2013-2022 Buick Encore Control Arm: Diagnosing Clunks, Pops, and Steering Wander

Symptoms of a Failing 2013-2022 Buick Encore Control Arm

When a control arm begins to fail, it's almost always due to the wear and tear of its bushings or ball joint, not the metal arm itself unless it's been damaged in a collision. These symptoms often start subtly but will worsen over time.

Noises: Clunking, Popping, or Squeaking

The most common sign of a bad control arm is a distinct clunking or knocking noise coming from the front suspension. This sound is most noticeable when driving over bumps, potholes, or uneven road surfaces. The noise is caused by worn-out bushings allowing metal-to-metal contact between the control arm and the vehicle's frame. You might also hear popping or snapping sounds when turning the steering wheel, or a squeaking noise when going over bumps or coming to a stop.

Steering and Handling Issues

Worn control arm components can significantly impact steering and stability. You may notice:

• Steering Wander or Pulling: The vehicle may pull to one side, requiring constant steering correction to keep it driving straight. This happens because the worn bushings or ball joint can no longer hold the wheel in the correct alignment.
• Vague or Loose Steering: The steering may feel less responsive or "sloppy." This looseness is due to excessive play in the worn joints.
• Steering Wheel Vibration: Vibrations can be felt through the steering wheel, especially as speed increases. This is often caused by wheel shimmy resulting from the worn components.

Unusual Tire Wear

A failing control arm will throw off the wheel alignment, leading to uneven and premature tire wear. Inspect your front tires for wear on the extreme inner or outer edges, which is a classic sign that the suspension geometry is incorrect due to a worn component.

Known Issues, Recalls, and Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs)

As of early 2026, there are no specific recalls issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the front lower control arms on the 2013-2022 Buick Encore. The existing suspension-related recalls for this vehicle generation pertain to other components like the steering column or rear suspension on different GM models. While numerous TSBs exist for the Buick Encore, none point to a widespread manufacturing defect with the front control arms themselves. Failure is typically considered a result of normal wear and tear, with bushings and ball joints wearing out over time, often after 80,000 to 100,000 miles.

Buying a Used 2013-2022 Encore Control Arm: What to Look For

A used OEM control arm can be an excellent value, offering the original factory quality for significantly less than a new part. However, a careful inspection is crucial.

1. Inspect the Bushings: The rubber bushings are the most common failure point. Look for any signs of cracking, tearing, splitting, or missing pieces of rubber. The rubber should be firm, not soft, mushy, or saturated with oil.
🎬 See what a completely destroyed suspension and worn bushings look like.
2. Check the Ball Joint: The ball joint is integrated into the arm. The rubber boot covering the joint should be intact with no rips or tears. Squeeze the boot to feel for grease inside; if it feels dry, the joint is likely worn. Try to move the ball joint stud by hand; there should be no looseness or excessive play.
3. Examine the Arm for Damage: Look down the length of the control arm to ensure it is straight and not bent, which could indicate it came from a vehicle involved in a collision. Check for heavy corrosion or rust that could compromise the structural integrity of the arm.
4. Consider Mileage: While control arms can last the life of the vehicle, the bushings and ball joints typically wear out. A part from a lower-mileage vehicle (under 80,000 miles) is always preferable, as it will have more service life remaining.

Cost to Replace a Buick Encore Control Arm

The cost can vary based on your location and whether you perform the labor yourself. An alignment is required after replacement, which adds to the total cost.

Installation Tips and Torque Specs

Replacing the control arm is a feasible DIY project for someone with mechanical experience and the right tools. The process involves lifting the vehicle, removing the wheel, and separating the ball joint from the steering knuckle.

Crucial Step: The bolts for the control arm bushings must be final-torqued with the vehicle's full weight on the suspension (at "ride height"). To do this, loosely install the bolts, place a jack under the control arm to lift the suspension to its normal position, and then tighten the bolts to their final torque spec. Tightening the bolts while the suspension is hanging down will preload and quickly destroy the new rubber bushings.

Torque Specifications: Torque specs can be complex, often requiring a specific value plus an additional angle of rotation (torque-to-yield). Always use a torque wrench.

• Ball Joint Pinch Bolt: 26 ft-lbs, then tighten an additional 35-45 degrees. Some sources suggest a sequence of 31 ft-lbs, backing off 120 degrees, then re-torquing to 26 ft-lbs plus the additional angle.
• Front Bushing Bolt: 60 ft-lbs, then tighten an additional 105 degrees.
• Rear Bushing Bolt: 60 ft-lbs, then tighten an additional 60 degrees.
• Wheel Lug Nuts: 100 ft-lbs.

Related Parts to Consider Replacing

When replacing a control arm, it's a good time to inspect other nearby suspension components. The most common part replaced at the same time is the sway bar link. These links are inexpensive and easy to access while the control arm is out. A bad sway bar link can also cause clunking noises. After the job is complete, a four-wheel alignment is not optional—it is mandatory to prevent rapid tire wear and ensure proper handling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)