Parts for your 2013 Nissan Navara-Control arms

2013 Nissan Navara Control Arms

Control arms are absolutely fitted to the 2013 Nissan Navara. Technical references including the Nissan Navara D40 Series Service Manual (Front Axle/Front Suspension sections), the Nissan FAST electronic parts catalogue, and workshop publications like the Haynes Nissan Frontier/Navara 2005–2014 manual all show an independent double-wishbone front end with upper and lower control arms. The rear on most 2013 Navara utes is a leaf-spring live axle, so there are no rear control arms.

On the 2013 Navara (both D40 and late D22 variants), the front upper and lower control arms link the chassis to the steering knuckle, managing camber and caster while allowing smooth up-and-down wheel travel. Each arm pivots on bushes at the chassis end and uses a ball joint at the knuckle end, working with the coilover strut and sway bar to keep the tyre planted and steering true. That’s why tired bushes or ball joints quickly show up as vague steering, clunks over bumps, or uneven tyre wear.

For a working ute that tows, tours, or spends time on corrugations, control arm inspection should be part of routine servicing. A quick look every 10,000–15,000 km is sensible: check bush condition (cracks, splitting, oil swelling), ball joint boots (tears, grease loss), and any side-to-side or fore-aft movement under a pry-bar. Typical replacement triggers include:

• Knock or clunk over potholes and speed humps
• Wandering or tramlining, especially with crosswinds
• Feathered or rapid inside-edge tyre wear
• Brake shimmy that isn’t a disc issue

When it’s time to fix things, many owners replace the full arm (with pre-fitted bushes/ball joint) for practicality, though bush-only kits can be cost-effective. If the ute runs bigger tyres or a lift, consider arms that correct geometry to keep camber and caster in check. Always torque pivot bolts at normal ride height to avoid pre-loading the bushes, and book a wheel alignment straight after any control arm, bush, or ball joint work. Corroded cam bolts are common on older Navaras—have replacements on hand.

Rubber bushes keep NVH civil for daily driving, while quality polyurethane can sharpen steering on-road, either way, stick with reputable brands listed in local catalogues from suspension specialists commonly used in Australia and New Zealand.

FAQs

Does a 2013 Navara have rear control arms?
No. Most 2013 Navaras use a leaf-spring live rear axle with shackles and U-bolts, not rear control arms. The control arms are up front as part of the double-wishbone independent suspension.

How long do control arm bushes and ball joints last on a 2013 Navara?
It depends on load, roads, and tyres. Many see 80,000–150,000 km, but heavy towing, corrugations, and mud can shorten that. Regular inspections catch early wear before it chews out tyres or affects braking and steering.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing control arms?
Yes. Control arms directly affect camber and caster, so an alignment is essential after any arm, bush, or ball joint replacement. It’ll keep the ute tracking straight and protect your tyres.