The primary function of a car control arm is to connect the hub and knuckle to the frame. Typically, the control arm has a bushing on one side and a ball joint on the other. These parts wear out over time as we drive our vehicles. Can you drive with bad control arm bushings？
Drive with bad control arm bushings is not safe. Because when the control arms or bushings are worn or broken, the steering becomes unpredictable and dangerous for you and other drivers. Even if you keep the steering wheel straight, your vehicle may be driving randomly to one side.
How long can you drive with bad control arm bushings?
Control arm bushing life varies by vehicle type, manufacturer, and driving conditions. Typically, a new set of control arm bushings will last from 40 to 100,000 miles, with a life expectancy of 80,000 miles.
When you consider how long it will last, it is normal to expect the bushing to wear out gradually and slowly. Hitting a pothole, curb, or getting involved in a minor accident can cause bushings to wear unevenly. However, they are durable enough not to fail immediately.
So when looking at how long you can drive with bad control arm bushings, it all depends on how bad it is. You can drive long enough to have the same problem on the other side. On average, you should be able to drive the car between 96km and 128km after the control arm bushing problem.
But we don't recommend you do this unless you are willing to face more severe consequences. Replace your car's control arm bushings as soon as symptoms appear, although your budget may not always allow you.
Also, control arm bushings are best replaced as a set, as it reduces overall labor costs and saves you the time of a second trip.
