A Comprehensive Guide to the 2011-2017 Dodge Durango Suspension Control Arm Assembly
Hearing clunks or feeling wandering steering? Your Durango's control arms might be the cause.
- A clunking noise over bumps is the most common symptom of a failing control arm on a Durango.
- An alignment is mandatory after replacement to prevent unsafe handling and rapid tire wear.
- Replacing control arms in pairs (left and right) is highly recommended for balanced performance.
- Premium aftermarket brands like Moog or Mevotech often offer upgraded designs, such as greaseable ball joints, for improved longevity.
Symptoms of a Failing Control Arm
When the bushings or ball joint in your Durango's control arm assembly wear out, they can cause several distinct problems. Ignoring these signs can lead to more significant suspension damage and unsafe driving conditions.
🎬 See how one owner fixed a persistent Durango clunking noise.- Clunking or Popping Noises: 🎬 Watch this video to identify common front-end clunking sounds. This is the most common symptom. You'll hear a distinct clunk or pop from the front end when driving over bumps, potholes, or making sharp turns. This sound is often the result of excessive play in a worn ball joint or the metal arm hitting the frame due to failed bushings.
- Steering Wander: Your Durango might feel like it's 'wandering' or pulling to one side, requiring constant steering corrections to keep it straight. This indicates that the worn components can no longer hold the wheel in the correct alignment.
- Uneven Tire Wear: A bad control arm throws off the wheel alignment. Inspect your front tires for accelerated wear on the inner or outer edges. This is a clear sign that the suspension geometry is incorrect.
- Steering Wheel Vibration: You may feel vibrations through the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds. This is caused by the wheel wobbling due to a loose connection at the ball joint or bushings.
Important Recall Information
While there are no specific recalls for the control arms on the 2011-2017 Dodge Durango, a recall for rear lower control arms affected a small number of 2015 models due to improper heat treatment during manufacturing. It is always wise to check for any open recalls on your specific vehicle using your VIN on the NHTSA website.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Part
When replacing a control arm, you have a choice between the original equipment (OEM) Mopar part and several aftermarket brands. Since the assembly comes with a new ball joint and bushings already installed, it's often easier and more cost-effective to replace the entire unit rather than pressing individual components.
Brand Quality Tiers
Not all aftermarket parts are created equal. They generally fall into a few quality categories:
- Premium Aftermarket (Moog, Mevotech TTX/Supreme, Delphi): These brands are often considered equivalent to or even an improvement over the original part. Brands like Moog and Mevotech's premium lines may feature design enhancements like greaseable ball joints for longer life and stronger materials. They are a top choice for owners who want long-term durability.
- Standard Aftermarket (Dorman, ACDelco, Suspensia): These brands offer a good balance of quality and value. They are designed to meet or exceed original specifications and are a reliable choice for daily driving. Dorman is known for providing a wide range of parts that are easy to install, though some users report their longevity may not match premium brands.
- OEM (Mopar): This is the part your Durango was built with. It guarantees a perfect fit, but it's often the most expensive option and may have the same design limitations as the original part that failed.
Pro Tip: For a vehicle like the Durango, which is often used for family hauling and long trips, investing in a premium aftermarket brand with improved features like greaseable ball joints can provide extra peace of mind and potentially a longer service life than the original part.
Estimated Replacement Costs
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Control Arm Assembly | $74 - $412 (per side) |
| New OEM (Mopar) Control Arm Assembly | $250 - $500+ (per side) |
| Shop Labor | $200 - $450 (per side) |
| Wheel Alignment (Required) | $100 - $200 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace both the left and right control arms at the same time?
Yes. Suspension components wear at similar rates. If one side has failed, the other is likely not far behind. Replacing them in pairs ensures balanced handling and saves you from doing the same job twice.
Is a wheel alignment necessary after replacing a control arm?
Absolutely. Replacing a control arm will always alter the vehicle's wheel alignment. You must get a professional four-wheel alignment immediately after the repair to ensure proper handling, prevent unsafe driving conditions, and avoid ruining your tires.
Can I just replace the ball joint or bushings?
While technically possible with special tools like a hydraulic press, it is not recommended for most people. The pre-assembled control arm unit is not much more expensive than the individual components and saves a significant amount of labor and potential frustration. 🎬 Follow this step-by-step tutorial to replace your own control arms. It also ensures all related components are new.
What's the difference between an upper and lower control arm?
Your Durango's front suspension has both. The upper control arm connects to the top of the steering knuckle, and the lower connects to the bottom. Together, they form a stable link to the frame. This article focuses on the complete assembly, which is the most common replacement part.
Helpful Videos
![How To Replace Upper & Lower Control Arms | 2011-2021 Dodge Durango 2WD | DIY Tutorial [Part number]](https://img.youtube.com/vi/6vNlqKT4bAc/mqdefault.jpg)
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 52124912AE 52124913AE 68224904AA 68224905AA
The assembly includes the control arm, pre-installed bushings, and an integrated ball joint. The design is a double-wishbone setup, with this part serving as either the upper or lower link depending on the specific replacement.
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.
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