How Much Does Control Arm Replacement Cost?
Expect to pay $170 to $570 at an independent shop for a typical car, and up to $710 at a dealership. Worn control arm bushings or ball joints cause clunks and wandering steering. Most shops replace the whole arm because it is faster than pressing in new bushings.
- Parts$60–$250
- Labor$110–$320
- Shop time1–2 hours
- DIY difficultyIntermediate (3/5)
Estimate your cost
Control Arm Replacement cost by vehicle type
| Vehicle | Parts | Labor | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Compact / economy car | $60–$250 | $110–$320 | $170–$570 |
| Midsize sedan / crossover | $70–$290 | $120–$350 | $190–$640 |
| Truck / full-size SUV | $80–$325 | $125–$370 | $205–$695 |
| Luxury / European | $110–$450 | $145–$415 | $250–$865 |
Independent shop vs. dealer vs. chain
| Where | Hourly rate | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| Independent shop | $110–$160 | $190–$640 |
| Chain (Midas, Firestone…) | $120–$175 | $200–$675 |
| Dealership | $160–$230 | $245–$795 |
What does it do?
Control arms connect the wheel hub to the frame and let the wheel move up and down while keeping it aligned.
Signs you need this repair
- Clunking over bumps
- Steering wander or pulling
- Vibration through the steering wheel
- Uneven tire wear on the inner or outer edge
Can you do it yourself?
Difficulty: Intermediate (3/5). A few large bolts and a ball joint separator. An alignment is needed afterwards.
Doing it yourself saves the labor portion, roughly $110–$320, so you would pay only for parts ($60–$250).
Is it worth fixing?
Yes. Worn arms and bushings affect steering and tire wear, and a failed arm is dangerous.
How to save money
- Buy arms with the ball joint pre-installed: it saves labor.
- Replace in pairs only if both sides are worn.
- Get an alignment right after to avoid ruining your tires.
Questions to ask your mechanic
- Is it the bushing or the ball joint that is worn?
- Does the new arm come with the ball joint installed?
- Is an alignment included in the quote?
Frequently asked questions
How long do control arms last?
Typically 90,000 to 100,000 miles, less on rough roads.
Is it safe to drive with a bad control arm?
Not for long. A failed ball joint or arm can cause the wheel to collapse.
Do I need an alignment?
Yes. Replacing a control arm changes suspension geometry.
Related repair costs
Helpful guides
Sources and methodology
Estimates combine typical book labor times, current aftermarket and OEM parts prices, and 2026 US shop labor rates. See exactly how we calculate them.
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics (pay and duties)
- Federal Trade Commission: Auto Repair Basics (estimates, warranties, your rights)
- NHTSA: Check for recalls before paying for a repair
- ASE (National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence): technician certification