Ford Taurus Front Control Arm & Ball Joint Guide (2007-2013)
Stop the clunking noises and fix the steering wander on your Taurus with the right replacement parts.
- The most common symptom of failure is a clunking noise from the front end when going over bumps.
- High-quality aftermarket brands like Moog or Mevotech can be an upgrade over the original parts for durability.
- It is highly recommended to replace control arms in pairs (left and right) to maintain balanced handling.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacement to prevent tire damage and ensure safety.
Is Your Ford Taurus Making Noise Over Bumps?
If you're hearing a clunking, knocking, or rattling sound from the front of your 2007-2013 Ford Taurus, especially when driving over bumps or uneven roads, there's a good chance the control arm and ball joint assembly is worn out. This is a common wear item. The sound you hear is often the result of worn rubber bushings or a loose ball joint, which allows metal parts to hit each other.
🎬 Watch: See how bad control arm bushings look and sound.Symptoms of a Bad Control Arm
Besides noise, there are other signs that your control arms need replacement:
- Wandering Steering: You might feel like you have to constantly make small corrections to the steering wheel to keep the car driving straight.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: Worn bushings can no longer absorb road shocks, leading to vibrations felt in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A bad control arm throws off the wheel alignment, often causing the inside edge of your front tires to wear out much faster than the rest of the tire.
- Pulling to One Side: A severely worn or bent arm can cause the vehicle to pull to the left or right.
Safety First: Rear Suspension Recall
While this guide focuses on the front control arms, be aware that Ford issued a major safety recall (NHTSA #20S04) for fractured rear suspension toe links on 2013-2018 Taurus models. A failure can cause a sudden loss of vehicle control. It is critical to ensure this recall has been performed on your vehicle if it falls within the affected range.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
When replacing the control arms on your Taurus, you have several options. The original Motorcraft parts are a reliable choice, but for a vehicle of this age, high-quality aftermarket parts can offer better durability and value.
Brand Quality Tiers
- Premium Aftermarket (Best Quality): Brands like Moog (Problem Solver series), Mevotech (Supreme or TTX series), and Delphi are highly regarded. They often feature improved designs over the original, such as greaseable ball joints for longer life and heavier-duty construction. Choosing one of these brands is often considered an upgrade.
- Standard Aftermarket (Good Quality): Brands like Dorman, ACDelco (Professional series), and Suspensia offer a good balance of quality and price. They are designed to be direct replacements for the factory part and are a solid choice for most daily drivers.
- OEM (Original Fit): Motorcraft is Ford's official parts brand. These parts are guaranteed to fit exactly like the ones that came on your Taurus from the factory. However, they may have the same non-greaseable, sealed design as the original parts that eventually wore out.
How Much Does a Control Arm Replacement Cost?
The total cost depends on the parts you choose and whether you do the work yourself. The job is possible for a skilled DIYer, but it requires proper tools and safety procedures.
| Cost Category | Estimated Price Range |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Part (per side) | $49.10 - $301.43 |
| New OEM Part (Motorcraft, per side) | $260 - $420 |
| Shop Labor (per side) | $120 - $220 |
| Total Professional Replacement (per side) | $170 - $620+ |
Note: A wheel alignment, typically costing $100-$150, is required after replacement and is not included in the above estimates.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
It is always recommended to replace control arms in pairs (both driver and passenger side). If one side has failed due to age and mileage, the other side is likely not far behind. Replacing both ensures balanced handling and suspension performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing the control arms?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing a control arm will change your vehicle's suspension geometry. A full four-wheel alignment is required to ensure proper handling, prevent pulling, and avoid premature tire wear. Skipping the alignment will negate the benefits of the new parts.
Can I just replace the ball joint or bushings?
On many modern vehicles, including the Taurus, the ball joint is integrated into the control arm and is not sold as a separate, replaceable component. While bushings can sometimes be pressed out and replaced, the labor involved often makes it more cost-effective and reliable to replace the entire control arm assembly, which comes with new bushings and a new ball joint already installed.
Is this a difficult job to do myself (DIY)?
For an experienced home mechanic, it is a manageable job, but it can be challenging. It requires safely lifting and supporting the vehicle on jack stands, and you may need special tools like a ball joint separator ('pickle fork') or a large pry bar. A critical step is to only tighten the main bushing bolts when the car's full weight is resting on the suspension to avoid immediate damage to the new bushings.
🎬 Watch: This step-by-step replacement guide includes helpful installation hacks.What is the difference between the 2007-2009 and 2010-2013 Taurus?
The 2007-2009 Taurus was a continuation of the Ford Five Hundred platform, while the 2010 model year introduced a major redesign. While they share a similar underlying platform, there can be differences in suspension parts. Always verify the part fitment for your specific year, make, and model before ordering.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: BA5Z-3078-A 9A5Z-3078-A CR3Z-3079-D
The assembly typically includes a stamped or cast steel control arm, two pre-installed bushings for mounting to the subframe, and an integrated, non-serviceable ball joint that attaches to the steering knuckle.
We Have This Part in Stock
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Taurus:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Ford Taurus Making Noise Over Bumps?
- Symptoms of a Bad Control Arm
- Safety First: Rear Suspension Recall
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
- Brand Quality Tiers
- How Much Does a Control Arm Replacement Cost?
- Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off