#CONTROL ARM UPGRADE#
However, performance parts-also known as upgrade parts-are usually made after the vehicle has been out in the world for some time. Sometimes that means using superior materials or a different manufacturing process. Performance parts, on the other hand, are made to exceed the manufacturer’s specifications. That means your control arms will have more stress on them-often a lot more.īecause of this, even the actual OEM parts may wear down much more quickly than the first ones did. However, by the time it comes time to replace your control arms and bushings, other components in your suspension and the rest of your vehicle have worn down too. You’d think that you could expect similar results when you replace a worn out or busted control arm or bushing with a repair part. That’s because these parts are made to more or less the same specifications as the original parts on your car. Repair parts are sometimes referred to as original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts, even if they are not made by the manufacturer. Here’s what those terms mean and some of the key differences between them.
![control arm control arm](https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/fm-detroitaxle-cdn/images/products/K640443_683318066748/main.jpg)
These components often look pretty similar, but come with drastically different price tags. When it comes to repairing or replacing your control arms and bushings, you have two main choices: repair parts or performance parts. If they are, they may need to be replaced. Inspect them to see if they are worn down, cracked, loose, or out of alignment.
![control arm control arm](https://www.hardrace.com/UploadFile/Product/20165271137911Z37C9BS.jpg)
Without a buffer, these could rub against other components, creating heat friction that could rapidly wear out every component involved. The control arms move around a lot as part of their job.
![control arm control arm](https://cdn.ready-market.com/106/fc9628db/Templates/pic/IMG-Control-Arm.jpg)
Otherwise, they can wear out and cause damage to your vehicle or make it unpleasant or unsafe to drive. As a result, they need to be made of the strongest possible materials. Also known as “wishbones” for their A-shaped appearance, these components bear a huge amount of weight compared to their size. Here’s how they work: Control armsĬontrol arms are sturdy pieces of metal that connect your car’s frame to the wheel hubs. These essential suspension components work together to help your car achieve a smooth and responsive ride. Control arms and control arm bushings: What they are and how they work performance parts, we’ve written this explainer. To help you get a better idea of what these components are, what they do, and the difference between repair vs. When it comes to replacing these components, you have a choice between repair and performance parts. However, they’re also one of the major sources of suspension failure. Both are necessary for the suspension system to function. The control arms and the control arm bushings play a vital role in your car’s suspension system.