Dodge Journey Front & Rear Suspension Control Arm Guide (2009-2020)
Hearing clunks, pops, or squeaks from your suspension? It might be time for new control arms.
- The most common sign of failure is a clunking or popping noise from the suspension over bumps.
- It is best to replace the entire control arm assembly, not just the bushings.
- Always replace control arms in pairs (left and right) to maintain balanced handling.
- A wheel alignment is absolutely required after replacement to prevent tire damage and handling issues.
Is Your Dodge Journey's Suspension Making Noise?
A common issue on the 2009-2020 Dodge Journey is the failure of suspension control arm bushings and ball joints. This often starts as a minor annoyance but can become a serious safety concern. Most owners report hearing clunking, popping, or creaking sounds, especially at low speeds over bumps or when turning. These noises are the number one sign that your control arms need inspection.
Symptoms of a Bad Control Arm
If you're experiencing any of the following, your control arms are the likely culprit:
- Clunking or Popping Sounds: The most frequent complaint is a noise from the front or rear suspension over uneven roads. This is caused by worn bushings or a loose ball joint allowing metal-on-metal contact.
- Steering Wander: The vehicle may feel unstable or pull to one side, requiring constant steering correction. This happens when worn bushings allow unwanted movement in the suspension.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A bad control arm can ruin your alignment, causing the inside or outside edge of your tires to wear out prematurely.
- Vibrations: You might feel vibrations through the steering wheel, especially as the components wear and become looser.
Safety and Driveability
While you can drive with a slightly worn control arm bushing, it is not recommended. A completely failed ball joint or bushing can cause a loss of steering control. If you hear loud clunking or your steering feels very loose, you should have the vehicle inspected immediately.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Control Arm
Since the control arm assembly includes the bushings and sometimes the ball joint, it's almost always better and easier to replace the entire arm rather than trying to press old bushings out and new ones in. Here’s a look at the types of brands available:
- Premium Brands (Moog, Delphi, ACDelco): These brands are often considered top-tier in the aftermarket. Moog, in particular, is well-known for its "problem-solver" parts that may feature improved designs over the original, such as greaseable fittings. Delphi and ACDelco are also known for producing parts that meet or exceed original equipment (OE) quality. These are a great choice if you plan to keep your Journey for a long time.
- Standard/Value Brands (Dorman, Mevotech, Suspensia): These brands offer a good balance of quality and price. Dorman is known for having wide availability and often provides a direct replacement that fits well. Mevotech has different tiers, with their "Supreme" or "TTX" lines offering heavy-duty options that are popular with many drivers. These brands are solid choices for a daily driver under normal conditions.
- Economy Brands (Skyward): Economy-focused brands provide a budget-friendly solution to get your vehicle back on the road. While they meet fitment requirements, they may not have the same long-term durability or advanced features as premium brands. They are a viable option if the cost is your primary concern.
Estimated Replacement Costs
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Control Arm (Single) | $34 - $145 |
| Shop Labor (Per Side) | $146 - $215 |
| Total Professional Replacement (Per Side) | $180 - $360 |
| Wheel Alignment (Required) | $100 - $150 |
Note: Costs are estimates and will vary by location and the specific parts chosen. It is highly recommended to replace control arms in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even handling and suspension wear.
Pro Tip: Get an Alignment!
Replacing a control arm will always change your vehicle's alignment. You must get a professional wheel alignment after the job is done. Skipping this step will cause poor handling and rapid tire wear, wasting the money you just spent on new parts.
Known Issues & Recalls
There are no specific recalls or widespread Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) from Dodge for premature control arm failure on the 2009-2020 Journey. However, owner forums are filled with discussions about clunking and creaking from the front and rear suspension, indicating that bushing and ball joint wear is a very common problem as the vehicle ages. Some rear suspension issues are specifically linked to bad toe adjusters and upper arms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to replace the whole control arm?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The new control arm comes with new bushings and a new ball joint already installed. The labor cost to press out old bushings and install new ones often exceeds the cost of a complete new arm assembly, making it the most practical and reliable repair.
Should I replace control arms on both sides at the same time?
Yes. If the control arm on one side has failed due to wear, the other side is likely not far behind. Replacing them in pairs ensures balanced handling, predictable steering, and saves you from having to do the same job twice in a short period. It also means you only need to pay for one wheel alignment.
Is this a DIY job?
For an experienced DIY mechanic, yes. The replacement involves safely lifting the vehicle, removing the wheel, and detaching the control arm from the knuckle and subframe. However, it can be difficult. Bolts are often seized with rust, and special tools like a ball joint separator or large pry bars may be needed. The front forward bolt on the lower control arm can be especially tricky due to tight clearance with the transmission. If you are not comfortable with heavy suspension work, it's best to leave this job to a professional.
What's the difference between a front and rear control arm on the Journey?
The front suspension has one large lower control arm on each side. The rear suspension is a "multi-link" design, meaning it uses several smaller arms (often called lateral links or toe links) to control wheel movement. Noises from the rear are common and can be caused by any of these links. When ordering, make sure you specify front or rear and the specific link you need for the back.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 68212036AB 68212037AB 05105270AB 05105271AB 04766962AC 04766963AC
The Dodge Journey uses a MacPherson strut front suspension with a single lower control arm. The rear suspension is a multi-link design. The front lower control arm is the most commonly replaced component. Replacement requires torquing bolts with the suspension under load (at ride height) to prevent premature bushing wear.
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.
- Dodge Journey: