Parts for your 2009 Mazda 6-Control arms

2009 Mazda 6 Control Arms: What They Do and When to Replace Them

Technical sources confirm the 2009 Mazda 6 is fitted with control arms. The Mazda Workshop Manual for the GH-series (2008–2012) lists a MacPherson strut front suspension with a lower control arm, and a rear multi-link setup using multiple control arms/lateral links and a trailing arm. This layout is also reflected in the Mazda Electronic Parts Catalogue for the 2009 Mazda 6 and common service databases like Autodata/ALLDATA. So, control arms are absolutely relevant on this model.

On a 2009 Mazda 6, the control arms are the sturdy links that locate the wheel hubs to the subframe, letting the wheels move up and down smoothly while keeping alignment angles steady. Up front there’s a lower control arm that carries a ball joint and rubber bushes, managing camber and caster under load. At the rear, the multi-link arrangement uses several “arms” to fine-tune toe and camber through bumps and cornering. Together, they help deliver that tidy, planted feel the Mazda 6 is known for, protect tyres from scrub, and keep steering feel predictable.

Over time, rubber bushes harden, crack or tear, and ball joints can develop play. Typical signs include clunks over potholes, a shimmy or vibration under braking, vague steering, and uneven tyre wear. If the car starts tracking poorly on the motorway or pulls under braking, it’s worth checking the arms and bushes.

There’s no fixed replacement interval, but a good rule of thumb is to inspect the control arms at every service or at least every 20,000 km. Many quality replacement arms come with new bushes and ball joints pre-installed, saving time and ensuring everything works as a matched set. When replacing:

• Have a four-wheel alignment done straight after.
• Torque the arm bolts with the vehicle at normal ride height to avoid bush pre-load.
• Replace any single-use (self-locking) nuts/bolts as specified.
• Consider doing both sides if one is worn, to keep handling balanced.

For Aussie and Kiwi drivers, this is also a roadworthy/WOF item. If a tester notes cracked bushes or a loose ball joint, it’s time to sort it. Kept in good nick, the Mazda 6’s control arms help the car steer true, ride quietly, and look after your tyres.

Popular questions about 2009 Mazda 6 control arms

How long do the control arms last?
Many last well past 120,000–200,000 km, but it depends on road conditions and driving style. Frequent rough-road use or big pothole hits can shorten bush and ball joint life. Regular inspections are the best guide.

Do I need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms?
Yes. Any change to control arms or bushes can alter camber, caster, and toe. A proper alignment right after the job protects your tyres and restores straight-line tracking.

What symptoms point to worn bushes or a failing ball joint?
Listen and feel for clunks over bumps, steering vagueness, vibration under braking, and uneven tyre wear. Visual checks may show torn bush rubber or a split ball joint boot with grease escape.