I bought the car and everything looked good. I have looked online and it says most control arms don't wear until 90,000 to 100,000 miles. I have no noise no vibrating nothing and I'm very paranoid after having many bad cars when I feel something wrong I'm all over it. I just drive around town a few short day trips I don't do anything crazy with the car and take good care of it should I really need to replace it now? It says control arm w/bj on the parts list. Any help appreciated.

3 Replies

ASEMASTER6371

MECHANIC
52,797 POSTS

Good morning,

There are bushings in the lower arm that do wear out. They usually last around 75,000 to 100,000.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/lower-control-arm-bushing-replacement

If it makes you feel better, have someone else look at it to get there opinion. In these times, techs are looking for work and may recommend things that normally do not need to be replaced.

I attached a picture for you of the arm with the bushing.

Roy

Removal and Installation

NOTICE: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure may result in major service expense. New parts must be installed with the same part numbers or equivalent part, if replacement is necessary. Do not use a replacement part of lesser quality or substitute design. Torque values must be used as specified during reassembly to make sure of correct retention of these parts.

1. Remove the wheel and tire. For additional information, refer to Section 204-04 .

2. Remove and discard the lower ball joint nut and separate the lower ball joint from the wheel knuckle.
To install, tighten the new nut to 63 Nm (46 lb-ft).

3. NOTE: Tighten the lower arm inner bolt with the weight of the vehicle on the wheels and tires.

Remove the lower arm inner bolt and the lower arm.

Discard the bolt.

To install, tighten the new bolt to 175 Nm (129 lb-ft).

4. To install, reverse the removal procedure.

Image (Click to make bigger)