Parts for your 2008 Mazda Premacy-Control arms

2008 Mazda Premacy Control Arms — What They Do and How to Look After Them

Yes, the 2008 Mazda Premacy (also known as Mazda5 in some markets) is fitted with control arms. Technical sources such as the Mazda factory workshop manual for the CR-series Premacy (2005–2010) and Mazda’s electronic parts catalogues show a MacPherson strut front suspension that uses a lower control arm with bushes and a ball joint, and a multi-link rear setup that uses multiple control arms/links. These documents consistently depict the front lower arm as a key locating member and list replacement bushes, ball joints, and complete arm assemblies for this model year.

On this Premacy, the control arms keep the front wheels properly located under load, managing camber and caster as the suspension moves. The arm’s bushes (bushings) absorb vibration and allow controlled movement, while the ball joint lets the hub steer smoothly. At the rear, the multi-link arrangement uses control arms to hold toe and camber steady so the car tracks straight and treats tyres kindly.

For everyday servicing, a quick visual once-over every 10,000–20,000 km is smart. Look for torn bushes, cracked ball joint dust boots, unusual tyre wear, or any shiny metal where parts have been rubbing. If the car’s copped a pothole, kerb strike, or carries family and gear on longer trips, bring inspections forward. When replacement time comes, many owners opt for complete arms to refresh bushes and ball joints in one hit, saving press work and reducing come-backs.

• Typical signs they’re tired: clunks over bumps, vague steering or tramlining, uneven front tyre wear, pulling under brakes, or a twitch on throttle lift.
• Replace in axle pairs where practical for balanced feel and braking.
• Always torque arm bolts at ride height (with the vehicle’s weight on the wheels) to avoid preloading new bushes.
• Finish with a proper four-wheel alignment, front camber/caster and rear toe/camber can shift after arm work.
• For NZ WOF/CoF or AU roadworthy checks, play in ball joints or split bushes will usually trigger a fail, so fix promptly.

Quality matters here. Go for OE or reputable aftermarket arms and fresh fasteners where specified. After installation, recheck torque after a few hundred kilometres and keep an ear out for new noises as the parts bed in. Done right, fresh control arms bring the Premacy back to that tidy, predictable steering it left the factory with.

FAQs

Do 2008 Mazda Premacy models actually have control arms?
They do. The front uses a lower control arm with bushes and a ball joint as part of the MacPherson strut setup, and the rear multi-link suspension uses several arms/links to control wheel alignment under load.

What are the common signs the control arms or bushes are worn?
Knocking over bumps, wandering steering, uneven tyre wear, or a pull under braking are the big giveaways. Visual checks often reveal cracked bushes or split ball joint boots. If any play is found, the arm or joint needs attention before it accelerates tyre wear or affects safety.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms?
Yes. Changing arms or bushes alters suspension geometry. A four-wheel alignment is recommended straight after replacement to set toe and camber correctly and protect your tyres.