3 Signs It's Time to Replace Your Car's Upper Control Arms
The control arms in a car are one of the most critical parts of the front suspension. When the upper control arms in proper working condition, your vehicle's suspension system works well in absorbing shock from all blunt force that affects your car when you hit a bump.
On the other hand, worn-out upper control arms, especially when they are damaged beyond the acceptable level as recommended by the car manufacturer, make the vehicle unsafe to drive. The technology used in making vehicle front end parts has improved a lot over the past few years. The following are three common indications that a car's upper control arms have started wearing, and they need replacement.
1. The Steering Wheel Won't Stop Vibrating
The earliest indication that a vehicle's upper arm has started to wear out include spontaneous and uncontrollable vibrations of the car's steering wheel. These vibrations occur because the bushings and ball joints attached to the upper control arm have become completely worn out. Most of the times, you will get these vibrations on your steering wheel when you are accelerating or are driving at high speeds and try to decelerate. Vibrations are a sign that your upper control arms are damaged; if not fixed, the issue could worsen.
2. A Wandering Vehicle Steering
If the upper arms problem is not addressed when you are experiencing steering wheel vibration, the steering wheel starts wandering. Wandering is when the steering alignment shifts and your vehicle starts pulling itself to one side of the road every time you try to steer it. The shifting steering is a result of excessively worn-out ball joints of the bushing. At this point, the mechanic will recommend replacing the ruined part to prevent further damage. Note that over-correcting a vehicle with a shifted steering wheel alignment is dangerous. It could lead to accidents if you are driving at high speed.
3. Funny Sounds From the Vehicle
Clunking sounds from the front of the vehicle are also a common characteristic of a car whose upper control arms are failing. These sounds usually result from the loosening of the parts that make up the control arms, and mostly bushings. If the loose bushings are not tightened in time, they could break when you drive the vehicle on rough roads.
These are the three main symptoms that indicate you have to inspect your car's upper arms. Always make sure that you entrust a professional mechanic with the knowledge and skills to inspect and repair the worn parts of your vehicle for the best service. Learn more by contacting companies that work with or supply Whiteline upper control arms.