2002 - 2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer Control Arm - Lower Front, Left (Driver) (OEM)

What to Look for When Buying a Front Lower Control Arm:

• Material: Ensure the control arm is made from high-quality steel or aluminum.
• Bushings and Ball Joints: Inspect the quality of the bushings and ball joints. Look for durable materials and proper fit.
• Finish: A protective coating helps prevent rust and corrosion.

Quality Indicators:

What's Typically Included:

• The control arm itself.
• Bushings (usually pre-installed).
• Ball joint (may or may not be pre-installed).
• Mounting hardware (sometimes included, but best to reuse existing hardware if in good condition).

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Estimated Time: 1-3 hours per side

Special Tools Needed:

• Socket set
• Wrench set
• Ball joint separator (pickle fork or ball joint press)
• Torque wrench
• Jack and jack stands
• Wheel chocks

Critical Steps and Tips:

1. Safety First: Secure the vehicle with jack stands and wheel chocks.
2. Loosen Fasteners: Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel before lifting the vehicle.
3. Disconnect Sensors: Disconnect any sensors attached to the control arm or suspension components.
4. Separate Ball Joint: Use a ball joint separator to disconnect the ball joint from the steering knuckle.
5. Remove Control Arm Bolts: Remove the bolts securing the control arm to the vehicle frame and suspension.
6. Install New Control Arm: Install the new control arm in the reverse order of removal.
7. Torque Specifications: Torque all fasteners to the manufacturer's specifications.
8. Alignment: Get a wheel alignment after replacing the control arm.

DIY or Professional Installation:

Replacing a front lower control arm can be done by a mechanically inclined DIYer. However, it requires some experience with suspension work. If you are not comfortable working on your vehicle's suspension, it is best to have a professional mechanic perform the installation.

Used OEM:

Used OEM control arms are genuine factory parts that have been removed from vehicles. They offer excellent value because they are typically less expensive than new parts, while still providing the quality and reliability of an original equipment manufacturer part. These parts are inspected and tested to ensure they are in good working condition.

New Aftermarket:

New aftermarket control arms are manufactured by third-party companies. They are brand new and built to meet or exceed OE specifications. Aftermarket control arms can be a good option if you are looking for a new part at a competitive price.

Parts Commonly Replaced or Checked:

• Ball Joints: Often replaced at the same time as the control arm, as they are a common wear item.
• Sway Bar Links: These connect the sway bar to the control arm and can wear out or break.
• Struts/Shocks: Worn struts or shocks can contribute to control arm failure.
• Tie Rod Ends: These connect the steering rack to the steering knuckle and can affect steering stability.
• Wheel Alignment: Always get a wheel alignment after replacing any suspension components.

Why Replacing Related Parts Prevents Repeat Failures:

Replacing worn or damaged related parts can prevent premature failure of the new control arm. For example, worn struts can cause excessive stress on the control arm, leading to premature wear. Replacing these parts together ensures that the suspension system is working properly and reduces the risk of future problems.

How Long This Part Normally Lasts:

A front lower control arm can last anywhere from 75,000 to 150,000 miles or more, depending on driving conditions and maintenance.

Factors That Affect Longevity:

• Driving habits (aggressive driving can shorten lifespan).
• Road conditions (rough roads can cause more wear and tear).
• Climate (road salt and moisture can accelerate corrosion).
• Maintenance (regular inspections and lubrication can extend lifespan).
• Quality of the replacement part.

Budget: $50 - $100 Mid-Range: $100 - $200 Premium: $200+

These prices are for the part itself.

Labor Cost Considerations:

Labor costs for replacing a front lower control arm can range from $150 to $400, depending on the mechanic's hourly rate and the complexity of the job.

Total Job Cost Estimates:

• Budget: $200 - $500
• Mid-Range: $250 - $600
• Premium: $350 - $800

For the listed vehicles (2002-2009 Buick, Chevrolet, GMC, Isuzu, Oldsmobile, & Saab), a common issue is premature bushing wear on the front lower control arms. This can lead to clunking noises and poor handling. Regularly inspect the bushings for cracks or damage. Some models may also experience ball joint failure, which can cause steering instability. Check for any Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) related to the front suspension on your specific vehicle model.

How to Confirm Proper Operation:

• Test Drive: Take the vehicle for a test drive and listen for any unusual noises, such as clunking or rattling.
• Steering Check: Pay attention to the steering feel. It should be smooth and responsive, without any looseness or wandering.
• Visual Inspection: After the test drive, visually inspect the control arm and surrounding components for any signs of leaks or damage.

What to Look/Listen For:

• No clunking or rattling noises from the front suspension.
• Steering feels tight and responsive.
• Vehicle tracks straight without pulling to one side.
• No visible leaks or damage to the control arm or surrounding components.

Q: How do I know if my control arm bushings are bad?
A: Common signs of bad control arm bushings include clunking noises when driving over bumps, loose steering, and uneven tire wear. You may also be able to see cracks or damage in the bushings during a visual inspection.

Q: Can I replace just the bushings on the control arm, or do I need to replace the whole arm?
A: While it's possible to replace just the bushings, it can be difficult and time-consuming. Often, it's easier and more cost-effective to replace the entire control arm, especially if the ball joint is also worn.

Q: Will replacing the control arm fix my alignment issues?
A: Replacing a worn control arm can improve alignment, but it's essential to get a wheel alignment after the replacement to ensure proper handling and prevent uneven tire wear.

Q: How often should I inspect my control arms?
A: It's a good idea to inspect your control arms at least once a year, or whenever you notice signs of suspension problems. Regular inspections can help catch problems early and prevent more serious damage.

Q: What happens if I don't replace a bad control arm?
A: Driving with a bad control arm can lead to poor handling, uneven tire wear, and potentially dangerous driving conditions. It can also put stress on other suspension components, leading to further damage.

OEM Part Numbers:

• GM: 15091391, 15198624, 15280281, 25918964
• GMC: 15124401, 15124402
• Isuzu: 8259189640

Fits Years: 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009