Note: This guide provides general instructions, but the exact process may vary slightly depending on your specific model and trim level. It is recommended to refer to a repair manual or consult a professional mechanic if you are unsure about any steps.
Tools and Materials Needed:
- Basic hand tools (wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers)
- Jack and jack stands
- Replacement control arm
- New bolts and nuts
- Loctite or threadlocker
- Spray lubricant
- Safety glasses
Instructions:
1. Preparation:
- Ensure that the vehicle is parked on a level surface, and the parking brake is engaged.
- Loosen the lug nuts of the wheel on the side where the control arm needs to be replaced, but do not remove them completely.
2. Raise the Vehicle:
- Place the jack under the appropriate lifting point on the vehicle. Consult the owner's manual for specific lifting points.
- Raise the vehicle until the tire where you loosened the lug nuts is about 6 inches off the ground.
- Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure it remains safely in place.
3. Remove the Wheel and Fender Liner:
- Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
- If there is a plastic fender liner covering the control arm area, remove the necessary screws or fasteners to expose the control arm.
4. Disconnect the Stabilizer Link:
- Locate the stabilizer link that connects to the control arm.
- Use an appropriate wrench or socket to loosen and remove the nut securing the stabilizer link to the control arm.
- Disconnect the stabilizer link from the control arm.
5. Disengage the Ball Joint:
- Locate the ball joint where the control arm connects to the steering knuckle.
- Remove the cotter pin from the ball joint nut.
- Loosen the ball joint nut until the pressure is released and it comes off easily.
- Use a ball joint separator tool or a pry bar to separate the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
6. Remove the Control Arm Mounting Bolts:
- There are typically two or more bolts that secure the control arm to the vehicle's subframe or chassis.
- Locate these bolts and use the appropriate wrenches or sockets to loosen and remove them.
7. Remove the Old Control Arm:
- Once all mounting bolts are removed, carefully remove the old control arm from the vehicle.
- Note the position and orientation of the old control arm for reference when installing the new one.
8. Install the New Control Arm:
- Place the new control arm into position, ensuring that the mounting points align properly.
- Insert the mounting bolts and temporarily hand-tighten them.
- Reattach the ball joint by inserting it into the steering knuckle and securing it with the ball joint nut and a new cotter pin.
9. Secure the Control Arm Mounting Bolts:
- Tighten the control arm mounting bolts to the specified torque according to the vehicle's repair manual.
- Secure the bolts with threadlocker or Loctite to prevent them from loosening.
10. Reconnect the Stabilizer Link:
- Reattach the stabilizer link to the control arm and secure the nut accordingly.
11. Reinstall the Wheel and Fender Liner:
- If applicable, reinstall the fender liner.
- Reinstall the wheel and lug nuts, but do not tighten them fully at this point.
12. Lower the Vehicle:
- Slowly lower the vehicle using the jack.
13. Tighten the Lug Nuts and Check Stability:
- Fully tighten the lug nuts once the vehicle is back on the ground.
- Lightly shake and move the vehicle to ensure that the control arm is properly secured.
Note: It's important to align the vehicle after replacing the control arm to ensure proper handling and tire wear. It is recommended to have a professional alignment done to ensure the correct specifications are met.
