Is It Dangerous If the Lower Control Arm Bushing of a Car Cracks?
2 Answers
It is dangerous if the lower control arm bushing of a car cracks. Below is a detailed introduction about the lower control arm bushing: 1. Overview: The lower control arm in the suspension system serves to bear loads, guide the wheels, and absorb shocks. After being used for a period of time, the lower control arm bushing is prone to cracking. It is necessary to replace the bushing in time, otherwise it may affect the stability and handling of the vehicle. 2. Others: The material of the control arm is quite diverse, including aluminum alloy, cast iron, double-layer stamped parts, and single-layer stamped parts. Each material has its pros and cons. Stamped parts have good toughness but insufficient strength, making them prone to breakage upon impact.
Last time the lower control arm bushings on my car cracked, I noticed a creaking sound from the front wheels while driving, especially when going over speed bumps. At first, I didn’t pay much attention, thinking it was a minor issue. But later, the steering wheel started wobbling on the highway, and once I nearly scraped the guardrail while turning. The mechanic at the repair shop checked and said the bushings were completely worn out, and the suspension system was dangerously loose. Bushings are rubber cushioning components—once cracked, the wheel alignment goes off, accelerating tire wear. Worse, metal parts might come into direct contact, potentially causing the suspension to fail and leading to an accident. A friend of mine had a similar issue and delayed repairs, only to skid on a rainy highway and crash into a wall. For safety, it’s best to replace them as soon as you notice any cracks—it’s not expensive, just a couple hundred bucks. Don’t hesitate like I did—it was a big lesson. Now, every time I wash my car, I ask the attendant to check the undercarriage for any abnormalities.