Parts for your 2007 Ford Falcon-Control arms

Understanding Control Arms on the 2007 Ford Falcon

When it comes to the suspension system of the 2007 Ford Falcon, control arms are definitely a crucial component. For anyone who's ever looked under the hood or the wheel arch of this Aussie classic, control arms are the pieces that connect the suspension to the vehicle's frame. They're designed to manage the motion of the wheels, keeping them in the right position relative to the car's body, ensuring both stability and comfort on the road.

The 2007 Ford Falcon uses control arms as part of its suspension setup, mainly in the front suspension, which commonly features a double wishbone or multi-link arrangement. These setups rely heavily on control arms to provide precise handling and absorb road shocks for a smooth driving experience. Without control arms, the Falcon wouldn't be able to maintain proper wheel alignment, which would affect drivability and tyre wear.

Control arms are essentially metal links, usually made from stamped steel or aluminium, with bushings or ball joints at either end. These bushings are key as they allow the arms to pivot and absorb road imperfections while also limiting unwanted body roll and keeping the tyres planted firmly on the road. In the Falcon, the upper and lower control arms work together to control vertical wheel movement without letting it shift laterally, which can otherwise lead to unstable handling.

So, what happens with control arms over time on a 2007 Ford Falcon? Like any suspension component, they are subject to wear and tear from constant operation, corrosion from road salt and water, and impacts from potholes or curb hits. The bushings and ball joints on the control arms especially wear out quicker than the solid parts, leading to symptoms like clunking noises, poor steering response, vibration, and uneven tyre wear.

Keeping the control arms in good nick should definitely be part of routine servicing. Mechanics will typically inspect the arms during suspension checks, looking for worn or cracked bushings, rusted or bent arms, and play in the ball joints. Usually, if bushings are worn, they can be replaced while leaving the metal arms intact, but if the arms themselves are damaged, a full replacement is recommended.

Replacing control arms on a 2007 Falcon is not usually a quick DIY job - it often requires loosening several suspension components and striking a good balance to maintain proper wheel alignment afterwards. Because of this, it's usually best left to professionals who have the right tools and alignment gear to ensure the job is done perfectly.

Neglecting control arm maintenance can lead to more serious suspension issues further down the track, which can not only impact driving comfort but also safety. Steering can become vague or overly sensitive, the car might pull to one side, and braking performance could be affected due to inconsistent tyre contact. Besides, worn control arms can cause uneven and premature tyre wear, which means more frequent (and costly) tyre replacements.

Timing for control arm maintenance will vary depending on driving conditions. Regular city driving on smooth roads might let control arms last well beyond 100,000 kilometres, but if the Falcon has been regularly driven on rough country roads or off-road tracks, wear will happen sooner. Always listen for knocking sounds over bumps, notice if the car drifts during cornering, or feels unstable at speed - these are signs to get the control arms inspected.

It's also worth noting the control arm configuration differs slightly between Falcon models and trims, but the fundamental role remains the same. Front control arms handle the steering loads and vertical motion, while rear setups may also include control arms to enhance ride comfort and handling precision.

In terms of cost, new control arms for a 2007 Falcon are reasonably priced given the importance of the part, but labour can add up because of the careful alignment work required after replacement. Some owners opt to upgrade to aftermarket control arms with stronger materials or polyurethane bushings for improved durability and handling response, especially on performance or modified Falcons.

Regular suspension servicing, including checking and maintaining control arms, is definitely a smart move for any Falcon owner. It extends the lifespan of your ride's suspension, prevents costly repairs, and keeps your Falcon driving safely and confidently whether you're cruising along the freeways or tackling a country back road.