Parts for your 2006 Ford Falcon-Control arms

2006 Ford Falcon Control Arms — What They Do and When to Service Them

Control arms are absolutely used on the 2006 Ford Falcon. Technical references that confirm this include the Ford Falcon BA/BF Workshop Manual (2002–2008), Ford Global Service Information for the BA/BF front SLA/double-wishbone suspension, and aftermarket catalogues (e.g., SuperPro and Nolathane) that list front upper and lower control arm bushes and ball joints for BA/BF models. The BA/BF Falcon front end runs an upper and lower control arm set-up, while rear “Control Blade” IRS models also use lateral control links/arms to locate the wheel.

On a 2006 Falcon, the front control arms form part of a proper double-wishbone arrangement. Their job is to keep the front wheels pointed and planted, managing camber and caster as the suspension moves. Each arm houses bushes and ball joints that allow controlled movement while filtering vibration. In the rear, IRS models use arms/links to maintain toe and camber under load, sharpening stability and tyre life. In short, the arms and their bushes/ball joints are the backbone of how the Falcon steers, rides, and brakes.

As part of regular servicing, it pays to inspect the control arm bushes and ball joints every 20,000–30,000 km, or sooner if the car tows, runs on rough roads, or carries heavy loads. Look for split or weeping bushes, torn dust boots, looseness at the ball joints, and any free play. Many BA/BF symptoms trace back to tired bushes:

• Clunks or knocks over bumps
• Wandering or vague steering on the motorway
• Uneven or rapid tyre wear
• Brake shudder that returns soon after machining rotors

When replacement time comes, swapping complete arms (pre-fitted with bushes/ball joints) is often the most cost-effective, but pressing in quality bushes is fine if the arms are otherwise sound. Replace components in axle pairs to keep behaviour even left-to-right. Always torque pivot bolts at normal ride height so the bushes aren’t pre-loaded, and book a proper four-wheel alignment straight after—camber and caster will change any time arms or bushes are touched.

For BA/BF Falcons, using reputable bushes (rubber or performance polyurethane) can tidy up steering feel without making the ride harsh. If the car is a taxi spec or has seen heavy city duty, plan on more frequent checks. Follow factory torque specs and procedures noted in the Ford BA/BF Workshop Manual, and if there’s any doubt about ball joint security or arm integrity, replace the assembly rather than risk a roadside drama.

FAQs

Does a 2006 Ford Falcon have front and rear control arms?
Yes. BA/BF Falcons run upper and lower control arms at the front. Sedans with Control Blade IRS also use rear control links/arms to hold toe and camber steady. Ute and live-axle variants differ at the rear but still rely on control arms or links to locate the axle.

How often should the control arm bushes be replaced?
There’s no fixed interval because use varies, but many BA/BF owners see wear from around 80,000–150,000 km. Inspect every service or two, and sooner if you notice clunks, steering wander, or uneven tyre wear. Heavy loads, potholes, and hot climates accelerate bush and ball joint wear.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms?
Absolutely. Any time arms, bushes, or ball joints are changed, camber and caster can shift. A four-wheel alignment gets the Falcon tracking straight, protects tyre life, and restores that tidy steering feel.