Control Arm: Testing and Inspection

DIAGNOSIS AND TESTING
LOWER CONTROL ARM
If damaged, the lower control arm casting is serviced only as a complete component. Inspect lower control arm for signs of damage from contact with the ground or road debris. If lower control arm shows any sign of damage, inspect lower control arm for distortion. Do not attempt to repair or straighten a broken or bent lower control arm.
The replaceable components of the lower control arm are: the ball joint grease seal and the control arm bushings. Inspect both control arm bushings for severe deterioration, and replace if required.
Inspect the lower ball joint for wear. Use the wear inspection procedure in the diagnosis and testing to determine if the wear is excessive and ball joint (lower control arm) replacement is required.
Service procedures to replace these components are detailed in the specific component removal and installation procedure.

INSPECTION
UPPER CONTROL ARM
If damaged, the upper control arm is serviced only as a complete component. Inspect the upper control arm for any signs of damage. If control arm shows any sign of damage the upper control arm must be replaced. Do not attempt to repair or straighten a broken or bent upper control arm.
The only serviceable component of the upper control arm is the ball joint grease seal. No other repair or replacement procedure should be attempted on any component of the upper control arm.