The most common symptom of a bad or failing control arm assembly is an annoying clunking, rattling, or knocking noise coming from the front suspension when driving over bumps. This noise may be heard when turning, accelerating, or braking as well. Other common symptoms include decreased steering precision and responsiveness, uneven tire wear, a noticeable vibration that increases with speed, and/or increased play between the wheel and steering components. Control arms also have rubber bushings on each end; if these bushings become worn or damaged they can cause squeaking noises which are usually heard during turns. If the vehicle feels unstable or unresponsive while driving it could mean that one of the components of the control arm has failed and needs to be replaced. It is important to have a qualified mechanic inspect the control arm assembly and replace any faulty parts as soon as possible. Left untreated, a bad or failing control arm can lead to more serious issues such as poor handling, excessive wear on other suspension components, and even complete loss of steering control.
1. Clunking, rattling or knocking noise coming from the front suspension when driving over bumps.
2. Decreased steering precision and responsiveness.
3. Uneven tire wear.
4. Noticeable vibration that increases with speed.
5. Increased play between the wheel and steering components.
6. Squeaking noises heard during turns, usually caused by worn or damaged rubber bushings on the end of the control arm assembly
7. Vehicle feeling unstable or unresponsive while driving; could mean one of the components of the control arm has failed and needs to be replaced
8. Poor handling due to unchecked issues with control arms can lead to excessive wear on other suspension components and can even cause a complete loss of steering control.
9. Unusual tire wear or alignment issues could be caused by worn or broken control arm components, which would need to be replaced.
10. Loud sounds when driving over bumps or dips in the road surface, which may indicate an issue with the control arms and their connection points to the vehicle frame.
These are some of the most common symptoms associated with a bad or failing control arm assembly that should warn you to have it checked out. It is important to stay ahead of any potential problems with suspension components as they can lead to bigger problems down the line if ignored for too long. A qualified mechanic will be able to diagnose your specific issue and recommend repairs as needed.