noname300

Hello All,

My '01 ES300 needs lower control arm rear bushings replacement. I spoke with several mechanics about my options and they gave me two:
1. replace the entire control arms (~$1000)
2. replace just the bushings ($300-500)

Those who recommend #1 said that #2 was not possible at all, or dangerous (you may break a control arm while pressing the bushing in), or they would not perform it because it causes problems down the road.

I wonder if someone had bushings replaced on their vehicle and how long those replaced bushings lasted.
What about front bushings? Someone told me that they are almost impossible to replace.

Thanks

BoostedE21

It depends on what you can get the parts for. I'm seeing an average of about $120 for rear control arms WITH new bushings - and those are an easy unbolt, replace, bolt back on. Very simple job. You'd need two for each side in the rear, and one for each side in the front.

The bushings will be cheaper to buy, but you'll also need a press to push the old ones out, and the new ones in. I've been able to use a mill vice on a few of my jobs.

If you have the time and resources, replacing the bushings would be cheaper, and it's very unlikely that getting new control arms (the metal itself) will make any difference unless yours are bent (unlikely). However - I would expect your "trusty mechanic" to charge $600 max for a control arm job. It's really not a big deal at all - if he has the parts, he should be able to do it in 30 minutes.


Where in TX are you? I might be able to help you replace the parts or press in the new bushings for a 6-pack.

PlatES300

iTrader: (1)

I just replaced the bushings because it was so much cheaper than replacing the entire control arm. It really isn't hard. You just need a press to get the bushings in and out.

tomf

Ditto what BoostedE21 wrote. You can buy new front lower control arms for $77 (some cost up to $322) each at Rock Auto. Then its just a matter of unscrewing 7 bolts (3 on the ball joint, one for the stabilizer link, two bolts on the front of the control arm, and one at the rear of the control arm) and the five lug nuts on the wheel. As long as there are no issues removing the bolts it's a simple job. When I removed the control arm on my Hyundai Elantra the nut on the inside of the frame that held one of the front bolts broke loose. So the bolt turned freely. I had to cut into the frame to get a wrench on the nut so I could remove the bolt. Then I spot welded the nut to the frame and lastly welded the frame hole closed. Now that was a headache.

I won't bother pressing the bushing unless you want a specific material like Energy Suspension bushings or you have a hydraulic press and are desperate to save $80. I doubt you will break the control arm. I looked at the installation instructions for Energy Suspension bushing. It looked doable. I am considering installing Energy Suspension bushings on my ES. But I'm lazy.

Lexpedient

Just 'bookmarking' to see any further comments....

charley240

iTrader: (6)

just replace the bushing, it is much cheaper, but more of a hassle.
it is a little more difficult than most bushings, but it doesnt take a rocket scientist to do it. ive already done my 97, and my 93. both are identical.
goodluck
Charley