Have you ever heard of a lower control arm? If not, let me tell you, it’s one of the important parts of your vehicle’s suspension system.
The lower control arm is responsible for keeping your wheels firmly planted on the road and providing a smooth ride. It’s a crucial component that helps ensure your safety on the road.
However, like any other part of your vehicle, the lower control arm can wear out over time and become damaged.
If you’re driving with a bad lower control arm, you may not even know it. But, trust me, it’s a problem you don’t want to ignore.
Driving with a bad lower control arm can have serious consequences for the stability of your vehicle. And this would put you at risk.
So, let’s take a closer look at how long you can drive on a lower control arm, and why you should be concerned about driving with it.
Table of contents
Factors that Affect Driving on Bad Lower Control Arm
1. The severity of the Damage
Firstly, the severity of the damage is a big factor. If the damage is minor, you might be able to get away with driving for a little while, but eventually, you’ll need to have it repaired.
On the other hand, if the damage is more severe, you should avoid driving your vehicle until you can get it fixed.
2. Handling and Stability of the Vehicle
The handling and stability of the vehicle are other factors to consider. When the lower control arm is damaged, it can cause the wheels to become misaligned, which can have a major impact on how your vehicle handles.
You might notice that your car pulls to one side, or that the steering feels loose or vague. These are all signs that your lower control arm may be damaged and in need of repair.
Risks of Driving with a Bad Lower Control Arm
1. Dangerous Driving Conditions
First and foremost, dangerous driving conditions can arise when you’re driving with a damaged lower control arm. When the wheels are misaligned, your car may pull to one side, making it difficult to steer and control the vehicle, especially in wet or slippery conditions.
This can increase the risk of a crash, putting you and your passengers in harm’s way.
2. Decreased Handling and Stability of the Vehicle
Another risk of driving with a bad lower control arm is decreased handling and stability of the vehicle. As I mentioned earlier, when the lower control arm is damaged, it can cause the wheels to become misaligned, which can impact the handling of your vehicle.
This can make it more difficult to control your car, especially at high speeds or in emergency situations.
3. Possibility of Further Damage to the Vehicle
Finally, there’s the possibility of further damage to the vehicle. Driving with a bad lower control arm can put extra stress on other components of your suspension system, such as the ball joints and bushings.
Over time, this can lead to even more problems, potentially resulting in costly repairs. So, by addressing the issue promptly, you can help prevent further damage and save money in the long run.
How Long Can You Drive on Bad Lower Control Arm?
You can drive on bad lower control arm for a few days or a few hundred kilometers if the damage is minor. However, it’s always best to have it repaired as soon as possible before the damage becomes more severe.
On the other hand, if the damage is severe, it’s not recommended to drive at all. Driving with a severely damaged lower control arm can put you at risk, as well as cause further damage to your vehicle.
In this case, it’s best to have your vehicle towed to have it repaired as soon as possible.
Symptoms of a Bad Lower Control Arm
1. Vehicle Pulling To One Side
When the lower control arm is damaged, it can cause the wheels to become misaligned, leading to uneven tire wear and the vehicle pulling to one side.
This can be a dangerous driving condition, as it can be difficult to steer and control the vehicle, especially in wet or slippery conditions. The pull can also cause increased wear on your tires, which can result in a need for frequent replacements.
2. Uneven Tire Wear
If you notice that your tires are wearing more on one side than the other, it could be a sign of a damaged lower control arm. This is because a damaged lower control arm can cause the wheels to become misaligned, leading to unequal tire wear.
If the issue is left unaddressed, it can result in a need for frequent tire replacements, as well as decreased handling and stability of the vehicle.
3. Suspension Noises While Driving
Suspension noises, such as clunking or knocking sounds, can be a sign of a damaged lower control arm. The lower control arm is a critical component of your suspension system, and any damage to it can cause noise while driving.
These noises can be caused by loose or worn bushings or other components of the lower control arm. If you’re hearing suspension noises, it’s best to have your vehicle inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible.
4. Loose or Vague Steering
If you’re experiencing loose or vague steering, it could be a sign of a damaged lower control arm. A damaged lower control arm can impact the handling of your vehicle, making it difficult to steer.
This can be especially dangerous in emergency situations, such as sudden stops or sharp turns. If you’re experiencing loose or vague steering, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected as soon as possible to avoid further damage or dangerous driving conditions.
How to Fix a Bad Lower Control Arm
1. Prepare the Vehicle
Before beginning the repair, ensure that the vehicle is safely supported using jack stands. Place jack stands under the designated jacking points on the vehicle, such as the frame rails. Make sure that the engine is turned off and that the car is in ‘park’.
2. Remove the Sway Bar End Link
Using a wrench or socket, remove the bolts connecting the sway bar end link to the lower control arm and the strut assembly. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you may need to remove other components to access the sway bar end link. If so, be sure to keep track of the order of removal and take note of any special tools required.
3. Remove the Lower Ball Joint
Using a ball joint separator tool, remove the ball joint from the steering knuckle. You may need to gently tap the tool with a hammer to loosen the ball joint. Some vehicles may require the use of a press to remove the ball joint, so be prepared for this possibility.
4. Insert New Lower Control Arm
Carefully insert the new lower control arm into place, ensuring that the ball joint is properly seated in the steering knuckle. Be sure to align the mounting points on the control arm with the brackets on the vehicle.
5. Jack up the Control Arm
Using a hydraulic jack, carefully raise the control arm into position. Ensure that the control arm is securely supported by the jack before proceeding. Check the alignment of the ball joint and mounting points to make sure everything is lined up properly.
6. Install the Bolts
Reinstall the sway bar end link and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. Repeat this process for the ball joint. Be sure to tighten all bolts to the proper torque specifications.
7. Test the Repair
Once the bolts have been tightened, carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands and test the repair. Check the steering and suspension for any noises or looseness. Drive the vehicle on a level surface to see if there are any pulling or uneven tire wear symptoms, which could indicate a misalignment.
FAQs
What Is a Lower Control Arm and Why Is It Important?
The lower control arm is a suspension component that connects the chassis of the vehicle to the wheel hub and helps control the position of the wheels. It is important because it affects the handling and stability of the vehicle. If it is damaged or worn, it can lead to dangerous driving conditions and decreased handling and stability of the vehicle.
How Can I Tell if My Lower Control Arm Is Bad?
Some symptoms of a bad lower control arm include a vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, suspension noises while driving, and loose or vague steering. If you suspect that your lower control arm is bad, it’s best to have it inspected by a professional mechanic.
Can I Drive My Car With a Bad Lower Control Arm?
Yes, you can drive your car with a bad lower control arm, but it’s not recommended. Driving with a damaged lower control arm can cause further damage to the vehicle, increase the risk of accidents, and reduce handling and stability.
If you suspect that your lower control arm is bad, it’s best to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Lower Control Arm?
The cost of replacing a lower control arm varies depending on the make and model of your vehicle, as well as your location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $800 or more to replace a lower control arm.
It’s best to get an estimate from a professional mechanic to determine the exact cost of fixing it for your vehicle.
Read: Tail Light Stays On When Car is Off
Conclusion
It is essential to take care of our vehicles and ensure all their parts are in good condition, including the lower control arm. A lower control arm that is damaged or worn out can cause serious problems It can make your driving unsafe.
Some of the symptoms of a bad lower control arm include a vehicle pulling to one side, uneven tire wear, suspension noises while driving, and loose or vague steering.
Driving with a bad lower control arm is not advisable as it poses a risk to your safety and the safety of others on the road. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, it is crucial to take your vehicle to a mechanic and have it inspected.
Replacing the lower control arm is not a difficult process, and it can be done by a professional or a DIY enthusiast with the right tools and knowledge.
