Cracked control arm bushings versus torn control arm bushings

Understanding the safety implications of cracked control arm bushings versus torn control arm bushings

Car dealers, independent and chain repair shops often perform a free multi-point inspection on your vehicle when it’s in for routine service. If your car is over five years old chances are they’ll point out cracked control arm bushings and advise you to replace them, implying that it’s a safety issue. It’s not. This is a common scam and one that you should be aware of. I’ll explain the difference between a cracked control arm bushing and a torn bushing and how each affects your vehicle’s safety.

What are Control Arm Bushings?

Control arm bushings are rubber or polyurethane components that act as pivot points between the control arms and the vehicle’s frame or subframe. They allow the control arms to move smoothly while absorbing road vibrations and impacts. Control arms, in turn, are responsible for connecting the wheels to the vehicle’s suspension system, ensuring proper wheel alignment and handling.

The Consequences of Cracked Control Arm Bushings

All rubber deteriorates over time, so it’s not at all uncommon to see cracked rubber in the bushings. As long as the rubber is still connected to the center sleeve and the control arm, it’s still doing its intended job and presents no safety issues.

Examples of cracked control arm bushings

But torn control arm bushings are a different story

Once the rubber tears away from the center sleeve or the control arm, everything changes. Torn bushings can no longer maintain proper alignment and can cause excessive play in your steering. They can also cause excessive tire wear. Since the control arm has lost its secure connection with the frame, you’re at risk for disengagement, and wheel collapse failure.

The red starts indicate rubber separation from the steel sleeve or the control arm.

Signs of torn control arm bushings

• Clunking or knocking noises from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or during sharp turns.
• Excessive vibrations or shaking felt through the steering wheel or the vehicle’s body.
• Wandering or pulling to one side while driving, even on a straight road.
• Uneven or excessive tire wear, especially on the inside or outside edges of the tires.

©, 2024 Rick Muscopalt