Suspension Arms and Joints

What does a suspension arm do?

The suspension arm, or control arm, enables the driver of a vehicle to steer while the wheels move up and down. It connects the front wheels to the vehicle frame, keeping the entire machine stable as part of the larger suspension system.

How many suspension arms does a car have?

Many cars will commonly have 1 or 2 control arms per wheel. A front-wheel drive vehicle is more likely to only have 1 control arm, whereas larger vehicles such as a truck will have 2.

Do you have to replace all 4 control arms?

Control arms are designed to ensure your car is stable when on the road, so it's recommended to replace all 4 control arms together to avoid any misalignment.

What happens if the suspension arm fails?

If the control arm fails and breaks while driving, your steering can be severely affected due to the shift in alignment. As a result, the vehicle can start to pull to one side and raise the risk of a collision. You might also hear a clunking or rattling sound, which is caused by the broken control arm's inability to absorb shock impact properly.

It's advisable to visit your local garage as soon as possible if you notice these signs of a failing control arm.

How do I know if my suspension arm is bad or broken?

Alongside reduced steering performance and a sound while driving, a broken control arm can also be identified by increased tyre wear. The role of a control or suspension arm is to maintain stability as a vehicle travels; if it is broken, it's possible for more pressure to be applied to the tyres instead, creating more wear and tear.

How long should suspension arms last?

The average lifespan of a control arm can be between 90,000 to 100,000 miles. This will be determined by several factors, such as the conditions you drive in and the age of the control arm.