A Guide to 2011-2017 Buick Regal Front Control Arm Bushings
Fix clunks, wandering steering, and uneven tire wear on your Regal by understanding and choosing the right bushings.
- Symptoms include clunking noises, steering wander, and uneven tire wear.
- For an easier repair, replace the entire control arm assembly, not just the bushing.
- A wheel alignment is mandatory after replacement to prevent handling issues and tire damage.
- Be aware of a rear suspension recall on 2012-2013 models and a front suspension TSB for noise on this platform.
Is Your Buick Regal Making Noise Over Bumps?
If you're hearing clunking, rattling, or groaning noises from the front end of your 2011-2017 Regal, especially over bumps or during turns, there's a good chance your control arm bushings are worn out. These parts are made of rubber and wear down over time, leading to metal-on-metal contact that creates noise and sloppy handling.
Symptoms of Bad Control Arm Bushings
- Clunking or Knocking Sounds: The most common symptom. You'll hear it when driving over bumps, potholes, or even braking. This is the sound of the loose control arm moving around.
- Steering Wander: Your car may feel like it's pulling to one side, or you might have to constantly correct the steering wheel to drive straight. This happens because the worn bushings can't hold the wheel alignment steady.
- Vibrations: You might feel vibrations through the steering wheel, especially as your speed increases. Worn bushings can no longer absorb road imperfections effectively.
- Uneven Tire Wear: Check your front tires. If the inside or outside edges are wearing down faster than the rest of the tread, it's a classic sign of an alignment issue caused by bad bushings.
Known Issues for This Regal Generation
Front Suspension Noise: GM issued a technical service bulletin (TSB #18-NA-163) for the Regal platform about a rattle or buzz noise from the front end when braking on rough roads. The cause was identified as the front suspension bushings. The official fix is to replace both front lower control arms.
Rear Suspension Recall: Many 2012-2013 Regals were recalled for rear toe links (a type of control arm) that could rust and break, especially in salt-belt states. This is a separate issue from the front bushings but is important to be aware of for your vehicle's overall suspension health.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Bushing
When shopping for new bushings, you have options. The quality and price vary, so it's important to know what you're getting.
Pro Tip: Replace the Whole Arm, Not Just the Bushing
Replacing only the bushing requires a special hydraulic press 🎬 See how to press out and replace just the bushings. and is a difficult job. For most DIY mechanics and even many shops, it is much faster and easier to replace the entire control arm. A new control arm assembly comes with new bushings and a new ball joint already installed, saving you time and potential frustration.
🎬 Watch: Step-by-step guide to replacing the entire control arm assembly.Brand Tiers for Your Regal
- Premium (Moog, Delphi): These brands are often considered top-tier in the aftermarket. Delphi is a known OE supplier, meaning their parts are often built to the same standards as the original factory parts. Moog is well-known for its "Problem Solver" line, which sometimes features designs intended to be an improvement over the original. These are excellent choices if you want the longest life and best performance.
- Standard (Mevotech): Mevotech offers a good balance of quality and price. They often have different product lines, like the "Supreme" series, that can offer upgraded designs. This is a solid choice for a daily driven vehicle where you want a reliable part without the premium price tag.
- Economy (Dorman): Dorman provides budget-friendly options and is known for having a very wide selection of parts. While the quality can be inconsistent compared to premium brands, they offer a cost-effective solution to get your car back on the road safely.
Estimated Costs
| Item | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Bushing Only (Part) | $20 - $78 |
| Aftermarket Control Arm Assembly (Part) | $80 - $250+ |
| Shop Labor (Bushing Only Replacement) | $190 - $300 per side |
| Shop Labor (Control Arm Assembly Replacement) | $100 - $200 per side |
| Wheel Alignment (Required After Repair) | $80 - $150 |
Costs are estimates and can vary by location and shop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just one bushing?
While you can, it's recommended to replace them in pairs (both left and right sides). If one side has failed, the other is likely not far behind. This ensures your handling is balanced and you won't have to do the job again soon.
Do I need an alignment after replacing the bushings?
Yes, absolutely. Replacing control arm bushings or the entire control arm will affect your vehicle's alignment. You must get a professional alignment done after the repair to ensure proper handling, safety, and to prevent premature tire wear.
Are there different bushings for different Regal models?
Yes. Some parts listings specify differences for models with or without the "Performance Package" (like the GS model). Always verify your specific submodel when ordering to ensure you get the correct part for your car.
Is the noise I'm hearing definitely the control arm bushings?
Not always. A clunking noise could also be a bad ball joint, sway bar link, or even a strut-related issue. A GM service bulletin for the 2011-2012 Regal points to leaking struts causing a similar noise. A thorough inspection is the best way to confirm the cause.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 13219169
The front suspension on the 2011-2017 Buick Regal uses a MacPherson strut design with a lower control arm. The lower control arm has two bushings: a vertical bushing at the front and a larger, horizontal bushing at the rearward position. The rearward bushing is often the one that fails first.
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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.
- Buick Regal:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is Your Buick Regal Making Noise Over Bumps?
- Symptoms of Bad Control Arm Bushings
- Known Issues for This Regal Generation
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Bushing
- Pro Tip: Replace the Whole Arm, Not Just the Bushing
- Brand Tiers for Your Regal
- Estimated Costs
- Frequently Asked Questions
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