How To Replace A Lower Control Arm

Got a bad lower control arm? If so, it’s a good idea to address the issue as soon as possible. The longer you let it go on, the more issues you’ll face.

If you’ve determined that one of your lower control arms is no longer good to use, the next step is to replace it.

Can I Replace Just The Control Arm Bushings?

Nissan OEM bushings

Some lower control arms fail because the suspension bushings go bad. If you’re in this situation, you might be wondering if you could replace only the bushings instead of the whole unit.

Depending on your model, you may be able to replace only the bushings. But removing old bushings is a difficult job, as they are often seized in place. It’s much more time consuming than replacing the whole control arm. Often times, replacing only the bushings costs more than replacing the whole unit.

On some vehicles, it is not possible to replace the bushings by themselves. The bushings are pressed into the control arm, and if the bushings wear out, the entire control arm has to be replaced.

When you factor in labor, a control arm bushing replacement will cost between $250 and $400. You could get a genuine bushings from us for a much lower price than that.

If your vehicle has higher miles, it's best to replace both control arms at the same time. To replace the whole lower control arm, take the following steps:

1. Order An OEM Replacement Lower Control Arm

We always recommend OEM lower control arms over aftermarket ones for these reasons:

  • Material quality
  • Fitment
  • Warranty

This comparison guide between OEM and aftermarket lower control arms covers each point in more detail.

We also recommend ordering your replacement lower control arm online instead of at a dealership. That’s because Nissan dealerships impose a hefty markup on all their OEM parts. Some websites, like us, offer wholesale pricing for genuine OEM Nissan parts. Check out our catalog of OEM lower control arms and get your replacement today!

2. Grab All The Necessary Tools

Once you have your replacement part, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and start the replacement process. First, you need to gather together all the tools. The set of tools you need depends on your Nissan model. We based the following list on the Nissan Murano. It may apply to some other Nissan models, so you can use this list as a starting point.

  • 18mm socket
  • 21mm socket
  • Pry bar
  • Pickle fork tool

3. Replace The Lower Control Arm

Replace lower control arm

Image Credit: Abused VQ

We based this set of instructions on the Nissan Murano. Yet, it’s general enough to apply to other Nissan models. 

  1. Lift your Nissan.
  2. Remove the wheel.
  3. Loosen up and then remove the 18mm ball joint jam nut. (If the bolt is stuck with rust, you can enlist the help of PB Blaster or another rust penetrating oil.)
  4. With the pickle fork, disconnect the ball joint from the knuckle. If it’s stubborn, use a pry bar to complete the process.
  5. There are two 21mm bolts connecting the lower control arm to the subframe. Remove them both.
  6. Take a pry bar and then wiggle out the lower control arm.
  7. Install the new lower control arm in the reverse order of removal.

You’re welcome to contact us if you have any questions about replacing your lower control arm. We’re always happy to answer your questions!