DIY guide · Advanced
How to replace control arms, ball joints and tie rods
Clunks, vague steering and uneven tire wear often point to a worn suspension joint. The job is straightforward on a lift, but it is advanced work: take your time and get the alignment done afterwards.
- Difficulty
- Advanced
- Time in the bay
- 3 to 6 hours
- Best bay
- 2-post lift
- Bay cost, plus tax
- $90 to $180
This is a general guide, not a manual for your car. Your vehicle's service manual comes first, especially for torque values, fluid types and capacities. Support the car on the lift locks or jack stands before you go under it, wear eye protection, and if a step feels wrong, stop and ask us. We do not do welding, grinding or painting in the bays.
Look these up before you book
- Which part is worn (check play with the wheel in the air)
- Bolt torques
- How to count tie rod threads to restore alignment roughly
Tools
- Ball joint separator or pickle fork
- Breaker bar
- Torque wrench
- Penetrating oil
- Ball joint press if the joint is pressed in
- Pry bar
- Measuring tape for tie rod position
Parts and fluids
- Control arm, ball joint or tie rod end, matched to the side and position
- Cotter pins and nuts
- Grease fittings if the part has them
There is an AutoZone nearby, and during business hours parts usually reach the shop in about 10 to 20 minutes. Forgot a filter or need a different size? Order it, keep working, and do not lose your slot.
The retailer's own vehicle picker confirms what fits your car. Always compare the part number with your old part.
Step by step
- Find the worn partWith the wheel off the ground, grip the tire and shake it at 12 and 6, then at 3 and 9. Play points to a ball joint or a tie rod.
- Mark and countFor tie rod ends, count the turns on the old one and mark its position on the inner rod.
- Separate the jointLoosen the nut, then use a separator or a hammer on the knuckle to break the taper free.
- Remove the old partUndo the bolts that hold the arm to the frame or subframe.
- Fit the new partPut the arm or joint in, tighten bolts with the suspension loaded when the manual says so.
- Refit, torque and get an alignmentA tie rod swap changes toe, so you must align before you drive any distance.
Mistakes to avoid
- Hammering a ball joint stud until it mushrooms
- Tightening bushing bolts with the car hanging in the air
- Skipping the alignment
- Reusing worn cotter pins or locking nuts
Stop and ask for help if
- If the knuckle is cracked or a rusted subframe bolt will not move, stop. A pro should look at it.
Doing it in our bays
Use the 2-post and bring a second set of hands if you can. Our team can help you with lift points.
Every bay has air, power, work lights and jack stands, and the lift bays come with a short safety walkthrough. Bring your own hand tools, parts and fluids. New to lifts? Read how your first visit goes.
Questions
How do I know it is a ball joint?
Clunking over bumps, wandering steering, and play when you rock the wheel are common signs. Always confirm by checking with the car on a lift.