Control Arm Bushings: DIY?
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 626
Likes: 3
From: Los Angeles, CA
'03 E55 (My Daily), '01 ML 320 (Wifey), Twin Turbo '69 Camaro (In Progess)
Control Arm Bushings: DIY?
My lower control arm bushings are shot and I can feel the slack when I move the car from a parked position. Has anyone replaced these before as a DIY? I've changed out control arm bushings on other cars and it was a rather straightforward process. I didn't see anything when I tried searching the forum. Any insight is greatly appreciated.
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,825
Likes: 17
From: Southern California
E55 w/ goods, Z32 Project underway
It is both simpler and cheaper to just swap out the entire unit. Might as well do the lower ball joint as well (PITA) as they tend to go out as well. Dorman makes a good quality aftermarket control arm that will probably last twice that of the troublesome OEM unit.
Thread Starter
Super Member
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 626
Likes: 3
From: Los Angeles, CA
'03 E55 (My Daily), '01 ML 320 (Wifey), Twin Turbo '69 Camaro (In Progess)
Thanks for the reply. The dealer replaced my ball joints before the car went out of warranty, so I don't think it makes sense to purchase the whole assembly. The bushing are $50/ea online. If I opt to replace the lower control arm bushings on my own, is it a pretty easy process or are they are real PITA to remove?
MBWorld Fanatic!
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,825
Likes: 17
From: Southern California
E55 w/ goods, Z32 Project underway
The whole assembly is very cheap but the ball joint is a PITA to do. You will need a press for the bushings. If you have access to one of those, then it is pretty easy, just takes longer.
