How much should a lower control arm replacement cost?
Cost determinants
Several factors drive the overall price of replacing a lower control arm. Understanding them helps you compare quotes accurately and avoid overpaying.
- Parts type and quality: You may replace just the arm, or the arm with a ball joint integrated, or even a complete control arm assembly. OEM parts typically cost more than aftermarket equivalents.
- Vehicle make and model: Luxury brands, European imports, or trucks/SUVs with more complex suspension setups usually cost more than economy cars.
- Labor rates and location: Urban shops or dealer service centers tend to charge higher hourly rates than independent shops in rural areas.
- Additional components: If bushings, stabilizer links, or other steering components are worn, shops may replace them at the same time, increasing cost but saving future labor.
- Alignment: A wheel alignment is usually required after a control arm replacement and adds to the total.
- Warranty and service packages: Some shops offer bundled warranties or promotions that can affect the out-the-door price.
In practice, prices reflect a combination of these factors, so two shops in the same city can quote noticeably different totals. It’s wise to obtain multiple written estimates and ask for itemized line items.
Typical price ranges
The figures below are rough, current ranges for a single lower control arm replacement (parts plus labor) and are intended as a budgeting guide. Local taxes and the optional alignment are not included unless noted.
- Economy/compact cars: about $300–$500 per arm
- Mid-size sedans and mainstream SUVs: about $400–$700 per arm
- Truck and larger SUV models with more complex suspensions: about $500–$900 per arm
- Luxury or European brands (including some imports with advanced suspension): about $800–$1,300+ per arm
Note: If the replacement requires a ball joint that is integrated into the arm, or if several components are replaced at once, totals can climb toward the higher end of these ranges or beyond. An alignment typically adds $75–$150.
What’s included in the price
Understanding what you’re paying for helps you compare quotes and avoid hidden fees. Most quotes break out parts, labor, and alignment, but specifics vary by shop.
- Parts: lower control arm (arm alone or with attached ball joint/assembly)
- Labor: typically 1–2 hours per arm, depending on vehicle and access
- Wheel alignment: usually required after replacement
- Related parts: bushings, ball joints, stabilizer links, or tie rod ends if worn
- Disposal and shop materials: fluids and hardware disposal, shop supplies
To avoid surprises, request a written estimate that itemizes each cost category and clarifies whether a basic or a more comprehensive replacement is being performed.
Ways to save money
Budget-conscious shoppers can employ several strategies without compromising safety or quality.
- Shop around and obtain multiple, itemized quotes from reputable shops
- Consider aftermarket or remanufactured arms if quality and warranty are solid
- Ask whether replacing one arm or both sides is more cost-effective in the long run
- Ask about bundled services, such as a bundled alignment or service package
- Plan repairs alongside other scheduled maintenance to reduce labor repetition
Remember, choosing the absolute cheapest option can backfire if it leads to premature wear or unsafe handling. Prioritize reputable parts and skilled labor, especially for suspension work that affects handling and safety.
Bottom line
For a single lower control arm replacement, most drivers should expect roughly $300–$1,000, depending on vehicle type, part selection, and labor costs. Alignments and related parts can add to the final total. Always get several quotes, review itemized estimates, and confirm what’s included before authorizing service.
Summary
Bottom-line takeaway: Replacing a lower control arm is a mid-range automotive repair with wide price variation. Budget roughly $400–$800 for many non-luxury vehicles, with higher costs for luxury brands or complex suspensions. Expect parts, labor, and an alignment to factor into the bill, and protect yourself by getting multiple, detailed estimates from qualified shops.
