What's involved
What this repair actually is.
Control arm bushings are the rubber pivots that let the arm move with the suspension while holding the wheel in place. When they crack or tear, the wheel shifts under braking and the front end clunks and wanders. Where the bushings are sold separately and the arm itself is healthy, we press the old bushings out and new ones in — cheaper on parts than a whole arm, though the press work takes real labor.
Symptoms
How you can tell.
- Clunk from the front end when braking or accelerating
- Steering feels vague and wanders in its lane
- Cracked or torn rubber visible at the arm pivots
- Uneven tire wear
- Squeaking from the lower front suspension
If you delay
Torn bushings let the wheel move around under load, wearing tires quickly and stressing the ball joint and other components.
Educational estimate. Real pricing depends on your vehicle, the inspection, parts availability, taxes, and shop rates. Use this as a guide while you shop quotes.