Replacing a control arm typically costs $350 to $900 per side at a shop, including an alignment. The control arm itself runs $80 to $350, and complete arms with ball joints and bushings preinstalled make the job cleaner. An alignment afterward is required.
$350-$900
typical shop cost (per side)
$80-$350
part only (DIY)
1-2 hrs
typical labor time
📊 Quick Comparison
Vehicle type
Parts
Labor
Total
Economy sedan
$120
$220
$340
Midsize/SUV
$200
$280
$480
Full-size truck
$280
$320
$600
European/luxury
$380
$400
$780
What it costs
A control arm replacement usually lands between $350 and $900 per side. Buying a complete arm with the ball joint and bushings already installed costs a bit more than the bare arm but saves labor and press work.
Always budget for a wheel alignment afterward, typically $80 to $150, since replacing a control arm changes suspension geometry.
Parts vs labor
A complete control arm assembly is the practical choice. Labor is one to two hours per side, plus alignment time. Rusted hardware in the rust belt can add labor.
Complete control arm: $80 to $350
Ball joint (if separate): $30 to $120
Alignment: $80 to $150
Labor: $150 to $400 per side
Signs you need it
Clunking or knocking over bumps, loose or wandering steering, uneven tire wear, vibration, and a visibly torn bushing or leaking ball joint all indicate a worn control arm.
Clunk/knock over bumps
Wandering or loose steering
Uneven or feathered tire wear
Cracked bushings or a loose ball joint
DIY vs shop
Control arm replacement is a doable DIY job with a jack, stands, and basic tools, especially with a complete arm assembly. You will still need a shop for the alignment. Watch for rusted bolts, which are the main headache.
How to save
Buy a complete arm with the ball joint and bushings installed to avoid press work. Replace both sides only if both are worn. Do not skip the alignment, since poor alignment quickly ruins new tires.
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The 50 most common check engine codes with likely cause and DIY fix cost. Sent once.
❓ FAQ
Do I need an alignment after replacing a control arm?
Yes. The control arm sets camber and caster, so an alignment is required to protect tire life and handling.
Can I drive with a bad control arm?
A slightly worn bushing may be okay short term, but a failing ball joint on the arm can separate and cause loss of control. Do not delay that repair.
Should I replace both control arms?
Only if both are worn. They do not always fail in pairs, but if the car is high-mileage, doing both can save a second alignment fee.
What is the difference between a bushing and a ball joint?
The bushing cushions the arm's pivot at the frame; the ball joint connects the arm to the steering knuckle. Either can wear and cause noise.
Is a complete control arm worth the extra cost?
Usually yes. It comes with a fresh ball joint and bushings installed, avoiding press work and future labor to service those parts.
What causes control arms to wear out?
Age, potholes, curb impacts, and road salt. Worn bushings and ball joints are the most common failure points.