Not unless they are the exact same part number. I do not see them being the same – especially since they are 6 years apart. The only way you can be sure is to check the part numbers on both or hold them right next to each other to see if they are identical.
How to Identify and Fix Common car Problems ?
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They serve similar purposes of providing stability and control but are not interchangeable. Each of these arms has a size difference, so it`s not like you can mix and match or put two of the same components on the vehicle. Also, every manufactured vehicle has a lower control arm regardless of size.
Control arms are typically A-shaped, L-shaped, or wishbone-shaped, but designs differ from vehicle-to-vehicle based on suspension geometry. These components have connection points at each end for attaching a wheel`s steering knuckle to the vehicle frame.
The upper control arm connects to the uppermost area of the front wheel and the lower control arm connects to the lower most area of the front wheel, with both arms then attaching to the frame of the car. If you have independent rear suspension, the design is similar.
A: yes, there is absolutely difference. Note the arm portion in the left side of the photo. If you were to turn it around for the opposite side of the car it would be pointing in the wrong direction. Helpful?
Another reason why replacing these components in pairs is necessary is due to the ball joints. Ball joints typically cannot be replaced separately, so the entire control arm needs to be replaced. The ball joints are critical to vehicle alignment, so these control arms should also be replaced in pairs.
Besides being stronger than stock control arms, upgraded control arms can improve the truck`s ride quality. Most kits offer a smoother and better ride than the factory models for both on-road and off-road driving. Additionally, replacement control arms will often weigh less than stock control arms.
Having damaged control arms and worn bushings or ball joints could cause suspension parts to become misaligned. When this occurs, you may experience issues with steering and handling. Usually you`ll notice noises first, either while turning, stopping or driving over speed bumps.
Control arm bushings are important for driving comfort and handling. They cushion the suspension system which in turn controls noise and vibrations, and also provide a softer ride over bumps.
Bad Control Arm Symptoms
Ball joints and bushings on the lower control arm are especially susceptible to wear since, in most suspension setups, the lower arm is actually supporting the weight of the vehicle.
What if the control arm breaks? If the ball joints are worn out then you might be facing difficulty in aligning the vehicle on road. With major damage, there might be a possibility that you will lose control over the wheels, and in the extreme case, if the control arm breaks, the wheel could fall off the position.
These ball joints typically cannot be replaced separately, so the entire control arm needs to be replaced. The ball joints are critical to vehicle alignment, so these control arms should also be replaced in pairs. Inspect the ball joint boot and look for signs of dry rotting or cracks, as well as leaking grease.
Uneven tire wear is also a potential sign of a failing control arm, as this is an indicator of alignment issues. As control arm bushings wear, this can force the vehicle out of alignment, causing wear on the outer or inner edges of the tire.
An aftermarket control arm, when designed correctly like SuperPro 4×4 Control arms, will correct alignment and inherent clearance issues that arise when you lift or modify the suspension of your 4WD.
Increases Clearance
In addition to improving wheel travel, replacement upper control arms help to increase the ride height and clearance of your vehicle.
Equal length control arms will keep the wheel perpendicular (90°) to the chassis at all times. A longer upper will cause the top of the wheel to go positive camber under compression. A longer lower will cause negative camber under compression.
Aluminum control arms are lightweight and corrosion-resistant. Since the ball joint is integrated directly into the component, a separate housing for the ball joint is not required, which saves money and reduces the overall weight of the control arm.
Yes, when you do any major work to the front suspension, you need to have the alignment done. Even though the parts are “basically” the same, they are not exact. Newer parts will be tighter than old (less deflection and no wear), so will put the alignment into a different position.
Absolutely need an alignment after control arms unless you`re a master of the old chalk and tape method.
1) Vibrations
There are many things in a car that can cause unusual vibrations, but control arm bushings are common culprits. Like many wear and tear parts, the rubber they`re made of (though fairly durable) wears out after over time, making older bushings very susceptible to damage.
Damaged or Worn-out Control Arms
Worn-out control arms may cause the wheels to move out of alignment, which causes the vehicle to make a clunking noise as you steer the wheels on a bump.
Yes, driving with a bad control arm is dangerous. To start, a control arm is a hinged suspension link situated between the chassis and the suspension upright or hub that attaches to the wheel. If something is wrong with the control arm, the following can happen: Your steering will be unpredictable and hard to control.
Control arm replacement can be expensive. Often, the bushings and ball joints must be replaced at the same time as well, although it depends on the level of damage & wear. All of these components work together. A control arm labor can take several hours to replace.
Signs Of A Bent Control Arm
Tire sitting at and unusual angle. Accelerated wear on either edge of the tire. Loose steering. Clunking noise in the steering area.
Sound — Usually the first indication of worn or loose ball joints will be a faint, intermittent clunking noise that seems to be coming from a corner of your vehicle. The sound may be more pronounced when going over a bump or a dip or when going around a corner.